SDN January 12, 2021 by Seguin Today

WEATHER TODAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY

JANUARY 2021

TUESDAY Volume 56 • Number 7

54/32

66/36

70/39

Rainy

Sunny

y you B

LEGEND PLUMBING & ROOTER Lic # ML-16126 830 • 303 •3335

h ug

o t T

The Voice of Seguin Today

830 • 379 • 2234

Lawmakers face $1 billion shortfall

Revenue shortage much better than state officials had expected By Darren Dunn (Seguin) -- State lawmakers are facing a significant budget shortfall this year. How to overcome a decline in revenues will be one of the key issues facing the new legislative session that begins today in Austin. The budget shortfall is approximately one billion dollars. That’s a big number, but the Biennial Revenue Estimate (BRE) -- released on Monday by State Comptroller Glenn Hegar -- is actually much better than what most state lawmakers had expected. State Representative John Kuempel, in a recent interview with Seguin Radio KWED and the Seguin Daily News, said they could have potentially seen double digit shortfalls this year. “We knew that we were going to be short coming in and that was even before the pandemic. We knew that we were going to have a challenge of a budget deficit. The comptroller comes out

(Monday) with the BRE which is the Biennial Revenue Estimate and I think he anticipates that we will be upside down $8 billion -- somewhere in that ballpark. Hopefully, it’s not double digits and as the Texas Legislature, we are constitutionally obligated to pass a balanced budget so knowing that we are going to be upside down that much money, we’ve started sharpening pencils and seeing what we have to do. Obviously, the budget is the most important thing really of every legislature and certainly, this session with the challenges of a deficit, we are going to really have to work hard to be able to leave and have that thing balanced,” said Kuempel. Kuempel says a number of bills were being filed to begin looking at some new revenue streams. That still will likely happen, but the rosier revenue estimate means that the legislature may not need to lean so heavily on some of those new ideas. See LAWMAKERS, Page 2

WWW.SEGUINTODAY.COM

TUESDAY JANUARY 12, 2021

Budget struggles could impact a number of state services LAWMAKERS continued from Page 1

“We have taxes and we have oil and gas production, sales taxes and property taxes and it always (comes up when you are talking about a deficit -- you think of legalization of marijuana. People have introduced that bill already. You think of expanding casino gambling in the state of Texas which could bring $4 to $5 billion dollars a year. So, those things will be looked at whether they get passed or even introduced, we’ll see. But, there are different ideas that have been introduced that are live bills sitting in the house clerk’s office right now,” said Kuempel. Even when the revenue projection was expected to be above $8 billion, Kuempel says he wasn’t sure that the new revenue streams, like casinos or marijuana legalization was going to become a reality. All of it will be sorted out during this session, but Kuempel says lawmakers have shown in the past that they are able to present a balanced budget even during the most difficult financial times. “And we’ve done it in the past. We’ve balanced budgets without any extra revenue stream so I kind of look at it that way before we really lean on that crutch of something else that isn’t legal right now in the state of Texas. Let’s see if we can get it done the way we have over the last 180 years before we have to introduce something

Representative Kuempel fills in as speaker for a few minutes during a session in 2017 (courtesy photo) business -- so a bunch of border security. It’s public education. We were really that is from the federal ed and it’s infrastructure proud of the legislation. Although the shortfall is government’s help. The and I don’t care if you were We had unwavering smaller than expected, state is helping on the running in 1915 or 2015, support from every pub ed it still means that the same sense but yes, it’s an it’s the same thing every advocate, every teacher, legislature is going to have unbelievable challenge. time,” said Kuempel. every administrator, every to find ways to provide I’ve served with a deficit school board -- wide range services to Texans, while before but nobody has Public eduction will all across the state and having less money to do ever served during a likely come up, but for we knew that we were that. COVID-19 has hurt deficit and a pandemic the first time in decades, going to have a bit of a the state’s economy, and and that’s a challenge. the funding formula has budget deficit and that it has also put additional So, how it shakes out? largely been decided coming back so on top of strains on state resources. We don’t know. It’s never thanks to what many everything else, it’s going Kuempel says the COVID happened,” said Kuempel. consider to be a major to be a challenge but it’s impact would have been legislative achievement not gong to change the even worse if not for some There will be several two years ago. HB3 from way HB 3 was written or support from the federal other key issues decided the last legislative session how it was funded. We are government that has during the new session. provided for funds for just going to have to pull helped the state provide Kuempel says many of public schools in Texas, up our sleeves and figure some much needed the issues that face the and Kuempel says he’s out how to fund it because services to people and legisature each session, certain that they will find we do owe it to the school businesses during this are once again back on the the adequate funding this districts. We did it. It crisis. table this year. Kuempel year to make sure that was the first significant jokingly says the things money is available for formula re-write that “The federal government that drive Texas politics schools for the next two we’ve had in 30 years but has been a good partner haven’t changed much years. it’s made it more fair and over the last year just with over the years. equitable. It’s just going aid, so that helps a lot as “We passed historical to be challenge of how far as the folks that you “You look at election legislation in the 86th, we fund it but we’ll get it have mentioned, the need posters from the last 100 the last session the HB 3, done,” said Kuempel. See LAWMAKERS, -- that may have lost their years and it’s the same which totally rewrote the Page3 work and may have lost thing. It’s budget. It’s funding formula for public new,” said Kuempel.

WWW.SEGUINTODAY.COM

TUESDAY JANUARY 12, 2021

Kuempel says key pieces of legislation to be decided this year

LAWMAKERS continued from Page 2

Funding schools in Texas has long been a sore spot for legislators, who often saw the issue tied up in Texas courts. Kuempel says the success of HB3 should prevent that from being the same kind of challenge for this session. “This was if not one of the most significant formula rewrites that we’ve ever had in the state of Texas and that’s a fact. At the same time, you look at fund balance across the state and I’ve talked to some of my superintendents about that too and I say what’s your fund balance? And if they tell me they have 100 percent or 115 percent of state requirements of what they should have, I say well, we are partners in this too. You’ve got to realize that. The state did what ya’ll wanted. Now, ya’ll may have to step up and help too because that is still taxpayer money and if we could put that back in or need to put it back in the formula around different school districts, well, we are going to have to think about that as well,” said Kuempel. Texas has a long history of providing large of amounts of funding for highways, roads and other infrastructure projects. Kuempel says he thinks they’ll have to look at what can be funded this year, but he says the state continues to grow, and that means they’ll have to continue to invest in its infrastructure. “Believe me, I’m a big proponent of infrastructure and as much as we can put in it till we need to put in it because as we continue to grow at 1,200 people a day and that’s been the case for the last 10 years so that means more people and we’ve got to get infrastructure to them. We have to maintain roads. We have to maintain mobility. It’s one of those things you have to look at. Are we going to put as much in it as we did the last session? Maybe, it will be a challenge if we do but some of the legislation that we’ve passed that is based on sales tax receipts so automobiles and then oil and gas production with those two you know sale of vehicles going down a little bit and oil and gas production not being as high as it was, there’s some money that is being lost their too that was directly dedicated for infrastructure as well so like I said, it’s going to be challenge. My first session when I came in, we had a budget deficit of $17 to $20 billion and we got through it,” said Kuempel.

This session comes at the end of a U.S. Census. The federal population count normally results in a huge fight over redistricting. Kuempel says that fight is still coming, but lawmakers are unlikely to be able to take that up during the regular 140-day legislative period. “Everybody knows the census was delayed this time and we won’t get the numbers back and again, every 10 years, we have two constitutional requirements, the budget and redistricting. So, this session, with redistricting and the delay with the census numbers, we are just going to have to come back this summer and that’s just the bottom line and we understand that and there is nothing you can do about it. We just go out there and address it. But you know redistricting is contentious as anything there is. Just to have that as the only thing in the room, it will be interesting to see,” said Kuempel.

state and divide it by 31 in the Senate and 150 in the House and that’s your medium number and then you have a five percent variance off of that. So, in my seat for example, Guadalupe and Wilson Counties, we’d be too big. Let’s say the variance is 200,000 people, you combine those and it’s over that plus five percent. So, Guadalupe is not big enough to be by itself. I’ll have to pick up something else whether it be Gonzales County and you can’t split a county if it’s not big enough by itself,” said Kuempel. As we mentioned in our story yesterday, there are not a number of hot button issues facing lawmakers this year. Kuempel says he’s thankful that they are getting a bit of a break from some of the divisive social issues that have dominated the talk headed into each session.

The state is growing and will likely pick up some congressional seats on the federal level. Those congressional lines and state voting districts will all have to be redrawn.

“This is the first time that I’ve served that we are coming in and you haven’t heard one thing about a social issue, not one thing whether it was sanctuary cities or bathrooms are whatever it may have been. You have not heard one thing. It’s kind of refreshing,” said Kuempel.

“The thing about redistricting just Texas House and Senate seats, you just simply take the population of the

Kuempel says those social issues can sometimes seem very important, but he says if you look back on some of the

past issues, they don’t seem to be nearly as important today. “You can look back historically or even as long as I’ve served, there’s been different things that we’ve done and they are politically motivated and when you look back, did they really change anything? ‘No!’ They may have made a certain group really happy and made a certain group really mad but in the end game, nothing really changed. I mean people can go back and look and think what they thought was important six years ago and now, probably, they don’t even remember what they were mad at,” said Kuempel. Kuempel says he eager to get back to work and help solve some of the challenges facing Texans. There will be new leadership in the Texas House. Representative Dade Phelan, of Beaumont, is expected to be swornin today as the new speaker of the house. COVID-19 is expected to have an impact on the number of bills filed this year. Kuempel says they will have significantly fewer bills to consider this year. The virus will also impact how the legislature does its business this year. The state capitol is usually a busy place during legislative years. That will still be the case, but access to the building will be limited to help reduce the potential spread of the virus.

WWW.SEGUINTODAY.COM

TUESDAY JANUARY 12, 2021

TLU alumna Sioned Kirkpatrick named to SCAC’s 30th Anniversary Women’s Soccer Team (Seguin) Texas Lutheran alumna Sioned Kirkpatrick has been named to the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference’s 30th Anniversary Women’s Soccer Team. Kirkpatrick, a 2016 graduate of TLU, finished her Bulldog career with 48 goals and 112 points. She ranks third alltime at TLU in career points and career goals. Kirkpatrick also added 16 career assists. Kirkpatrick, a San Antonio native and product of Smithson Valley High School, led TLU in goals scored and total point scoring (goals plus assists) in each of her four seasons.

In Kirkpatrick’s four years with the Bulldogs, three of those years played in the SCAC, she scored 43.2 percent of the Bulldogs’ total goals Kirkpatrick was a (48 out of 111). three-time All-SCAC First Team selection Twice Kirkpatrick and was the 2015 led TLU to a runnerSCAC Offensive up finish in the Player of the Year. SCAC Championship tournament. The She led the league in Bulldogs were the goals scored per game conference runner-up (0.65) that season. in 2014 and 2015.

Kirkpatrick led TLU to three consecutive SCAC Championship Tournament appearances, and she was a threetime SCAC AllTournament selection (2013, 2014, 2015). With Kirkpatrick on the team, the Bulldogs posted an overall record of 40-31-6. The team’s 13-52 record in 2015 produced the third-

most total wins and tied for the secondbest win percentage (.700) in program history.

competition between the fall of 2005 through the spring of 2020 and had been named to at least two All-SCAC teams and/ The SCAC’s 30th or were selected as Anniversary teams a Player-of-the-Year were selected through in their respective balloting by present sport were eligible for coaches in each selection. sport as well as administrators. Kirkpatrick graduated with a double major Athletes who in molecular biology participated and chemistry, and she in conference posted a cumulative

GPA of 3.61. She was a three-time SCAC Academic Honor Roll honoree (2013, 2014, 2015), and she was named to the CoSIDA First Team Academic AllDistrict squad in 2015. Prior to TLU joining the SCAC, Kirkpatrick was the American Southwest Conference Co-Freshman of the Year in 2012.

TUESDAY JANUARY 12, 2021

WWW.SEGUINTODAY.COM

Navarro girls stave off San Antonio Christian, stretch winning streak to 12 games (Geronimo) - The Navarro girls basketball team built a 19-point chipped in with 11, and Taylor Helms scored 10. Ryanne Hepp added lead by halftime and survived a second-half rally by San Antonio- eight, Haleigh Ortiz three, Berklee Andrews and Sienna Kramer two Christian to notch a 54-50 non-district win Saturday afternoon at the apiece. Navarro Events Center. San Antonio Christian’s Marcie Ehman led all scorers with 19 points, The win was the Panthers’ 12th straight, and pushed the team’s overall and Jaily Patts netted 14. record to 19-1. Navarro resumes the District 27-4A schedule Tuesday evening with a Taturm Harborth led Navarro offensively with 18 points, Laylin Sturm 6:30 p.m. home game against Pleasanton.

Tuesday Schedule

Seguin girls basketball @ Kyle-Lehman, 6:30 p.m. (6:15 pregame) on KWED 1580-AM and Seguintoday.com Seguin boys basketball vs. Kyle-Lehman, 6:45 p.m. Navarro boys basketball @ Pleasanton, 7:30 p.m. Navarro girls basketball vs. Pleasanton, 6:30 p.m. Marion girls basketball @ Comfort, 6:30 p.m. Marion boys basketball vs. Great Hearts-Monte Vista, 6:30 p.m. Seguin boys soccer vs. Uvalde, 5:30 p.m. Seguin girls soccer @ Wimberley, 6 p.m.

Thursday Schedule

Seguin boys soccer vs. Victoria East @ Dripping Springs, Noon

Friday Schedule

Saturday Schedule

Navarro boys basketball vs. Gonzales, 6:30 p.m. Seguin boys basketball vs. Buda-Johnson, 2 p.m. (Goldie Navarro girls basketball @ Gonzales, 7:30 p.m. Harris Gym Marion girls basketball @ Luling, 6:45 p.m. Seguin girls basketball vs. Dripping Springs, 2:30 p.m. Marion boys basketball vs. Luling, 7:30 p.m. (Student Activity Center Gym) Seguin boys soccer vs. Fredericksburg @ Dripping Springs, Seguin boys soccer vs. St. Stephens @ Dripping Springs, 11 4 p.m. a.m. Seguin girls soccer @ San Marcos, 6:45 p.m.

WWW.SEGUINTODAY.COM

BUSINESS CONNECTION T O DAY â&#x20AC;&#x2122; S F E AT U R E BUSINESS

Get Connected !

Call and advertise your Business Today.

830.379.2234

TUESDAY JANUARY 12, 2021

WWW.SEGUINTODAY.COM

Boyd

life, Sherwood “Don” Thompson. They were married in 1965 in Bay City and were devoted to each other for 54 years, until his death June 1, 2020. They have one daughter, Dr. Teresa Lynn Thompson, who was the center of their universe. Both Grace and Sherwood were active together in The Second Baptist Church and the McQueeney Lion’s Club. In addition, Grace served on the Mental Health Mental Retardation Board, Family Awareness Board and as a committee member for the Coalition for a Drug Free Community. She was a long time member of the Delta Kappa Gamma International Organization, an honorary Grace Esther Smith organization for key women educators. Thompson was lovingly welcomed into this world Grace loved and was loved by thousands of on December 5, 1945 by former students and their parents, her parents William and countless friends, neighbors, co-workers, Willie Mae Smith in Bay caregivers and everyone who was fortunate to City, Texas. She left this know her. world, surrounded by loving friends and family, She has now been reunited with Sherwood, her parents, and brothers Edward and Nelson, who on January 3, 2021. have preceded her in death. Grace was the third of five children and the only daughter. Her father was a master electrician, She leaves behind her daughter Teresa, brothers philanthropist and civil rights activist in Bay City. William and James, and an extensive family of Grace and her four brothers (William, Edward, cousins, nieces and nephews, brother-in-law and Nelson, and James) were taught at an early age to sisters-in-law. be active in church and community activities and to reach out to others with love and care. These Visitation will begin on Saturday, January 16, were lessons she never forgot: they formed who 2021 at 10 a.m. at First Baptist Church, 1314 E. Cedar, Seguin, Texas, followed by funeral she was. service at 11 a.m. with The Reverend Dr. Brice Grace graduated from A.G. Hillard High School Mandaville and The Reverend Donald G. Leavell in Bay City, and attended Wharton County officiating. Interment will follow in Guadalupe Junior College before transferring to Texas A & Valley Memorial Park. All CDC protocols must I University in Kingsville, Texas. She received be followed including social distancing, limited her B.S. in Elementary Education in 1969, seating and face coverings worn. For those who later an M.S. in Education in 1976, and a Mid- desire, the services may be livestreamed at https:// Management Certification in 1986 all from Texas vimeo.com/498200725. A & I. She taught for 28 years in Kingsville ISD, before coming to Seguin in 1990. She spent In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made several years teaching second grade at Jefferson to any breast cancer treatment or research Ave. Elementary, then became the School organization. Counselor there until her retirement in 2002. After retiring, she returned to Seguin ISD to work You are invited to sign the guest book at www. as interim principal at McQueeney Elementary treshewell.com. Arrangements are under the and as Counselor at several elementary schools. direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155, 830-549-5912. See More OBITS page 9 While at Texas A & I, Grace met the love of her

coverings worn at all locations. Serving as pallbearers will be Joseph Boyd, Marty Sanchez, Jerrold Sanchez, Jesse Sanchez, Israel Sanchez Lilly Sanchez Boyd, age 72 of and Frank Mead. Memorial contributions may be Seguin, Texas, entered eternal made to the charity of one’s choice. rest on December 27, 2020. You are invited to sign the guestbook at www. Lilly was born on July 19, treshewell.com. Arrangements are under the 1948 in Kenedy, TX to direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Manuel and Adela (Diaz) Seguin, Texas, 78155, 830-549-5912. Sanchez.

Lilly worked many years for Motorola before working 15 years with Seguin ISD food services. She was a hard-working woman who always thought of others before herself. Lilly enjoyed dancing and singing, she was outgoing, cheerful, and made a friend wherever she went, her light was so bright people just gravitated towards her! Lilly was the pillar of her family, bringing everyone together. She adored spending time with her grandchildren more than anything. Lilly will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Lilly is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Milton P. Boyd, her son Benjamin Thomas Boyd, and her brothers, Manuel, Gilbert and Ray Sanchez. Survivors include her loving husband, Manuel Moncada, her devoted sons, Joseph Donald Boyd (Lorraine Rodriguez) and John E. Boyd (Judy); grandchildren, Orion Josiah Boyd, John Eric Boyd and Kyle Evan Boyd; brothers, Joe, Jesse and Zeke Sanchez; sisters, Mary Castillo, Sarah Sanchez and Minerva Gonzalez; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other loving family members and many, many friends. Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 14, 2021 at Tres Hewell Mortuary from 5 to 7 p.m. The recitation of the Holy Rosary will be held on Friday, January 15, 2021 at 9:30 a.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. Interment will follow in San Geronimo Cemetery. All CDC protocols must be followed including social distancing, limited seating and face

TUESDAY JANUARY 12, 2021

Thompson

TUESDAY JANUARY 12, 2021

WWW.SEGUINTODAY.COM

mornings to discuss the game. She also loved watching the U. T. Longhorns play, especially when Russell played for the University of Texas. Patsy Allen Neumann She looked forward to these games up until the Erxleben, age 87 of Seguin, day she died. passed away on December Unfortunately, Patsy missed watching the 2020 29, 2020. Alamo Valero Bowl, where the Longhorns Visitation will be held at were victorious. Patsy also loved music! She Cross Church on Monday, was the director of the Youth Choir at Cross January 18 from 1:30- Church, while her children grew up. Most of 3:00pm, followed by all, Patsy loved her church! She helped with the a memorial service at memorials that were donated and counted the 3:00pm with Rev. Jim Price officiating. For money for the church faithfully every Monday those who wish services may be livestreamed for many years. Her appreciation of her church from the Cross Church – Seguin, TX facebook family and Pastor Jim Price was evident in her page. All CDC protocols must be followed conversations with her friends and family. Patsy including social distancing, limited seating and will be missed, but her legacy of generosity will face coverings worn. Private interment will be be evident for generations to come! You are invited to sign the guestbook at www.treshewell. held at a later date. com. Arrangements are under the direction of She was preceded in death by her husband of 58 Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, years, El-Roy Erxleben and her brother, Clifton Texas, 78155, 830-549-5912.

Erxleben

Neumann.

Survivors include her daughter, Cathy Beicker and husband, Donny and son, Russell Erxleben. Her grandchildren that affectionately called her “Ma” are Brent Beicker and wife, Katie; Clint Beicker and wife, Amy; Russell Erxleben II, Lauren Erxleben, Ryan Erxleben, and Erin Erxleben. “Ma’s” great-grandchildren are Brinley Beicker, Brylen Beicker, Bliss Beicker, Bowen Beicker, and Brooke Beicker. Her surviving sister-in-law is Bernice Neumann. Memorial contributions may be made to Cross Church (814 N. Bauer) or Seguin Sports Booster Club (333 Beicker Rd) Patsy was born on January 29, 1933 in Seguin, Texas to Willie & Olinska Salge Neumann. She attended Seguin High School and graduated in 1950. She married El-Roy and they made their home in Seguin. Patsy worked at Randolph Air Force Base in Civil Service after she married until her retirement. She then spent her time with the grandkids and the things she loved to do. Patsy loved her church, her family, and her friends. One of her favorite things to do was watch sports! She kept up with the Matadors, listening to each Friday night game and calling Cathy on Saturday

her love and care of Sandra. Sandra spent her childhood in Beeville, Texas where she and her sister, Dorothy, have many fond memories and quite a few antics! She moved back to San Antonio and graduated from Providence High School. She married her sweetheart on December 26, 1955 and they raised 3 sons and a daughter. The family was very active at St. Luke’s Catholic Church where they made lifelong friends and memories. After many great years in San Antonio, they moved to Seguin and continued their adventure. Sandra was very active in St. James Catholic Church being a member of St. Ann’s Circle and Catholic Daughters. She loved playing bridge and was a member of several clubs in San Antonio and Seguin. Sandra also spent many fun hours with her beloved lunch bunch. Throughout her adult life, Sandra spent countless hours involved in many charitable endeavors.

Mamer or Momo, to her grandchildren, was always up for adventure. Though not a stereotypical grandmother, her fun loving, life Sandra Rehm Barron, age living spirit made for one special “Mamer/ 84, passed away December Momo.” Sandra was full of life, fun and was 30, 2020. Sandra was born incredibly witty! September 14, 1936 in San Antonio, Texas to Leona Sandra and Carroll loved to travel and were Margarite (Striedel) Rehm and always planning their next trip. From South America to Alaska, many cruise ships and tours Cyril Jacob Rehm Sr. through the U.S. and around the world, they Sandra is preceded in death were able to explore many places. Sandra’s by her husband Carroll Edward Barron, Jr; her greatest love was her dear Carroll. They did parents; brother Mickey Rehm and sister Martha everything together. When he left in November for his greatest trip yet, she couldn’t bear to be Barrows. left behind. Their family finds great comfort She is survived by her children Eddie Barron knowing they are together again!

Barron

(Debbie), Doug Barron (Lynn), Pam McCafferty (P.J.), Steve Barron (Irene); grandchildren Brian (Patti), Christi (Taylor), Keith (Jen), Beth (Mason), Rebecca (Josh), Sarah (Joseph), Sean (Stephany), and Kyle; 14 great-grandchildren; sister Dorothy Beavers, Brother-n-laws Buddy Barron and Glen Barrows; Sister-n-law Kay Rehm; numerous nieces and nephews and many friends. The family would like to thank Khiana Hill for

Due to COVID-19, the family will host a private funeral with the mass of Christian burial officiated by her friends Msgr. Dennis Darilek and Father Greg Nevlud. Memorial Contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice. You are invited to sign the guest book at www.treshewell. com. Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155, 830-549-5912.

See More OBITS page 10

WWW.SEGUINTODAY.COM

Haecker

June 09, 1938 - January 06, 2021 Late Wednesday morning, January 6, 2021, while at St. Luke’s Baptist Hospital in San Antonio, Eugene Richard Haecker passed away and went to be with our Lord God. Eugene was the first born of two children, born on June 9, 1938 in Seguin, TX. He grew up and spent his formative years in Seguin. He was a star football player while at Seguin High School and went on to play football at North Texas State University in Denton, TX. After graduating, he entered the Air Force in 1961 as a commissioned officer serving the Strategic Air Command at Ellsworth AFB in South Dakota. In 1962, he married his sweetheart Sandra Jahns. While on their honeymoon, he was recalled to active duty at the dawn of the Cuban Missile Crisis. During these tense days, he continued his duty of inspecting Minute Man missile silos for battle-alert readiness. Later that fall, his new bride joined him in South Dakota where he continued his deployment and welcomed his first son Keith. Upon his resignation from the service in 1964, his family moved to Denton, TX. Tragically, he lost his son Keith from leukemia at the age of three, dying only an hour after his newborn daughter Lisa had arrived home with her mother from the hospital. While in Denton, Eugene worked several different jobs before finding his new career in commercial insurance and an underwriter. During his years in Denton, he was also able to welcome the birth of his third child, Matthew. Three years later, his work led him to nearby Oklahoma, where they lived in Bethany. While there, he rejoined the Air Force as a reservist and rose to the rank of captain. In 1980, life and work led to an opportunity to relocate himself and his family back to Texas in San Antonio. This move afforded him to not only be back in the state he loved most but also allowed him to be near his own parent and extended family. Additionally, it also allowed him more opportunities to hunt and fish - two of his favorite pastimes. Besides the great outdoors, he also loved to watch and listen to football and basketball games at every afforded opportunity. He loved his wife, children and grandkids dearly and was always eager to know the latest happenings. He loved a good joke, cooking something on the grill and was often noticed peering into the distance deep in his own thoughts.

He was eighty-two years old and was preceded in death by his son, Keith Stuart Haecker, his parents Herman and Stella Haecker, Jr., his younger brother Robert Lee Haecker and his wife Cindy Haecker. He is survived by his wife, Sandra Jahns Haecker, his daughter Lisa Maria Therron and son-in-law Hans Therron, his son Matthew Aaron Haecker and daughterin-law Yvonne Haecker, his grandsons, Hunter Therron, Tyler Therron, Grayson Therron, Christian Haecker, his granddaughter Emma Cora Haecker, and his nephews Russell Haecker and Justin Haecker. Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 14, 2021 from 1:30 to 2:15 p.m. at Tres Hewell Mortuary followed by graveside services and interment with military honors at Guadalupe Valley Memorial Park at 3 p.m. with the Rev. Marcus Bigott officiating. All CDC protocols must be followed including social distancing, limited seating and face coverings worn. Serving as pallbearers will be Hans Therron, Justin Haecker, Hunter Therron, Tyler Therron, Grayson Therron and Christian Haecker. Memorial contributions may be made to Memorials Processing, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St Jude Pl, Memphis, TN, 38105-9959. You are invited to sign the guestbook at www.treshewell. com. Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155, 830-5495912.

Dietert

Leroy W. Dietert, age 94 of Kingsbury, Texas, passed away January 8, 2021. Leroy was born on November 19, 1926 in Zorn, Texas to Irma (Braune) and Paul Dietert. He graduated from Navarro High School in Geronimo in 1944. He proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict of which he was the recipient of the Purple Heart. In 2016 he was honored to go on the Honor Flight to Washington D. C. He will be remembered as a lifetime farmer and rancher in Guadalupe County. He enjoyed dancing and was a member of several dance clubs. Leroy was active in his community serving several terms on the Navarro Independent School District School Board, a County Member of the Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service (ASCS), and a Councilman on Friedens United Church of Christ Board. He was instrumental in the creation of Crystal Clear Water Co-op.

TUESDAY JANUARY 12, 2021

Leroy never met a stranger and was loved by all in the community. He loved spending time with his grandchildren, hunting, fishing, and feeding his cows, catfish, and geese. Leroy is preceded in death by his wives, Leatrice Pfannstiel Dietert and Joyce Dietert, infant daughter, Denise Kay Dietert, his parents and his brother, Leon Dietert and wife Pearl. Survivors include his wife, Mary Ann Dietert; children, Joy Schlichting and husband Sherman, Wayne Dietert and wife Jennifer, and Jim Dietert and wife Cricket; step-children, Duane Grobe and fiance Ida, and Donna Grobe; grandchildren, Paul Schlichting and wife Laura, Abraham Schlichting and wife Michelle, Amanda St. John and husband Tony, Jarrid Dietert and wife Maggie, Cole Dietert and wife Cendy and Justin Dietert and friend Kenny Patterson; step-grandson, Preston Grobe; greatgrandchildren, Vera, Lila, Evelyn, Emmet, Madelyn, Sullivan, Coulter, Sutton, Crawford and Ian; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other loving family members and many friends. Visitation will be on Tuesday, January 12, 2021 from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at Tres Hewell Mortuary. Funeral service will be Wednesday, January 13, 2021 at 3:00 p.m. at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel with the Rev. Sonja Phillips and the Rev. Dave Phillips officiating. Interment with military honors will follow at Guadalupe Valley Memorial Park. All CDC protocols must be followed including social distancing, limited seating and face coverings worn at all locations. Serving as pallbearers will be his grandchildren. Honorary pallbearers will be Rolf Schaefer and Preston Grobe. The family would like to thank the Home Instead caregivers Dawn, Myra, and Letha. Thanks also to all the staff at Guadalupe Regional Medical Center and Hospice for their loving care. Memorial contributions may be made to any Veterans Organization of Choice. You are invited to sign the guestbook at www.treshewell.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas 78155, 830-549-5912.

TUESDAY JANUARY 12, 2021

WWW.SEGUINTODAY.COM

Health and Medical Page presented by

Biden To Get 2nd Dose Of COVID Vaccine

possible exposure on Wednesday. Dr. Monahan is urging folks to get tested. He’s also (Wilmington, DE) -- President-elect Joe Biden will receive his second dose of the asking them to wear a mask, social distance, and monitor for symptoms. coronavirus vaccine Monday. Biden got his first dose of the Pfizer vaccine last month. The event was televised in hopes of building confidence in the vaccine as it becomes more Mavericks Shut Down Team Facility After Kleber Tests Positive (Dallas, TX) -- The Dallas Mavericks are shutting down their practice facility after and more available. His shot Monday will also be covered by the media. another player tested positive for COVID-19. ESPN reports forward Maxi Kleber is the second Mavs player to test positive in three days. Jalen Brunson, Dorian Finney-Smith, COVID Deaths Near 375K (Undated) -- The coronavirus death toll in the U.S. is approaching 375-thousand. On and Josh Richardson have all been quarantined in Denver since one of them tested positive Friday. The Mavs played the Nuggets on Thursday night. Dallas is back in action Monday Sunday, the COVID Tracking Project reported nearly two-thousand more deaths from hosting the New Orleans Pelicans. the respiratory illness. Across the U.S. 129-thousand people are fighting the virus in the hospital, with 23-thousand in intensive care units. Queen Elizabeth Receives COVID-19 Vaccine (London) -- Britain’s Queen Elizabeth is now vaccinated against COVID-19. Buckingham Attending Physician Warns Of COVID Exposure During Capitol Palace announced that both the queen and Prince Philip received the shots Saturday at Windsor Castle. The BBC says the royal couple are among the nearly one and-a-half Violence (Washington, DC) -- The Attending Physician at the U.S. Capitol is warning of a potential million UK residents to have been given at least the first dose of the vaccine. The royals exposure to coronavirus as members of Congress took shelter when rioters stormed the are both in their 90s and are considered part of Britian’s high-priority group to get the building. Dr. Brian Monahan sent a note to all members and staff warning them of the vaccine.

WORLD-CLASS SAFETY Close to home.

Hospitalist Sarah Lester, MD Intensivist Bhupinder Sangha, MD

National recognition for Patient Safety Board-certified and highly skilled physicians Experienced and compassionate nursing staff Comprehensive COVID-19 safety protocols

1215 E. Court St. Seguin, TX 78155 • 830.379.2411

grmedcenter.com

WWW.SEGUINTODAY.COM

Listen every hour to to hear

TUESDAY JANUARY 12, 2021

Toddler Time

The Seguin Public Library will host an interactive Virtual Toddler Time at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 12 on Zoom. Registration is required by visiting library. seguintexas.gov. Call 830-401-2422 for additional information.

Seguin Chamber Centennial Celebration

The Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce will have its Centennial Celebration, “History Has Its Eyes On You,” from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, January 12 via Zoom. The virtual Annual Meeting and Chamber Centennial will feature Chet Garner, the host of the PBS Texas travel show, The Day Tripper. To register for the Zoom webinar link call 830-379-6382 or email morgan@seguinchamber. com.

Preschool Storytime - ABCs

The Seguin Public Library will host an interactive Virtual Preschool Storytime at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 13 on Zoom. Registration is required to receive the Zoom link at library.seguintexas.gov. Call 830401-2422 or visit for additional information.

STEAM Kit Pick-up at Seguin Library

The Seguin Public Library will distribute Optical Illusions STEAM Kits on Friday, Jan. 15. With this STEAM kit, learn how your eyes can trick your mind and how movies are made. Plus, make your own optical illusions and motion pictures with provided supplies. Kits will be distributed while supplies last. Visit library.seguintexas.gov or call 830-401-2422 for additional information.

Community Tai Chi

The Seguin Public Library will offer Community Tai Chi streamed live on its Facebook page at 10:15 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 16. Tai Chi instructor Barry Jackson, from GRMC Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit,

WWW.SEGUINTODAY.COM

will also host a live Q & A session immediately following the Tai Chi class. For more information call 830-401-2422 or visit library.seguintexas.gov.

Art Exhibition Walkthrough

There will be a Homenaje a Reynaldo “Rey” Lujan Gaytan Art Exhibition Walkthrough from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, January 16 and from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 17 at the Teatro De Artes De Juan Seguin Cultural Arts Center, located at 921 W. New Braunfels, St. in Seguin.

Seguin Field of Honor 2021 BBQ Fundraiser

There will be a Seguin Field of Honor 2021 BBQ Fundraiser from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 16 at the American Legion Post 245, located at 618 E. Kingsbury St. in Seguin. Tickets are $10 and include 1/2 chicken, cowboy potatoes, beans, and trimmings. Proceeds benefit the SS American Memorial. For tickets and more information call 830-243-2872.

City of Seguin Offices MLK Day Closure

The City of Seguin offices will be closed in observance of Martin Luther King Day on Monday, Jan. 18. Offices will re-open on Tuesday, Jan. 19. Garbage and recycling will be collected as normal.

Library Holiday Closure

The Seguin Public Library will be closed Monday, Jan. 18 for Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Business hours will resume at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 19. Items may be renewed online or returned using the outdoor book return.

Toddler Time

The Seguin Public Library will host an interactive Virtual Toddler Time at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 19 on Zoom. Registration is required by visiting library. seguintexas.gov. Call 830-401-2422 for additional

information.

Preschool Storytime - ABCs

The Seguin Public Library will host an interactive Virtual Preschool Storytime at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 20 on Zoom. Registration is required to receive the Zoom link at library.seguintexas.gov. Call 830401-2422 or visit for additional information.

Origami Online

The Seguin Public Library will teach you how to make Paper Cranes with an online tutorial on Wednesday, Jan. 20. Learn the art of paper folding with this step by step tutorial. This virtual tutorial can be found at library.seguintexas.gov and social media platforms. Call 830-401-2422 for additional information.

Seguin Hermann Sons Meeting

Members and guests are invited to the Seguin Hermann Sons meeting at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 20 at the Seguin Lodge, located at 4918 Kingsbury St., next to Granzin’s Meat Market. The doors open at 6 p.m. For more information call 830-305-1142.

League of Women Voters

The League of Women Voters of the Comal Area (LWVCA) will have an online meeting to discuss how legislative districts are drawn in our state and steps we can take to ensure that the public is part of the process at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 20. For more information, visit lwvcomal.org.

See Seguin: Virtual Tour of Seguin Public Library

Explore Seguin with us! The Seguin Public Library invites you to join us as we take you on a virtual tour of Seguin Public Library on Thursday, Jan. 21. This virtual tour can be found on our website and social media platforms. Learn fun facts and meet the staff who go above and beyond to make it all happen. Call 830-401-2422 or visit library. seguintexas.gov for additional information.

To ensure non-profit organization’s meetings and events appear in this calendar, send information to: communitycalendar@kwed1580.com, fax 379-2238, or drop off the information at the Seguin Daily News/KWED offices located at 609 E. Court St. in Seguin. For best results, submit information at least two weeks prior to the event.

Free Throw Basketball Contest

The Knights of Columbus Council 16748 will have a Free Throw Basketball Contest at 9 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 23 at the St. James Catholic School gym, located at 907 S. Camp St. in Seguin. COVID-19 restriction will be followed. The competition is open to girls and boys ages 9 through 14. Eligibility is determined as of Jan. 1 Proof of age is required. For more information contact Joe Medina at 830556-4224, or email medinaaurelio@sbcglobal.net.

WWW.SEGUINTODAY.COM

other decorations must be removed, and the tree must be cut in half before it will be collected. Brush collection dates in your zone can be found at www. seguintexas.gov by clicking on the Public Works page - Brush link. For more information call 830401-2416.

United Way Applications

The Guadalupe County United Way will begin accepting new applications for organizations seeking funding for years 2022-2023 beginning January 2021. For more information on the Adult Take-N-Make Craft Kit The Seguin Public Library will have Adult Floral funding application process, contact Executive Paint Kits available for pick up on Monday, Jan. 25. Director, Mary Hargrave at 830-372-9009 or info@ Follow along with an online video tutorial, hosted guadalupeunitedway.org. by Library Assistant Mara Benitez, which can be found at library.seguintexas.gov and on library City Event and Reservation social media platforms. Kits will be distributed Cancellations on a first come first serve basis. Craft kits are for As a result of rising COVID-19 cases in Seguin and adults only, while supplies last. Call 830-401-2422 Guadalupe County, the City of Seguin has cancelled all events held on City property, through Feb. 1, for additional information. 2021. This includes bookings at the Seguin Events Complex and the Fairground facilities. Customers Christmas Tree Collection in City of will receive full refunds for all facility bookings impacted by this public health emergency.

Seguin

Residents wanting to dispose of their live Christmas trees in the City of Seguin can simply place them at the curb with their garbage or on their designated Monday morning as part of the City’s brush collection rotation. Stands, lights, ornaments, and

Heritage Museum Calendars

The Heritage Museum is selling 2021 calendars for $10 featuring historical buildings and information about Seguin. There is a limited supply and they are available for purchase at the Heritage Museum, Gift

TUESDAY JANUARY 12, 2021

& Gourmet, the Aumont, the Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce and Parker’s City Pharmacy.

RAPPS Individual Sessions

The Rural Area Parenting Program Services (RAPPS) will be providing Anger Management, Protective Parenting, Basic Parenting, CoParenting (Divorce), and Tobacco Awareness classes online through ZOOM. RAPPS classes are accepted by the Judicial System. To register or for or more information call 830-303-9225, email Seguinrapps@gmail.com, or visit seguinrappsorg. org.

Free Hazardous Waste Pick-Up

The City of Seguin was awarded an Alamo Area Council of Governments Household Hazardous Waste Collection Program grant and is offering residents who live in the city limits an opportunity to participate in the At Your Door Special Collection Program. Items accepted include pesticides, household chemicals, sharps, electronic waste, including televisions, batteries, fluorescent lights, automotive waste products (including oil), paints, thinners, and dozens of other items that don’t belong with your recyclables or regular curbside waste pickup. For a complete list of accepted items, or to arrange a collection, call 1-800-449-7587, or visit wmatyourdoor.com/residential. Collection times may vary.

TUESDAY JANUARY 12, 2021

WWW.SEGUINTODAY.COM

CLASSIFIEDS

HELP WANTED:

NAVARRO ISD IS TAKING APPLICATIONS FOR FULL-TIME CUSTODIAL POSITIONS - DISTRICT WIDE: Pay starts at $11/hour (experience necessary and will train), Day and Night Shifts available. Must be fingerprinted and pass background check. Applications accepted online at www.nissd.us or in person at 6450 N. State Hwy. 123, Seguin Monday through Friday 8am to 4:30pm. THIS IS A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO JOIN A GROWING SCHOOL DISTRICT.

RELIGION

The Country Church Attic

The Country Church Attic is now open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Wednesday and Thursday.

Clothing Ministry

The Refuge III Clothing Ministry continues to give away clothing, some furniture, dishes, and other items at 7535 Elm Creek Road in Seguin. For further information call 830-303-6478.

Free Bible Course

The World Bible School is offering free Bible correspondence courses. Answer questions from the Bible and send in for grading. Visit studygod.info for further information.

To be sure your religious organizationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s meetings and events appear in this calendar, send information to: communitycalendar@kwed1580. com, fax (830) 379-2238, or drop off the information at the Seguin Daily News/KWED office located at 609 E. Court St., Seguin. For best results, submit information at least two weeks prior to the event.

WWW.SEGUINTODAY.COM

TUESDAY JANUARY 12, 2021