Latest News - Uvalde Hesperian

Superintendent Chohlis: District may have cash flow concerns during the 2025-2026 school year

admin — Fri, 18 Apr 2025 15:35:23 +0000

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.

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Texas DPS provides an update on April 10th crash resulting in two dead

admin — Fri, 18 Apr 2025 14:37:18 +0000

Press release from Texas Department of Public Safety: Del Rio

04-18-25

UPDATE 4/16/25:

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 a 2023 gray Chevrolet Blazer sport utility vehicle was traveling northbound on FM 481. A 2019 red Chevrolet Blazer sport utility vehicle was traveling southbound on FM 481. The gray Chevrolet Blazer failed to drive in a single lane and struck the 2019 red Chevrolet Blazer in the southbound lane.

The driver of the gray Chevrolet blazer, Michael Charles Elkins, 62, from Hondo, Texas, was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the red Chevrolet blazer, Carlos Zabdi Salazar, 22, of Eagle Pass, Texas, was taken to Fort Duncan Medical Center, where he succumbed to his injuries. DPS Troopers continue to investigate this fatal crash.

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Texas Governor Abbott and Rep. Don McLaughlin praise House vote passing School Voucher Plan Bill

admin — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 19:24:54 +0000

By Michael Robinson | Uvalde Hesperian

04-17-25

Top Picture: Knippa ISD school crossing: file photo

Texas Governor Greg Abbott

Wednesday night April 16th, the Texas House voted and passed SB 2 or the School Choice Plan which will give parents the option of using public tax monies to help pay for private school education for their children.

Houston Public Media a publication of the University of Houston wrote, “After more than 12 hours of debate, the Texas House gave initial approval to two of the most closely-watched bills of the legislative session – a $7.7 billion public school funding package and a hotly contested proposal to create a pathway for families to use state tax dollars to help send their kids to private schools.”

Governor Greg Abbott today applauded the Texas House of Representatives for making Texas history by passing Senate Bill 2, the state’s universal school choice program in an official April 17th press release:

“For the first time in Texas history, our state has passed a universal school choice bill out of both chambers in the Texas Legislature,” said Governor Abbott. “This is an extraordinary victory for the thousands of parents who have advocated for more choices when it comes to the education of their children. Texas could not have accomplished this without the hard work and unwavering support from Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, Speaker Dustin Burrows, Chairman Brandon Creighton, and Chairman Brad Buckley. I applaud the legislators who took a stand with the overwhelming majority of Texans who support school choice. When it reaches my desk, I will swiftly sign this bill into law, creating the largest day-one school choice program in the nation and putting Texas on a pathway to becoming the best state in America for educating our kids.”

Texas House District 80 Representative Don McLaughlin also praised the passage of the School Choice Bill on his Campaign Facebook Page:

“Last night, I stood with Texas parents—and with President Trump, the Texas House, and conservatives statewide—to deliver real education freedom for families.

This is a major conservative win. Parents are back in charge, and the days of unaccountable bureaucrats running our schools are coming to an end. ” McLaughlin said.

According to a KVUE news article, earlier this morning, the House passed an ESA bill which would allow parents to create Educational Savings Accounts.

“Record Funding for Public Schools”

Texas House also Passes HB2 to allocate “Record Funding” for Public Schools: According to a Press Release from the Governor Abbott’s Office he said, “The Texas House took a monumental step to increase education funding and teacher pay raises that puts Texas on the path to education excellence for our students,” said Governor Abbott. “Since I have been Governor, public education funding and average teacher pay have reached all-time highs and, now, House Bill 2 will add $7.7 billion more to fund a high-quality education for the next generation of Texas leaders. I thank Speaker Dustin Burrows and Chairman Brad Buckley for their steadfast leadership, and I look forward to signing this bill into law.”

With the passage of these bills related to Texas School Funding, the School Voucher Program and the creation of Educational Savings Accounts it is unclear as to how these different bills, if voted into law, will work on the ground level and what impact the School Voucher Plan will have on overall public school funding.

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Obituary Michael Arriola

admin — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 14:03:40 +0000

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

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Obituary: Delia R. Fernandez

admin — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 13:54:39 +0000

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

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Uvalde Estates residents elect 4 new board members to the Windmill Water Supply Corporation

admin — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 10:04:29 +0000

Paper ballots on the table at the Windmill Water Supply Board meeting

By Michael Robinson | Uvalde Hesperian

04-16-25

Top Picture: Elected board members (L-R) Jim Shoemaker, Santa Perez, Juli Alvarado, Mario Valdez

Approximate 65 people packed the meeting room at El Progreso Memorial Library Tuesday evening for the Windmill Water Supply Corporation’s board meeting. The Windmill Water Supply Corporation serves as the water utility company in the Uvalde Estates. The current board of directors had served for many years with infrequent meetings, and it is unknown when the last board elections were held.

Many citizens voiced frustration early in the meeting with a tense exchange early in the meeting where Uvalde Estates Resident Jim Shoemaker spoke to one of the board members stating, “That’s a lie.” responding to an account of a happening at a previous meeting.

Tensions reached a climax later in the meeting on the matter of board elections with several citizens shouting from the audience demanding elections be held as stated in the by-laws. The motion for holding an election was made and seconded. At one point in the meeting, Uvalde County Constable Emmanuel Zamora addressed the audience calling for a peaceful and orderly meeting or the meeting could be shut down.

Attorney Justin Wolbert was at the meeting and spoke with the three presiding board members during a recess of the meeting and when the meeting reconvened, he said the existing board had agreed to step down and not run for reelection.

Wolbert presided over the elections with six candidates running for four board positions. Paper ballots were used as each of the Windmill Water Supply customers with a meter and owned property at the Uvalde Estates were eligible to vote for four of the six candidates.

As the paper ballots were collected, the votes were tallied by Constable Zamora and Diana Olvedo-Karau. The meeting concluded with the following candidates being announced as winners: (L-R) Jim Shoemaker, Santa Perez, Juli Alvarado, Mario Valdez.

The meeting adjourned just after the audience applauded the outgoing board for its 10 years of volunteer service to the water supply corporation.

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Uvalde CISD announces its top 10 students for the Class of 2025

admin — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 18:19:27 +0000

Press release from Uvalde CISD

Posted on the Uvalde CISD Facebook Page

Picture credit: Uvalde CISD

04-15-25

This evening at the Uvalde CISD Regular School Board meeting, we proudly recognized our Top 10 Students and their honor teachers. Each student selected their honor teacher, reflecting the profound support, success, and impact these educators have had on their lives. We are incredibly proud of our top 10 students and all UCISD graduates. We wish them the best of luck in their future endeavors!

Top 10 Students and Their Honor Teachers

Valedictorian: Elina A. De La Fuente
University: University of Texas at Austin
Honor Teacher: Benard Bujard

Salutatorian: Ava L. Schlessiger
University: Texas Tech
Honor Teacher: Katrina Besa

Ranked 3rd: Julia R. Jones (Not in attendance)
University: Texas A&M University in College Station
Honor Teacher: Roberto Cantu (Not in attendance)

Ranked 4th: Arianna E. Ovalle
University: University of Texas at Austin
Honor Teacher: Norma Barbosa

Ranked 5th: Amerie L. Garcia
University: University of Texas at Austin
Honor Teacher: Marilyn Brown

Ranked 6th: Arely A. Torres
University: Texas A&M University in College Station
Honor Teacher: David Leary

Ranked 7th: Victoria A. Martinez
University: Texas State University in San Marcos
Honor Teacher: Keith Pendleton

Ranked 8th: Natalie E. Rondon
University: University of Texas at Austin
Honor Teacher: Gabriela Villarreal

Ranked 9th: Marquez F. Lopez (Not in attendance)
University: University of Houston
Honor Teacher: Robin Dodson (Not in attendance)

Ranked 10th: Leilani Gamez
University: University of Texas at Austin
Honor Teacher: Cheyenne Mueller

Congratulations to all the students and teachers who have made this achievement possible!

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Commissioners Court hears presentation of Texas PACE Program financing for critical improvements

admin — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 19:45:48 +0000

Texas PACE Authority President Charlene Heydinger

by Michael Robinson |Uvalde Hesperian

Top Photo: File Photo from the Uvalde County Commissioners Court

04-14-25

Texas PACE Authority President Charlene Heydinger presented an overview of the Texas PACE Program to the Uvalde County Commissioner’s Court this morning on Monday, April 14th, 2025.

“There are no taxpayer dollars involved. It’s completely voluntary,” Heydinger said.

The problem we are trying to solve is the equipment that makes property more energy efficient or more importantly saves water, is very expensive and has a long return on investment. So, if you are going to put a new roof on a building and it’s not going to break even in 10 years and the bank wants it paid back in 5… There is a cash flow problem,” she said.

According to Heydinger, the program applied to business, commercial property and residential property for multi-family use.

Texas PACE Authority Wins Approval to Provide Financing for HUD and FHA Multi-Family Projects in Texas – Texas PACE Authority

The article states: “Approved by the state legislature in 2015, and established by 83 local governments, the Texas PACE Authority’s programs enable building owners to lower their operating costs and use the savings to pay for eligible water conservation, energy efficiency, resiliency, and distributed generation projects. Owners gain access to private, affordable, long-term (typically 10-20 years) financing that is not available through traditional funding avenues.

Since 2013, the Texas PACE Authority helped mobilize more than $362 million of PACE financing for energy and water efficiency projects across Texas. More than a third of that amount, over $125 million, was used for multifamily properties. Many of these projects also received historic tax credits and other incentives.

With additional energy efficiency tax deductions offered under the Inflation Reduction Act and other federal incentives also on the table, Heydinger said the addition of PACE for HUD and FHA multifamily properties “will be a much-needed game changer for scaling efficiency efforts in affordable housing in Texas.”

Heydinger’s delivered an informational overview of the Texas PACE Program and no vote was taken at today’s Uvalde County Commissioners Court.

STEPS for Local governments to establish a PACE Program:

from How-to Create a TX-PACE Region:
A Guide for Local Government see full .pdf below:

Within those three steps, referenced in Figure 5, there are four items in the Adoption step that
the PACE Act requires a local government to complete in prescribed order to establish a PACE
program:

Initiation
Preliminary region development including concept socialization and recruitment of key program
participants
Adoption (requirements)
Publish a report and make it available for public inspection
3. Adopt a Resolution of Intent to create a program
4. Hold a public hearing
5. Adopt a resolution establishing the program
Implementation
Establish program administration

pace-guide

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Two perish in two vehicle accident on FM 481, 2 miles north of US 57 in Maverick County.

admin — Sat, 12 Apr 2025 18:31:10 +0000

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

04-12-25

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.

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UPS Driver Tyler Cox files lawsuit against Uvalde County Judge William “Bill” Mitchell over alleged March 27th incident

admin — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 19:08:40 +0000

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.

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Latest News - Uvalde Hesperian

Superintendent Chohlis: District may have cash flow concerns during the 2025-2026 school year

Board Workshop is scheduled for April 24th

Texas DPS provides an update on April 10th crash resulting in two dead

Update of April 10th Crash

Texas Governor Abbott and Rep. Don McLaughlin praise House vote passing School Voucher Plan Bill

Obituary Michael Arriola

Obituary: Delia R. Fernandez

Uvalde Estates residents elect 4 new board members to the Windmill Water Supply Corporation

Uvalde CISD announces its top 10 students for the Class of 2025

Commissioners Court hears presentation of Texas PACE Program financing for critical improvements

The Texas Pace Program, if approved by the County, would create am option for property owners to finance improvements—like energy-efficient HVAC systems, solar panels, and water conservation measures

Two perish in two vehicle accident on FM 481, 2 miles north of US 57 in Maverick County.

UPS Driver Tyler Cox files lawsuit against Uvalde County Judge William “Bill” Mitchell over alleged March 27th incident