Currently, he’s been the principal at Hallettsville High School for several years. He’s at the beginning of the 21-day waiting period, and will start on Tuesday, May 26.

Briscoe, 34, was born and raised in Needville, not to mention he graduated from there as well.

His parents still reside there, and his mother has been with NISD education for nearly 40 years.

“I grew up blue and white, and I get to wear blue and white again,” he said. “My family does some ranching so we get to be Cowboys, literally and figuratively. I’m excited to see what Edna has in store for me.”

Briscoe’s background in education stemmed from his mother, and two of her sisters were also teachers. His mother rose in the education field from an elementary school teacher, principal, and now the assistant superintendent at Needville.

A graduate of Texas Lutheran University, Briscoe also played on TLU’s baseball team.

His first job was at Hallettsville, teaching history and coaching baseball. He then returned to Needville for nearly two years as their head baseball coach, and then went back to Hallettsville as their Offensive Coordinator and head baseball coach. After that, he too rose in the ranks to become the assistant principal and then head principal at Hallettsville.

He spoke of the inspiration behind his growth.

“Seeing my mom as an administrator had a lot to do with it, but once I got into coaching, I loved watching kids succeed. I received my masters at a young age, but as I moved up in administration, I saw I affected more people,” Briscoe said. “Then as AP I affected a certain group, as principal I affected a whole school, and now I get to affect an entire district, interacting with adults and children.

“So people might say that I’m young—which I am—but I’ve had a lot of experience most people my age haven’t received in order to put me in this position. I have school pride and bought into the system, and just watching the kids succeed is second to none.”

His style of teaching, coaching and leadership is to listen first, and respond with honest, trustworthy transparency. He believes directness to be a lost art, and strives to achieve it daily. He said when one is honest and direct, it’s likely to be reciprocated.

Last week Briscoe did the rounds at the five campuses in the district and was able to meet leadership, some teachers, custodians and maintenance people.

“It was great because I like meeting people face-to-face, with handshakes; I would rather not send an email if I don’t have to, and I want to be approachable,” he said. “Everyone was great and had a great attitude, especially for the last day in April in a school system.”

Briscoe plans on introducing himself on social media soon, and he plans to follow in Interim Superintendent Billy Boyd’s footsteps, by getting on Facebook live once a month, sharing weekly district happenings, and every board meeting will be updated on Facebook.

He is married to his wife of eight years, Sarah, who was born and raised in Inez, and attended St. Joseph High School in Victoria. They have two boys, Mason V, who is five, and Ty, who is three.

“My door is always open and I want to be as available as possible. I don’t like being in an office, so I’m going to be around a lot of places in the different campuses,” he said. “It’s all about the kids and we’re going to make sure that we make decisions which will improve their future.

“Never in my wildest imaginations did I think I would be a superintendent at 34, but I’m here, looking forward to it and I’m excited, this is a cool moment for me and my family. I love small towns, I grew up in one, and love that Edna is a small town. I don’t see myself ever going to a big town, I want to raise my family in a small town,” he concluded.

Message, email, or call to RSVP or ask questions. Every Monday from 4 - 5 p.m. at 901 S. Wells.

May 13 Little Ones Library is held the second Wednesday of every month from 10-11 a.m. at the Jackson County Memorial Library at 411 N.

Wells.

May 19 Join Hospice of South Texas every Tuesday for Grief Group Counseling, to find the support and understanding you need. From 10-11 a.m. at 1005 Mallette Drive in Victoria.

Learn about how to be “Stronger Together: Building Your Nonprofit Network. Get connections, collaborations, and community impact during this event. Come connect with nonprofit staff, board members, and community partners, exchange ideas, and strengthen relationships across our region. Lunch and presentation by Texas A&M-Victoria Nonprofit Center. Don’t miss this opportunity to strengthen your knowledge and better serve your community! Call 361-782-7146 or email info@jctx.us to RSVP by Wednesday, May 20th.

SAVE THE DATE: We will have a 5K Glow Run in June and SIP & PAINT in August. Be on the look out for more information to come.

Looking to share a special message with the community? For only $5, you can display your announcement on the Chamber’s LED sign—a great way to catch attention! We also offer affordable weekly and monthly rates for ongoing promotions.

Have you recently had a great experience at one of our Chamber Member businesses? We’d love to hear about it. Each month, we recognize a Member of the Month, and your nominations help us spotlight those who go above and beyond. To nominate a business, simply email us at info@jctx.us or call (361) 782-7146. Let’s celebrate the businesses that make our community shine.

Here’s a friendly reminder to support our amazing local businesses— and one of the easiest ways to do that is with Chamber Bucks.

Chamber Bucks can be purchased in any amount and work just like a gift card at over 25 participating businesses throughout our community. By choosing Chamber Bucks, you’re not just buying a gift—you’re making an investment in Jackson County. The goal of this program is simple: encourage everyone to SHOP LOCAL. Every Chamber Buck spent stays right here at home, helping our local economy grow and thrive.

Stop by the Chamber office to purchase yours today. Let’s keep Jackson County strong—one local purchase at a time.

Members, if you’re active on Facebook and have news, events, or promotions you’d like us to share, just tag us in your post or email us. We’re happy to help spread the word and support your efforts. Let’s work together to keep our community connected and informed.

Not Yet a Chamber Member? Now’s the Perfect Time to Join.

Visit www.jacksoncountytexas. com Congratulations to The Shack, our May Member of the Month! The Shack was chosen by the Chamber Board of Directors because of their continued support of the Chamber and also our community. Located at 2049 FM 616 in La Salle. For more information, call (361) 284-3586.

“It’s all crazy,” Victor Cortez, a 40-year-old Austin construction worker, said while filling up his pickup truck .

“It depends on the day; some days I’m moving to three or four buildings and spending 100 bucks a day.”

The steep climb in prices comes as a result of the war with Iran, which began in February. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of the world’s oil passes, has caused a sharp increase in oil prices. The price of a barrel of Brent crude, the world benchmark, was $114 on Sunday, up from about $70 a barrel before the war began.

The rise in diesel prices, which averaged $3.30 a gallon in early February, is affecting everything from shipping costs to farming operations. About half the truckers in Texas are independent operators who buy diesel at gas stations and truck stops and don’t receive the discount that large companies with their own trucking yards get for buying in bulk.

Camp Mystic will not reopen this summer

Camp Mystic announced last week that it had withdrawn its application for a camp license for this summer, according to the Austin American-Statesman.

The decision followed a week of hearings before a joint Senate-House committee, which heard testimony from the loved ones of last summer’s flood victims.

The July 4 flooding along the Guadalupe River killed 25 children, two counselors and the camp’s longtime owner, Richard “Dick” Eastland.

“No administrative process or summer season should move forward while families continue to grieve, while investigations continue, and while so many Texans still carry the pain of last July’s tragedy,” the camp wrote in a statement.

The Texas Department of State Health Services, which is responsible for issuing camp licenses, conducted investigations. The camp has been planning to reopen its Cypress Lake campus, which was not damaged by the flash floods. More than 850 children have already registered to attend that camp.

Camp Mystic said it would continue to “fully cooperate with all ongoing investigations.”

Talarico leads Cornyn, Paxton in latest polls A poll shows Democrat James Talarico leading both the Republicans who are locked in a fierce runoff to determine who will face him in November, the Houston Chronicle reported. Talarico led U.S. Sen. John Cornyn 40% to 33%,according to the University of Texas at Austin Politics Project survey. He holds a 42% to 34% advantage over Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton. In both scenarios, 19% of voters said they were still undecided.

“While the Democratic candidate leading two established Republicans in these matchups is sure to raise some eyebrows,” the pollsters wrote, the results “reveal a Republican electorate still registering the effects of the months-long, bruising, negative campaigning by Paxton and Cornyn, and the GOP divisions the race has exacerbated.”

Paxton and Cornyn face each other in a May 26 runoff because neither secured a majority in the March primary.

Early voting runs from May 18 to May 22. Voters who cast ballots in the Democratic primary cannot vote in the GOP runoff. Only voters who participated in the GOP primary or did not vote at all can vote in the GOP runoff.

$56 million in fed funding for rural health care

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission is making $56 million in federal funding available to rural health care providers.

The “Infrastructure and Capital Investments for Rural Texas” initiative will support modernization of rural health care delivery by funding new equipment and minor facility renovations.

Health care providers can use the funds to “update lab, CT scan, ultrasound, or mammography equipment; stretchers, wheelchairs, patient beds, telemetry units, nurse call systems, generators, defibrillators, crash carts, medication dispensing units, sleep labs, vital sign monitors, oxygen tanks, and other allowable equipment,” according to the HHSC news release.

The state is expected to receive about $1.4 billion in federal funding over the next five years through the program supporting rural health care.

Patrick aims to close loophole for prediction markets Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has directed state senators to explore ways to close gambling loopholes that allow online prediction markets to operate in Texas, according to The Tribune.

He is concerned that state elections and sporting events could be manipulated for profit.

Prediction markets allow users to bet on outcomes of everything from sporting events to election winners, and even the weather. The Trump administration has blocked attempts by other states to regulate the prediction markets, such as Kalshi, claiming oversight belongs to federal agencies, not the states.

“We are regulated at the federal level, but of course, given now the popularity of prediction markets, we are doing a lot of educating on the state level,” said Sara Slane of Kalshi. “That’s the dialogue that we’ll envision having, certainly, in the state of Texas.” While 39 state attorneys general signed on to a legal brief arguing the Commodity Futures Trading Commission doesn’t have sole authority to regulate the prediction markets, Paxton declined to do so.

Texas cities dominate another ‘best’ list

Several Texas cities dominated the top spots in Livability’s new ranking of the most affordable, desirable cities to live in the U.S., according to the Statesman. The list includes only cities with populations between 75,000 and 500,000 and median home values of $500,000 or less.

Factors considered included economy and housing; amenities and environment; safety, health and education; and transportation.

Texas cities in the top 10 were Sugar Land at No. 3; Plano at No. 5; Round Rock at No. 9; and New Braunfels at No. 10.

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

From dirt roads to downtown storefronts, family homes to community landmarks, each photo is a puzzle piece in Edna’s evolving portrait. The City of Edna aims to collect and showcase these images as part of the upcoming community event to highlight how Edna has grown, changed, and thrived across generations.

“We know the heart of Edna lives in the memories of its people,” said Lance Smiga, Edna Mayor. “These photographs will help us preserve those memories and share them with visitors and younger residents who may not have seen just how far our city has come.”

Community members are encouraged to submit photos of:

• Historic buildings, streets, and neighborhoods • Community events and gatherings

• Local businesses, schools, and churches

• Everyday life in Edna throughout the decades All hand-delivered photos will be carefully handled, digitally preserved, and returned to their owners immediately.

Submission Details: Photos may be submitted by dropping them off at City Hall or emailing scanned copies to City Hall at srobinson@cityofedna.com. All submissions should include your name, contact information, and any known details about the photo, such as approximate date, location, and people featured.

This initiative is more than a history project, it’s a community time capsule in motion, capturing the spirit of Edna through the lenses of those who have lived it.

For more information, please contact City Hall at 361-782-3122.

Let’s bring Edna’s story to life—one photograph at a time.

How appropriate are these words to all those seniors from the three county ISDs who have received Jackson County Retired School Personnel scholarships over the years! Now, a few of JCRSP scholarship recipients will be on hand on May 18th to discuss how those funds impacted their lives. Being able to meet some of those former educators who decided a select group of students needed to be awarded financial help to pursue a college degree should prove to be rewarding for both parties.

JCRSP members, join the group at the First United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall, 216 West Main in Edna at 11:45 a.m. to hear from these past scholarship winners and enjoy the catered lunch. Additionally, a few rousing games of Bingo will jump start the unlimited fun which will be long remembered during the summer hiatus. RSVP your attendance to Kathy Johnson at 361781-4004 by May 14, 2026.

Holly Myers will offer the meal’s invocation, and David Johnson will lead the pledges. Chairing the hostess roles will be Vera Rodriguez and Dorothy Johnson. Contributing hosts include the following: Bill Bryan, Linda Heller, Elsie Myers, Michelle Orsak, Judy Pustka, Linda and Bill Reaves, Rose Volkmer, Linda Wells, Reba and Sam Roberson.

Remember the word Bingo can be “used when someone gets something exactly right or when something happens just as expected.” -- such as former school personnel encouraging students to better themselves through education. “BINGO!”

In Abundance Events is offering dinner and a comedy show, featuring San Antonio comic Kim Kerley.

Kerley offers a clean, funny show and brings 30 years of comedy experience with her. She has worked in radio, comedy clubs, television, movies, and is also an experienced motivational speaker and counselor.

She’s appeared on The View, The Huckabee Show, KENS 5 Great Day SA.

She can be found streaming with Dry Bar Comedy on their streaming service, and has appeared in the films Teenage Girl: Skip Day, and American Teen After all that impressive resume, Kerley said she is excited to come to Edna.

“It’s a dream job for me,” said Kerley, “A room full of moms. Been there. Love it.”

The show will be held at the Jackson County Services Building at 411 N. Wells at in Edna at 6 p.m. on Friday, May 8. Tickets are $35. For tickets or more information, reach out to Jasmine at 361-308-0684 or visit https://inabundanceevents. square.site/.

That may sound impressive.

And it is.

We are proud of him. But it is also a tiny bit disappointing for him. The two students who finished ahead of him are his friends. He is happy for them, but watching friends reach the goal he had set for himself is still a little hard.

This fall, God willing, my son will attend Texas A&M University in College Station to study computer engineering. Again, quite impressive.

His friends will be attending MIT and Harvard.

Comparison has a way of taking something good and making it feel less good. It turns blessings into scorecards.

That is why one little command in Romans chapter twelve is much harder than it sounds. The Apostle Paul encourages us as Christians to “rejoice with those who rejoice” and “mourn with those who mourn” (Romans 12:15). Years ago, a seminary professor read that verse to my class and asked, “Which of those is easier to do?”

Our initial response was to say, “Rejoice with those who rejoice.”

But is that true? As Christians, we actually do quite well at mourning with those who mourn. When tragedy strikes, when somebody dies, when our neighbors are hurting, we often step up and step in to help. We offer our condolences and prayers. We bring them food and open our homes to them.

We mourn with those who mourn.

It’s harder to rejoice with those who rejoice. Your coworker gets the promotion. Your friend’s child gets into the dream school. Your neighbor buys the house you wish you could afford. Someone else receives the recognition you quietly hoped would come to you.

Maybe we smile and grit our teeth and congratulate them, but deep down, we struggle to be happy for them. We think, “Why them and not me?”

Comparison is the thief of joy.

The secret to truly rejoicing with those who rejoice is to recognize God’s amazing grace in your own life. Look at what God has already given you. He has given you daily bread, family and friends, gifts and opportunities. More than that, he has given you his Son. In Jesus, he has forgiven your sins, called you his child, and promised you heaven.

When we recognize and appreciate all the good things God gives us in his grace, we can be happy when God gives good things to others. God blesses each of us differently, but he blesses all of us richly.

The fact that God has blessed someone else doesn’t mean that God hasn’t blessed you.

The fact that they succeed doesn’t mean that you are a failure.

One of the hardest things God asks us to do as Christians is to rejoice with those who rejoice. But by God’s grace, we can. We can rejoice because his blessings for others do not cancel his blessings for us.

Other people’s success is not your failure.

Pastor Andrew Schroer has been a pastor for over 25 years and is currently serving at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Edna, Texas. You can find his latest books, “364 Days of Thanksgiving” and “364 Days of Devotion,” on Amazon.com.

On April 22, one crew member was killed and two more injured while working on a pipeline south of Edna off of FM 1822. One person was declared dead at the scene, and two were taken to hospitals for treatment.

The Ammons Law Firm said in a press release that their client Orlando Cantu sustained serious injuries while working on the pipeline, which they claim could have been prevented and were the result of negligence on the part of Kinder Morgan.

“According to the petition, Cantu was injured while performing work on a Kinder Morgan pipeline in Jackson County,” the statement read. “The lawsuit alleges that an unreasonably dangerous condition existed on the premises, including but not limited to the pipeline, and posed an unreasonable risk of harm.”

“The petition further alleges that Kinder Morgan knew, or in the exercise of reasonable care should have known, of the unreasonably dangerous condition and failed to exercise ordinary care to reduce or eliminate the risk to Cantu.

“The lawsuit also alleges that Kinder Morgan’s acts and omissions constituted gross negligence because they involved an extreme degree of risk and were undertaken with actual, subjective awareness of the risk, but with conscious indifference to the rights, safety and welfare of others, including Cantu.”

The suit seeks damages for medical expenses, disfigurement, loss of wages, loss of earning capacity, physical pain, mental distress and anguish, as well as court costs and exemplary damages.

Cantu also filed to have the scene preserved until an inspection could be performed, and was granted a Temporary Restraining Order, to which Kinder Morgan agreed, preventing cleanup or alteration of the site and a 100 foot radius.

“Pipeline operators have a responsibility to protect workers from explosive hazards before work begins, not after a catastrophic failure occurs,” said Lead attorney Rob Ammons said. “This lawsuit seeks accountability for Mr. Cantu and answers about how this explosion happened and why it was not prevented.”

Orlando Cantu v. Kinder Morgan, Inc., Kinder Morgan Texas Pipeline LLC, and Kinder Morgan Tejas Pipeline LLC is being heard in the in the Harris County’s 164th Judicial District Cause No. 202627731.

Importantly, the agreement includes residents who are not enrolled in Medicaid, do not have existing medical insurance coverage, or lack a responsible third party for their medical transport. In all other cases, PHI Air Medical coordinates with the resident’s insurer to resolve claims for medically-necessary transports, ensuring members have no outof- pocket costs and can focus on what matters most, their recovery.

As an additional benefit of this agreement, residents qualify for a Full National Household Membership Upgrade Option at $40 per year per household. This optional upgrade extends coverage outside the District Service Area to include any current PHI Cares service areas, applying only to transports aboard a PHI aircraft. The household plan includes all members of a resident’s household as defined in the agreement. To enroll in the Full National Membership Upgrade, residents can contact Michelle Chaisson, PHI Cares Field Sales Team Lead, at 855-455-9976 or visit https://phicares. com/jackson-county-tx/ and use the code JACKSONUPGRADE.

In emergencies, residents should contact 911. Following a flight, the resident flown or representative on their behalf should notify PHI Cares at 1.888.I.Fly.PHI (1.888.435.9744) and supply the District membership number #26034 and any available transport details.

Membership Card Distribution Locations: Wellness Center Receptionist, 1013 S. Wells St., Edna, TX 77957, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.

Registration Desk, Hospital Main Lobby, 1013 S. Wells St., Edna, TX 77957, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Michelle Chaisson, PHI Cares Field Sales Team Lead, said: “We’re proud to continue supporting the Jackson County Hospital District through this renewed partnership. It ensures that residents throughout the county and surrounding service area have access to critical air medical transport without added cost, providing peace of mind for local families.”

For more information, visit https://phicares. com/jackson-county- tx/ or https://www. phiairmedical.com/. Inquiries can be directed to mchaisson@phiairmedical. com or 855455-9976, referencing the “Jackson County Resident” Membership Program.

Ganado couldn’t be much better as they haven’t allowed a run through four playoff games. In fact, district foe Shiner scored two runs on the Maidens on April 7 and those are the only two runs Ganado has allowed in their last 11 games.

At the plate, the Maidens continued their dominance. Paisley Hajovsky and Raelynn Pena homered as the Maidens picked up 10 hits in the run-rule shortened game.

Ganado (28-2-1) and Danbury (25-6-1) will face off in the Regional Semi-Final round.

The Industrial Cobras playoff series started on a great note as Industrial survived a scare by Jourdanton, holding on for a 6-5 win. However, Jourdanton took the next two games, 5-2, and 2-1 and left as the series winners.

In game one, Jourdanton loaded the bases in their final at-bat, but the Cobras were able to hang on for the win. The rally Jourdanton put on showed a glimpse of how close the rest of the series would be.

In game two, Jourdanton put up a run and Industrial tied it up in the third. Jourdanton had a 5-1 lead by the sixth and the Cobras were only able to add one run. Ava Collins and Kayla Osburn picked up a triple in the game, the two Cobra extra base hits in the game.

Game three was a tense pitcher’s duel throughout. Jourdanton put up both of their runs in the fourth inning. The Cobras put up their lone run in the fifth. Clancy Kolle led the way in game three with a triple and a double. Kaylee Honc also picked up a triple in the game.

In the circle, Collins pitched all twenty innings, and picked up 23 strikeouts.

Area Playoffs Game one: Industrial 6 - Jourdanton 5 Clancy Kolle 2 hits; Aleisa Popp 1 hit; Kaylee Honc 1 hit, 1 RBI; Kayla Osburn 1 hit; Kinley Mauldin 1 hit; Ava Collins 7 innings, 7 hits, 5 earned runs, 7 strikeouts.

Game two: Jourdanton 5 - Industrial 2 Claire Karl 2 hits; Osburn 2 hits, triple; Collins 1 triple, 7 innings, 8 hits, 5 earned runs, 11 strikeouts; Honc 1 hit, 1 RBI; Kolle 1 RBI.

Game three: Industrial 1 - Jourdanton 2 Kolle 1 triple, 1 double, 1 RBI; Ella Balensiefen 1 hit; Collins 1 hit, 6 innings, 6 hits, 2 earned runs, 5 strikeouts; Honc 1 hit; A Smith 1 hit; Mauldin 1 hit;

Gando 16 - Three Rivers 0 (5 innings) Laci Holt 3 hits, 3 RBI’s, 2 steals; Paisley Hajovsky homerun, double, 4 RBI; Hallie Bures 2 hits, triple, 1 RBI; Raelynn Pena 1 hit, 1 RBI; Jordyn Bundick 1 double, 1 RBI, 2 steals; Rhylee Green 1 hit; Kyla Stancik 1 RBI, 1 steal; Michaela Estrada 1 RBI; Raelynn Peters 1 steal; Saylor Bures 5 innings, 0 hits, 11 strikeouts.

On the girls side Cowgirl Margaret Sklar captured second in the

800 meter run to advance to state. Joining her at state is the Cowgirls

4x400 meter relay team and Cobra Mia Miori who finished second in pole vault.

Austin Pena was the lone Ganado athlete to grab a place at the State meet.

2A Boys Regional track results

400 M Dash: Austin Pena, 2nd, 49.03*

4X100 M Relay: Ganado 6th

Girls

High Jump: Addison Tudyk, 4th, 5’ Long Jump: Tudyk,

5th, 16’5.5

3A Boys Regional track results 100 M Dash: Keegan Hicks, Edna, 1st, 10.61*

800 M Run: Zachary Villereal, Industrial, 11th,

2:06.24

4x100 M Relay: Edna,

2nd, 42.11*

4x200 M Relay: Edna,

2nd, 1:27.33*

4x400 M Relay: Edna,

1st, 3:16.98*

1600 M Run: Cristoval Gonzales, Industrial,

13th, 4:44.67.

3200 M Run: Gonzales, Industrial, 11th, 10:33.07.

High Jump: Seeley Peters, Edna, 2nd, 6-6* Long Jump: Hicks, Edna, 1st, 12, 22-11*; Adian Lugo, Edna, 6th,

21-0.

Pole Vault: Cullen Woodring, Industrial, 3rd,

14-0; Holden Spears, Industrial, 4th, 13-6.

Triple Jump: Lugo, Edna, 3rd, 41-4.25

Girls 100 M Dash: Mia Miori, Industrial, 7th, 13.07.

400 M Dash: Ailani Ramirez, Edna, 4th,

1:01.49; Allie Farley, Industrial, 8th, 1:04.75.

800 M Run: Margaret Sklar, Edna, 2nd,

2:20.76*

1600 M Run: Emma Shoemate-Rosalez, Edna, 7th, 5:42.24.

3200 M Run: Emma Shoemate-Rosalez, 8th, Edna 12:35.90; Yoselin Calzada-Alba, Edna,

12th, 12:56.54.

4x100 Meter Relay: Industrial, 5th, 50.98.

4x400 Meter Relay: Edna, 2nd, 4:03.30* Pole Vault: Mia Miori, Industrial, 2nd, 10-0*; Ansley Cutler, Industrial,

6th, 8-6.

Neither team was hurting for offense, but the Indian pitching couldn’t keep the Bobcats off the scoreboard.

Logan Bures picked up 5 hits in the two games, and Ayden Tudyk two hits, but it wasn’t enough.

BI-DISTRICT PLAYOFFS Game one: Ganado 5 Refugio 6 AydenTudyk 3 hits, 2 RBI’s, 2 steals; John Utley 2 hits, triple, 1 RBI; Austen Pena 2 hits; Logan Bures 2 hits; Jack Hurt 1 hit, 1 RBI, 2 steals, 6 innings, 15 hits, 6 earned runs, 5 strikeouts; Karter Crabb 1 hit, 1 RBI; Tyler Gonzalez 1 hit; Cade Nixon 1 hit; Coen Ott 1 hit.

Game two: Refugio 12 Ganado 7 Bures 3 hits, 2 doubles, 2 RBI’s; Crabb 2 hits, 1 RBI; Utley 1 double, 2 RBI’s, 3.2 innings, 4 hits, 6 runs, 3 earned, 1 strikeout; Tudyk 1 double, 1 RBI, 3.1 innings, 4 hits, 6 earned runs, 7 strikeouts; Pena 1 hit; Nixon 1 hit; Ott 1 hit, 1 steal; Hurt 1 steal

The Cobras dominated game one, with Cooper Francis tossing a complete game four-hit shutout.

Easton Larew picked up two doubles and two runs-batted-in to lead the offense.

Poth put up two early runs on Cobra starter Easton Larew but Larew threw a dominating game, pitching six innings and giving up three runs, one of which was earned and picking up eight strikeouts.

Larew’s offensive stats mirrored his game one performance of three hits, two doubles, and two RBI’s. Francis and Zane Koenig also doubled in the game.

Entering the final inning, Industrial held a 9-3 lead but things fell apart.

A walk began the inning but he was replaced when a fielder’s choice gave Industrial out number one.

A hit-by-pitch followed by two straight walks brought in a run. A pitching change was followed by a single, a walk, and a single and suddenly it was a 9-8 game.

After the second out finally came on a strikeout, back-to-back hit-bypitches tied the game.

A walk-off single followed and Poth had taken game two.

In the final game, Poth put up 3 runs in the second inning. Industrial answered with one of their own in the fourth when a J Smith single scored the lone Cobra run. The inning ended with a caught stolen at third.

Poth added their final run in the fifth, while the Industrial offense picked up one Zane Koenig single and one W Kruppa single as their only hits after the fourth inning.

Bi-District playoffs Game one: Poth 0 Industrial 5 Easton Larew 3 hits, 2 doubles, 2 RBI’s; Wyatt Kurtz 2 hits, 2 steals; Michael Barjenbruch 1 hit, 1 RBI; Cooper Francis 1 double, 2 steals, 7 innings, 4 hits, 0 runs, 8 strikeouts; Jackson Powell 1 RBI, 1 steal; Zane Koenig 1 RBI Game two: Industrial 9 - Poth 10 Larew 3 hits, 2 doubles, 2 RBI’s, 6 innings, 4 hits, 3 runs, 1 earned run, 8 strikeouts; Koenig 2 hits, double, 1 RBI; Kurtz 2 hits, 1 RBI, 1 steal; Francis 2 hits, double, 1 RBI; Brahenbruch 1 hit, 2 RBI’s, 0.1 inning, 3 hits, 3 earned runs, 1 strikeout; J. Powell 1 hit; Karter Powell 2 RBI’s; Nate Chaney 0.1 inning, 0 hits, 4 earned runs.

Game three: Industrial 1 - Poth 4 J Smith 2 hits, 1 RBI, 1 steal, 1.1 inning 3 hits, 3 runs, 1 earned run, 1 strikeout; W Kruppa 1 hit; Koenig 1 hit; J. Powell 1 double, 3 innings, 2 hits, 1 run, 1 strikeout; Francis 1 steal

It will begin at Wells Street and go all the way down on Main, stopping at the Methodist Church.

“We’re going to have a party!” City Manager Gary Broz said. “Although some people say Edna is 144 years old, but it was 1926 when Edna was permanently incorporated.”

Valerie Callaway is the director of this free event, and she said planning it has turned her into a history buff and a book of information. She’s been quite involved in getting ready for the celebration, by designing games full of historical facts and land markers.

“Truth be known, 144 years ago, Edna was only incorporated for once year, and then it went back to the county commissioners,” she said. “It didn’t go into effect until 1926 when we became the city of Edna.”

Callaway has begun a series titled, ‘Edna, did you know?’ Follow the City of Edna Facebook page to learn tidbits leading up to the Flag City Celebration. They plan to have the courthouse lawn filled with landmarks and information, with the hope of starting small but growing over the years.

Callaway and Broz even have a historical coloring book for all the county elementary students, with pictures of important buildings and facts about Edna.

The coloring book then lends itself to an invitation to all the parents with the hope they come out and celebrate with everyone.

“If you notice pictures of Texana and Edna, then and now, rurally, the town doesn’t look that different, except there are cars,” Callaway pointed out. “The reason being, is when they rebuilt everything after the two fires in the early 1900s, they did it in brick, which is why the buildings are still standing today.”

The afternoon/evening will have live entertainment, Emma New (Kallus), Chris Zuber, and the ever popular Adysen Malek, who is currently dropping lots of new songs. Mayor Lance Smiga will have a welcome at 6 p.m., and give award to certain events. The dance begins afterwards, with music from the Still Revival Band.

Tournaments will be held in the afternoon, with games like cornhole, dominos, croquet, and games for the kids, not to mention kiddie carnival rides as well.

“LNRA is kind enough to let us use their two big blow-up rides, a big slide and the obstacle course, and they’re bringing their wildlife exhibit,” Callaway said. “Food trucks will also be available, and adult beverages will be sold as well.”

“The city will also be giving free hot dogs for everyone,” Broz added.

“We want to have something for everyone.”

An antique car show will also be present with anywhere between 50 and 100 cars. Prizes will be given as well for the show: the top ten cars will receive a set of dominos with the logo of the Flag City event.

The dominos will also be on sale at the event.

Edna was named Flag City in 1967, due to the national attention it received after supporting the troops with flags all over the city.

“We have great community support too,” Callaway added. “The Ganado Volunteer Fire Department have offered to let us use their stage, and the Jackson County Youth Fair is letting us use their tables and chairs. It’s been a community thing and we’re so very appreciative of that.

“It’s going to be something grand and I’m excited about it,” she said.

So write it soon your calendar and save it in your phone, for Saturday, June 13, 3 to 9 p.m., downtown Edna.

It should be an unforgettable event.

A stretch of FM 530 was closed to traffic as electric crews worked to repair “the loss of approximately one mile of distribution poles,” according to a social media post by Jackson Electric Cooperative.

The Cordele and Speaks areas were hit particularly hard, and power for some residents was out for over 24 hours.

According to Jackson County Emergency Management, crews worked through the night to help get electric service restored to those without.

Emergency Management also said in a comment that “The National Weather Service will investigate whether this was a wind event or a tornadic event.”

Your involvement plays a vital role in making Jackson County a thriving place to live, work, and do business. We encourage you to stop by the Chamber, join us at upcoming events, and continue showing your support for our local businesses.

Join us for a FREE Lunch & Learn on Thursday, May 21st.

Learn about how to be “Stronger Together: Building Your Nonprofit Network. Get connections, collaborations, and community impact during this event. Come connect with nonprofit staff, board members, and community partners, exchange ideas, and strengthen relationships across our region. Lunch and presentation by Texas A&M-Victoria Nonprofit Center. Don’t miss this opportunity to strengthen your knowledge and better serve your community. Call 361-782-7146 or email info@jctx.us to RSVP by Wednesday, May 20th.

Looking to share a special message with the community? For only $5, you can display your announcement on the Chamber’s LED sign—a great way to catch attention. We also offer affordable weekly and monthly rates for ongoing promotions.

Have you recently had a great experience at one of our Chamber Member businesses? We’d love to hear about it! Each month, we recognize a Member of the Month, and your nominations help us spotlight those who go above and beyond. To nominate a business, simply email us at info@jctx.us or call (361) 782-7146.

Let’s celebrate the businesses that make our community shine.

Here’s a friendly reminder to support our amazing local businesses— and one of the easiest ways to do that is with Chamber Bucks.

Chamber Bucks can be purchased in any amount and work just like a gift card at over 25 participating businesses throughout our community. By choosing Chamber Bucks, you’re not just buying a gift—you’re making an investment in Jackson County. The goal of this program is simple: encourage everyone to SHOP LOCAL. Every Chamber Buck spent stays right here at home, helping our local economy grow and thrive.

Stop by the Chamber office to purchase yours today. Let’s keep Jackson County strong—one local purchase at a time. Members, if you’re active on Facebook and have news, events, or promotions you’d like us to share, just tag us in your post or email us. We’re happy to help spread the word and support your efforts.

Let’s work together to keep our community connected and informed. Not Yet a Chamber Member? Now’s the Perfect Time to Join!

Visit www.jacksoncountytexas. com Congratulations to First United Methodist Church, Edna, our April Member of the Month!

First United Methodist Church, Edna was chosen by the Chamber Board of Directors because of their continued support of the Chamber and also our community. Located at 216 W. Main St. in Victoria. For more information, call (361) 782-3561.

More than a quarter- million students have applied to the state’s voucher program, with a lottery determining who gets a spot. Initial funding for the program is $1 billion, and it is projected to support 100,000 students in its first year.

The program offers taxpayer money to help pay for private and homeschool education.

The amount of each voucher awarded in the initial round varied, from $2,000 each for the 11,000 children applying for homeschool funding to an average of $15,585 for parents who documented their children’s special educational needs.

Smokable hemp ban temporarily blocked A ban on the sale of natural smokeable hemp products has been blocked, possibly until the end of April, by a Travis County district judge. A court hearing is set for this week.

The Texas Tribune reported that lawyers for the hemp industry argue that state agencies overstepped their constitutional authority by imposing new testing requirements that created a 0.3% total THC threshold. The industry says that effectively eliminated smokeable products by essentially rewriting the statutory definitions of hemp created by legislators in 2019.

While that 2019 law also limited THC levels to 0.3%, manufacturers got around it by cultivating hemp plants with another type of THC called THCA, which produces a high when ignited. The newly written limits on any type of THC mirror those that will be imposed by the federal government in November.

Appeals court rules for Ten Commandments in classrooms A federal appeals court last week ordered public school districts to place copies of the Ten Commandments in classrooms, the Austin America-Statesman reported. Parents and a group of faith leaders in nine school districts sued over a 2025 law that requires public schools to post donated posters of the Ten Commandment in classrooms.

By a split vote, the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals decided the law does not violate the U.S. Constitution, overturning a San Antonio federal judge’s ruling last year. The case could be appealed to the U.S.

Supreme Court.

“Students are neither catechized on the Commandments nor taught to adopt them,” the judges wrote. “Nor are teachers commanded to proselytize students who ask about the displays or contradict students who disagree with them.”

Six judges on the appeals court dissented, with Judge Leslie H.

Southwick writing that “S.B. 10 is facially unconstitutional under the Establishment and Free Exercise Clauses.”

STAAR ends after this spring After about 15 years, this spring marks one of the final times Texas students will take the STAAR, according to the Chronicle. Beginning with the 2027-2028 school year, that end-ofyear assessment will be replaced by three shorter tests.

Backers of the change say it will reduce classroom time spent preparing for the test and be a more accurate measure of students’ progress.

Critics say the changes will still place too much emphasis and classroom time preparing for the tests.

“The only evidence is that it will create more testing,” said state Rep.

Gina Hinojosa, Gov.

Greg Abbott’s Democratic challenger for governor. “We’re going from 15 tests to 51 tests by the time a kid’s done with eighth grade. It’s outrageous.”

The new Student Success Tool will provide three tests through the school year, instead of a single high-stakes test at the end of the year.

Results will be available within 48 hours of each test, unlike STAAR results, which are usually released in mid-June, months after students take the test.

Workplace fatalities dipped slightly in 2024 The Texas Department of Insurance has reported that 557 workplace fatalities were reported in 2024, the latest year for which statistics are available. That is down slightly from the 564 workplace fatalities reported in 2023. More than 90% of the fatalities occurred in the private sector.

The most fatalities were reported in the trade, transportation and utilities sector at 175; construction fatalities, with 128, followed. The most common occupation involving fatalities was motor vehicle operators A total of 75 fatalities were due to violent acts in 2024.

Men accounted for 92% of the 557 total incidents in 2024.

Texas economy hits record $2.9 trillion The Texas economy expanded to $2.9 trillion in 2025, growing faster than the nation as a whole at a 2.5% rate, according to the U.S.

Bureau of Economic Analysis. The state maintained its ranks as the world’s eighth-largest economy, based on preliminary estimates from the International Monetary Fund.

“The Texas economy expanded to a record high of $2.9 trillion thanks to the productivity of our skilled workforce and the entrepreneurs and businesses investing here with confidence,” said Greg Abbott.

The state’s economy has grown by 46% over the past 11 years.

Wildfire risks in Panhandle, West Texas rise Dry windy conditions across West Texas and the Panhandle are rising, the Statesman reported, leading to increased risk of wildfires. The National Weather Service has issued red flag warnings from Canada to Mexico, including those areas in Texas.

“A red flag warning means a combination of warm temperatures, very low humidity, dry vegetation, and strong winds.

These conditions can quickly spark and spread wildfires, and in this environment, even a small fire can grow rapidly, so extra caution is critical,” Mary Wasson, meteorologist with the San Antonio Express-News reported.

The Texas A&M Forest Service reports that 9 out of 10 wildfires in Texas are human-caused and therefore preventable. Burn bans are now in effect in 102 Texas counties, and wildfire preparedness is at Level 2, with Level 5 being the highest risk.

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.

The driver was arrested after failing the field sobriety test. There was an open alcohol container in the vehicle.

On March 23, officers responded to Cottonwood Apartments in response to a disturbance. When they arrived, they made contact with a mother who stated her father and grandfather were harassing her daughter.

During the commotion, officers located marijuana belonging to John Anthony Truitt. He was arrested for Possession of Marijuana, and an open warrant he also had.

On March 31 officers were dispatched to America’s Best Value Inn in reference to an intoxicated male subject who refused to leave the property. Upon arrival, officers made contact with Tony Snyder, 45, of Austin, who was asleep and unresponsive on the bed inside room 109.

Officers made several attempts to wake Snyder.

After waking him, they informed him he stayed past his check-out time and informed him he needed to leave the property. Snyder stated he was not leaving. Based on his refusal to comply, he was arrested for Public Intoxication.

On March 29, at approximately 2:05 a.m., officers observed a 2016 white Dodge Challenger traveling Northbound on North Wells. They caught up to the vehicle for better observation.

The vehicle turned right, onto Houston Highway, turning too far into the dirt shoulder before returning to the road.

Officers initiated a traffic stop and identified the driver as Devin Cole Johnson, 22

• Date: Wednesday, May 6, 2026

• Time: 6:00 PM

• Location: Jackson County Drainage District Office, 2066 State Hwy 111, Edna, TX 77957 The purpose of this public meeting is to gather public information regarding flood-prone areas, and to share information about potential mitigation strategies identified by Scheibe Consulting. All interested citizens are encouraged to attend and participate.

For additional information, please contact the Jackson County Drainage District Office at (361) 782-5401.

In select communities where maintaining a standalone office is no longer practical, we have partnered with local Chambers of Commerce to provide convenient, in-person access points for our publications.

These trusted community partners now serve as local drop-off and pickup locations where you can: Pick up the latest print edition

• Submit payments for your account

• Drop off news items, announcements, or advertising materials

• Arrange to meet with a member of our team (by appointment) While these locations are not staffed by newspaper personnel, they function much like traditional newspaper offices once did, providing a familiar and accessible connection point within the community.

Local Area Access Points Jackson County Chamber of Commerce 116 Cypress St Edna, TX 77957 Cuero Chamber 210 E Main St Cuero, TX 77954

We remain deeply committed to the communities we serve and to preserving the role of local journalism. By embracing thoughtful efficiencies and strong local partnerships, we are ensuring these publications continue to inform, connect and serve for years to come.

Committed to Sustainable Local Community Journalism

First Grade: Julian Enriquez, Baylor Labay, Mia Reid, Kaylene Rubio, Harper Heery, Rachel Hernandez, Eli Perez, Gio Rivera, Millie Silliman, Sawyer Beldin, Galilea Castro.

Second Grade: Sadie Larson, Joaquin Moreno, Miles Spann, Karoline Cihal, Teneley Gresham, Violet Sulak, Ivy Verver, Blayke Voldan, Conner Schroedter, Taylor Vasquez.

Third Grade: Conner Ehrhard, Luke Girndt, Mateo Ramos, Alaena Rosalez, Sayra Saunders, Jordyn Taylor, Lane Andel, Isaiah Briones, Vanessa Garcia, Kenzi Guerrero, Lake Hicks, Makenna McDonald, Aaron Almeda, Caroline Chambless, Zane Cihal, Cora Gonzales, Violet Hankey, Samantha Lazo, Demi McCain, Emma Novak, Annleigh Perez, Charlotte Poulton.

Fourth Grade: Khloey Jo Almaraz, Cotton Bures, Jack Carbajal, Callaway Hutchison, Gunner Spann, Joey Michele Henderson, Presley Labay, Raeanne Pahmiyer, Kytonn Smith, Truett Thedford, Ayden Alvarez, Bear Bures, Levi Castner, Nathan Mathews.

Fifth Grade: Tilly Bures, Cruz Gonzales, Colin Hadley, Hunter Kuhlman, Beckett Bures, Jason Ramos.

A/B Honor Roll First Grade: Alianna Almeda, Sofia Garfias, Nolan Marroquin, Mahi Patel, Lucy Vazquez, Alex Alvarez, Luke Arriaga, Melissa Garcia, Brayden Nelson, Nathan Olivarez, Mason Ramos, Kyle Alvarez, Bryar Cihal, Leo Cruz.

Second Grade:

Stephanie Contreras, Jaxon Ardner, Duval Larson, Santiago Aguilar, Rylan Junek, Tadeo Mendoza, Chesney Ramsey, Madalynn Tudyk, Romeo Martinez, Ella Orsak, Vera Thedford.

Third Grade: Ben Mendez, Jocelyn Rivera, Andrea Silva, Cole Bourg, Maribel Briones, Lily Castner, Isaiah Conde, Celeste Cruz, Isabella Guerrero, Waylon Sublett, Cashton Arriaga, Lane Behrens, Addie Green, Kanaan Twardowski.

Fourth Grade: Iliana Almeda, Bradley Bures, Carly Delossantos, Cash Ferguson, Ben Hernandez, Cali Lindsey, Monica Mendoza, Koen Stancik, Ky Tristan, Danni Zikhuhr, Annabella Contreras, Syla Engelmohr, River Hayden, Toby Kelly, Brynlee Reeves, Allison Espejo, Alexa Avalos, Mason Graham, Everett Keen, Evan Reynolds, Eleynah Torres, Nathan Tudyk.

Fifth Grade: Makenna Schneider, Santiago Ramirez, Lexi Parker, Eliana Narvaez, Emily Galvan, Natalie Brito, Sabastian Aguilar, Ray Brown, Jace Green, Maddox Green, Zoey Olivarez, Hailey Rosales, Elizabeth Rosas, Ryland Ruiz, Kinsley Arriaga, Elijah Junek, Hayden Kuhlman, Reese Rutherford.

Cassanda Almeda, Gabriella Girndt, McKarti Hajovsky, Abad Orta Rangel, Kayleighann Rathjen, Bella Szymanski.

Seventh Grade:

Charles Bures, Madisyn Bures, Maverick Bures, Lilah Carbajal, Jackson Chambless, Jennifer De La Torre, Abigail Estrada, Emma Gabrysch, Nolan Gonzales, Sophie Gonzalez, Morgan Hurt, Easton McCain, Ava Novak, Jonah Serna, Evan Zavala.

Eighth Grade: Yarely Alvarez, Adelaide Bures, Sydney Hart, Sebastian Orozco, Jael Susil, Raegan Veselka.

A Honor Roll Sixth Grade: Maximo Alvarez, Addison Andel, Bodie Estrada, Santiago Guerrero Contreras, Hunter Hurt, Elise Soto.

Seventh Grade:

Caiton Ferguson, Juan Lazo, Falynn Marroquin, Case Ott, Lexie Pape.

Eighth Grade:

Zoey Conde, Vianney Contreras, Christopher Guerrero Contreras, Kyle Stancik, Carter Turnipseed.

A/B Honor Roll Sixth Grade: Jasmine Ledwig, Jose Moreno, Evelyn Rangel Sanchez.

Seventh Grade:

Karina Ayala, Harper Baker, Lucas Crump, Willow Hayden, Aubrie Hutchison, Khloe Nelson, Lorena Ramos.

Eighth Grade:

Layloni Ansmendez, Lesley Briones, Beau Bures, Guadalupe Espino, Fynlee Green, Evelyn Palomares, Kevin Palomares.