Naming of SHS baseball/softball complex underway
Public invited to share openly with Seguin ISD Trustees
Opinions, questions plus concerns to be informally addressed
(Seguin) – Seguin ISD Trustees will be making themselves readily available tonight in hopes of answering your questions and listening to both your concerns and opinions.
In an attempt to establish a more comfortable relationship with constituents, trustees will be hosting their first Meet With Board Trustees event at the Seguin Public Library.
Trustee Denise Crettenden says even before COVID, she has always wanted to set aside this special time for trustees to meet informally with the community.
(Seguin) -- The Seguin ISD does not want you to strike out on the opportunity to name Seguin High School’s new baseball and softball complex. The complex is being built on the south end of the high school campus along
College Street. The district is giving the public an opportunity to throw out their nominations of names for both the baseball and softball fields or for parts of the complex. Naming, pg. 3
“If you know who I am or who one of the other board members are, then of course, we see people at HEB or we see people at football games or we see people at the choir concert or car line and things like that. If they know who we are, they are able to come and talk to us in that informal way. If you are not somebody who knows one of us, I want you to have that same opportunity to speak
informally, get to know who we are, put forward questions you might have about the district or what we are looking at as a district and I just want people to get to know us on that kind of level so that they have some comfort in talking to us. Not everyone is going to be comfortable standing up at the microphone at a board meeting and asking a question. Not everyone is going to be comfortable even sending an email.
Trustees, pg. 3
Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
Seguin ISD now accepting nominations
Photo courtesy Craig Dailey
City proposes slight increase in utility rates
(Seguin) -- There’s more budget news from the city of Seguin and some of the details could slightly impact your pocketbook.
The Seguin City Council is in the middle of its budget process, which includes a new general fund budget and tax rate for its coming fiscal year. Last week, we reported that the city had proposed expenditures of $54 million and a tax rate of 51.25 cents, which is identical to the city’s current tax rate. The general fund pays for things like libraries, parks, police, and fire services -- things that are normally funded by property taxes. But the city of Seguin is also a utility, which means the city’s new budget will also include new rates for water, sewer and electrical services. The proposed 2024-25 fiscal year utility fund budget calls for a slight increase in water and wastewater rates next year.
Dan Jackson, of Wildan Financial Services, has been consulting the city on its water and sewer rates for years. Jackson says there’s no major deviation from the rate plan study that’s been used by the city in past years. Jackson says a five percent increase has been proposed for both services next year.
“We show our proposed rates to be effective in October 2024 which is a five percent adjustment. We are projecting that there will be a five percent adjustment in 2025 and a five percent adjustment in 2026 but after that, the adjustments will only be three percent. On the wastewater side, you are looking at, again, a five percent adjustment and continued five percent adjustments for each of the next four years,” said Jackson.
Jackson says the five percent increase should not adversely impact most households in the city of Seguin.
“The average customer here in the city of Seguin uses about five to
six thousand gallons of water and wastewater service a month. Now, that’s an average. Some people use more. Some people use less. But what that also means is about 70 percent of your monthly bills are going to be 5,000 gallons or less. So, that makes 5,000 gallons a good benchmark to use. Right now, the average customer who uses 5,000 gallons pays $104.90 for that service. Under this plan, that bill will go up about $5.24 a month. That’s a five percent adjustment. Next year, it will go up by another $5 to 5 and a half dollars and then it will go up by about another $5 to 5 and half dollars in 2026 but after that, the increases will be more in the four to five dollar a month range. The average utility in the United States is raising its rates five to six percent every year. So, these rate adjustments are right in line with what both the state and national average is,” said Jackson.
Jackson says the increases not only help the city pay for the water and sewer services that it offers, but it also helps the city be better prepared for the large amount growth that continues to come this way.
“People ask what do I get in return for contributing this to the city? This is what you get. You get a secure future and a system that will provide service not just to you but to future generations of rate payers,” said Jackson.
The rapid growth occurring in Seguin is helping offset the costs of expanding those services to developments in the area. Jackson
says right now, the city’s impact fee schedule allows the city to pay for that expansion without placing a burden on existing ratepayers. But he says if there’s a major growth slowdown, that could change.
“You have prudently decided to use your impact fee revenue to help support the debt service payments on the growth-related debt. That means that growth is basically paying for itself but impact revenues are dependent on future growth and so we need to make sure those accounts continue to come in. If the accounts don’t come in, then that’s going to have a negative impact on your long-term rate plan. So, far, it has been coming in so let’s hope the trend continues,” said Jackon.
Much like the water and wastewater rates, the city also works with a consultant to develop its proposed electrical rates. Ramsey Cripe of Senergy made the electric rate presentation to the council during its meeting last Tuesday. Based on their study, Cripe says no major fee increases are needed on the electric side of the utility budget.
“We are recommending some rate adjustments this go around. We are looking at a dollar increase on the customer charge which is the fixed amount per month that you pay. So, if you have zero usage, you are still paying this every month on your bill. We are not going to recommend any changes to small commercial. It is recovering pretty well and then we are going to do some offsetting rate changes to the large commercial and industrial rate classes,” said Cripe.
The council unanimously approved the new water, wastewater, and electric fees on the first reading. A second and final reading would be needed before the rates could officially be charged during the city’s new fiscal year, which begins on October 1.
Naming, continued.
Explaining the effort on behalf of the district is Emily Allen, the new director of communications for the Seguin ISD.
“Given the fact that this complex was approved under the 2023 bond by voters, this is the district’s opportunity to ask the community and those same voters what names they would like to see on different parts of this complex whether it’s the complex as a whole, potentially the concession stands, the field – it gives more opportunities to have different names on all parts of it and it gives people the chance to submit different things so the board members can consider several options potentially. That will be decided by the board, but the potential is there for several names to be added across parts of that complex,” said Allen.
According to the district, the complex or parts of it may be named for any person, living or deceased, and will have to be officially approved by the Seguin ISD Board of Trustees.
While the majority of trustees gave the okay to move forward with the nomination process, Trustee Ben Amador says he just couldn’t vote for the process at this time – citing not only the criteria but also feeling rushed with the process.
“I felt that by doing it this way,
Trustees, continued.
we have a deadline, and I don’t think we should have a deadline. I think we need to think about it and see who is nominated. And, there is another question. Supposing that the nominee is a live person and God forbid he does something bad before or after his building or stadium is named after him, what are we going to do? I’d rather do like most places where the nominated person is deceased at least for five or 10 years or so,” said Amador.
In choosing names, the board says it shall also consider the following criteria:
1. The person’s contribution in the field of education
2. The person’s unusual contribution to the civic life of the community, state, or nation.
3. The esteem with which the people in the community, state or nation held the person
4. A recommendation by an individual, family, or
I feel as though there is a whole subset of people in our community who are most comfortable with face-to-face communication, and I want to give them that chance in an informal setting,” said Crettenden.
Crettenden says it’s important that the lines of communication and understanding between the school board and the community remain strong.
“The way I first pictured it -- is in some other countries – when I lived abroad, your local member of government would have these times when they just sort of sit there and you could bring all your issues. So, in Britian, your member of Parliament came, and you can tell them everything from the pot holes to how you felt about foreign policy and it was just a time to meet face to face with a person who represents you and I just felt like we needed a little more of that,” said Crettenden.
Although tonight’s first informal gathering with a few of the Seguin ISD board members will be a come-and-go event, Crettenden says a pair of presentations will be provided at the beginning in hopes of helping the public better navigate their
organization who has donated property or money for the construction of a school facility.
The voter-approved sports facility is currently under construction, with a planned release in January. Allen says securing names now helps in preparing the complex with details, including proper signage, etc.
“Making sure that we have a timeline so that we can have as many pieces in place as possible when this complex opens. So those are things that we will need to have clarified. I don’t have specifics on exactly how long certain things take to have those signs made so that part of it I’m not very sure of this moment. However, yes, that is part of the consideration,” said Allen.
Again, the district says each nomination should include a description of the “nominee’s contributions, why they are important and any pertinent history that should be considered.” Each nomination should also be no more than three pages long.
Staff, students, and the community may submit a nomination by Sept. 30, 2024 at 4:30 p.m. to sisd@seguin.k12. tx.us or via mail or in person at Seguin ISD Central Office, 1221 E. Kingsbury St., Seguin, TX 78155.
Following the Sept. 30 deadline, trustees will review nominations for consideration and possible approval at a future school board meeting.
concerns throughout the year.
“For a lot of things, it’s going to be us directing them to the resources of the school district. I think there are a lot of resources that we have that people don’t even know we have – amazing programs that people don’t know about and once they do know and they utilize them, they have a better much experience with our school district,” said Crettenden.
Crettenden says the plan is to continue scheduling these informal meetings. She says it’s all about making people comfortable with expressing their opinions and getting to know those folks who represent their community.
“What I’d like to see in the future – this one is very centrally located -- there will be three of us there. I would like to see us take this on the road, so I think that it makes a lot of sense for somebody like me to travel to Kingsbury, which is in my district. We have one more board member who represents Kingsbury. It makes sense to go to McQueeney with your McQueeney school board member, to go south of town with the people who represent those areas and just get out in our neighborhoods,” said Crettenden.
Meet With Board Trustees will be held today from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Seguin Public Library.
Photo courtesy Craig Dailey
COLUMNS
Beyond Seguin Borders is a column written by Seguin Daily News staff members. We all love Seguin, but we also know it’s normal to travel outside Guadalupe County. This is a lifestyle feature column exploring our staff’s adventures Beyond Seguin Borders.
BEYOND SEGUIN BORDERS
San Japan Anime Convention returns to San Antonio
Lizz Daniels
(San Antonio) -- If you’re looking for some nerdy fun this Memorial Day weekend, look just down the road to San Antonio, where San Japan kicks off Thursday and runs through Sunday.
San Japan is one of Texas’ largest anime conventions and invites the community to check out all they have to offer. This year’s convention boasts new events including J-Fashion programming from Okashicon.
“Okashicon is a non-profit group that celebrates J-Fashion, Anime, and the pivotal role of women within these industries,” Okashicon representatives say on the San Japan website. “We’re all about celebrating our differences, embracing diversity, and enjoying things that bring us together while giving back to the community.”
Other exciting new additions this year include laser tag, an Idol Festival, and an immersive life-size roleplaying dungeon experience presented by True Dungeon.
According to San Japan True Dungeon “combines elements of escape rooms, haunted houses, and its rules are very loosely based on the third edition of Dungeons & Dragons. Individual players test their gaming skills in an adventure where they battle monsters, solve puzzles, and overcome mental and physical tests of skill. All of these challenges come together to make the True Dungeon experience unique in the gaming industry. In addition to puzzles, players do battle
(via a shuffleboard-style combat board) with animatronic monsters and costumed NPCs.”
One of this year’s big returning events is the electronic dance, which will feature DJ Slushii, who is famous for his music on the video game Rocket League. Other returning highlights to look out for include the Maid Cafe and a masquerade ball, though both will require tickets that con-goers must
purchase in addition to the convention entrance.
There will also be an anime-themed car show, actor meet and greets, panels, artist alley, shopping, and much more at the weekend-long event.
San Japan takes place at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in downtown San Antonio. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting: https:// sanjapan.ticketspice.com/sanjapan15
Seguin boys force play-in game; Marion
Lady Matadors win District 27-5A opener
(Seguin) -- The Seguin Lady Matadors took all three sets in sweeping the Sam Houston Lady Hurricanes in the District 275A volleyball opener for both teams at Goldie Harris Gym on Tuesday night.
A trio of Seguin sophomores made huge contributions to the win. Bella Homan had nine kills to lead Seguin. Elli Anderson led the Lady Mats with seven service aces while also pacing Seguin with three blocks. Sophomore
Danica Rushlow had 21 digs to lead the Lady Matadors in that category.
Junior Gisele Morales was instrumental in setting up her teammates with 24 assists on the night. Senior Karina Lerma had seven kills and 20 digs.
The Lady Mats will host the Seguin volleyball tournament starting on Thursday. Their first match is at 8 O’clock Thursday morning against San Antonio Marshall at Goldie Harris Gym.
Chris Austin
Luensmann
Kirsten “Jeane” Luensmann, age 56 of Marion, passed away on August 18, 2024. Jeane was born on November 14, 1967 in Orlando, Florida, to Kirsten Annette (Vis) and Hobdy James Edmondson.
In 1999 Jeane married Gary Luensmann on Christmas Day where they united families and Jeane became a stepmother to Albany and Taylor. The party of 6 enjoyed their family vacations at the coast where Jeane loved shell hunting. Many people know Jeane for being the creator of Shelby & Suzy’s cheerleading and Dance team’s beautiful bows. Jeane loved watering her garden, swimming with her dogs in the pool, feeding all her birds, and watching all the bugs and creatures from the creek. Jeane will be remembered for many wonderful things including her generosity, competitive and nurturing spirit, witty humor, love for nature, a big heart, and for being a strong fighter.
During the next 19 years, the family moved many times with her Father’s Air Force Career. In 1986 the family settled in San Antonio, Texas. Jeane attended and graduated from Southwest Texas State University in San Marcos (now Texas State) with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education. There she enjoyed fencing and playing volleyball. In 1989 Jeane and Peter Ryall married and soon welcomed two daughters, Shelby (Rosebud) in 1991
and Suzan (Tooterbug) in 1992. Years later she married Gary Luensmann where they combined their families.
Jeane is preceded in death by her father-in-law, Elton Luensmann. Survivors include her loving husband of 25 years, Gary Luensmann; children, Shelby Ryall and fiancé Zachry Harlan, Suzan “Suzy” Ryall, Albany Luensmann and husband Teddy Boyle and Taylor Luensmann; grandchildren, Lincoln Harlan and Brooks Boyle; parents, Kirt and Hob Edmondson; mother-in-law, Dorothy Luensmann; sister, Jennifer Edmondson and her children, Alec and Avery; sisters-in-law, Sharry Brietzke and husband Kevin and Janet Boatner; brother-in-law, Dustin Luensmann and wife Crystal, as well as numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, other loving family members and a host of friends.
Jeane will be dearly remembered as a devoted wife, doting mother, loving grandmother and dear friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
A celebration honoring Jeane’s life will be held on Sunday, September 1, 2024 2-7 p.m. with remarks at 3 p.m. at Bexar Social Hall with meal provided and cash bar, 15681 Bexar Bowling, Marion, TX 78124.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to, Entomological Society of America. (https://entsoc.org)
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.
VITAL STATISTICS
Garrison
Henry “Hank” Worth Garrison, age 87 of Seguin, passed away peacefully on August 12, 2024. He was born November 14, 1936, in Boxelder, Texas to Onvie Leo (Coats) and Henry Otto (Ottie) Garrison.
His family had very hard times when Hank was a child after the depression, and they struggled as farmers. He picked cotton by his mother’s side as a very young child and learned patience, discipline, and tenacity. He learned these qualities from his beloved mother, kindness, fairness, humility and honesty.
After high school he received his license as an X-Ray Technician from Parkland Hospital School of Radiology. He joined the Army National Guard in 1958 and was called to active duty in 1961 to assist after the impact of Hurricane Carla along the Texas coast at Port Mansfield.
During high school he met his friend, Don Powell’s youngest sister, Helen Marie Powell. Many years later their paths crossed, and she was all grown up. Then the magic began. They married June 4, 1960, at First Baptist Church in Texarkana, TX. They had two children, Janyce Marie (Kester) and Sean Patrick Coats Garrison and resided in San Antonio, TX for 37 years. He adored his family and worked diligently to provide the very best for them.
Hank retired in 2002 after a 37-year career in medical sales. He enjoyed interacting with the staff in doctors’ offices and developed many friends from San Antonio to the Rio Grande Valley, Corpus Christi to El Paso. He also was a highly motivated businessman, flipping houses during the 70’s and 80’s. After that, he began investing in multiple rental properties. His tenants loved him as he was kind, compassionate and more than once would overlook a missed rental payment. He was quick to take care of repairs and always showed respect for them and for their needs.
In 1997, Hank and Helen moved from San Antonio to Seguin, TX to embark on their next adventure. Hank loved the outdoors and discovered his dream property along the Guadalupe River. He worked tirelessly to make it special for his family. He hunted and fished often, teaching his daughter,
Mertz
son and four grandsons to love the same. He taught them to clean a deer or the fish they caught, then enjoy eating their bounty. He was an avid gardener growing a multitude of produce on his beloved land. He enjoyed playing in the lake with his family all day while he had something smoking on the grill for dinner in the evening. Kids, dogs, whoever, were always welcome. Of course, they fished.
He volunteered at his beloved church, First Methodist Church, Seguin, helping with grounds upkeep for many years until age 80. He worked in the Pumpkin Patch and served on the Trustees Committee along with other committees. He attended Sunday School, the 8:00 sanctuary service, the 10:30 Seasons Service and Wednesday Bible Study.
He is preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Cornelia Sipes and husband Johnnie, and Lenora White and husband, Tommy, and his niece Sheri Thompson.
Survivors include his loving wife of 64 years, Helen M. Garrison; daughter, Marie Kester and husband Kent; son, Sean Garrison and wife Tammy; grandchildren, Kyle Kester and wife Andrea, Grey Kester and wife Kaleigh, Logan Garrison and Jacob Garrison; great grandchildren, Valory Kester and Ryker Kester; other loving family members and many friends.
The family would like to thank the staff, Preston and Jenna at Mercy House in New Braunfels, TX. and especially the caregivers Monica, Julie, Ashley, BiBi, Linda, Veronica, Desiree, Rosalie, Charlene and many others for their loving care during his final weeks. We also are grateful for Tiffany, Gilbert, Brandi and chaplain, Alvie from Heart of Texas Hospice for their guidance during this difficult time. You all are so very appreciated.
A memorial service celebrating Hank’s life will be held on Sunday, September 1, 2024, at First Methodist Church in Seguin at 2:00 p.m. with the Reverend Ray Perales officiating. A reception will follow in Hierholzer Hall. Private interment will be held at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to First Methodist Church, 710 N. Austin, Seguin, Texas, 78155.
You are invited to sign the guest book at www.tresehewell.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155, 830-549-5912.
Christopher Brian Mertz, of Seguin, Texas, was born on May 17, 1985, and passed away on August 26, 2024, at the age of 39. Funeral arrangements are under the direction and care of Palmer Mortuary & Cremations.
Kelton Glen Lange, age 89, of Seguin, passed away on August 14, 2024. He was born on August 7, 1935 in Harper, Texas to Sarah Elizabeth (Wendel) and Max Adolph Lange.
He is preceded in death by his loving wife of 64 years, JoAnn Spaeth Lange, his parents, his brother Elmer Lange and wife Joyce, his sister Maxine Lange Prestidge and husband Gene, his sister -in law M’Liss Spaeth Schneider and husband Myron.
Survivors include his daughter, Lisa Harrison; son, Steven Lange; grandchildren, Austin Lange, David Lange and wife Vicki, Alana Fondren and husband Wren, and Marina Harrison;
great grandchildren, Max, Paityn, and Barrett Lange and Emma Jean Lange; numerous nieces, nephews, other loving family members and many friends.
A memorial service celebrating Kelton’s life will be held on Saturday, September 7, 2024 at 10 a.m. at Faith Lutheran Church with the Reverend Daniel Cave and the Reverend John Van Deusen officiating. Interment will be held in the Faith Lutheran Columbarium at Faith Lutheran Church.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Kairos Prison Ministry, c/o Kairos of Texas/Connally, P. O. Box 2982, Fredericksburg, Texas, 78624 or to Faith Lutheran Church, 1326 E. Cedar St., Seguin, Texas, 78155.
You are invited to sign the guest book at www.tresehewell.com.
Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155, 830-549-5912.
Death toll is now 8 in listeria outbreak tied to Boar’s Head deli meat, CDC says
At least eight people have died after being infected with listeria from Boar’s Head deli meats tied to a massive recall last month, federal health officials said Wednesday. The new food poisoning toll includes two deaths in South Carolina plus one each in Florida, New Mexico and Tennessee, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said. Three deaths were previously confirmed in people who lived in Illinois, New Jersey and Virginia.
At least 57 people have been sickened and hospitalized in the outbreak. Illnesses were reported starting in late May and have continued into August, the agency said. It’s the largest listeria outbreak in the U.S. since 2011, and Boar’s Head has recalled more than 7 million pounds of deli products.
Listeria infections are caused by a hardy type of bacteria that can survive and even thrive during refrigeration. An estimated 1,600 people get listeria food poisoning each year and about 260 die, according to the CDC. Infections can be hard to pinpoint because symptoms may occur quickly or up to 10 weeks after eating contaminated food.
The infections are especially dangerous for older people, those who are pregnant or those with weakened immune systems.
The problem was discovered when a Boar’s Head liverwurst sample collected by health officials in Maryland tested positive for listeria. Further testing showed that the type of bacteria was the same strain causing illnesses in people.
Boar’s Head officials originally recalled liverwurst and other products meant to be sliced in retail delis with sell-by dates from July 25 to August 30. On July 29, the recall was expanded to include all foods produced at the firm’s plant in Jarratt, Virginia. The products included those sliced at deli counters as well as some prepackaged retail sausage, frankfurters and bacon. All the recalled deli meats have been removed from stores and are no longer available, Boar’s Head officials said on the company’s website. The products were distributed to stores nationwide, as well as to the Cayman Islands, the Dominican Republic, Mexico and Panama, U.S. Agriculture Department officials said.
CDC officials urged consumers to check their refrigerators for the recalled products. Look for EST. 12612 or P-12612 inside the USDA mark of inspection on the product labels, some of which have sell-by dates that extend into October. Discard recalled foods and thoroughly clean and sanitize refrigerator and other surfaces they touched.
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.
Pumpkin Patch Pictures
The First Methodist church will celebrate its 30th Annual Pumpkin Patch this year and are seeking pictures from the early years. If you would like to share your pictures of the early years from the Pumpkin Patch, please send copies to FMC Pumpkin Patch, 710 N. Austin St., Seguin, TX 78155 or share them on the FMC Seguin Pumpkin Patch Facebook page. The Patch will open Saturday, September 28. For more information call 830-379-4112.
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.
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 Saturday, 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.
Ask -A-Master Gardener
The Guadalupe County Master Gardeners will be available for answering all your gardening questions and give expert advice from 9 to 11 a.m. on Saturdays in Sept. and Oct. at the Big Red Barn, located at 390 Cordova Rd. They will not be available on
Saturday, Oct. 12.
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.
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 830401-2321 or email ltrevino@seguintexas.
Guadalupe Appraisal District Closure
The Guadalupe Appraisal District will be closed on Monday, Sept. 2 and will re-open at 8 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 3.
City of Seguin Non-Emergency Offices and Library Closure
The City of Seguin non-emergency offices at City Hall and the Seguin Public Library will be closed on Monday, Sept. 2 in observance of Labor Day. Offices re-open on
Tuesday, Sept. 3. Garbage and recycling will be collected as normal.
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.
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.
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.
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 830-2720040, ext. 104 and leave a message.
Continued on the next page.
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.
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.
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, Sept. 6 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 Charlie Bragg & Wyatt Arp and the Beneficiary will be NAMI.
Hermann Sons Life Seguin Lodge Vendor Market
The Hermann Sons Life Seguin Lodge will have a Vendor Market from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 7 at 2918 W. Kingsbury St. in Seguin. Vendor prices are $30 inside and $25 outside. There will be food trucks and the bar will be open for beverages and snacks. For booth information, call 830-6603714 or 830-305-1142.
FFA Pantherfest and Tractor Pull
The Navarro FFA Booster Club will have its Pantherfest 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. Pre-sale 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 830463-5353 For questions, email boxoffice@ mtsymphony.org.
Friends
of the Texas Theatre New Volunteer Orientation
The Friends of the Texas Theatre will have a New Volunteer Orientation from 2 to 3 p.m. or 6 to 7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 9 at 425 N. Austin St. in Seguin. To RSVP for a session, call 830-372-6168 or email texastheaterseguin@ gmail.com. For more information, call Marilyn Anderson at 830-379-5755 or email MarilynA@access4less.net.
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.
Geronimo VFW Jam Session
The Geronimo VFW will have a Jam Session from 1 to 4 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 10. For more information, call or text 830-305-8829.
NAMI Family Support Group in Spanish
The NAMI Guadalupe County offers a Family Support Group in Spanish the second Tuesday of each month form 6 to 7:30 p.m. via Zoom. If you would like to attend the Support Group or would like more information, email jesstorresnamigc@gmail.com.
Suicide Online Workshop
The Precious Life Services, in honor of National Suicide Prevention Week, will offer an online workshop from 1 to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 11 via Zoom. The workshop will cover the identification and rec-
ognition of risk factors and warning signs of suicide, as well as debunking myths and facts, complemented by direct and indirect role-play scenarios. To register, visit https:// www.eventbrite.com/e/identifying-and-recognizing-risk-factors-and-warning-signs-tickets-971413823897.
Intermediate Watercolor Class.
The Seguin Art League will offer an Intermediate Watercolor Class from 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 14 at 104 S. Austin in Seguin. Participants will paint a bluebonnet while exploring texture, wet-on-wet technique, and much more. Bring your favorite paper, brushes, and watercolors. You will leave class with a beautiful, finished piece of art. Seguin Art League,. September 14 from 2 to 4 p.m. $35. Bring own supplies. For more information call 830-305-0472.
Greater Refuge Church Judah First Volume 2 Musical
The Greater Refuge Church will present its Judah First Volume 2 Musical at 3 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 14 at 410 N. Guadalupe St. in Seguin. The attire Is casual. If you have church T-shirts please wear and represent your House of Worship.
Navarro 4-H Meeting
The Navarro 4-H Club will have its first meeting of the year at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 14 at the Big Red Barn.
Geronimo VFW Sunday Dance
The Geronimo VFW will have its Sunday Dance from 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 15. Entertainment will be provided by Jesse Lege. The doors open at 1:30 p.m. with $10 admission. For more information, call or text 830-305-8829.
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.
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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. To purchase tickets, visit 116 N. Camp St. or call 830-379-6382.
Mosaic Stepping-Stones Class
The Seguin Art League will offer a Mosaic Stepping-Stones Class from 1 to 3 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 20 at 104 S. Austin St. in Seguin. The class will be an introduction to basic mosaic where you will learn to cut tile, affix a design, and finish with grout. Students should bring their own stone (check with office for type). The cost is $60 for ages 14 and older. All supplies included except the stone. For more information call 830-305-0472.
Geronimo VFW Friday Free Dance
The Geronimo VFW will have its Friday Free Dance from 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 20. Entertainment will be provided by D.J. Jack. with $10 admission. For more information, call or text 830-305-8829.
Brown Cultural Event Series – Jose Hernandez
The TLU Jessie S. and Jack Harold Upton Brown Cultural Enrichment Fund will present Former NASA Astronaut and Inspiration for the movie, A Million Miles Away, Jose Hernandez at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 24 at Jackson Auditorium on the campus of Texas Lutheran University. There will be a presentation, followed by a meet-and-greet and book signing.
October
Last Day to Register to Vote
The last day to register to vote in the 2024 Election is Monday, Oct. 7. For more information, visit www.co.guadalupe.tx.us/elections.
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.
Thriving Hearts Boots & Butterflies Event
The Thriving Hearts Crisis Center will have its Boots & Butterflies Event from 5 to 10 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 17 at the Seguin Coliseum, lo-
cated at 950 S. Austin St. in Seguin. For more information, email development@safeseguin. org.
Hopeful Acres Bourbon and Cigar Tasting Fundraising Event
The Hopeful Acres will have a Bourbon and Cigar Tasting Fundraising Event from 6 to 10 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 18 at Johnny Pickles Distillery. Tickets are $50.
First Day to Early Vote
The first day to Early Vote in the 2024 Election is Monday, Oct. 21. For more information, visit www.co.guadalupe.tx.us/elections.
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 423-227-9610 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.
Seguin Art League Annual Fundraiser
The Seguin Art League will have its Annual Fundraiser from Thursday, Oct. 24 to Saturday, Nov. 9. A prospectus for the “Seguin: Our Town” show is available at 104 S. Austin St. in Seguin or downloaded from www.seguinartleague.com. This year, you may also paint on a 9x12x1.5 canvas as well as the pecan panel. For more information, call 830-305-0472.
Last Day to Apply for Mail Ballot
The last day to apply for a Mail Ballot in the 2024 Election is Friday, Oct. 25. For more information, visit www.co.guadalupe.tx.us/elections.
November
Last Day to Vote Early in Person
The last day to vote early in person in the 2024 Election is Friday, Nov. 1. For more information, visit www.co.guadalupe.tx.us/elections.
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.
Election Day
The Election Day for the 2024 Election is Tuesday, Nov. 5. For more information and polling locations, visit www.co.guadalupe.tx.us/elections.
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.
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 830-463-5353 For questions, email boxoffice@mtsymphony.org.
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Brown Cultural Event Series – Jose Hernandez
The TLU Jessie S. and Jack Harold Upton Brown Cultural Enrichment Fund will present Elizabeth Smart at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 27 at Jackson Auditorium on the campus of Texas Lutheran University. Elizabeth Smart is a victim of one of the most followed child abduction cases of our time and has become a beacon of hope and an advocate for change related to child abduction and recovery programs. Smart, now a bestselling author, will speak about her experience and recovery.
March
Brown Cultural Event Series – Jose Hernandez
The TLU Jessie S. and Jack Harold Upton Brown Cultural Enrichment Fund will present The Second City 65th Anniversary Show at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, March 26 at Jackson Auditorium on the campus of Texas Lutheran University. There will be handpicked songs, sketches, and characters written by Tina Fey, Stephen Colbert, Bill Murray, Keegan Michael Key, Eugene Levy, and other star-studded alumni of The Second City. The show celebrates the comedy troupe’s history with favorite material from their stages over the years.
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 830-463-5353 For questions, email boxoffice@mtsymphony.org.
Ongoing Community Calendar Items
CCSCT Utility Assistance Application for 2024 Applications are available for the Comprehen-
sive 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 self-paced, 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, drugfree 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 830-3036478.
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.
