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Mission Devine June 2nd-6th

By Kayleen Holder
Editor
Want to be part of Mission Devine this year? Show up at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church hall at 7:30 am from June 2nd through 6th and they’ll assign you to a team! Volunteers are hoping to complete around 33 projects this year for those in need. They need volunteers of all abilities, but they are especially in need a few people with at least some carpentry/plumbing experience to lead teams of volunteers.

They always have more projects pending on finding enough leaders with a little experience who are willing to take the reins.

“We have a 4-5 elderly residents needing handicap ramps, and I know we have one volunteer who will be the lead on some of those, but we have more than one project leader can handle. So we need someone comfortable with taking on a couple of those ramp projects,” said volunteer Cliff Redus.
Another great need are handyman volunteers to install handicap bathroom items.
“We have several elderly and or handicap residents needing bathroom remodels where we are taking out a bathtub and installing walk-in showers, and we will need leaders for some of those projects as well,” Redus said.
Project leaders aren’t necessarily professional contractors, but have at least a little bit of experience, and will help guide a group of 4-5 volunteers on their teams.

“Whenever our leaders feel like they get into an issue that is a little more than they can handle, we have some professions who are on-call to help out when needed,” Redus said.
On the other end of the spectrum, Mission Devine has smaller projects as simple as yard work, installing a ceiling fan, and exterior paint jobs.
Mission Devine will also be helping four local families in need of roof repairs this year.

What makes Mission Devine special?
“The scriptures teach us to be doers of the work,” Redus said. “To me, it’s a wonderful opportunity to set aside your own agenda for a week and give back to other who just need a little bit of help….to be the hands and feet of the Lord.”
When is it? Mission Devine work week will be Monday June 2nd through Friday, June 6, though occasionally volunteers will complete projects before or after the main work week.

The Kick off service will be at Devine First Baptist Church. During the week of Mission Devine, St Joseph Catholic Church will host.
What can you help with?
Ways to help: Painting crew, tree and yard service, our prayer team, carpentry work, electrical, plumbing, roofing and much more.
We start every morning with breakfast and devotionals. Come back at noon for noon meal. Please help spread the word

Where can you sign up?
If you need to fill out an application online, please go to Missiondevine.org. Or just show up at 7:30 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church hall and join a team.
TO VOLUNTEER, you can contact Heather Yanta on Facebook or call Todd Summers at 210-287-6883.

Governor signs bill aiding local aquifer storage project

Gov. Greg Abbott Saturday signed Senate Bill 616 that local officials expect to help make the proposed Medina County aquifer storage and recovery project a future reality.
The proposed project calls for creating a 50,000 acre-foot freshwater ASR project in the brackish Trinity Aquifer beneath the Edwards Aquifer. SB 616 amends the state water code to address aquifer storage and recovery projects that intersect the Edwards Aquifer, specifically in Williamson County east of Interstate 35.
“The bill clarifies that the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) may authorize injection wells that transect the Edwards Aquifer under certain conditions,” Fast Democracy reports. “These conditions include the injection of groundwater withdrawn from the Edwards Aquifer, stormwater, floodwater, or groundwater through improved sinkholes or caves, and specifically, the inclusion of ASR injection wells that inject water into a geologic formation underlying the Edwards Aquifer.”
The bill was sponsored by state senators Charles Schwertner and Sarah Eckhardt and state representative Caroline Harris Davila.
Medina County Judge Keith Lutz, addressing a meeting of the Medina County Regional Water Alliance earlier this month, reported that an amendment in support of the local ASR project had been successfully attached to SB 616.
That amendment will put the Medina County project “on the fast track” in Austin, Lutz said.
The bill was passed by the 89th Texas Legislature on May 12.

Brenda Ray Langley

Brenda Ray Langley was born on June 3rd, 1941, in Uvalde, Texas, and passed away on May 11, 2025, in San Antonio, Texas. Brenda was the second child of four children – born to Temple and Isal Ray of Crystal City, Texas.

In high school, she was a member of the CCHS band where she played Alto Sax and was a twirler, and she was an active member in many clubs and organizations. She was elected most popular of her class. She graduated from Crystal City High School and went on to attend Southwest Texas State in San Marcos. She was an officer of her sorority, President of Angel Flight – an on-campus ROTC, and was voted as their Angel – She also was elected as president of the Panhellenic Association which oversaw all fraternities and sororities on campus. She graduated in three years with a Bachelor’s Degree in Education and a minor in Music.
Brenda married Charles Langley, from Big Wells, Texas, in 1963. They moved to Devine in 1971 – made it their home and raised their four children. Brenda had an outstanding teaching career and was loved by all of her students. She joined the First Baptist Church and was an active member of the choir where she shared her amazing singing voice.
After retiring from teaching, Brenda taught the GED class for Devine Community Education. She was so proud to have helped many in the Devine and surrounding areas obtain their High School Diploma. She served as president of the Devine Chamber of Commerce and also was awarded Devine Woman of the Year in 1986. She was also a proud member of the Devine Community Adult Band.
She later opened her own Arts and Craft shop – which she named “Country Hugs”. She always had a big hug and great conversation with all of her customers. She also volunteered for many years with the Devine Band Boosters, running the visitor’s concession stand with her husband Charles. She loved sports and was always cheering on her children and then her grandchildren – She was a true Filly, Colt, Arabian and Warhorse Fan for many years!
Brenda was preceded in death by her parents Temple and Isal Ray, beloved husband Charles Langley, and brother Jack Ray.
She is survived by her two sisters, Nova Ray Scoggins and Jill Ray Graham. Four Children: Steven Langley and wife Michele, Cynthia Langley Morales and husband Ernie, Tammy Langley Morales and husband Robert and Shelly Langley. Five Grandchildren – Sabella Morales Haass and husband Scott , Ernie Morales Jr. and wife Emily, Malea Morales, Makenna Morales Bacon and husband Josh and Walker Langley. Nine great grandchildren – Kade, Kyndal, Cade, Jace, Reese, Riley, Elijah, Emmett and Everett.
Brenda loved her family, her friends, and the Devine community. She will be remembered as a loving sister, wife, mother, grand-mother, great grandmother and friend to many. She will be greatly missed by all.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Brenda’s honor on May 29, 2025, at 1:00 PM at the First Baptist Church in Devine, Texas.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to the Brenda Langley love fund through Security State Bank in Devine, Texas, for the care of her daughter Shelly.
Services are under the direction of Primrose Funeral Services in Devine, Texas.

Eliza Ann Chapa

Eliza Ann Chapa, a devoted wife and mother, a loving daughter, and a cherished friend to many, passed away peacefully on May 19, 2025, in San Antonio, Texas, surrounded by loved ones.

Born on April 23, 1980, in San Antonio, Eliza radiated warmth and joy throughout her life, touching the hearts of all who knew her. She was known for her quick wit and infectious laughter, which brought joy to everyone around her.

Eliza approached her work with the same dedication and compassion that she brought to her personal life. Proud of her Hispanic heritage, she often celebrated her roots through stories and laughter, drawing her family closer with every shared moment.

She will live on through her beloved husband, William Chapa, and her loving sons, Gavin, Gabriel, and Lucas, as well as her mother, Gloria Garcia. She is also survived by her fathers, Guillermo Garcia and Cande Ramirez; her brother, Oscar Dominguez; nephews Jay and Jaren; and niece Aaliyah. Her spirit will continue in the hearts of her extended family and friends, whom she cherished deeply and spoke about often.

Eliza was preceded in death by her grandmother, Lucia Berrelez; grandfather, Pedro Pulido Jr.; sister-in-law, Debbie Bains; and cousin, Denton Gormley.
Eliza was known for her passions-her love for her home, adorned with plants, butterflies, and birds; her spontaneous kitchen dance parties that filled the air with joy; and a nurturing heart that truly knew no bounds. Whether taking trips with family, enjoying a day of shopping, or simply spending time with her beloved pets, Luna and Loki, Eliza embraced life with grace and exuberance.

Family and friends were invited to honor and remember Eliza’s life during a public viewing on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, with a Rosary that was from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A Mass of Catholic Burial will be celebrated Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at 10:00 AM, followed by interment at Resurrection Cemetery at Cordi-Marian in San Antonio, with the burial service scheduled from 12:15 PM to 1:00 PM.

As we remember Eliza, let us hold close the laughter she shared, the love she gave so freely, and the beauty she brought into our lives. Her spirit will forever dance in our memories, and her legacy of kindness will live on in every heart she touched.

Jason Miller

It is with broken hearts, we announce that our beloved Jason Miller, 36, was called to his heavenly home on May 19, 2025. He was born in Topeka, Kansas to Mark Miller and Rita Umscheid on April 20, 1989.

Jason spent half his life dedicated to serving others: first as an ECA, then as a volunteer EMT, intermediate EMT and eventually earning his associate degree to become a licensed paramedic and EMS Chief. He loved to learn interesting facts, especially about history, sharing his eclectic musical taste, fishing, airplanes, sport shooting, scaring people, lake trips, cooking, taking cruises, and spending time with his beautiful family and beloved friends. One of his favorite past times was cruising his property with family and friends and relaxing on the porch with a beer.

Jason’s journey on Earth has ended, but he has been welcomed into the arms of our Heavenly Father. He is reunited once again with his Dad, Roy Wilson.
Those left to cherish his memories are his Wife Allison Miller, Children Weston Miller, Cambrey Wiatrek, Teigan Miller, Adali Miller, his fur baby AJ, Mother Rita Wilson, Father Mark Miller, Sister Astyn (Matthew) Filbert, Brothers Jared (Sarah) Miller, Javier Suniga, Keevin (Amber) Holcomb, In laws Raymond (Gay) Drzymala, Sherri (Eric) Thomas, Ray (Stacey) Drzymala, Barbara (Brandon) Welker, Bethannie (Chance) Dziuk and numerous other family members and friends.

Jason was escorted with EMS Honors from Vinyard Funeral Home to Grace Bible Church for a service to celebrate Jason’s life at 10AM. Interment followed with a procession to the St Ann’s Catholic Cemetery in Kosciusko with EMS Honors.
Services were May 23, 2025 in LaVernia at Grace Bible Church. Interment was on May 23 at St. Ann’s Catholic Cemetery in Kosciusko, Texas.

Leatrice Alma “Ding Ding” Ehlinger Ahr

Leatrice Alma “Ding Ding” Ehlinger Ahr, of D’Hanis, Texas, passed away peacefully in San Antonio on May 13, 2025 at the age of 95. She was born August 23, 1929 in Devine, Texas, to George Martin Ehlinger and Alma Theresa Neatherlin Ehlinger.

Leatrice grew up in Devine and graduated from Devine High School. On August 29, 1950, she married the love of her life, Carroll Julius Ahr, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Devine. Their union was blessed with a daughter, Deborah Carol in 1952. They were fortunate to share forty-seven years of marriage. They enjoyed square dancing, attending Lions Club Conventions, and spending their weekends at the ranch in D’Hanis.

They made their home in Del Rio throughout their married life. While living in Del Rio, Leatrice worked for Painter Bus Lines and then for Capital Aggregates where she was known as “Gravel Gurdy”. When she became a grandmother, her grandchildren affectionately gave her the nickname “Ding Ding” and later on she became known as “Ding Ding” to the community of D’Hanis.

After her husband passed away, she moved to D’Hanis to be close to her family. She enjoyed traveling with family and friends to places including the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas, the Grand Canyon, and Branson, Missouri. Above all, she loved spending time with her family. She attended as many functions for her great-grandchildren as possible. Ding Ding always went out of her way to let her family know how much she loved them and that she was always praying for them.

Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law, Deborah and Ray Harbison of D’Hanis; grandchildren, Cindy Harbers (Brad) of LaGrange, Texas and Clint Harbison (Christina) of D’Hanis; great-grandchildren, Kendal Boyd (Dalton), Tyler Harbison, Drew Harbers, and Trey Harbers; great-great-grandson, Carter Boyd; sister, Lillian Alexander of San Antonio; brother-in-law, Gaylon Davidson of Austin; as well as numerous other relatives, in-laws and friends.
Leatrice was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Carroll Ahr; sisters, Mary Heiser (Herman), Annette Whitley (Arth), and Rosie Davidson; and brother-in-law, Velda Alexander; and numerous other relatives and in-laws.
Visitation will be Thursday, May 22, 2025 beginning at 9:00 a.m. at Holy Cross Catholic Church in D’Hanis, with the Holy Rosary recited at 10:00 a.m. followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. Interment will follow at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery in D’Hanis, Texas.

Memorials may be made in Leatrice’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Cal Farley’s Boys Ranch or charity of choice.
Arrangements by Tondre-Guinn Funeral Home. www.tondre-guinn.com

Emergency repair to aging Edwards water well

By Anton Riecher
Taking emergency action, the Devine City Council authorized the possible replacement of the wellhead and pipe for the city’s number two Edwards Aquifer water well after damage from a major break in a 12-inch water main reported April 27.

City Administrator David Jordan asked for an emergency authorization during the council’s regular session May 20, stating that if the city’s sole remaining Edward Aquifer well goes down “we’re in trouble.”

A preliminary inspection of the 2,000 feet of pipe beneath the wellhead revealed major corrosion at the 300 foot level, City Public Works Director Pete Sanchez told the council. The pipe and wellhead have been in place since 1990.
“We’re thinking that if it’s like that upstairs it’s going to be like that downstairs,” Sanchez said.

On a motion by District 3 Alderman Jeff Miller, seconded by District 1 Alderman Ray Gonzales, the council voted 4-0 to approved pulling the well to inspect the pipe and, if necessary, replacing the pipe and wellhead at a cost of $127,000.
District 2 Alderman Michael Hernandez was absent for the council meeting.
Sanchez told the council that he suspects an air pocket in the water main damaged the pipe at the bottom of the well.

“The whole column lifted and broke the wellhead,” he said.
In answer to a question by Mayor Butch Cook, Sanchez said he thought the price quoted for the entire project, including replacement of the wellhead, was reasonable given the age of the well. Pulling the entire length of pipe for inspection will cost $13,000 alone, Sanchez said.

“It’s been a while since we pulled it,” he said.
Miller asked if the expense would come from the water utility since it is not included in the city budget. Jordan replied that would come from the water fund since “in preparation to rehabilitate the groundwater storage tank (near Warhorse Stadium) we have found many situations like this.”
When Miller offered his motion, City Attorney Thomas Cate interjected that unless the council declared the situation an emergency any such project costing more than $50,000 would need to go out for bids.

“If we are going with these people tonight we need to have the finding of an emergency,” Cate said.
Miller amended his motion to include an emergency declaration.

4 leaving City… Devine is looking for new Secretary, PD Chief, Treasurer and Clerk

The City of Devine now has four positions open in the city office and is hiring a firm to handle the application process called Clear Career Professionals after learning of four position retirements or resignations.

City Secretary Dora Rodriguez just turned in her retirement on Wednesday, May 21 after 41 years. She will continue until the end of July 2025. Rodriguez has held many positions in the past 41 years serving Devine since graduating from Devine High School in 1984 to even include the Interim City Administrator position on several occasions to keep things going.

Police Chief Kandy Benavidez first announced her retirement a few weeks ago after 40 years of service. She will continue until the end of June 2025.
Next, in the finance department Denise Duffy turned in her resignation in May, working until the end of May. She has worked in the Treasurer/Accounting department in Devine for 13 years and 20 overall career. Her husband recently retired as well.

Court Administrator/ Utility Clerk Supervisor Alma has been working at the City of Devine for the past 16 years, she gave her two weeks notice for another job opportunity, her last day was May 17.

“At the beginning of the month I had one position to fill. By the end of the month I now have four, “ said City Administrator David Jordan. “It’s going to be a busy summer and we have a lot of projects going on too.”
First review deadline for applications is June 13, 2025 as listed on clearcareerpro.com.

Devine’s First-Ever “Small Town Throw-Down & Chili Showdown”

Devine, TX – The AYZ Foundation is bringing the heat to Devine City Park this summer with a brand-new event packed with hometown fun, friendly competition, and flavor: the Small Town Throw-Down & Chili Showdown, happening Saturday, June 14th at Devine City Park!

Local and visiting teams will compete for top honors in Chili, Beans, Salsa, and even Junior Chili categories, while other players battle it out in Cornhole, Washers, and Horseshoe Tournaments. Winners walk away with cash prizes, trophies, ribbons, and bragging rights.

This all-day festival is free to attend and promises something for everyone. It is a CASI-sanctioned chili cooking event. There will lots of fun for the kids too including a bounce house for the kids.

Live entertainment, family activities, vendors, a drawing, and food trucks will round out a packed day of community fun — but organizers say they need help to bring it all together.

“We’ve got a great vision and strong community momentum, but we need sponsors and volunteers to help make it a success,” said a spokesperson for the AYZ Foundation, a new non-profit organization based in Devine, TX. “From port-o-potties and cooling stations to tournament judges and parking help — every bit of support counts.”

Local businesses and individuals can sponsor items like:
• Cooling fans and shade tents
• Volunteer supplies like water and cooling towels
• Awards, raffle items, and activity costs
• Or even just donate their time or skills!
Volunteer roles include:
• Tournament helpers (cornhole, washers, horseshoes)
• Parking and crowd guides
• Judging assistants
• General event support

The AYZ Foundation is accepting vendor signups, chili cook-off registrations, and sponsorship pledges now. Interested community members can contact the foundation via Facebook or by emailing info@ayzfoundation.org Calls or text to 830–444–0010.
Come show your community spirit and help make this first-time event one Devine won’t forget!

Donna Alaniz, president of the AYZ Foundation, made a presentation on the event dubbed “Small Town Throw-Down & Chili Showdown” during the May 20 regular session of the Devine City Council.
“This event is not just a fundraiser but designed to bring participants in from surrounding towns, encouraging spending at local businesses and also to showcase the best of what Devine has to offer,” Alaniz said.
Aside from the various cook-off participants, the event will include food trucks, vendors and live music from across south Texas, she said. Also included in the event is a bounce house, face painting and tournaments involving corn hole, horse shoes and washer pitching.

Mayor Butch Cook gave his personal endorsement to the activities.
“I think it’s a wonderful idea,” Cook said. “Anything that can bring other people to our town is just fabulous.”

The proposal was submitted to the council to obtain approval for beer service. Council members expressed some concern about the park being big enough for the events planned and providing adequate sanitation.
Alaniz said AYZ Foundation provides scholarships for local students seeking to further their education. She also said the foundation supports other local non-profits in an effort to “strengthen our community.”

“A lot of time you have different non-profits here in town like the Food Bank and Project Devine needing assistance from the back side,” Alaniz said. “Sometimes there are some financials that they are not obtaining because they are new to certain specific areas.”

Non-profit groups participating in the event will not be charged a vendor fee, she said.
Asked by Cook if the event is likely to become an annual affair, Alaniz said it was highly likely.

Meet Michelle…

Meet Michelle…
Michelle is a kind and happy 16-year-old who enjoys the Harry Potter movie series, with Draco Malfoy being her favorite character. She is a big fan of board games, especially UNO.

It’s easy to engage in a conversation with Michelle as loves to chat and loves to learn.
Her favorite color is blue, and in her free time, she likes watching TV, listening to music, and spending time with others. Michelle is also a big foodie. She is adventurous when it comes to food and loves trying new dishes, but fries and McDonald’s are still among her top favorites.
Michelle would benefit from a loving family, who will love and care for her, and be a part of growth as a young adult. She would also love to have sibling of any age.

Michelle always has a smile on her face and enjoys spending time playing with others.
As of now she plans to attend college and pursue a career as a caseworker “to help families and children in need.”

If you think you could be a forever family for Michelle or another Texas child, call 1-800-233-3405. For more information visit www.adoptchildren.org where you can find a schedule of online public information meetings, and learn about the foster/adoption program.

You can also view the www.heartgallerystx.org website, where South Texas children have their portraits along with individual personal stories they wish to share.