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Event to celebrate the life of a Cooper graduate

By Cindy Roller

Cooper – On Saturday, the family and friends of Dale Migura, a 2010 Cooper High School graduate who was tragically killed five months later, will be honoring him with a Birthday Bash Benefit on the Square from 5 p.m. until 10 p.m.

There will be food, live music, games and a raffle with all the proceeds going towards a monument fund and funeral expenses.

"We would be celebrating his 19th birthday on May 27," said his mother Shalina Vaughn. "He was killed while on a trip to Garner State Park in San Antonio on Nov. 6. He and his friends were coming down a hiking trail at the park when the rocks gave way under his feet and he fell to his death."

Migura was attending Paris Junior College pursuing a career in aeronautical engineering with dreams of one day designing aircrafts when his sudden death occurred.

He was the typical teenager - a bit adventurous and very passionate. He was a gifted drummer for the 5th Street Band. Many said there was never a dull moment when around him.

"He was such a special person who was always able to lift your spirits and lived life to the mere fullest," his mother continued, remembering that day in November. "I would like to think he flew with the angels (when he fell instead of suffering from the accident)."

Reports stated he fell over 300 feet, and officials said he was killed instantly. It took over three hours for emergency personnel to reach him due to the rugged terrain.
His mother said since the accident the Park has limited access to this trail.

"It is unfortunate a death must occur before actions were taken," Vaughn said.

His family was not financially prepared for such a tragedy. Dale's Birthday Bash Benefit will include live music from various artists and musicians some associated with the Java Joint, a place Migura and his band often played, barbecue meals, hot dog baskets, face painting, cake walk, raffle and a drum signing. Raffle items include quilts, fishing pole, gift cards, signed baseball and hat by former Texas Ranger baseball player Jim Norris.

"We are hoping to raise enough money to finish paying for his funeral service and get him a headstone," said Vaughn.