By Michael Robinson | Uvalde Hesperian

04-18-25

During the Superintendent’s Report during Monday night’s April 14 Uvalde CISD school board meeting, Superintendent Ashley Chohlis stated that during the next school year, the district will be in a position where they will be concerned with cash flow.

Chohlis cited a list of necessary expenditures including $7 million dollars in necessary roof repairs, $4 million in HVAC controls and lighting upgrades because the District’s energy costs will go up by about 50%, and within the next two years the district will have to address its technology plan which will cost about $1.5 million dollars in addition to old busses which is a majority of the fleet will have to be replaced.

She also mentioned the losses the district may face with students attending schools outside the district as well as loss of funds due to the Texas Legislature School Voucher Plan.  She stated that at 3% of our students choosing to go somewhere else she estimates the loss to be $1.7 million dollars. She went on to say 7% of the students who live in the area who currently do not attend the district

Chohlis mentioned the district does not get reimbursed for athletics and fine arts. She went on to say that a large part of the district’s special ed programs are not reimbursed.

She mentioned the district hopes to increase school attendance through program modifications and marketing programs.

Chohlis also mentioned the district will be reducing the number of employment positions.

“If we don’t make tweeks to some of our programs and staffing, it won’t be good,” Chohlis said.

She also stated that the 70% of the increase in funding allotments from the State are designated for teacher raises only and cannot be used for operational and other expenses.

Submitted by

04-05-25 Hillcrest Memorial Funeral Home

Michael Arriola, age 61, of Uvalde, Texas, passed away on April 8, 2025. He was born on August 7, 1963, to Miguel Arriola and Maria Teresa Ortiz. Michael is survived by his loving companion, Dottie Nevarez, his four sons: Mark Moreno, Justin Arriola, Jesse James Arriola, and Darren Arriola, and his daughter, Monica Arriola. He also leaves behind 16 grandchildren who adored him.

Michael was the cherished brother of seven sisters: Debrah Arriola, Jessica Arriola (Jennifer Martinez), Cynthia Arriola (spouse Gabriel Ramirez),      Darlene Reyes Arriola, Annette Reyes Arriola (spouse Charles Esparza), Angelica Reyes Arriola, and Maryann Reyes Arriola. He is also survived by three brothers: Albert Reyes Arriola (spouse Berta Reyes), Danny Reyes Arriola (spouse Maria Guadalupe Reyes), and Michael Angel Arriola.

He was preceded in death by his father, Miguel Ybarra Arriola, his maternal grandparents, Josephina Ortiz and Raul Ortiz, and his paternal grandmother, Gloria Ybarra Arriola and grandson Ayden Ace Arriola

A man of many talents, Michael worked as a handyman and a salesman, using his skills to help those around him. He was a passionate Dallas Cowboys fan, loved to fish, and enjoyed rock climbing. Michael also had a talent for cooking, especially when it came to BBQ, which he prepared for family gatherings with love. Above all, Michael was devoted to his family, always putting them first.

As a devout Catholic, Michael’s faith played an important role in his life. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A visitation will be held Monday, April 21, 2025 from 12:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. at Hillcrest Memorial Funeral Home, Chapel of Serenity, a prayer Service will take place at 7:00 P.M. Following day funeral service at 10:00A.M at  Hillcrest Cemetery.

A service in honor of Michael’s life will be held at a later date. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

May he rest in peace.

 

 

 

Hillcrest Memorial, www.hillcrestmemorialfuneralhome.com

Submitted by Hillcrest Memorial Funeral Home

04-15-25

Delia R. Fernandez, age 77, of Uvalde, Texas, passed away on April 5, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on January 13, 1948, in Weslaco, Texas, to Reulo Riojas and Dominga Cavazos. Delia was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, and her legacy of love will continue to live on through the many lives she touched.

She was united in marriage for 55 years to her beloved husband, Juan Ramon Fernandez. Together, they built a life full of love and cherished memories. Delia is survived by her son, Ricardo Ramon Fernandez of Dallas; three daughters, Cynthia Fernandez of Uvalde, Melissa Raquel Castillo and her husband Anthony Castillo of San Antonio and Veronica Mercedes Fernandez of Dallas; three grandsons, Antonio Marcial Castillo, Lucian Ramon Castillo, Dastan Carlo Castillo; and one granddaughter, Araseli Raquel Castillo. She is also survived by her three brothers, Ernest Riojas, Jose Riojas, and Ricky Riojas; and three sisters, Eva Martinez, Elvira Rodriguez, and Sally Riojas.

Delia was a stay-at-home mom, a devoted and loving wife, and a woman with a vibrant spirit. She had a passion for crossword puzzles, trivia, and loved watching her favorite game shows. Her love for western tv shows was matched only by her enjoyment of browsing through catalogs and spending countless hours at Walmart, Dollar Tree and H-E-B. She also had a deep affection for animals, and her kindness and nurturing spirit extended to all living creatures.

Delia was a devout Catholic, and her faith was an important part of her life. She was preceded in death by her parents, her son, Juan Ramon Fernandez, Jr., and two brothers, Randy Riojas and David Riojas.

A visitation will be held Tuesday, April 15, 2025 from 12:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. at Hillcrest Memorial Funeral Home, Chapel of Serenity, a Rosary will take place at 7:00 P.M. A Mass of Christian Burial is set for 10:00 A.M, Wednesday, April 16, 2025 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church., 408 Fort Clark Rd.

Interment to follow at Hillcrest Cemetery.

Her family and friends will remember her for her warmth, generosity, and unwavering love. Delia’s presence will be greatly missed, but her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

May she rest in peace.

Hillcrest Memorial, www.hillcrestmemorialfuneralhome.com

Press release from THE TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY (DPS)

04-12-25

DEL RIO – THE TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY (DPS) is investigating a two-vehicle fatal crash that occurred on April 10, 2025, at approximately 3:36 p.m., on FM 481, 2 miles north of US 57 in Maverick County.

  A preliminary investigation revealed that the driver of a gray 2023 Chevrolet blazer, Michael Charles Elkins, 62, from Hondo, Texas, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

  The driver of a 2019 red Chevrolet blazer was taken to Fort Duncan Medical Center in Eagle Pass, who died at the hospital. The identity will be released once the next of kin is notified.

  DPS Troopers continue to investigate this fatal crash. We will provide updated information once it becomes available. 

By Michael Robinson | Uvalde Hesperian

04-10-27

 Uvalde UPS Driver Tyler Cox has filed a Federal Lawsuit (DR 25  cv 0023) against Uvalde County Judge William “Bill” Mitchell over an alleged incident which occurred at the Uvalde County Courthouse on March 27th, 2025.

 The Uvalde Hesperian has reached out to Mr. Tyler Cox on two occasions requesting a comment and has not gotten a response. Additionally, while rumors of an alleged incident have spread, there has been no one as of yet who will go on record with the Uvalde Hesperian to provide an eyewitness account of what happened.

The Uvalde Hesperian learned of the incident on Friday, April 3rd and went to file a public records report at the Uvalde County Justice Center and upon completing the request, was informed by Uvalde County Sheriff’s Office Records Clerk Alaze Almendarez that the records pertaining to this incident may not be released due to the ongoing investigation.

Upon learning the Texas Rangers may have taken over the investigation, the Uvalde Hesperian has also filed a public records request with that law enforcement agency.

What would cause a routine package delivery to the Uvalde County Courthouse to result in an alleged incident and an investigation by the Texas Rangers and a Federal Lawsuit.

 

Press release from Emma Trimble; President of the Uvalde County Republican Women

April 10. 2025

In the interest of peace and safety and due to threats of acts of violence the decision to canceled speaker Lucas Denney scheduled for today April 10th, has been confirmed.
We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience and disturbance of heart this may have caused.
My hope is that at some point, some will take the time to listen to his personal experience.
Emma Trimble

04-09-25

By Michael Robinson | Uvalde Hesperian

Approximately 30 people attended tonight’s Uvalde Southwest Neighborhood Association’s meeting held at the Tomas Valle American Legion 479. At the meeting, Uvalde CISD superintendent Ashley Chohis discussed the District’s after school programs including working with the Uvalde Boys and Girls Club. She stated the school has partnered with the organization and said students who want to participate in activities and sports offered can do so at a reduced or no cost fee depending on the family’s situation.

 Chohlis fielded questions about the Texas Legislative Session and the proposed School Voucher Bill which is expected to pass. District 8o Representative Don McLaughlin seems to support the school voucher bill according to a recent mailer received a few weeks ago by local residents.

 Chohlis stated that under the current voucher plan, parents who decide to send their students to private schools would be eligible for $8000 property tax credit which she believes will take away money from public schools. She said that if a student has learning difficulties or has other difficulties, private schools can choose what students can enroll. Uvalde CISD accepts all students. Another difference Cholis pointed out between public and private schools is that teachers at public schools are required to be accredited under most circumstances while private school teachers do not have to be accredited.

  When asked about the future of Batesville School, Cholis said the district is planning on making Batesville school an Agri-Tech school where students can learn about agriculture, artificial intelligence and other specialized learning experiences.

  She hopes this new emphasis will draw students to want to attend Batesville School.

  Simon Ortiz discussed a $1.5 million grant the neighborhood association is seeking to add sidewalks on the westside of Uvalde and connect the new and existing sidewalls to the new sidewalks TXDOT is planning on adding. The grant is through the City of Uvalde Grant Committee that the association successfully lobbied to form, and association members participate in its work.

Photos by Michael Robinson

Press Release from Uvalde CISD Moving Forward Foundation

UVALDE, TX (April 8, 2025) With the construction of the new Legacy Elementary School in Uvalde CISD moving closer and closer to completion, the Uvalde CISD Moving Forward Foundation announces that the costs of the physical building and its construction are fully funded.
This announcement is a result of a combined investment of $21 million from Chase,
Empowerment Reinvestment Fund, National Community Investment Fund, and Nonprofit
Finance Fund. The investments were made through New Markets Tax Credits (NMTCs), a
federal program designed to encourage private investment in underserved areas.

“At Chase, supporting impactful projects such as Legacy Elementary School through New
Markets Tax Credit equity is at the heart of our mission and we are grateful for the opportunity to
collaborate with the Uvalde CISD Moving Forward Foundation,” said Melissa Pillars, Executive
Director of the New Markets Tax Credit team. “Making the New Markets Tax Credit permanent
is crucial for sustaining support for transformative projects like this, ensuring that communities
continue to thrive and grow. We eagerly anticipate the day when the building becomes a
nurturing space that fosters learning and community spirit for its students.”

The net benefit from the investment is $3.6 million toward the building of the elementary school.
All of the funds invested through NMTCs are being utilized for the physical construction of the
new school and a portion of the furniture, fixtures, and equipment.
“We are proud to be part of this community-driven effort to support Uvalde families with a new
school,” said Onika Lewis, Vice President of New Markets Tax Credits at Nonprofit Finance
Fund. “It is a powerful example of diverse capital sources coming together to quickly and
thoughtfully construct this critical landmark.”

Other investors agree with the significance of the project and the investment:
“Empowerment Reinvestment Fund is proud to be a partner and investor in this incredible
project which will provide the children in Uvalde with a safe place to learn and grow,” said
Monica Edwards, SVP – National Director of NMTC for Empowerment Reinvestment Fund.

“This project goes beyond providing funding for a new building; it’s about making a tremendous
impact in the lives of the children and families in the Uvalde Community.”

“This project reflects the power of community-driven investment in places that need it most.
We’re proud to support Uvalde CISD and the Moving Forward Foundation in bringing this
school to life—one designed not only for learning, but for healing, equity, and long-term
opportunity,” said Kyle Harvey, Senior Vice President of Lending and New Markets Tax Credit at
the National Community Investment Fund.

An initial round of investment through NMTCs to the Legacy Elementary School project was
made in December. That round totaled a combined investment of $24.5 million made by Chase,
Prestamos CDFI, a division of Chicanos Por La Causa (CPLC), and Raza Development Fund.
“The collaboration and capital investment in this new school has been more than just rebuilding.
It’s about resilience and community-grounded private-public partnerships to ensure that every
child has a safe place to learn and grow. At Prestamos CDFI, a mission-driven lender, we believe
that access to high-quality education is fundamental to every community” said Teresa Miranda,
Senior Vice President, Prestamos CDFI, a division of CPLC. “Our staff at the nearby early
childhood education center were impacted by the tragedy. This investment represents our continued
commitment to helping our Uvalde community continue to move forward with strength, provide
students, educators, and families with the resources they need to heal and succeed.”

This round netted $4.2 million to the construction of Legacy Elementary School.
“It is an honor to support the Uvalde community in bringing this vital project to life,” said Annie
Donovan, President & CEO of RDF. “This effort goes far beyond constructing a new
school—it’s about investing in healing, resilience, and the long-term prosperity of Uvalde and
communities like it. We are proud to walk alongside the people of Uvalde, helping to create a
space where a new generation of children can feel safe, learn, grow, and thrive.”

by Michael Robinson |Uvalde Hesperian

04-01-25

(Not an April Fool’s Day article)

 Advancements in Artificial Intelligence and robotic technology has reached a point where, in the near future, a small town like Uvalde could have a completely automated Tourism and Visitors Bureau possibly with no human staff according to information from Microsoft’s Copilot AI App. 

  Visitors could one day come to the Uvalde Visitor’s Bureau office and be greeted by an AI robot that could not only answer questions about Uvalde and suggest things to do and also customize a visitor’s experience based upon their interests.

  AI could also provide visitors bureau and speak in many languages to tourists,

  In the near future. AI robots could even give tours around town.

Jackson Hole Wyoming is already using AI to manage its tourism sustainably and New York City Tourism has also launched an AI Platform for Convention Planning.

  “New data and a state-of-the-art display allow Jackson Hole’s tourism industry to better anticipate and respond to the needs of the destination. Locations around the world are taking notice, recognizing that traditional visitor tracking falls short of telling the full story of tourism in a popular destination,” according to https://industry.visitjacksonhole.com/jacksons-tourism-data-dashboard-leads-the-industry

 “We’re pleased to unveil Ellis, the first-ever AI chat platform by a DMO designed to revolutionize event planning in New York City,” said Julie Coker, President and CEO of New York City Tourism + Conventions. “As a global leader in travel, we’re breaking new ground with this free, innovative tool that empowers planners to craft unique events across our five boroughs. With 13.1 million business travelers expected this year, NYC is primed to deliver unforgettable experiences,” according to the an article posted by PR Newswire

“Visitor Engagement Software: Enhancing the Guest Experience from Start to Finish”

 “The rise of mobile technology has changed how people engage with destinations. Gone are the days of printed brochures; visitors now want interactive, digital content they can access anytime, anywhere. Our Visitor Engagement Software responds to this shift by offering a mobile platform that provides real-time updates, location-based information, and multilingual support.” – from  business.great visitor experiences