Pack the Bus collection drive for Seguin ISD students this Saturday
Communities
in Schools
offers six ways to donate
Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
(Seguin) – The next time you head into the store, you might want to grab a few notebooks, pencils and folders. Those are among the items that will be needed as the community comes together this Saturday to help Pack the Bus outside the Seguin HEB. Communities in Schools of South Central Texas, an affiliate of the national organization, is leading the drive for the seven campuses that it serves in the Seguin ISD. As a nonprofit, the organization works fulltime in the schools to help students with whatever they need to stay in school and stay focused.
Dawn Koehler, CIS director of development, says school supplies are among the list of priority items that are required to keep kids successful in the classroom.
“Things that we do at the beginning of the school year especially and actually all through the school year is provide school supplies for our kids to start off the school year and so, there’s ways to with Seguin kiddos specifically. For Pack the Bus, we have expanded our program this year for donating. You can donate online at our website. Bus, pg. 3
Friends and family of Chloe Belicek, the Seguin High School senior who died in a fatal car crash in San Marcos on Thursday, July 25th will be saying their final goodbyes today. The funeral for Belicek is set for 10 a.m. today at St. James Catholic Church. Memorials may still be made to the Chloe Strong Memorial Fund at First United Bank in Seguin. Belicek's tragic death shocked not only the Matador Family, where she was a star athlete, but also the entire Seguin community. She is survived by parents Christina and Brian Belicek. Courtesy photo.
Thriving Hearts Crisis Center welcomes new executive director
(Seguin) – The new director of the family violence shelter says she hopes to lean on both her professional and personal experience when working to keep families safe.
Filling the new lead role as executive director for Thriving Hearts Crisis Center, formerly known as the Guadalupe Valley Family Violence Shelter, is Manijeh Huereca.
For years, Huereca has focused her career on serving others whether it was protecting children as a social worker or working to end homelessness. Before making the move to Thriving Hearts here in Seguin, Huereca served the refugee department as the senior director of special programs for Catholic Charities.
The role of protecting victims of domestic violence, however, might be the most personal for the new director.
“Working in domestic violence is something that I kind of never thought that I would do and in my early 20s, I was actually living in a shelter with my infant daughter at the time. She just turned 18. This was back in 2006 and so I always thought that growing up in a domestic violence household and
then having those abusive relationships after that -equipped me to work with children who had been abused. A lot of people when I worked in child welfare were like ‘I don’t know how you did this’ and for some reason, I always just kind of thought God has put me in places where I could help people who experienced something similar to me and when I saw this posting, it was kind of that same full circle moment where I felt like maybe it’s time that I can do this and use my experience and life experience coupled with my professional experience to really make this a better place for this community,” said Huereca.
Nonetheless, she says she is ready for the challenge and has every expectation to do her best in improving the lives of women and children.
“I’m very passionate about helping people who are experiencing probably one of the most traumatic events of their lives and showing them that there is a way forward through that and it seems like there is not right now but there is hope on the other side of that and you can really set your sights, set your goals on whatever you want that to be and accomplish them,” said Huereca.
Huereca says the last two months in the new position have already challenged her to think beyond the next year. Center, pg. 3
Using downtown to invest in itself
Main Street applauds TIRZ
(Seguin) ---In June of 2023, the Seguin City Council adopted the downtown master plan which created a community vision for the future of the downtown district. The plan included over 60 projects to implement. One of the first projects the Seguin Main Street Advisory Board selected to accomplish first was the creation of Seguin’s first Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ) which would include the downtown district. The idea to move forward with this project first is that it can become a funding source for many of the projects within the master plan.
A TIRZ is tool local governments use to finance public improvements and infrastructure within a defined area using future tax revenues from the properties within the zone. The zone will have a tax increment base which is what the city is currently collecting from the properties within the zone. The city will continue to collect that same revenue, but as property values increase
and bring in more revenue, a portion of that revenue will be designated to go towards the zone. This is not an additional assessment on the properties.
The revenue from the zone can be used for a variety of uses. Preservation of building facades, acquisition of land and structures, public infrastructure improvements, streetscape beautification, economic development, and more.
At the July 16 City Council meeting, the Council will discuss the proposed boundaries of the zone. At the next City Council meeting on August 6, the City Council will hold a public hearing on the creation of the zone. The public is invited to attend both meetings. Downtown, pg. 3
Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
Special by Kyle Kramm, Main Street & CVB director
Bus, continued.
We’ve got drop off locations for school supplies there in Seguin at Guadalupe county farm bureau at Emanuel’s Lutheran Church, at Pecantown Books & Brews and at Prosperity Bank so people can take their school supplies anytime there, “said Koehler.
Koehler says in total, there are six ways to donate. She says the main opportunity, however, will be this Saturday at Seguin’s HEB.
“Then this Saturday, at the Seguin HEB, we will be there collecting school supplies and taking donations from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. this Saturday, Aug. 3 and then Seguin folks can also shop online on our Amazon Wish List for different supplies that are needed for Seguin kids and then also at the Seguin HEB at the checkout stand, you can make a donation through the actual register there at HEB and that money goes specifically for Seguin Kids,” said Koehler. “Also on Aug. 2, it’s really cool – McDonalds, they are going to donate a dollar for every McDonalds
Kit Kat McFlurry that is purchased – that goes specifically for Seguin kids as well for Communities in Schools.”
Those needing some direction in what to donate are being referred to the CIS’s website or they can simply pick up one of the paper list found near the school supplies at the store. Clear backpacks are also needed for all students.
Although they currently serve seven campuses, Koehler says all donations received will go to those Seguin ISD students who need them. She says they don’t want school supplies to be an extra battle for those families who are currently struggling.
“This is a hard time right now for the families that are really struggling. It’s a real thing more so now than
Downtown, continued.
Once the TIRZ is created by the City Council, a board will be created that will develop a project and financing plan for the zone. The proposed zone is anticipated to last 25 years and create at least $8 million to be reinvested into the zone.
“We are pleased to be making progress with the projects in the downtown master plan, and this is the first step to give us another tool in our tool belt to work on the projects in the plan,” said Kyle Kramm, Seguin Main Street & CVB Director, “I see it as a way for downtown to invest in itself – the future taxes of downtown properties will be going to downtown projects.”
Other projects connected to the downtown master plan that Seguin Main Street is working on includes downtown restrooms, Wells Fargo redevelopment, event facilitation, and Donegan Street improvements.
ever,” said Koehler.
Koehler says once collected; the supplies will be delivered directly to the Seguin ISD for distribution. She says this can be a very stressful time of the year for families and encourages the community to donate when and wherever they can.
“I know that there are other organizations in town collecting school supplies also for Seguin schools so any help towards their school supply drive is so needed as well -- so everybody is pitching in and helping Seguin kids. That’s the important awesome thing that is going on for the start of the school year,” said Koehler.
Again, CIS employees will be collecting donations on Saturday outside the Seguin HEB from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. To donate online via Venmo visit www.cis-sct.org/
Center, continued.
She says from the moment she walked into the door, those gears of what she wanted to accomplish were already turning.
“To start, we serve several counties. I really want to be a presence in each of those counties. I want to make sure my staff are physically present in those counties and available to all the clients in those counties who need us and that also means working with those local law enforcement in Gonzales, Karnes and Wilson as well as Guadalupe. In addition to that, we are already growing. I’m hiring multiple staff positions right now. I’m in full swing with applying for new grants and
securing new funding sources and all of that to lead up to where I think we are headed as an organization and that is to find and build a space that does the community justice. Nobody wants to be in a shelter but if we can make that the most peaceful transition in a traumatic situation then that is my goal. I want us to have a building with multiple units to where we can really meet the needs of all the survivors in this community,” said Huereca.
Huereca says she looks forward to better connecting with the community so that everyone becomes familiar with those future ideas. If you or someone you know is in crisis, contact the 24-hour confidential hotline at 1-800-834-2033.
Seguin boys force play-in game; Marion
Local Seguin youth excel at Junior Olympic track meet
(Greensboro, North Carolina) — A pair of local youth track athletes representing Top Notch Performance based in Seguin made strong showings at the AAU Junior Olympics Track And Field meet in Greensboro, North Carolina.
On Monday, Adrian Rangel came in ninth in his heat with a time of 2:04 in the Boys 15-16 years old 800 meters at the event. The 15-year-old runner broke his personal record with his effort. In June, Rangel won the Boys 15-16 800 meter run at the AAU Region 19 Qualifier in Converse.
Also on Monday, Kingston Barr competed in the Boys 12-year-old 200 meter dash. Barr placed 6th in his heat with a time of 28.20 seconds. Last month, Barr finished fourth in the 200 meters at the AAU regional.
Both Rangel and Barr represent Top
Notch Performance Speedsters. Top Notch Performance provides recreational sports activities for K – 12 youth in the Seguin
community and outlying areas. The TNP Speedsters are coached by former Seguin High School athlete Michael Watson.
Chris Austin
VITAL STATISTICS
Chloe Marie Belicek, age 17 of Seguin, went to Our Lord on July 25, 2024. Chloe was born on May 17, 2007, in New Braunfels, Texas to Christina Marie (Machicek) and Brian Timothy Belicek. She was a member of the Seguin High School Class of 2025, the Gulf Coast Bombers 18u softball team, and an active member of St. James Catholic Church.
Chloe loved life and was a friend to everyone she met. She had a smile that could light up a room. She had an energy to her that kept others on their toes. She was smart and sassy, but in a good way.
Standing at a whopping 5 foot 4 inches, Chloe was larger than life and feared no one. She was well respected by her friends, teammates, teachers and coaches. She was outspoken and determined to do the right thing for herself and others, and she always defended her faith. She loved to hunt with her brothers and sister, even in the early morning cold. She loved to laugh with family and friends, especially gathering around the dinner table to share stories.
Strong in her faith, Chloe grew up in a Catholic family where she attended and graduated from St. James Catholic School. She was an active member of the St. James Youth Ministry and Junior Catholic Daughters of the Americas. She served our Lord as a responsible and diligent altar server on Sunday masses. To demonstrate her dedication of service to St. James, when she knew she had a softball game on Sunday morning after mass, under her altar server attire, she was dressed in her gameday uniform, ready to go. She was a “daughter” to many of the parishioners of St. James, especially to Father Greg and Father Dennis, who were the priests of the church. Because of her faith and family, Chloe was a role model to others, both younger and older than her.
Chloe attended Seguin High School for her Freshman, Sophomore and Junior years. While she was a good student in the classroom, she was a fierce competitor and focused athlete in volleyball & softball, and was an active member of the FFA. At times her daily schedule started before the sun came up and ended after it set. She played hard all the time and demanded the same from her teammates. She was tough on them when they made an error, but after the game, she showed love and encouragement. When things weren’t going her way on the court or field, she fought harder to be better. She was tough on others, but tougher on herself. She was a first-class athlete both on and off the field. Chloe was outspoken and a true leader. She motivated others and she always lead by example, both in faith and in life. After a long hard day
of school and sports practice, you could find Chloe on the tree swing in the front yard for much needed Chloe-time.
Growing up as the 2nd child of four, Chloe loved her family. As any child is expected, she did her chores, attended family functions and played with and supported her siblings. Living 5 miles outside of the City of Seguin, she treasured her family at home. She had a special bond with her siblings. Even though they fought and argued as siblings do, at the end of the day, love prevailed. She helped her parents with duties in the home, taking care of the land, running farm equipment, feeding cattle and other animals, and bringing in the harvest from their garden. She belonged to a close-knit family that ate and prayed together every day. Faith was so important to Chloe and her family that even on the road for out of town tournaments, she made it a point to attend mass.
Chloe dreamed of becoming a veterinarian and playing softball in college. She loved animals…chickens not so much. Chloe had the potential to play softball anywhere. She expressed interest in playing college ball in Florida or Tennessee, but getting closer to starting her high school senior year, Texas was where she wanted to play. While she considered Tarleton State University in Stephenville, her most recent decision was to play at Texas Lutheran University in Seguin.
Chloe is preceded in death by her paternal grandfather, Julius Eugene Belicek, and her cousin, Faith Janak.
Survivors include her loving parents, Christina and Brian Belicek; brothers, Timothy Belicek and Gregory Belicek; sister, Audrey Belicek; maternal grandparents, Mary and Joe Machicek; paternal grandmother, Theresa Belicek; numerous aunts, uncles, great aunts, great uncles, cousins, other loving family members, and an entire community of friends including her St. James Catholic Church family, Seguin Matador family, and Gulf Coast Bombers Softball organization.
Visitation will begin on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, at St. James Catholic Church from 5 to 7 p.m. The recitation of the Holy Rosary will begin on Thursday, August 1, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. at St. James Catholic Church followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. with the Reverend Monsignor Dennis Darilek and the Reverend Gregory J. Nevlud officiating. A reception will follow at the Columbus Club Hall in Seguin. Graveside services and interment will follow at 5 p.m. at St. Ludmilla’s Catholic Cemetery on FM 1891 in Wied, Texas (0.6 miles north of US 90Alt between Shiner and Hallettsville).
Memorial contributions may be made to the Chloe Strong Memorial Fund, c/o First United Bank, 200 N. Austin St., Seguin, Texas, 78155.
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.
Pearl Ella Lemon Greenwood passed away recently.
Survivors include daughters: Diane Hicks and Sandra Greenwood Viewing will be held Wednesday July 31st, 2024 from 10am to 11am at New St. James Baptist Church. Funeral services will follow at 11 am. Burial will immediately follow at Fort. Sam Houston National Cemetery. Services Entrusted to: Crenshaw Funeral Home, 216 Blumberg St., Seguin, Tx. 78155 830-303-2208
Bittner
Lena Rose Bittner, age 59 of Seguin, gained her angel wings on July 28, 2024.
Lena was born on March 26, 1965 in Camp Pendleton, California. the daughter of Delroy H. Bittner and Elena Gonzales Bittner of Seguin, Texas.
Lena is preceded in death by her father, and nephew David P. Lohse.
Survivors include her loving and devoted mother, Elena; her brothers, Cesareo Guadarrama, III (Mary Ann), and Carl Bittner (Chavela); sister, Kathy Gannaway (Rick); numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and cousins.
Lena was a precious delight, the shining star in our lives. Born with Downs Syndrome, Lena always had a bright smile and embraced every joy of life.
She enjoyed music, dancing, drawing, and cooking. She entered an art exhibit in the County Fair every year. She loved her Barbie’s and had quite a collection. Lena was always wanting to learn about her family heritage.
Ussery
Always searching for pictures of family members and keeping a record of every birthday. Proud of her dad’s military service in the Marines she was extremely patriotic. She could rock the red, white, and blue! She loved celebrating every holiday with a flair! Lena attended schools in North Carolina, Texas and California. She graduated from Castle Park High School in Chula Vista, California. She also attended Community College in San Diego.
Lena participated in the Special Olympics, Girl Scouts, attended MHMR in Seguin, volunteered at Jefferson Elementary, Briesemeister Middle School and the Mini Mats Day Care.
Visitation will be held on Friday, August 2, 2024 at 9 a.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church followed by the recitation of the Holy Rosary at 10 a.m. and the Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. Interment will follow in San Geronimo Cemetery.
The family would like to thank the staff of PAM in Luling, Elara Hospice Care and also thank the wonderful staff, nurses, cna’s, kitchen, and housekeeping at the Windsor Nursing Facility in Seguin. Thank you for taking care of our sweet Lena in her final days.
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.
Clarence (Big Boy) Ussery III died Sunday,July 21 at the age of 62. Funeral Services will be held Saturday, August 3rd at 12noon from the Bethel Pentecostal Church.The body will lie in state at the Church from 11AM to 12noon. Interment will be at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery at Darst Field. He leaves to cherish his memory one son, Ulysses Augustus Ussery; two sisters, Diane Butler and Mary Ussery; brothers, Melvin,Richard,Edward,Charles, and Billy Ussery,grandchildren, neices,nephews,and a host of other relatives and friends! Services entrusted to the reverent care of Eunice and Lee Mortuary.
Patek
Viola Agnes Patek, age 102, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 29, 2024. She was born February 20, 1922, in Sweet Home, Texas to the late Thomas and Agnes Miksik Kercho.
Viola married Charles J. Patek on September 10, 1940, in SS Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church. She was a member of the St James Catholic Church, Catholic Daughters Association, and Seguin American Legion. Viola was privileged to be a Meme to grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren in addition to raising four amazing children. She cherished spending time with her family as well as cooking, baking and listening to good Czech music.
She is survived by her son, Leonard (Kathy) Patek of Irving; daughter, Delores (Fritz) Abrameit of Seguin; grandchildren, Christopher (Kimberly) Patek, Lori Patek, Debbie (Matt) Durkin, Susan (Jason)
Souvenir
Baum, Angie (Darren) Kleinschmidt, Shelly (Thomas) Jones, Charity (Freddie) Sheppard and Wesley Abrameit; 17 great-grandchildren, and 11 great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband of 67 years Charles Patek, sons, Patrick and Edmund Patek, daughter-in-law, Rose Patek, grandchild Gregory Patek, sister, Annie Kercho, and brothers, Edwin and Alfred Kercho.
Visitation will begin at 3:00 pm Sunday, August 4, 2024, at Palmer Mortuary in Seguin. A Rosary will be recited at 10:00 am Monday August 5, 2024 and the Funeral Mass will follow at 10:30 am Monday, August 5, 2024 at St. James Catholic Church.
A private burial service at St. James Catholic Cemetery will take place at a later time.
Her great-grandsons and grandsons will be honorary pallbearers.
The family wishes to invite everyone over for a reception after Mass at the Catholic Daughters of America building (CDA).
Funeral arrangements are under the care of Palmer Mortuary and Cremations located at 1116 N. Austin Street, Seguin, Texas 78155; 830.379.9430. Please log on to www.palmermortuary.com to sign and view the guest book.
Esther Rodriguez Souvenir died July 18th,2024 at the age of 40. Visitation will be held Friday August 2nd at 10AM from the Huebner Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints,7420 Huebner Rd.,San Antonio, TX with services beginning at 11AM and a 2:15 interment at Ft.Sam Houston National Cemetery. She is survived by her husband, Hugh Souvenir II,son, Alejandro Charles; mother, Fecilitas Delgadillo;sisters,Zoey Delgadillo and Felicitas Vasquez(David);and brother,Johnathan Ray Rodriguez(Sandra). Arrangements entrusted to the reverent care of Eunice and Lee Mortuary
Study Finds Wildfire Smoke Linked With Increased Risk of Dementia (Sacramento, CA) -- A study, conducted in California, finds that exposure to wildfire smoke leads to a higher risk of a dementia diagnosis. The study was released Monday at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference. Researchers believe toxic chemicals found in wildfire smoke and fine particulate matter are damaging to the brain. The study says the risk of dementia from wildfire smoke is higher than from exposure to other sources of air pollution. During a period of ten years, researchers looked at the health records of more than onepoint-two-million socio-economically diverse Kaiser Permanente members. All of them were at least 60-years-old with no prior diagnosis of dementia.
FDA Approves Blood Test For Colorectal Cancer Screening (Washington, DC) -- The FDA is approving a blood test for colorectal cancer screenings in average-risk adults over 45. The test’s maker, Guardant Health, said it’s the first FDA-approved blood test as a primary screening option for colorectal cancer. Its cost has yet to be announced and will vary depending on insurance coverage. The company’s statement quotes a gastroenterologist calling it a “promising step forward.”
Humans Spread COVID-19 To Wildlife
(Roanoke, VA) -- Several wildlife species in Virginia have high rates of COVID-19 that’s likely spread from humans. According to findings published in the journal Nature, experts found the virus in deer mice, Virginia opossum, raccoons, groundhogs, Eastern cottontail rabbits and Eastern red bats. Hopwever, there was no evidence of humans catching COVID from wildlife. Researchers said the infection was spread from sick hikers’ discarded food.
Illinois To Expand Medicaid Coverage
(Chicago, IL) -- Illinois is expanding Medicaid coverage. The expansion was made possible after the federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services approved the state’s application to amend and extend an existing waiver to include services newly-eligible for federal Medicaid match. As a result, Illinois will soon provide assistance designed to address root causes of health disparities. That includes housing and food insecurity, and helping individuals transition from incarceration.
PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN COMING FALL 2024
Eli Ortiz, MD
FLUENT IN SPANISH AND ENGLISH
Eli Ortiz, MD is a primary care physician who most recently completed his family medicine residency at John Peter Smith Hospital in Fort Worth, Texas. With a degree in medicine from the UT Health San Antonio School of Medicine and a degree in mathematics from the University of Texas at Austin, Dr. Ortiz brings a diverse skill set to his medical practice. He is committed to providing excellent patient care and contributing to his community through various leadership and volunteer roles. In his spare time, Dr. Ortiz participates in weekly worship services and enjoys outdoor activities such as biking, camping, and hiking.
Fan Distribution Event
The Community Council of South Central Texas in partnership with TXU Energy will distribute fans to South Central Texas families from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 1 at 953 E. Kingsbury St. in Seguin. For more information, call 830-379-3022.
Caregiver Cafe
There will be a Caregiver Cafe at 9 a.m. on the 1st Thursday of the month at Spirit of Joy Lutheran Church and at 2 p.m. on the 3rd Sunday of the month at Emanuel’s Lutheran Church. This will be an informal gathering for caregivers to share with each other over a cup of coffee and refreshments while learning stress-relieving, relaxation techniques or hearing from guest speakers on helpful subjects. For more information, call 830-272-0040, ext. 104 and leave a message.
Parkinson’s Support Group
The Gonzales Area Parkinson’s Support Group will meet from 6 to 8 p.m. the 1st Thursday of each month in the Fellowship Hall at the Presbyterian Church, located at 414 St. Louis St. in Gonzales. For more information visit lonestarparkinsonsociety.com or email gapsg23@gmail.com.
First Friday Feast
The Geronimo Lions will have its First Friday Feast Fish or Steak Dinner from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 2 at the Big Red Barn. Meals are $20. A child’s hot dog plate (chips, drink and dessert) is also available. Tickets can be purchased at the door. The June entertainment will be provided by Shelby Rae Marshall and the Beneficiary will be Our Lady of Guadalupe Food Pantry.
Garage/Rummage Sale
The Guadalupe County Humane Society will have its Garage/Rummage Sale at 8 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 3 behind the businesses located at 2511 N. State Hwy 46. There will be household items, home décor, school clothes, tools, yard and garden items and furniture. All proceeds help sustain GCHS’ daily operations, as well as help finance our low-cost Spay/ Neuter program.
Library Celebrates Comics & Pop Culture at MiniCon
The Seguin Public Library will wrap up the “Adventure Begins,” Summer Reading Experience with the
library’s annual MiniCon from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 3. The keynote program will be Mari Mancusi, Emmy Award winning television news producer and author of middle grade, young adult and new adult novels. Participants can also celebrate pop culture in the Artists Alley and exhibitors area, attend panels, and enjoy gaming and cosplay. There will also be a cosplay contest for children, teens and adults. Learn more at www.library.seguintexas.gov or call 830-401-2422.
Immanuel Lutheran Church Festival
The Immanuel Lutheran Church will have its 19th Annual Church Festival beginning at 9 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 4 with a Worship Service at C of C Hall in La Vernia. A Roast Beef Dinner will be available for $12 from 11 a.m. to be determined at event. There will be dine in or drive-thru. There will also be music by The Accordion Cowboy, Chris Rybak, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., a live auction at 1:15 p.m., a silent auction, raffles, country store, and face painting. Dinner and events will take place at the Chamber of Commerce Park, located at 12301 US Hwy. 87 W. in La Vernia.
Refugee III Church Free Backpacks with School Supplies
The Refuge III Church will be giving away free backpacks with school supplies from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 4 at 7535 Elm Creek Rd. Children must be present.
Geronimo VFW Sunday Dance
The Geronimo VFW will have its Sunday Dance from 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday, August 4. Entertainment will be provided by the Merles. The doors open at 1:30 p.m. with $10 admission. For more information, call or text 830-305-8829.
Greater Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church
Pastor’s Anniversary
Celebration
The Greater Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church will celebrate its Pastor’s 6th Anniversary at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 4. The guests will be Pastor Arthur A. McDonald and the Sledge Chapel Baptist Church of Kyle.
Guadalupe County Fair Seeking Volunteers
The Guadalupe County Fair is seeking more volunteer members. Also seeking to partner with businesses or organizations for volunteers during the Fair. Needed areas include the rodeo ticket admissions
and food and beverage ticket sales. For volunteer member applications or to register your business or organization to volunteer, visit www.gcfair.org or call 830-379-6477. Save the date for the Guadalupe County Fair on Oct. 10 - 13 at the Seguin Events Complex. Follow the fair on Facebook and Instagram @GuadalupeCo.FairAssociation.
Seguin Fire Department Fan Drive
The Seguin Fire Department Fan Drive is currently underway. Fans will be available to households (within the Seguin city limits only) that are without air conditioning. Fans can be picked up between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday at the Municipal Court/Fire Administration building, located at 660 S. Hwy 46. A picture ID and proof of residency is required. limit one fan per household. If you received a fan last year, you are ineligible this year. If you would like to donated a fan, please drop off donations at the Municipal Court/Fire Administration building. For more information, call 830-401-2321 or email ltrevino@seguintexas.
City of Seguin Blood Drive
The City of Seguin will have a Blood Drive from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 6 in the Bloodmobile that will be located at the Coliseum parking lot (950 South Austin St.). Schedule your donation at www.southtexasblood.org. For more information, contact Jennifer Gauna at 830-401-2471.
Animal Clay Sculpture and Tile Glazing Class
The Seguin Art League will offer an Animal Clay Sculpture and Tile Glazing Class from 1 to 3 p.m. for ages 10 and up on Tuesday, Aug. 6 and Wednesday, Aug. 7 and on Wednesday, Aug. 17 at 104 S. Austin St. in Seguin. The class will teach how to draw animals, focusing on form and texture and will demonstrate how to model clay to create form. Day 3 will focus on glazing and a fun tile. For more information, call 830-305-0472.
The Gathering Music Show and Dance
The Gathering Music Show and Dance will be held from 7 to 10 p.m. On Tuesday, Aug. 6 at the Geronimo VFW. The doors open at 5:30 p.m. with a $10 admission. The entertainment will be provided by Bob Appel. For more information, call or text 830-305-8829.
Continued on the next page.
Women of Influence Conference
The Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce will have its Women of Influence Conference on Wednesday, Aug. 7 and Thursday, Aug. 8 at the Seguin Coliseum, located at 950 S. Austin St. in Seguin. For ticket information, visit www.seguinchamber. com or call 830-379-6382.
Pecan Valley Communicators
The Pecan Valley Communicators, a community group who help others become confident speakers, we meet at 6:30 p.m. the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month at the GVEC Community Room, located at 927 SH-46 in Seguin. Visit us at www.pecanvalleycommunicators.org.
Auxiliary Unit 245 Market Days
The American Legion Auxiliary Unit 245 will host a Market Days from 6 to 10 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 9 in the parking lot, located at 628 E. Kingsbury St. in Seguin. There will be vendors, a silent auction, 50/50 drawing, cold drinks, and food for sale.
Elm Creek Community Cemetery Association Meet-
ing
There will be an Elm Creek Community Cemetery Association Meeting at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 11 at 1951 Settlers Way in Seguin. Donations for continued maintenance is greatly appreciated. For more information or questions, call or text 210414-3308.
Geronimo VFW Sunday Dance
The Geronimo VFW will have its Sunday Dance from 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday, August 11. Entertainment will be provided by Bob Appel. The doors open at 1:30 p.m. with $10 admission. For more information, call or text 830-305-8829.
Seguin Elks Lodge Free Kids Cuts
The Seguin Elks Lodge will offer Free Kids Cuts from noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 11 at 1331 CH Matthies JR in Seguin. Adult cuts will also be available for $10. There will be free kids cuts by a licensed cosmetologist, a free gift bag, and snacks while you wait. For more information, call 830-303-5844.
NAMI Family Support Group
The NAMI Family Support Group for adult family
members and friends of adults with mental health conditions meets from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on the second Monday of each month at First Methodist Church Seguin. Learn more at www.NAMIGuadalupeCounty.org.
2024 Guadalupe County 4-H Awards Banquet
The 2024 Guadalupe County 4-H Awards Banquet will be held at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 13 at the Seguin Coliseum. Dinner will be served at 5:30 p.m., followed by the awards at 6:30 p.m. RSVP with the Extension office by Thursday, Aug. 1 by calling 830-303-3889.
Geronimo VFW Friday
Free Dance
The Geronimo VFW will have its Friday Free Dance from 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, August 16. Entertainment will be provided by D.J. Jack. The doors open at 1:30 p.m. with $10 admission. For more information, call or text 830-305-8829.
Geronimo VFW Sunday Dance
The Geronimo VFW will have its Sunday Dance from 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday, August 18. Entertainment will be provided by The Possee. The doors open at 1:30 p.m. with $10 admission. For more information, call or text 830-305-8829.
Business Improvement Grant (BIG) Program
The City of Seguin is now accepting applications for the Business Improvement Grant (BIG) Program. Applicants may be eligible to receive up to a 75 percent matching grant, with a maximum grant awarded to an applicant not to exceed $10,000. Improvements and other expenditures eligible under the Seguin BIG Program include facade improvements, sign improvements, site improvements, and other real property improvements. Program Guidelines and Applications are available online at www.SeguinTexas.gov or at www. SeguinEDC.com. Applications must be submitted through the BIG application portal which can be accessed by visiting: https://bit.ly/seguin-big24 by the close of business on the last day of each month. For more information, visit www.SeguinEDC.com, or call 830-401-2476.
NAMI Connection Recovery Support Group
The NAMI Connection Recovery Support Group for adults with mental health conditions meets
from 6:30-8 p.m. on the first and third Mondays of each month at First Methodist Church. Learn more at www.NAMIGuadalupeCounty.org.
NAMI Guadalupe County Educational Course
The NAMI Guadalupe County will host a free educational course for adult family members, significant others and friends of people with mental health conditions in Schertz. Classes begin Aug. 20 and will meet each Tuesday evening for eight weeks. Find details and register at www.namiguadalupecounty.org.
Grand Parents Raising Grand Children Group
The Texas Grand Parents Raising Grand Children Seguin Support Group will meet at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 20 at the GVEC Community Room, located at 927 N. TX-46 in Seguin.
Rising Stars of Guadalupe County
The Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce’s Young Professionals will recognize Guadalupe County’s most promising young professional at its Rising Stars of Guadalupe County event from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 21 at the Texas Theatre, located at 425 N. Austin St. in Seguin. The event is free, however, registration will be required. To register and for more information, call 830-379-6382.
Food Distribution Event
There will be a Food Distribution Event from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, August 24 at GRMC, located at 1215 E. Court St. in Seguin. Pre-register at www. Freshtrak.com.
Geronimo VFW Justin Trevino CD Release Party
The Geronimo VFW will have will have a Justin Trevino CD Release Party from 8 to 11 p.m. Saturday, August 24. Admission is $20. For more information, call or text 830-305-8829.
Geronimo VFW Sunday Dance
The Geronimo VFW will have its Sunday Dance from 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday, August 25. Entertainment will be provided by Brandon Rosage. The doors open at 1:30 p.m. with $10 admission. For more information, call or text 830-305-8829.
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Goodbye Summer All Media Show
The Seguin Art League will receive entries for its Goodbye Summer All Media Show from 10 a.m. to noon on Wednesday, Aug. 31 at 104 S. Austin St. in Seguin. The juried show runs until Oct. 12. Categories are photography, 2D, and 3D. The member fee is $15 per artwork and the non-member fee is $20 per artwork. There will be awards in each category. A prospectus is available on the Seguin Art League website. For more information, call 830-305-0472.
September
Geronimo VFW Sunday Dance
The Geronimo VFW will have its Sunday Dance from 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 1. Entertainment will be provided by Paul Sanchez. The doors open at 1:30 p.m. with $10 admission. For more information, call or text 830-305-8829.
The Gathering Music Show and Dance
The Gathering Music Show and Dance will be held from 7 to 10 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 3 at the Geronimo VFW. The doors open at 5:30 with at $10 admission. The entertainment will be provided by Tony Booth. For more information, call or text 830-305-8829.
Chamber State of the City Membership Luncheon
The Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce will have its State of the City Membership Luncheon beginning with check-in and networking at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 4 at the Seguin Coliseum, located at 950 S. Austin St. in Seguin. The guest speakers will be Mayor, Donna Dodgen and City Manager, Steve Parker. The cost is $20 for chamber members with RSVP and $25 for future members. To RSVP, call 830-379-6382.
Leadership Seguin Application Deadline
The Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce is accepting applications for its Leadership Seguin program that builds community leaders. The target is to attract emerging leaders who have established themselves as having leadership potential and have shown a concern for Seguin’s future. The deadline to apply is Friday, Sept. 6. For more information, call 830-379-6382.
FFA Pantherfest and Tractor Pull
The Navarro FFA Booster Club will have its Panther-
fest and Tractor Pull on Saturday, Sept. 7 at The Big Red Barn, located at 390 Cordova Rd. The Tractor Pull begins at 10 a.m. with a $30 a hook fee. Food trucks will be on site from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Pantherfest will run from 5 to 11:30 p.m. with a catered meal by Schulze’s Pit Room. There will also be a dance with music provided by Cross Roads. Presale tickets are $25 and a limited number of tickets will be available at the door for $30. For tickets, email navarroffaboosters@gmail.com.
Geronimo VFW Sunday Dance
The Geronimo VFW will have its Sunday Dance from 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 8. Entertainment will be provided by Czechaholics. The doors open at 1:30 p.m. with $10 admission. For more information, call or text 830-305-8829.
Mid-Texas Symphony
The Mid-Texas Symphony, with conductor, Akiko Fujimoto, will open its season with Ravel’s Bolero, at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 8 at Jackson Auditorium at Texas Lutheran University. To purchase tickets, visit www. mtsymphony.org or call the box office 830-463-5353 For questions, email boxoffice@mtsymphony.org.
Food Distribution Event
There will be a Food Distribution Event from 9 to 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 16 at First Baptist Church, located at 1314 E. Cedar St. in Seguin. Pre-register at www.Freshtrak.com.
Grand Parents Raising Grand Children Group
The Texas Grand Parents Raising Grand Children Seguin Support Group will meet at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 17 at the GVEC Community Room, located at 927 N. TX-46 in Seguin.
Seguin
Area Chamber Annual Banquet & Awards Presentation
The Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce will have its Annual Banquet & Awards Presentation at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 18 at the Seguin Coliseum. The doors open at 5 p.m. The theme is Start Spreading the News.
October
Grand Parents Raising Grand Children Group
The Texas Grand Parents Raising Grand Children
Seguin Support Group will meet at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 15 at the Seguin Public Library.
Kiki Camarena Run – Ride To Be Drug Free
The Guadalupe Valley Young Marines will have its 5th Annual Kiki Camarena Run – Ride to Be Drug Free from 9 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 19 at the Veterans Outreach Center, located at 205 E. Weinert St. in Seguin. There will be a motorcycle run, chili-dog plate sale, silent auction, and vendors. For more information, contact Dina Dillon at 423-2279610 or email gvyoungmarines@gmail.com
Food Distribution Event
There will be a Food Distribution Event from 9 to 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 21 at First Baptist Church, located at 1314 E. Cedar St. in Seguin. Pre-register at www.Freshtrak.com.
November
Mid-Texas Symphony
The Mid-Texas Symphony, with conductor, Akiko Fujimoto, will present Sibelius’ Second Symphony, at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 3 at Canyon High School PAC in New Braunfels. To purchase tickets, visit www.mtsymphony.org or call the box office 830-463-5353 For questions, email boxoffice@mtsymphony.org.
Grand Parents Raising Grand Children Group
The Texas Grand Parents Raising Grand Children Seguin Support Group will meet at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 12 at the GVEC Community Room, located at 927 N. TX-46 in Seguin.
Food Distribution Event
There will be a Food Distribution Event from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 16 at GRMC, located at 1215 E. Court St. in Seguin. Pre-register at www.Freshtrak.com.
December
Grand Parents Raising Grand Children Group
The Texas Grand Parents Raising Grand Children Seguin Support Group will meet at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 10 at the GVEC Community Room, located at 927 N. TX-46 in Seguin.
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www.SEGUINTODAY.com
Mid-Texas Symphony
The Mid-Texas Symphony, with conductor, Akiko Fujimoto, will present Merry Melodies, at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 15 at Jackson Auditorium at Texas Lutheran University. To purchase tickets, visit www.mtsymphony.org or call the box office 830-463-5353 For questions, email boxoffice@ mtsymphony.org.
February
Mid-Texas Symphony
The Mid-Texas Symphony, with conductor, Akiko Fujimoto, will present Puttin On the Ritz, at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 23 at the Brauntex Theatre in New Braunfels. To purchase tickets, visit www. mtsymphony.org or call the box office 830-4635353 For questions, email boxoffice@mtsymphony.org.
March
Mid-Texas Symphony
The Mid-Texas Symphony, with conductor, Akiko Fujimoto, will present Bond and Beyond, at 4 p.m. on Sunday, March 30 at the New Braunfels Civic and Convention Center in New Braunfels. To purchase tickets, visit www.mtsymphony.org or call the box office 830-463-5353 For questions, email boxoffice@mtsymphony.org.
April
Mid-Texas Symphony
The Mid-Texas Symphony, with conductor, Akiko Fujimoto, will present Ode to Joy, at 4 p.m. on Sunday, April 27 at Jackson Auditorium at Texas Lutheran University. To purchase tickets, visit www.mtsymphony.org or call the box office 830463-5353 For questions, email boxoffice@mtsymphony.org.
Ongoing Community Calendar Items
CCSCT Utility Assistance Application for 2024 Applications are available for the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (C.E.A.P.) provided by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs through the CCSCT. The program
will help low-income consumers reduce their utility bills. There is also assistance available through the Low Income Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP). For more information visit www.ccsct.org or follow them on the socials at https://linktr.ee/ccsct_cares.
Heritage Museum Calendars
The Heritage Museum is selling 2024 Then and Now Themed Calendars. There is a limited supply and they are available for purchase at the Heritage Museum, Gift & Gourmet, Pecan Town Books and Brews, Parker’s City Pharmacy, and online at www.heritagemuseum.net. All proceeds benefit Museum projects.
988
Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Dial 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline available 24 hours a day in English and Spanish.
Volunteer Van Drivers Needed
Guadalupe County Veteran Services Office is in great need of volunteer van drivers. Even those who can only commit to one day per month. Volunteers will drive local veterans who have no transportation to their VA medical appointments in San Antonio. To volunteer, call 830-303-4188 ext. 1249.
Precious Life Services
Precious Life Services is accepting new clients who may need help with Anger Management, Parenting Skills, Christian Counseling, Group and Family Therapy, Anxiety and Depression, etc. Appointments are available in-office, by Zoom or Teleconference by calling 830-372-5980.
Free Accredited Adult Homeschool Program
The Life Changing Church is now offering a Free Accredited Homeschool Program for adults wanting to earn their high school diploma. It is a selfpaced, no classes to attend program. You work around your schedule and at the end of the program you will receive an accredited diploma that is acceptable for college. Tutors are available at no charge. Free placement testing, no previous records required. For more information call or text Crystal at 325-956-1155.
Salvation Army Office
The Seguin Unit Salvation Army office is located at 205 North King Street. The office is open to receive requests for assistance weekly from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.
Volunteers Needed
The Guadalupe Valley Young Marines need volunteers. They promote a healthy, drug-free program and need males, 19 years and up who would like to see the program grow by contributing time to help future citizens, boys and girls 8 to 18. Positions available include computer input, physical fitness training, planning/logistics, and medical. Contact Dina Dillon at 423-227-9610 or visit www.gvyoungmarines.org.
La Trinidad Blessing Box - Food Pantry
The La Trinidad United Methodist Church invites you to “Take what you need, Bring what you can, and above all be Blessed!” by its Blessing Box Food Pantry located at the corner of the church at 306 E. Gonzales St. in Seguin. The Blessing Box is filled with items to help those in need.
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 ensure non-profit organization’s meetings and events appear in this calendar, send information to: communitycalendar@kwed1580.com, 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.
Place your ad in the CLASSIFIEDS by visiting the KWED office located at 609 E. Court St. during regular business hours. Or call us at 830-379-2234
ITEMS FOR SALE
ESTATE SALE: 435 Pine Meadow Road - Friday, 8/2, Saturday, 8/3 and Sunday, 8/4 from 8am to 3pm. Big house full of treasures, TOO much to mention! Don't miss this sale!!
FOR SALE: Whirlpool fridge $300, 5’ x 12’ utility trailer $1700, Washer and Dryer $600, 54” glass table plus 6 metal chairs $400, 4 metal bar chairs $100 (it’s a matching set) Call 830-212-0463.
