The FBI’s 2025 Internet Crime Report shows cyber-enabled crimes defrauded Americans of nearly $21 billion, with cryptocur- rency and artificial intelligence-re lated complaints among the costliest.

The Internet Crime Complaint

Center (IC3) received 1,008,597 total complaints, an increase from 859,532 in 2024. Phishing/spoofing, extortion, and investment schemes were the most frequently reported complaints. Americans over 60 reported approximately $7.7 billion in losses, up 37% from 2024.

The IC3 received approximately 453,000 cyber-enabled fraud complaints, with reported losses exceeding $17.7 billion. Investment fraud remains the primary driver, accounting for nearly 49% of all scam-related losses.

The top states by number of reported victims and amount lost to cyber-enabled frauds were: 1) California - $3.6 billion in losses

2) Texas - $1.8 billion in losses 3) Florida - $1.6 billion in losses

Americans who submitted complaints involving cryptocurrency reported the highest losses, with 181,565 complaints totaling more than $11 billion. In 2024, the FBI launched Operation Level Up, a proactive initiative to identify and notify people who are currently falling victim to cryptocurrency investment fraud. Since its inception, the initiative has surpassed 8,000 total victims notified and reduced losses by more than $500 million. In 2026, the FBI launched Operation Winter SHIELD, highlighting concrete steps organizations can take to bolster their digital security.

Costly tactics used by scammers also include compromised corporate e-mails, tech support fraud, and personal data breach- es. For the first time in its nearly 25-year history, the IC3 report fea- tures a section on artificial intelli gence, which accounts for 22,364 complaints, costing Americans nearly $893 million. Scammers rely on pressure techniques to defraud Americans while deploying fake social profiles, voice clones, identification documents, and be lievable videos depicting public figures or loved ones.

The FBI urges everyone to “Take a Beat” to identify the red flags of a potential scam. Resist pressure to act quickly and assess the situation before turning over money or personal information.

IC3 receives nearly 3,000 complaints per day. If you believe you or someone you know may have been a victim of a fraud or scam, contact your local FBI office or submit a complaint at ic3.gov as soon as possible. You should document the name of the scammer/ company, methods of contact, dates of contact, methods of payment, where funds have been sent, and a thorough description of the interactions.

Access the latest report at https://www.ic3.gov/AnnualReport/ Reports

Following the American Civil War and Emancipation of Slaves in 1865, it was not until 1871 that African Americans in Texas were able to uniformly register to vote, following the ratification of the 15th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

While African Americans served as delegates to State Constitutional Conventions prior to 1870, the first African Americans elected to serve in the Texas Legislature were elected to the 12th Legislature, which convened in provisional session on Feb. 8, 1870.

Prior to the end of Federal Reconstruction in 1870, 12 African Americans served in the Texas House of Representatives, and two served in the Texas Senate.

This marker is erected in honor of Benjamin Franklin Williams (c.

1819 – 1886), representative in the 12th Texas Legislature representing Colorado and Lavaca counties.

Williams, born in Virginia, was brought to Colorado County around 1859.

After emancipation, he became a traveling Methodist preacher and church leader, founding St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in Columbus.

Williams also became involved in the Union League, serving as chaplain.

Williams was elected as a republican to represent Colorado and Lavaca counties (25th District) in the 12th Legislature; Waller, Fort Bend and Wharton counties (37th District) in the 16th Legislature; and Waller and Fort Bend counties (53rd District) in the 19th Legisla ture.

Williams helped found the Town of Kendleton and served as its first postmaster.

Williams and wife Caroline had one son, Thomas.

Erected by the 88th Texas Legislature and the Texas Historical Commission as Authorized by SB 667.

Texas (PAT) brought the commu

nity together for an unforgettable evening at their annual fundraising gala, NEON LIGHTS: Illuminating Young Minds, held recently, at the Southern Oaks Event Center in Columbus.

The NEON LIGHTS fundraiser campaign ran through Feb. 28 and concluded with a vibrant gala celebration centered on one powerful message: When families are supported from the very start, entire communities shine brighter.

More than 150 attendees gathered to support PAT’s mission of empowering families in Fayette and Colorado counties by promoting the optimal early development, learning, and health of children through parent engagement and education. The evening highlighted PAT’s core belief:

You Are Your Child's Most Influ

ential Teacher.

Guests enjoyed an elevated seated dinner experience featuring Bella Sera Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria, Mikeska’s Bar-BQue carving station, and Schobel’s Restaurant homestyle side dishes. Cocktail hour appetizers were generously provided by the Elstners, setting the tone for an evening of celebration and connection.

The Texas Dream Band kept the energy high throughout the night as guests participated in an exciting live and silent auction, Heads & Tails, and the popular Liquor Wall.

Auctioneer Al Schindler expertly led the live auction, while the evening was guided by a wonderful emcee, Lee Hafley, Schulenburg ISD superintendent, who helped carry the mission forward with enthusiasm and heart.

A highlight of the night included heartfelt testimonies from PAT family Reece and Haley Cernoch, who shared their personal experience with the program, and Conner Elstner, a former PAT student, who offered a powerful full-circle reminder of the lasting impact early support can have on a child’s future.

PAT extends sincere appreciation to its generous sponsors who made NEON LIGHTS possible, including H-E-B, Schulenburg Regency Retirement Community, Prime Products, The Oaks at High Hill, The Stanzel Family Foundation, Hodgepodge Fair Trade Market & Gathering Co., The Picture Pod, Bella Sera Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria, Mikeska’s Bar-B-Que, Schobel’s Restaurant, Elstner’s, and all live and silent auction donors.

Special recognition goes to VIP table sponsors Bob and Lucy Stanzel, Kristinink, Heaney Group LLC, Fayette Savings Bank, Helen Niesner and Friends, Elstner, Venghaus, Andy Bosl, Cowboy Construction, Jack and Linda Greenwade, Tanya and Joe Schindler, and Gary and Terry Braun.

PAT is deeply grateful to its Fundraising Committee, Board of Directors, staff, parent educators, Learn & Play teachers, attendees, bidders, donors, and volunteers whose dedication and generosity made this event a glowing success.

For 24 years, Parents as Teachers of Rural South Central Texas has partnered with families to build strong foundations for lifelong learning.

Funds raised during NEON LIGHTS will directly support home visits, developmental screenings, parent education, and school readiness programming for families across rural South Central Texas.

If you or someone you know has young children and would like to learn more or get involved, please call 979-743-6584 or email kristi@sw-pat.org.

Set for Thursday, April 23, the 5th Annual Open Mic Poetry Night will take place at the Weimar Gazebo, at 1 Jackson Square at 6:30 p.m. Come to read, listen, converse with neighbors, and enjoy a beautiful spring evening. Bring your poems, family and friends, blanket or lawn chairs.

Snacks and drinks will be provided.

Weimar’s Open Mic Po- etry Night first launched in 2022 and has become an annual literary celebration for the community. It has created opportunities for everyone to read, share, and experience poetry, affirm ing poetry’s place as a vital part of our culture.

Poets who wish can have original poetry entered into an Anthology of poetry read at the yearly event by emailing the poem(s) with name and phone number to library@ weimartx.gov.

Volunteers will meet up at Mill Creek at Farm-to-Market 2429 in Bellville. Volunteers will meet at the launch site and deploy to two other bridge sites across Mill Creek as needed.

Register at millcreek. tamu.edu. Water and clean supplies will be provided. This event is in partnership with the Gideon Lincecum, Chapter of Texas Master Naturalists and the Trash Free Gulf Campaign.

Serving drive-thru only, these monster steaks will leave the pit and head onto your plate from 10:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., or until sold out. This meal is the real deal at only $15 a plate and loaded with the steak, mashed potatoes, green beans, and a roll. Desserts will be provided by the Pantry volunteers.

The topic this month, “Growing Your Garden from Seeds,” is scheduled for Tuesday, April 14, with guest speaker Randy Albers, master gardener. Whether starting your tomatoes early to plant sturdy plants outside as soon as possible or directly seeding your garden plants into the ground, best practices save money and effort and provide better results. And you can save seeds from many plants to keep your garden going for years.

Registration starts at 11:50 a.m. and the program runs until 12:50 p.m. The Lunch-N-Learn Series are held at the Fayette County Agricultural Building at 255 Svoboda Ln. in La Grange. Programs are free and you are encouraged to bring your own lunch and drink. Light refreshments are available from master gardener hospitality hosts.

For information, contact the Fayette County Extension Service at 979-9685831 or visit the Fayette County Extension Service website at http://fayette. agrilife.org.

SUPPLY DRIVE FOR ANIMAL SHELTER

The Fayette County Texas Exes will be hosting a supply drive during the month of March to support the Gardenia E. Janssen Animal Shelter in La Grange. Please help by donating the following items: bleach, window cleaner, disinfectant wipes, latex gloves, 409/Lysol disinfectant cleaner, paper towels, 35 gallon trash bags, 55 gallon heavy duty (2 mil) trash bags, puppy pads, copy paper, post-it notes, dry erase markers, and sharpies. Donations can be dropped off at the following locations: Jones Insurance Services and Texas One Stop in La Grange, Round Top Real Estate, Shorty’s in Winchester, Flatonia Baptist Church, Schulenburg Family Fitness Center, Joe’s Place, Orsak’s Café and Vintage Rose Market in Fayetteville.

ELLINGER VFD TO HOLD FUNDRAISER

ELLINGER — The Ellinger Volunteer Fire Department will hold a fundraiser Sunday, April 26 at the Ellinger Chamber of Commerce Hall in Ellinger. A barbecue chicken and sausage dinner will be served at $15 per plate beginning at 11 a.m. Drive-thru plates start at 10:30 a.m. Barbecue chicken to go at the pits are $12 per chicken. Auction begins at 1 p.m. Proceeds will be used to purchase a new brush truck.

ST. MICHAEL SPRING FESTIVAL WEIMAR — St. Michael Catholic Church in Weimar will hold its Spring Festival Sunday, April 26 at the Veteran’s Memorial Park in Weimar. The fried chicken and sausage dinner will be served starting at 11 a.m. at $15 per plate. Drive-thru take-home plates will be available at St. Michael Family Center at $15 per plate. The event will include an auction at 1 p.m., Bingo from 2 to 6 p.m., antique and classic car show, country store, cake walk, kids games including fish pond, train ride, Plinko and more, and bounce house from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Music will be provided by the Czechaholics at 11 a.m., San Antonio Combo at 2 p.m. and The Matt Bonner Band at 5 p.m. There will hamburgers, cold drinks and desserts.

HERMAN SONS TO HOLD FUNDRAISER WARRENTON — Hermann Sons Rutersville will hold a spring fundraiser on Saturday, April 11 from 4:306:30 p.m. at the Lodge hall. Purchase a full plate of onehalf barbecue chicken, large baked potato and sauce for $10. Orders are “to-go” only. Reserve plates before April 8 by calling 979-966-3449. Limited availability without an advance order.

FIGHT LIKE A GIRL TO BE HELD LA GRANGE — Join the Texas Quilt Museum and the Fayette County Community Theatre as they present Fight Like a Girl on Saturday, April 11 at 6 p.m. and Sunday, April 12 at 2 p.m. at the museum located at 140 S. Colorado in La Grange. Fight Like a Girl is a bold and theatrical mosaic of monologues that bring to life the voices of women across time, culture, and circumstances. This production will feature local actresses portraying scientists, soldiers, poets, social advocates, and even a famous female pirate captain. Admission includes access to all museum exhibits and attractions and will include refreshments in the museum garden prior to the performance. Tickets are $25 and available at www.faycotheatre. com.

CAT SPRING VFD TO HOLD BBQ CAT SPRING — The Cat Spring Volunteer Fire Department will hold its annual barbecue Saturday, April 18 at the Cat Spring Agricultural Hall in Cat Spring. Beef and sausage barbecue will be served from 5 to 7 p.m. Auction will begin at 6:30 p.m. The event will in- clude gun raffle, kids activities, Kona Ice, live music and dance.

Throughout her high school career, she has been actively involved in a variety of clubs, including Yearbook, Science Club, Spanish Club, Art Club, Leo's Club, Cardinals in Action, Cardinals for Christ, and Garden Club. She has held numerous leadership positions within these organizations, demonstrating her commitment and initiative. Rosales is also a dedicated athlete, having played varsity soccer, participated in the high school drill team, and served as a student athletic trainer.

In addition to her extracurricular activities, she has been employed by Big Easy Ranch for the last 2.5 years. Rosales completed a summer internship at Blinn College and currently serves as a Magnolia Belle and senior advisor for her class. She has also contributed over 80 hours of community service.

Rosales exemplifies the qualities of a hardworking and community-oriented student and her scholarship is a testament to her dedication and achievements.

A Chance To Dance Spring Recital is presented Tuesday, April 28 at 5 p.m. at the Sealy Junior High Auditorium at 939 Tiger Ln. in Sealy. For information, contact Sped Services at spedservices@sealyisd. com.

Three years ago, I was in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, walking through what had once been a large fabric mill. It has since been turned into an art gallery called, appropriately, La Fabrica, where artists of all kinds lease space to show their work. There are always people and art and dogs, and flowers blooming and banners flying, making this former mill one of the liveliest places in town.

One day, while passing a shop, I saw the most outrageous couch.

It was an old camelback couch -- a loveseat, really, but with wide, rolled arms. It appeared to be an older piece of furniture that had been restored. The fabric was crazy. It was a patchwork of burned velvet fabric in brilliant hues. It was the brightest, craziest couch I’d ever seen, and it was being sold alongside art and sculpture, which made sense, because it really was a work of art.

I don’t know how stories come into being, but that brilliant couch, three years ago, left an impression on me. I started writing a new book. The book was about a house that had lived in a small town by the river for 150 years and had, over the course of time, developed a fondness for the women who lived in it, especially its current tenant, Max. 'What did Max do?' I wondered. And then I saw her making a couch very much like that one I’d seen, using crazy fabrics, and selling it to her art dealer, Bobby.

The story became “The Turnip House.” When it was finished, I sent it to my agent and, after editing it, we submitted it to my publisher. And we have just learned that they want to publish it.

Last week, my husband, Peter, and I were considering moving from our tiny and much-beloved apartment at Casa de los Soles. We decided not to move. We realized we could not stand to be away from this place that has become our home away from home. Since we are not spending money on a larger apartment, I was walking through La Fabrica, wondering how we could make our place a little nicer. Just as I was thinking this, I saw a couch very similar to the one that had inspired “The Turnip House,” the book that had just sold.

I went into the shop. “You had another couch,” I began, “but it was in brighter colors.”

The young woman did not look perplexed in the least. She headed off to the back of the store and indicated that I should follow her.

“No way,” I thought. We climbed a flight of stairs. And there, sitting like it was waiting for me, was my couch. Except now, it was 40% off.

“Oh my gosh,” I said in English.

I came home and told Peter.

“If you like it, that’s all that matters,” Peter said. (Peter is wonderful that way.)

Then I asked Jorge, our landlord, if he’d mind if I replaced his couch with a new one. At first, he thought I was asking him to buy it.

“No! No,” I told him. “It’s a gift -- to me.” And I told him the story.

Jorge smiled. “No problem!”

So today I am waiting. I should be getting the final contract for “The Turnip House,” which will make it all official. And I should be getting delivery of the brightly colored couch that inspired it. I’m not sure which will arrive first, and I guess it doesn’t matter.

I know they belong together and are part of the same story.

Till next time, Carrie

Houston Field Office joins other FBI offices across the country in warning the public about individuals claiming to be federal law enforcement to defraud victims of money and per- sonally identifiable infor mation.

Fraudsters posing as law enforcement have been known to contact unsuspecting members of the public and claim that they are suspects or victims of a fraud investigation. The communication typically occurs via text message, phone, or email.

Recent reports detail that offenders, who are not always operating in the United States, create fraudulent scenarios, including posing as bank employees who claim to be working alongside legitimate FBI agents, to gather personal and financial information on the victim.

The FBI urges the public to be extremely cautious when communicating with anyone who claims to be a federal law enforcement officer. Federal authorities will never ask for any kind of payment or personally identifying information when contacting victims or suspects of crime online or over the phone.

If you or someone you know receives a call, text, or email from someone claiming to be a federal law enforcement agent, do not provide information or payment in any form, including money, credit cards, prepaid cards, or cryptocurrency.

• Be suspicious of any unsolicited calls, texts, and emails.

• Follow your gut: if an unknown individual is making statements that don’t sound factual, or if they’re pressuring you to act immediately, end all communication and save them for the record.

• If claims raise concern, verify the information independently by contacting the appropriate law enforcement agency, bank, or company with the contact information publicly known, and not provided by a scammer.

• Never give money and/ or personal information to someone with whom you did not initiate contact or have an independent and direct affiliation.

To bring offenders to justice or to report fraud, please file a report with the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at www.ic3.gov, or the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (2255324), or at tips.fbi.gov.

In February, the Trump administration waived more than two dozen environmental laws in order to clear the way for a 150-mile-long wall through West Texas, including Big Bend and the adjoining state park. Opposition quickly arose from people and politicians from both parties.

The sheriffs of Brewster, Culberson, Hudspeth, Presidio and Terrell counties — a mix of Democrats and Republicans — wrote an open letter that said: “Based on decades of combined experience working with this terrain, we believe that construction of a continuous physical border wall in the Big Bend region would not represent the most practical or strategic approach to border security in this area.”

Now, a map on the U.S.

Customs and Border Protection website no longer indicates plans to construct a physical wall in the Big Bend region. It is unclear if those plans are final, since the map has been changed several times in the past few weeks.

The rugged area historically has been the least-busy of the nine Border Patrol sectors, accounting for just 1.3% of the 237,538 apprehensions recorded along the entire U.S.-Mexi- co border during the last fiscal year.

State on trial for un-airconditioned prisons

The state of Texas is now on trial in an Austin federal court to determine whether it must provide air-conditioning in state prisons, kut.org reported. Inmates and their attorneys have argued for decades that summer conditions — where temperatures can reach 110 degrees — constitute cruel and unusual punishment.

“The Constitution requires living conditions that are not exposing individuals to high heat levels, and the evidence has consistently shown that what TDCJ has done as an alternative has just not been effective,” attorney Brandon Duke said. “It’s not a solution.” The state counters that it is bringing more AC online at its prisons. Plaintiff attorneys say at least five inmates have died in Texas from heat-related illness since 2023.

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice says it would cost $1.5 billion to install air-conditioning systems at all its prisons, and that state lawmakers must approve the funding.

U.S.

District Judge Robert Pittman is expected to rule from the bench after the trial concludes.

Camp Mystic files application to reopen this summer

Camp Mystic has filed an application with the state to reopen this summer, the Houston Chronicle reported. More than two dozen children and two camp counselors were killed in the July 4 flash floods that swept the camp. The Texas Department of State Health Services, which oversees camp licensing, said it has received complaints about the camp and that it will be “investigated for violations of the laws and rules governing youth camps.”

DSHS has been sued by the parents of nine victims who contend the camp was wrongfully licensed just two days before the disaster last summer, even though it lacked an evacuation plan. In a separate case, a Travis County judge has ordered Camp Mystic to preserve for future examination the cabins and grounds damaged in the floods.

Camp leaders are asking for permission to open its Cypress Lake campus, which they said is “in compliance with all aspects of the state’s new camp safety laws and has implemented additional safety measures that exceed the requirements of those laws.”

Texas public school teacher pay drops

A new report from the University of Houston Education Research Center indicates average pay for Texas public school teachers has dropped about $5,000 over the past decade, the Chronicle reported.

The decrease comes even as the cost of living has increased during that time span.

“When we look at those regional differences, there are some increases across the state, but really what we’re seeing is that average teacher salaries haven't kept up with inflation," said Toni Templeton, the Education Research Center's senior research scientist.

Average base pay for the state’s most experienced teachers, those with 11 or more years of experience, has declined from about $73,000 to about $66,000 in 2024-25, according to the report.

The Texas Legislature approved pay increases based on teachers’ years of experience, and those raises could show up in future studies.

SpaceX planning what could be biggest-ever IPO

Elon Musk’s SpaceX is confidentially planning to sell shares to the public in what could be the largest initial public offering in history, the Austin American-Statesman re- ported. It has filed paperwork with the Securities and Exchange Commission that indicates it could raise as much as $75 billion in an IPO by July.

The confidential filing al lows companies to get feedback from regulators without revealing information to competitors. However, SpaceX will have to release a public filing at least 15 days before its IPO “road show,” when it presents its financial plan to potential underwriters and institutional investors.

SpaceX has become the world’s leading commercial rocket launch company. Over the past five years, it has se cured $6 billion in contracts from the federal government.

TDI helps stop $400 million Medicare scheme

A Texas Department of Insurance investigator and crime analyst played a key role in arresting a Russian national who submitted $400 million in fake Medicare claims. Nikolai Buzolin established a durable medical equipment company in Houston in 2025. He is charged with stealing patients’ and doctors’ identities to submit fraudulent claims to Medicare Part C.

“A few of the patients checked their explanation of benefits and noticed that they were getting medical equipment that they didn't need. And it was coming from doctors they’d never met,” said TDI Fraud Unit investigator Sgt.

Kevin Mannion.

FBI agents arrested Buzolin as he was boarding a plane in Los Angeles to Russia. He faces up to 20 years in prison if found guilty.

“TDI works with federal, state, and local partners to follow cases wherever they go, whether it's California or right here in Texas,” said Mannion.

“We track them down, we shut them down, and we help dismantle these criminal activities.”

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.

Bryant James Bartschi and Melanie Dawn Garrett Quintin Ashley Pease and Denise Clair Smidt

Divorce Filed

Autumn K. Nutall and Marquis A. Nutall

Divorces Granted

Kimberly Moorehead and John Moorehead Tara Renea Johnson and Willie Clark Johnson

County Court Cases Filed March 26

Dyer Dunn Smith, driving while intoxicated.

March 30

Keaundre Trevon Stokes, criminal trespass.

Keaundre Trevon Stokes, evading arrest/detention.

Robert Padron Jr., driving while intoxicated.

Huntington Luke Potter, assault causes bodily injury/ family violence.

March 31 Deion Christopher Bates, criminal trespass.

District Court Dispositions March 31

Keavon Ward, motion to revoke, aggravated assault with deadly weapon. Orig- inally filed May 23, 2020.

Defendant’s probation was revoked and sentenced to four years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice- Institutional Division.

Paul Douglas Blunck III, motion to revoke, possession of controlled substance Penalty Group 1 in an amount less than 1 gram.

Originally filed Oct. 29, 2020. Defendant's proba tion was revoked and sen- tenced to 12 months state jail.

Jesus Iram Campos-Rodriguez, assault of public servant. Defendant’s case was dismissed.

Jerrell Ward, motion to revoke, possession of controlled substance Penalty Group 1/1-B in an amount less than 1 gram. Originally filed June 15, 2024. Defen dant’s probation was re- voked and sentenced to 12 months state jail.

Quientin Oneil, theft of cattle/horse/exotic livestock in an amount less than $150,000. Defendant's case was dismissed.

Quientin Oneil, theft of cattle/horse/exotic livestock in an amount less than $150,000. Defendant's case was dismissed.

Lisa Marie Moya, possession of controlled substance Penalty Group 1/1B in an amount less than 1 gram. Defendant’s case was dismissed.

Jordan Taylor Nunezdevillavicencio, burglary of building. Defendant was sentenced to nine months state jail, and was assessed fees and restitution.

Robert William Burt Jr., assault causes bodily injury. Defendant was sentenced to six days jail and was assessed fees.

Philip Christopher Innes, possession of controlled substance 1/1-B in an amount greater than or equal to 1 gram but less than 4 grams. Defendant was sentenced to five years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice-Institutional Division.

Philip Christopher Innes, manufacture/delivery of controlled substance 1-B in an amount greater than or equal to 1 gram but less than 4 grams. De fendant was sentenced to five years in the Texas De partment of Criminal Justice- Institutional Division.

Philip Christopher Innes, possession of con- trolled substance 2 in an amount greater than or equal to 1 gram but less than 4 grams. Defendant was sentenced to five years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice-Institutional Division.

Philip Christopher Innes, manufacture/delivery of controlled substance 1-B in an amount greater than or equal to 1 gram but less than 4 grams. De fendant was sentenced to five years in the Texas De partment of Criminal Justice- Institutional Division and was assessed fees.

Philip Christopher Innes, manufacture/delivery of controlled substance 1-B in an amount greater than or equal to 1 gram but less than 4 grams. De fendant was sentenced to five years in the Texas De partment of Criminal Justice- Institutional Division.

Keavon Obrien Hillsman- Ward, unlawful pos- session of firearm by felon.

Defendant was sentenced to four years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice- Institutional Division and was assessed fees.

Rafael Ceballos, possession of controlled substance Penalty Group 1/1-B in an amount less than 1 gram. Defendant was sentenced to 165 days in jail and was assessed fees.

Justin LeKeith Manley, possession of controlled substance Penalty Group 1/1-B in an amount less than 1 gram. Defendant was sentenced to 160 days jail and was assessed fees.

Donte Hikeem Thomas, theft of property in an amount less than $2,500 with two or more previous convictions. Defendant was sentenced to 140 days jail.

Donte Hikeem Thomas, theft of property in an amount less than $2,500 with two or more previous convictions. Defendant was sentenced to 140 days jail.

Donte Hikeem Thomas, prohibited substance/item in correctional/civil commitment facility. Defendant’s case was dismissed.

Jerrell Ward, possession of controlled substance Penalty Group 1/1-B in an amount less than 1 gram. Defendant was sentenced to 12 months state jail and was assessed fees.

Shawn Michael Wilkinson, possession of controlled substance Penalty Group 1/1-B in an amount less than 1 gram. Defendant was sentenced to 145 days jail and was assessed fees.

Angel Ybarra Jr., assault of family/household member with previous convictions, enhanced. Defendant was sentenced to three years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice-Institutional Division.

Paul Douglas Blunck III, possession of controlled substance Penalty Group 1/1-B in an amount less than 1 gram. Defendant was sentenced to12 months state jail and was assessed fees.

Paul Douglas Blunck III, possession of controlled substance Penalty Group 1/1-B in an amount less than 1 gram. Defendant was sentenced to12 months state jail and was assessed fees.

Jonathan Renaude Hill, aggravated assault with deadly weapon. Defendant was sentenced to five years deferred adjudication and was assessed fees.

Ubence Ramon Jr., theft of property in an amount greater than or equal to $2,500 but less than $30,000. Defendant was sentenced to three years probation, and was assessed fees and restitution.

Deeds March 26

Deed: Settlers Crossing Inc. to Sara Lauren Fruge, Lot 1, Block 2, Settlers Ridge Subdivision.

Deed: Highway 36 Ven tures LLC to Jay Michael Durheim, Lot 2, Sempro nius Subdivision.

Deed: Iyad Muslet to Brian E. Bro, Lot 6, Bartlett Estates West Subdivision.

Deed: Macy Lane

Stanfield to Jeremy Chase Janczak, Lot 52, Block 1, Sealy Homestead Subdivision.

Deed: Monique Winningham to Brian E. Bro,

Lot 5, Block 1, Bartlett Es tates West Subdivision.

Deed: Monique Winningham to Iyad Muslet, Lot 5, Block 1, Bartlett Es tates West Subdivision.

Deed: Edson Saldierna to Alma Saldierna, Lot 9, San Bernard Ranches Subdivision.

Deed: Rhonda Ohara to Kristin Martinez, see recording.

Deed: Pink Piggy Real Estate LLC Series A to Amber Ghanbari, Multiple Lots/Blocks, Wilkerson Estates Subdivision.

Deed: Paula M. Little to Kelli Little, see recording.

Deed: Paula M. Little to Bradley James Little, see recording.

March 27

Deed: New Hope Trust to Jeffrey Logan, see recording.

Deed: Glynn Dell Buie, deceased to Dora Dean Buie, see recording.

Deed: Sonia Matlock, administrator to Sonia Matlock, see recording.

Deed: The Estate of Matthew Miller Hollis, deceased to Janet Williams Miller, trustee, see recording.

Deed: Ruben Scott Wood to Ann Field Singleton, see recording.

Deed: Jason Wickel to Irene Elaine Wickel, see recording.

Deed: Scott Renfroe Singleton to Circle P Ranch & Equine LLC, see recording.

Deed: Stanley Willis to Diana Joy Bufkin, Lot 4, Block 2, Bell Oaks Subdi vision.

Deed: Leilani Howren to Doug Howren, see recording.

Deed: John Reinbeck to Vanessa C. Moreno, Lot 15, Block 2, Westview Terrace

Subdivision.

March 30

Deed: Breanna Alexis Kovar to Brian Allan Kovar, see recording.

Deed: Megan Janczak to Brohn Homes, Lot 5, Block 1, Hunters Crossing Subdi- vision, Section 2.

Deed: Trinity Water Reserve Inc. to Lonnie Glen Adams, see recording.

Deed: Deborah Ann Tuftee to James Albert Palmer, see recording.

Deed: RICI LLC to Candice Garner, Multiple Lots/ Blocks, Briarwood Subdivision, Section 1.

March 31

Deed: Lilliana Cantu to Patricia Andrus, see recording.

Deed: Texas Greener Pastures LLC to Royal Oak Funding LLC, see recording.

Deed: Sherryl Ann Salmon Bradley, trustee to Sherryl Ann Salmon Bradley, individual executrix & individually, Lot 2, Ranches at Cat Spring Subdivision.

Deed: Kimberly Rychlik to Doris Fountain, Lot 30, Don Ell Krampitz Subdivision.

April 1

Deed: Dalton Kasper to BSR Properties II LLC, Lot 20, Block 2, Hunters Cros - ing Subdivision, Section 2.

Deed: Jason Teran to Pro Intensity LLC, see recording.

Deed: Kimberly S. Larsen to Craig A. Larsen, see recording.

Deed: Kimblery S. Larsen to Craig A. Larsen, see recording.

Deed: Kimberly S. Larsen to John Fredrick Arnaut, see recording.

Deed: Kevin Ray Swearingen to Chad Alan Swearingen, see recording.

Deed: Nancy Swearingen, individually and independent executrix to Chad Alan Swearingen, see recording.

Deed: Kevin Ray Swearingen to Chad Alan Swearingen, see recording.

Deed: Kevin Ray Swearingen to Chad Alan Swearingen, see recording.

COLORADO

Court Filings Marriage License

Royce Lynell Caldwell and Natalie Lenae Alley Elias Adonay Galdamez Garcia and Belkis Julissa Rodriguez

County Court Case Filed March 30

Logan Lavon Cloninger, purchase/furnish alcohol to a minor.

District Court Dispositions March 16

Temika Dashay Ed- wards, forgery of financial instrument. Defendant was sentenced to five years de - ferred adjudication, 10 days jail as a condition of proba- tion, and was assessed fines and restitution.

James Patrick Johnson, injury to child/elderly/ disabled with intentional bodily injury. Defendant was sentenced to four years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice-Institutional Division.

Breanna Marie Lanpher, aggravated assault with deadly weapon. Defendant was sentenced to 10 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice-Institutional Division.

Breanna Marie Lanpher, Count I: aggravated assault with deadly weapon; Count II: aggravated assault with deadly weapon. Defendant was sentenced to 10 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice-Institutional Division for Count I and 10 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice-Institutional Division for Count II.

Cassie Lynn Mraz, motion to revoke, possession of controlled substance Penalty Group 1/1-B in an amount greater than or equal to 1 gram but less than 4 grams. Defendant's probation was modified and

sent to SAFP.

Michael Lawrence Scarberry, possession of controlled substance Penalty Group 1/1-B in an amount greater than or equal to 1 gram but less than 4 grams.

Defendant was sentenced to six years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice- Institutional Division.

Jonathan Frank Schneider, possession of controlled substance Penalty Group 1/1-B in an amount greater than or equal to 1 gram but less than 4 grams.

Defendant was sentenced to 10 years deferred adjudica tion, Central Texas Treat- ment Center, TAIP, 12 Step weekly, and was assessed fees.

March 23

Jayla Renee Humphrey, motion to revoke, theft of property in an amount great- er than or equal to $2,500 but less than $30,000. De fendant’s probation was modified and sent to ISF, two years state jail probated for four years and was assessed fees.

Ernesto Lozano, Count I: theft of property in an amount greater than $30,000 but less than $150,000; Count II: un authorized use of vehicle. Defendant was sentenced to 10 years in the Texas De partment of Criminal Justice- Institutional Division probated five years, and was assessed fees and fine for Count I. Count II was abandoned by the court.

Michael Deshawn Perry, aggravated assault with deadly weapon. Defendant was sentenced to five years deferred adjudication, no contact with victim, and was assessed fees and fine.

David Ramirez Jr., assault of hospital personnel on hospital property. Defen- dant was sentenced to five years deferred adjudication, anger management class, and was assessed fees.

March 25

Bobby Allen Brock, aggravated assault with deadly weapon. Defendant was sentenced to 10 years de ferred adjudication, anger management class, no fire arms, weapon forfeited, and was assessed fees, fine and restitution.

Ernest Anthony Mejia, manufacture/delivery of controlled substance Penalty Group 1 in an amount greater than or equal to 4 grams but less than 200

grams. Defendant was sen-

tenced to 10 years deferred adjudication, 12 step meet ing, and was assessed fees and fine.

Noah Gavin Ramirez, assault of public servant. Defendant was sentenced to four years deferred ad- judication, 10 days jail as a condition of probation, anger management class, and was assessed fees and fine.

Robert Anthony Sloan, manufacture/delivery of controlled substance Penalty Group 1 in an amount greater than or equal to 1 gram but less than 4 grams.

Defendant was sentenced to six years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice- Institutional Division.

Dakota Lee Ward, possession of controlled substance Penalty Group 1/1-B in an amount greater than or equal to 1 gram. Defendant’s probation was revoked and sentenced to four years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice- Institutional Division.

Kristina Nicole Wheeler, possession of controlled substance Penalty Group 1/1-B in an amount greater than or equal to 1 gram. Defendant was sentenced to 180 days state jail.

Deeds March 27

Quitclaim Deed: Marina Sanchez and Ivonne Vargas Brown to City of Eagle Lake, Lots 1 & 11, Block 29, Westmoreland, City of Eagle Lake.

Special Warranty Deed: Sharon Leah Hughes to Sharon Leah Hughes, trustee and Hughes Family Trust, 10.00 Acres, Amos R. Alexander Survey.

Warranty Deed: Glen R. and Kim W. Vincent to Glen R. and Kim W. Vincent, trustees and Glen and Kim Vincent Revocable Trust, 53.314 Acres, Jos Garwood Survey, et al.

Warranty Deed: Nick Landreth Reiland to Timony J. Strohmaier, Various Tracts, William Renney Survey, et al.

March 31

Special Warranty Deed: Wanda Heinsohn Cernosek to Cernosek Family Limited Partnership, 34.561 Acres, Benjamin F. McMillen Survey.

Special Warranty Deed: Big Easy Ranch Development LLC to 800 Builders LLC, Lot 16, Big Easy Ranch Estates, Section 2.

Special Warranty Deed: Paris Schindler, trustee and the Estate of Raymond G. Schindler to River Vista Ranch LLC, 37.980 Acres, William R. Hunt League.

Warranty Deed: Paul Dennis Jezek, et al to River Vista Ranch LLC, 127.599 Acres, Freeman Pettus Survey, et al.

April 1

Gift Deed: Lawrence G. Korenek Jr. to Stephen James Korenek, 30.817 Acres, William T. Townsend Survey.

FAYETTE

Court Filings Marriage Licenses Jason Teran and Jocelyne Marlene Montalvo Medina Cullen David Machac and Lauren Elizabeth Campbell

Divorces Filed

Nicholas Demel and Dakota Wasson Darryl Max Almeida and Moriah Hope Pierce

Divorces Granted

Cassidy Paige Hernandez and Juan Angel Hernandez Julie Nicole Humke and Michael Hunter Halter

County Court Cases Filed March 27

Nichlas Guzman Gonzalez, possession of marijuana in an amount less than 2 ounces.

Jose Luis Gutierrez, possession of marijuana in an amount greater than 2 ounces but less than or equal to 4 ounces.

Saul Gutierrez, possession of marijuana in an amount greater than 2 ounces but less than or equal to 4 ounces.

Cody Lane Freeman, driving while license invalid with previous convictions/ suspensions without financial responsibilities.

March 31

Henry Paul Dodd, assault causes bodily injury/ family violence.

April 1

Peyton Berger, assault causes bodily injury/family violence.

Darius Ja-Won Gladney, possession of marijuana in an amount less than 2 ounces.

District Court Cases Filed April 1

James Losa Herring, assault of family/household member with previous convictions (13 years of age).

Deeds March 26

Gift Deed: Benito Cerrito Avila and Maria Graciela Hernandez de Cerrito to Susana Hernandez Cerrito, 0.194 Acre, being part Lot 3, Block 5A, Albert Meyer Subdivision, John Eblin League, A-42.

Warranty Deed: Gary Nitsche, et al to Morris Edward II and James Herman Albers, 0.320 Acre, being part Lots 277 & 288, Block 27, John H. Moore Plan, John H. Moore 1/2 League, A-71, La Grange.

Warranty Deed: Scotti Sulak Rhodes to Roy and Laurie Whisnant, Lot 6, Block 507, Faison & Ligon Addition, La Grange.

Warranty Deed: Thomas J. Reitmeyer, Daniel E. Garcia and Catholic Diocese of Austin to Charles W. and Vicki Fritsch, 51.468 Acres, Franklin Lewis Leageu, A-64.

March 27

Gift Deed: Rebecca Lynn Craig to David Lee, Michael Dewayne and Benjamin Terry Craig, 16.024 Acres, W.H. Toy League, A-105.

Warranty Deed: Pamela Rene Henry to Marvin Boyd and Pamela Rene Henry, 11.696 Acres, John Logan League, A-66.

Warranty Deed: Matthew Hollis and Janet W. Miller to Andrew Johnston and Cathleen M. Martin, 5.758 Acres, John Eblin League, A-42 & Ease.

Warranty Deed: Frank L. Hillbolt to Matthew White, 2.714 Acres, John Shaw League, A-92.

Warranty Deed: Julie Mae Cordes Donahoe to Joseph and Kinda Lincoln, 0.671 Acre, being part Lots 2-3 & 6-7, Block 67, Kesiah Crier League, A-38, Schulenburg.

March 30

Gift Deed: Mary Frances Leathers Rauder to Ludwig Erwin Rauder, 23.57 Acres & 26.14 Acres & 23.44 Acres, J.G.W. Pierson League, A-84.

Warranty Deed: Thomas Instrument Inc. to Matthew and Jennifer Harper, 0.3341 Acre, being Lot 12, Ehlers Addition, John Eblin League, A-42, La Grange.

Warranty Deed: Katelin T. Wolff Roecker to Ryan and Katelin Roecker, Lot 12, Block 3, Weikel & Schiller Addition, John Eblin League, La Grange.

Warranty Deed: Jon P. Beebe to Catherine Chinni, 8.101 Acres, Kesiah Crier League, A-38.

Warranty Deed: Julie Davidson Heritage Trust and Julie E. Davidson to Danny and Tiffany M. Muras, 0.21 Acre, being Lot 5 & part Lot 6, Block 15, Schulenburg.

March 31

Special Warranty Deed: Donald W. and Crystal A. Owens to Cado Farms LLC, 93.095 Acres, James Winn League, A-114.

Warranty Deed: James A. Jr. and Katia D. Banfield to Bradley Kent Spooner and Cherie Marie Schurman, 12.33 Acres & Ease, J. Phillips League, A-83.

Warranty Deed: Joseph H. Jr. and Theresa Anne Podsednik Cates Jeffers to Joseph Henry Jr. and Stephaie Irene Cates Hodges, 0.31 Acre, being Lot 8, Block 1 & part Block 2, Northpointe Addition, La Grange.

April 1

Special Warranty Deed: Becky Lynn Krebs to Steven Lane Krebs, 2.32 Acres, James Miles League.

Special Warranty Deed: Joel Clayton Frierson Estate and Hoit K. Frierson to Hoit K. Frierson, Acreage in James Parrott 1/3 League, A-258, see instrument.

Warranty Deed: Larry and Jennifer Brown to Knesek Praha Properties LLC, 38.90 Acres, less 11.783 Acres, M. Muldoon League, A-75.

Warranty Deed: Mary High, Krystal and Katelynn Billeck to Roy A. Flores, 1.92 Acres, J.G. O’Farrell League, A-77.

Warranty Deed: Hoit K. Frierson to Huff Ponderosa Farm LLC, 111.901 Acres & 12.040 Acres, James Parrott 1/3 League, A-258.

Warranty Deed: Hoit K. Frierson to Frierson Bar F Ranch LLC, Acreage in James Parrott 1/3 League, see instrument.

Warranty Deed: Goerlitz LLC to David Mutis and Luisa Aurrecoechea, 12.514 Acres, Amaziah Baker League, A-8.

Warranty Deed: Karl Louis Mendel to Avery Helms, 5.00 Acres, William Brookfield League, A-20.

Warranty Deed: Garrett Wade Pettit, et al to 4 L Texas Land Co. LLC, 10

Bellville controlled the game for it’s entirety and Navasota didn’t really get much offense going until later in the game, but the Brahmanettes had a big enough lead and played enough solid defense in the final innings to seal the win.

“We hit the ball very well,” said Bellville head softball coach Lauren Caka.

“We hit it where it was pitched. We didn’t let any adversity come our way and if it did, we overcame it.

Overall, I was super happy with the way we performed today in hitting solid contact on the ball.” Bellville pitcher Kirklynne Romero tossed a complete game and had great command throughout the entire game.

“Honestly, it’s just kind of when you make a mistake, take a deep breath, relax,” Romero said. “Just remember God has you at the end of the day.”

Bellville scored their first run in the bottom of the first inning on a double to right-centerfield from Emma Dristas, then added to their run total in the very next inning with a grounder on a fielder's choice, a base hit, a double to left-center, a pass ball, and a home run over the left field wall from Ella Burnett to take a 5-0 lead.

Navasota responded in the top of the third inning with a double to left-cen- terfield after a botched grounder in order to score a run, which was followed by Bellville gaining an even bigger advantage in their very next at bat on two base hits and a double to make it 7-1.

Navasota hit another double in the bottom of the fourth inning to score a run following a base hit, then scored two more runs in the top of the sixth inning on a double, a stolen base, a walk, and two base hits to put it at 7-4. The Brahmanettes answered with a huge inning with a walk, a hit by pitch, two doubles, and a home run from over the centerfield wall from Caylee Flores to surge head 12-4. Even though Navasota threatened with a bases loaded jam in the top of the seventh inning, they only scored one run out of it on a base hit and Bellville closed out the game with a runner thrown out on a pickle, a pop out to second base, and a line out to second base to win it 12-5.

Christopher Mayfield on April 1.

Edman spent 13 years in the department and had 33 years of combined law enforcement experience. The retirement party, held in honor of Edman, closes a chapter in his life as he looks to the future.

“I’m gonna take a minute and figure out what's my next step," said Edman, “I’m gonna just enjoy retirement for now.” He recently returned from a trip to Hawaii after using up some of his vacation days. But the city has been in good hands with Mayfield's promotion to interim chief.

"Mayfield is a good guy. The right guy to take over,” said Ed- man on Mayfield receiving the ba - ton. He knows Mayfield will carry on the positive work environment within the department.

“Ever since Chief Lattimore was here, we have been pruning and growing a good police department,” said Edman, “when it came time for me to retire, it was seamless.”

Interim Chief Mayfield will become Chief Mayfield on April 1. He is an Eagle Lake native with 13 years of law enforcement expe rience. He believes in community policing, as he takes over a depart- ment with a low officer turnover and a community that trusts and respects its officers.

passenger car on Texas State High-

way 71 westbound near La Grange for multiple traffic violations.

During the stop, indicators of

criminal activity were observed, and consent to search the vehicle was obtained. The driver fled on foot but was quickly apprehended and taken into custody.

A search of the vehicle resulted in the discovery of approximately 42.5 pounds of suspected metham phetamine concealed in multiple bundles. Arrested and charged with felony in possession of a controlled substance and evading arrest and detention was Jose Manuel Gomez Alvarez, 38, of Rockdale, and Luis Christian Hernandez Cruz, 24, of Elgin, charged with felony in possession of a controlled substance.

Both subjects were transported to the Dan R. Beck Justice Center in La Grange.

Smith was assisted by deputies Duane Meager and Herman Olvera, and DPS.

“We completely agree with TDEM Chief Nim Kidd of the importance of testing our public warning systems. Regular training and conducting drills helps muscle memory, reaffirms the procedures used and identifies potential short falls,” said Fayette County Judge Dan Mueller.

This test of local warning systems is part of TDEM’s commitment to working with Texas communities to prepare for, respond to, recover from, and mitigate the effects of disasters and emergencies throughout the state.

The Capital Area Council of Governments’ Department of Homeland Security has requested that Fayette County send the messages out at 10:15 a.m. today (April 2).

“We will be using the 911 database, as well as using our Integrated Public Alert & Warning system, and to avoid overloading the 911 system, CAPCOG is asking us to stagger the times of the messages,” said Angela Hahn, Fayette County emergency management coordinator.

“The message will be brief, saying this is only a test and no action is needed. We realize it’s somewhat inconvenient because people may get multiple messages, but it is important to know we can reach county residents in the event of an emergency,” Hahn said.

TDEM has also requested participating organizations to share with state emergency management officials an update after completion of the drill with a summary, key takeaways, and any relevant details that may provide context about the success of the local system test.

Doors will open at 5 p.m., with dinner and awards at 6 p.m. Come celebrate the individuals who have made an exceptional impact on the Sealy community in 2025. Bring your best aloha vibes with your best Hawaiian shirt and grass skirts.

Reserve tickets today at info@sealychamber.com or 979-885-3222.