SDN: August 31, 2023

Bus Driving HERO

Mother of student who narrowly escaped injury during gun incident speaks

Cindy Aguirre-Herrera

(Seguin) -- Today we are learning more about the accidental shooting that occurred last week on a Seguin ISD school bus, and the impact that it continues to have on some students.

Dawna Mangrum says it was her 7-year-old daughter’s bus seat that was struck by a bullet after an elementary school student on that bus discharged a loaded gun -- minutes after pulling into the bus loop outside of Jefferson Avenue Elementary School.

The incident was reported just days into the new school year on Tuesday, Aug. 22.

Speaking on Tuesday night before members of the Seguin ISD Board of Trustees, Mangrum shared details about that day. A day that her second grader at Jefferson will never forget.

“The seat itself and the school bus are designed in such a fashion there is steel under the upholstery. The presence of that steel might have saved the lives of at least one

student sitting in the seat. My name is Dawna Mangrum and my daughter Charley was that ‘one student’ saved by a bit of steel. I am here tonight to present an education initiative to the board to help prevent an incident like what happened last week. Since the massacre at Robb Elementary, I have had recurrent nightmares of having to call my loved ones to tell them ‘It’s Charley’s school.’ Two weeks ago, the PreK program Charley attended 3 years ago found a firearm in a child’s backpack. I was immediately taken to my nightmare - she didn’t attend anymore, but it was my daughter’s school. Little did I know that exactly one week later, Charley would be sharing fruit roll ups with her friend on the bus while a bullet discharged into the back of her seat. It’s no longer ‘too close to home.’ It’s in my damn home and we will forever live with the aftermath of this trauma,” said Mangrum.

Mother, pg. 4

Seguin ISD bus driver Eric Alexander was honored with this month’s Apple Award presented to him by Superintendent Matthew Gutierrez. Alexander was the bus driver when a child accidently discharged a firearm in the school bus. See story on page 2.

Seguin ISD bus driver recognized for heroic efforts

(Seguin) -- The Seguin ISD is also formally recognizing the bus driver from that recent shooting incident.

Making sure that each of “his kids” was not hurt was the only thing on Eric Alexander’s mind, as he leaped into action taking a gun out of the hands of one of his students riding on Bus #99.

“When I heard the shot, I was able to stop the bus and as soon as I stopped the bus and recognized the situation, the first thing on my mind was check every child, make sure they were alright and once I did that, I was able to move all of the children to the back. I identified the firearm, unloaded it and covered it up so the children wouldn’t see it when they were exiting the bus and I kept them in the back of the bus until the police

arrived and the principal and then we got them off the bus safely,” said Alexander.

On Tuesday, Aug. 22, Alexander found himself behind the wheel of the bus in which a student discharged a loaded gun - striking the backside of one of the seats. Luckily, nobody was hurt during the incident.

“With the children all around

there -- once I (saw) where the bullet went and everything, I felt better about the situation because none of the children were harmed and I was able to get them to the back and check them and make sure they were all okay. That was my biggest thing especially just walking up there and seeing it, I mean your heart just drops. You never think that it’s going to happen to you on your bus or anywhere,” said Alexander.

Successfully gaining control of the situation outside Jefferson Avenue Elementary School is what led to the recognition of Alexander during Tuesday night’s meeting of the Seguin ISD Board of Trustees. Alexander was surprised with the Superintendent’s Apple Award - a prestigious honor awarded to an individual in the district each month. Driver, pg. 3

Cindy Aguirre-Herrera

Let the refilling begin

Lake Dunlap on its way to filling back up

(Lake Dunlap) -- The refilling of Lake Dunlap starts this week, four years after a dam partially collapsed.

The Lake Dunlap

Driver, continued.

Water Control & Improvement District, or WCID, says the lake will be refilled starting around 3 p.m. Thursday.

It’s expected to

take more than two months for the lake to be completely refilled.

A spillgate at the dam collapsed in May 2019, dropping the water

level in the lake nearly seven feet before the day was over.

Repairs and upgrades to the dam cost approximately 35-million dollars.

“I think I did what anybody would have done. It just happened to be me on the bus. I appreciate it being recognized but I think any of our bus drivers would have done the same thing if they were on the bus,” said Alexander.

As part of the recognition, Seguin ISD Superintendent Matthew Gutierrez stated that the Seguin ISD was fortunate that the 10-year employee was driving the bus that day. He says having started as a bus driver in 2013, Alexander has filled various roles within the transportation department. However, because of a bus driver shortage, he was thankful that Alexander was behind the wheel that day.

While the community continues to wrap its mind

around what happened, Alexander says it’s important that everyone come together and focus on gun safety and other ways that we can prevent situations like this.

“You know, they need to educate their children. That’s the biggest thing. Growing up, I was growing up hunting. I was educated about firearms to respect them and everything else. They are not toys and I think nowadays, that is lost between parents and children, and I think education is the biggest part. Teach your children they are not toys. It’s not like a video game where you die and you come back. It’s real life and they need to understand that. So, education would be my biggest thing – to teach them,” said Alexander.

The incident was occurred last Tuesday at 7: 25 a.m. just as the school bus rolled into the local campus for unloading.

Cindy Aguirre-Herrera

Mother, continued.

With the emotional wounds of that day still so deep, Mangrum says her attention is now on helping to develop an education initiative within the Seguin ISD.

“I am aware that we are at an impasse regarding common sense gun reform. Many in this country believe there is no price too high to ensure the right to bear arms while others believe those rights do not supersede our children’s rights to life. I will not mince words to say, I am firmly in the latter camp. But personal political ideologies don’t matter. We’ve been having this argument for decades and the only thing that changes is the amount of blood shed. At this point, we have to cross the aisle and do whatever we can for our kid’s safety. Obviously, we can discuss clear backpacks, metal detectors, and even no backpacks. But perhaps my most effective idea is education. Some kids know nothing about firearms except they are dangerous. Others have been handling guns since they could walk, while others fall somewhere in the middle…they know just enough to be a danger. I am not here to criticize parents for how they choose to approach this topic. But it’s not enough, as every day there are children who accidentally shoot their friends or family, “said Mangrum.

Mangrum says her plea is for the Seguin ISD to rely on what it does best, and that is to educate.

“We’ve been teaching school children how not to start forest fires since the 40s. We spend a week each year convincing children not to take drugs from kids in bathrooms (and I’d like to note, I’ve never had a random person offer me drugs in my life). We teach children not to drink and drive. And in these initiatives, we show them pictures of car accidents and are open about the consequences. It’s high time we teach our children what can happen when faced with a friend who wants to show off their dad’s cool pistol. If our society believes they are old enough to be using their friend’s dead bodies to protect themselves, then they are old enough to see the devastating effects guns can have in an instant,” said Mangrum.

In her presentation, Mangrum shared how this message to children is critical and how it must begin now.

“Public school is intended to be ‘the great

equalizer.’ As I pointed out, our children all have different experiences with firearms. With an educational initiative, they can all be taught how to calmly and safely remove themselves, and anyone else, from this scenario. And I will be the first to volunteer to work with anyone to make this happen. This does not have to be presented as ‘guns are bad.’ We don’t tell children that knives and matches are bad. We tell them they should only be used under safe, adult supervision. This can be a neutral, but firm message that guns are powerful weapons that can have devastating impact, and as such, they should only be handled under parental supervision. This puts the choice back on the parents for how they want to educate while opening important lines of communication. Most importantly, it doesn’t shelter children from the potential consequences,” said Mangrum.

According to the mother, there had reportedly been talk about guns on the school bus that morning.

She says not being able to give students the know-how on what to do in such cases is why it’s even more important for the district to implement an education initiative.

“Additionally, the See Something, Say Something initiatives from recent years needs to be expanded to be See Something, Hear Something, Say Something. Kids are literal. Both my daughter and nephew heard conversations on the bus that morning regarding firearms. But since they didn’t

See’ anything, they didn’t say anything. As a society, we have failed our children by not looking at ways to cross the aisle while those in power fight it out in Washington. Our children will be grown before any progress is made on legislation, but we have opportunities to educate now. I do not believe this child would have brought a gun to school knowing the likelihood that he would accidentally shoot himself or a classmate. Nor do I believe the child talking to him would have been so calm sitting there. In my maelstrom of emotions, not only am I grateful that my daughter did not become a casualty, I am thankful that this boy will not live their life having taken the life of another. I don’t want that to be the reality for any child. I don’t know about the rest of you, but at this point, I think it’s more important to teach kids how to not accidentally shoot their friends than to teach them

how to not start forest fires,” said Mangrum. Mangrum says not only was her daughter on that bus that morning, but so were her niece and nephew.

After her presentation to the school board, Mangrum shared with the Seguin Daily News some of the fallout from that day. She says it has not been easy.

“Since then, there is no vessel that can hold the amount of emotions that we have been experiencing over the last week. As soon as the kids go to bed and we are done with the daily responsibilities, it’s like okay, I don’t know how to person anymore,” said Mangrum.

She says the personal battles and overall wellbeing, for her daughter and her nephew, have alone been challenging.

“So, my daughter is already neurodivergent and is already medicated for an anxiety disorder and ADHD.

And we are already seeing regression of behavior. Things that we had worked through in therapy with her that are already coming back. She has climbed in my bed with violent nightmares this past week. My nephew is having panic attacks. I’ll be reading him a book and he has to get up in the middle of the book to ask mom ‘are you sure that they are not going to put me back on the bus tomorrow. Are you sure they are not going to put me back?’ He has told us he doesn’t feel safe anywhere outside the house right now. He only feels safe with us. The only one that we are so far not seeing any major signs is the little on, the niece who is in kindergarten and she was asleep when it went off so she’s the only one that so far seems to be not showing any signs,” said Mangrum.

Again, fortunately nobody was injured during the incident. A total of 37 students from Jefferson and Koennecke elementary schools and the Ball Early Childhood Center were among those on the bus at the time of the incident. The driver on Bus #99 is said to have quickly jumped into action taking the gun, a .25 caliber semi-automatic handgun out of the hands of the local student.

Seguin Police officials have reported that there could be potential charges filed against the adults, who lived with the young male student, who fired the gun. That investigation continues.

AREA VOLLEYBALL TEAMS DROP MATCHES ON TUESDAY NIGHT

(Geronimo) -- The Class 4A Navarro Panther volleyball team fell to Class 6A Cibolo Steele on Tuesday night at Navarro High School, dropping the match in four sets 25-22, 25-19, 17-25, 25-18.

Prior to the match, Lady Panther senior Taylor Helms was celebrated for reaching 1000 kills in her career. Helms along with her younger sister Morgan were their usual selves with a number of kills Tuesday evening.

Navarro’s Kate Wozniak was also active on the night for the Lady Panthers despite the loss. The junior came up with several digs on the back line and worked the front line slamming down a number of kills and set up her teammates with a variety of assists.

Navarro head coach Paige Poth talked about Wozniak’s versatility after the match.

“I put them in a situation where we had to

change a lot and with Kate I had to put her on the outside for our rotation and she handled it really well,” Poth said. “She got up and made some blocks a couple times and put some balls away for us. So, with all the changes we made throughout the game, it gave us options to see what we can put up against our district.”

The Lady Panthers have three more matches before they start District 27-4A play on September 12th at home against Fredericksburg. Navarro will be on the road this coming Friday to take on Jourdanton.

(Marion) -- The Marion Lady Bulldogs dropped a five-set match to Bandera on Tuesday falling 25-20, 18-25, 25-13, 21-25, 15-9 at Marion High School.

Kylie Balderas lead Marion with 16 kills and

three aces. Kacee McLendon had 22 assists and Bristin Birdwell had 20 digs.

Marion will be on the road on Friday to take on Natalia.

(San Antonio) -- And the Seguin Lady Matadors fell in a close four-set match at San Antonio Southwest on Tuesday night, 25-23, 2725, 21-25, 27-25.

The Lady Mats will be back home on Friday night to host San Antonio East Central. The match starts at 6:15 p.m. Friday evening at Goldie Harris Gym.

(Seguin) -- And the Lifegate Lady Falcons swept past Town East Christian Tuesday night, winning in straight sets 25-19, 25-13, 25-14 at Lifegate Christian School.

Chris Austin

VITAL STATISTICS

Richter

Kenneth Harold “Ken” Richter, age 74 of Seguin, went to be with his Lord and Savior on August 24, 2023. Ken was born on February 6, 1949, in Stockdale, Texas to Albina (Pruski) and Fabian Harold Richter.

Martha and Ken Richter were married on December 11, 1976, and were married for 41 years. Ken will be remembered as the assistant manager at Carquest in Seguin.

Ken is preceded in death by his loving wife Mary “Martha” Richter, his parents, and his brother Mark Richter.

Survivors include her daughters, Melanie Richter and husband Juan Muniz, and Christina Smith and husband Kurt Smith; four grandchildren Cora, Alejandro, Fernando, and Logan; sisters, Lynda Krueger and husband Harry, Connie Svoboda,

Lackey

Veronica Schmid and husband Gary, and Patty Citraro and husband Rick; brother, Ronald Richter and wife Gwen; numerous nieces, nephews, other loving family members and friends.

Visitation will begin on Thursday, August 31, 2023, at 9:30 a.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church with the recitation of the Holy Rosary at 10 a.m. with Deacon Nick Carrillo officiating followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. Interment will follow in the Richter Cemetery in Wilson County near Stockdale. Serving as pallbearers will be Kurt Smith, Juan Muniz, Nolan Garcia, Wesley Freise, Ronald Richter, and Chris Svoboda.

A reception will follow at the Holy Name Building in Seguin.

Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice. You are invited to sign the guest book at www.tresehwell.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155, 830-549-5912.

Milton Lackey passed away August 25th, 2023. Survivors include wife: Pamela Cockrum- Lackey; daughter: Cirila Roxanne Lackey; and sisters: Maxine Johnson and Patrice Gatlin. Viewing will be held Friday September 1st from 5pm to 7pm at Crenshaw Funeral Home Chapel. uneral services will be held Saturday September 2nd at 11am at the First Presbyterian Church in Seguin, Tx. Burial will follow at Garden of Memories Cemetery.

Moltz

Gerald Wayne Moltz, age 73, of Seguin, went to be with the lord on August 28th, 2023. Gerald was born on February 6th, 1950 to Lorene (Wesch) and Herman “Hermie” Moltz in Seguin, Texas.

Gerald will be remembered as a loving family man and dedicated member of his community. He gave 49 years of dedication in his work with GVEC (Guadalupe Valley Electric Cooperative); 44 years of membership with Kiwanis Club of Seguin, and was a longtime member of St. John Lutheran Church of Marion.

Gerald is preceded in death by his parents Lorene and Herman Moltz and his sister, Beverly Radtke.

Gerald is survived by his wife of 20 years, Judy Moltz, sons Eric Moltz and wife Tobie, Bradley Moltz and wife Lisa, Chase Moltz and wife Toni, stepchildren Janet Moore and husband Jeremy, Joseph Kriger and spouse Tonya; grandchildren Morgan, Gavin, Casten, Wren, Henley, Madison, Dylan, Elliott, Owen and Hazel, and numerous other family, close friends, and coworkers.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, September 1st, 2023 at St. John Lutheran Church in Marion, Texas at 10:30 AM with luncheon to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Gerald’s name to St. John Lutheran Church or Guadalupe Regional Hospice.

You are invited to sign the guest book at www.tresehwell.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155, 830-549-5912.

Eliazardo “Lalo” V. Samaniego, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on August 20, 2023, surrounded by the love of his family at the age of 76. He was born on May 28, 1947, in San Marcos, Texas.

Eliazardo’s family invites frien ds and loved ones to attend the upcoming services in his honor. The visitation will be held at Palmer Mortuary & Cremations in Seguin, Texas on September 1, 2023. Visitation will be from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. and recitation of the Holy Rosary at 7:00 PM.

On September 2, 2023, a Mass will be offered at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church at 10:00 AM. Eliazardo will then be laid to rest at Cemeterio San Juan in Geronimo, Texas.

Eliazardo is survived by his devoted wife Paulina Samaniego; his loving children Elias, Eddie, Bob, and Debbie Samaniego; his cherished grandchildren, Christian, Jacob, Xavier, Jonathan, Devin, Ebanee, Kaitlyn, Brittany, and Gabby; and his great grandchildren, Avah and Chansee; his sister, Diana Samaniego and her children, Michelle Hernandez and

Mario Hernandez; his brother, Misael Samaniego (Margie) and their son Mitchell; his sister Nelda’s family, husband, Benito Capetillo and their children Rachel, Becky and Andrea; his sister Nelfa’s family, husband, Charles Vasquez and their children, Leo, Charles and Carmen well as numerous nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents Carlos and Eva Samaniego; his brother Elias Samaniego; sisters Nelda Capetillo and Nelfa Vasquez; niece Donna Deleon and nephew Raymond Deleon as well as his uncle Moises Villalpando.

Eliazardo V. Samaniego will be remembered for his kind heart, strong work ethic, and unwavering devotion to his family and his strong dedication and integrity in all aspects of his life. Eliazardo’s warm smile would light up any room, and his gentle spirit touched the lives of those fortunate enough to have known him.

He will forever be cherished and deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. As we mourn his passing, let us also celebrate the beautiful life that he lived and the lasting legacy he leaves behind.

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.

Samaniego

McKee Lewis

James Lewis McKee, age 67 of Seguin, Texas passed away on August 18, 2023. James was born on born October 6, 1955, in Guadalupe County to Lois Mae (Sanders) and John Lawrence McKee. He was a graduate of Seguin High School Class of 1974. James worked as a welder.

He is preceded in death by his parents, stepmother Alice McKee, and sisters Marion Nesbitt and Connie Lewis. Survivors include brother Larry Mckee and wife Becky, numerous nieces and nephews, cousins, other loving family members and many friends.

A memorial will be held for James On Saturday, September 2, 2023, at 10:30 a.m. at Cross Church, 814 N. Bauer St. in Seguin, Texas This will be in conjunction with the memorial for his sister Connie Lewis.

Gay

Connie Sue McKee Lewis, age 73 of McQueeney, Texas, passed away on January 19, 2023. Connie was born on December 10, 1949 in Guadalupe County to Lois Mae (Sanders) and John Lawrence McKee. Connie was a Seguin High School graduate and worked many years at Guadalupe Regional Medical Center.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 2, 2023, at 10:30 a.m. at Cross Church, 814 N. Bauer St. in Seguin, Texas.

Barbara Sue Gay died Today at the age of 82. She is survived by her son, Stephen, and her brother, Sam Hartfield. Arrangements are pending at Eunice and Lee Mortuary

It is with heavy hearts that we announce Albino J. Herrera III’s passing on August 11, 2023, in Seguin, Texas at the age of 72. Born on May 3, 1951, in Seguin, Albino was a hardworking and dedicated individual who made a lasting impact on those around him. Throughout his life, Albino pursued various careers and became an integral part of the workforce. He spent over 20 years working at Marble Master’s and an additional decade at Ashley Furniture Warehouse. In addition to his achievements in the professional world, Albino was also known for his mechanical skills, proving himself as a talented and resourceful mechanic.

Albino’s warm personality and great sense of humor endeared him to many. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need and brought joy to others through his infectious laughter and light-hearted spirit. Albino’s presence brightened any room he entered, spreading warmth to those fortunate enough to know him.

Albino served his country as a veteran in the Army Reserve. We express our deepest gratitude for his service to our nation and recognize his commitment to protecting the freedom we hold dear.

Beyond his professional and military endeavors, Albino found immense joy in playing and competing in horseshoes. His skill and passion for the game were a testament to his competitive spirit. Additionally, Albino had a

profound love for music and found solace in both listening to and singing along to songs from various genres. He also found great joy in gathering with family for bbq’s as well as going out on the water to cast a fishing line.

Albino is preceded in death by his father, Albino Herrera Jr., daughter Debbie Ann Herrera Enriquez, and grandsons Jorge Poncho Enriquez and Nicholas Albino Enriquez. Although they are no longer with us, their memories will forever live on in our hearts.

Albino leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and cherished memories. He is survived by his mother Paulita J. Herrera and the mother of his children Maria E. Campos. He will be dearly missed by his children: Oneida Guerrero (Mike), Albino Guy Herrera (Rita), Denise Herrera Vigil (Freddy). Albino also leaves behind his grandchildren: Mike Guerrero Jr., Mikayla Guerrero, Tristen Castilleja, Abigail Gonzales, Raylen Ramon, Alaysia Ramon, Serena Enriquez Mijangos (Erick). His great-grandchildren include Nicholas Mateo Mijangos, Giovanni Marcelo Mijangos, Santiago Mijangos, and Camila Jayde Ramon. Albino is also survived by his siblings Martin Herrera (Maria), Felis Mandieta, Mary Morales (Eddie), Dalia Medina (Rudy), Lupe Santos (Louie), Jesse Herrera (Mary Helen), Beatrice Farias (Tony), Francis Gonzalez (Tevo), Esther Herrera, David Herrera (Christina), Raymond Herrera (Roseann). He is further survived by numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who were all touched by his presence.

Albino J. Herrera III will be remembered as a shining light whose smile could brighten the darkest of days. His kindness, sense of humor, and willingness to help others will continue to inspire us. Though he may no longer be physically present, his spirit will forever remain in our hearts.

White House Announces Medicare Drug Negotiations

(Washington, DC) -- Medicare will start negotiating the price of ten common prescription drugs as part of efforts to make medications more affordable. Drugs on the list include blood thinners Eliquis and Xarelto as well as diabetes and heart failure medication Jardiance. The drugs cost Medicare tens of billions of dollars over the past year. President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act allows Medicare to negotiate prices for some of the most costly drugs. Negotiated prices are expected to go into effect in 2026.

Reps Khanna, Mace Working On Child Care Bill

(Washington, DC) -- A Democratic congressman and a Republican congresswoman are working together on a solution with 40-billion-dollars of pandemic-era funding set to expire in just over a month. California Congressman Ro Khanna and South Carolina Congresswoman Nancy Mace, who spoke on CBS’ Face the Nation, have created the Congressional Bipartisan Affordable Child Care Caucus. There are fears that more than three-million children could lose access to child care when the funding expires on September 30th. Mace said rolling back what she called some “really crazy” government regulations would be a “good start” to propose a bill that the House, Senate and President would agree on. Khanna said affordable child care contributes to “economic growth,” allowing parents to re-enter the workforce.

Most Cancer Screenings Do Not Extend Life Expectancy

(Washington, DC) -- A new study says most cancer screenings don’t actually end up extending life. But experts still say you should have them. The reason for the recommendation to have regular screenings is to catch cancer early so doctors can take action as soon as possible and improve a patient’s chance of surviving the disease. The latest review of clinical trials published in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine finds that of the six most common screenings for cancer, only colorectal cancer screening with sigmoidoscopy made a difference in extending a patient’s life. But the researchers wrote they “do not advocate that all screening should be abandoned” because there’s virtually no downside to a doctor detecting cancer early.

Study Shows Early Signs Of CTE In Athletes Who Died Young

(Boston, MA) -- A new study is finding early signs of CTE in athletes who died before age 30. Research from Boston University’s CTE Center looks at the neurodegenerative disease in young adults and includes what is said to be the first case of an American woman athlete diagnosed with it. Published in JAMA Neurology, the study shows that about 40-percent of the brains studied developed some early signs of CTE, which is linked to repeated head trauma.

FOR PATIENT EXPERIENCE

Experience is key. For over 55 years, GRMC has been dedicated to providing exceptional healthcare to the community. Every positive encounter that a patient has during their stay is a direct result of our team’s commitment to exceed expectations by providing quality healthcare to each patient we have the privilege to care for.

COMMUNITY

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

August

Vote to Perk Your Park

Max Starcke Park East has been selected as one of nine park projects in the 2023 Niagara Perk Your Park Campaign in partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA). Visit https://uqr.to/MaxStarckePark to select the City of Seguin playground project. You can vote once per day, (everyday!) through Monday, Sept. 18.

Input Needed: Guadalupe County

Major Thoroughfare Plan

Guadalupe County is seeking public input on its Major Thoroughfare Plan to provide Guadalupe County with a long-term template to plan for future transportation while making short-term decisions related to roadway funding and the preservation of developing corridors. The plan will identify general alignments and roadway classifications needed to accommodate ultimate transportation needs, allow proactive planning for future roadway improvements, and facilitate mobility and connectivity throughout our growing region. To learn more and take the survey, visit: www.surveymonkey. com/r/LFB75JV by Thursday, Aug. 31.

Chamber After Hours Mixer

The Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce will have its After Hours Mixer from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 31 at 214 Medical Drive. For more information, call 830-379-6382.

Celebrate Recovery

The Celebrate Recovery ministry at Crossroads Church meets from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday nights at 3455 W. Hwy 90 in Seguin. Celebrate recovery is for anyone dealing with anxiety, alcohol, depression, codependency, unforgiveness, self doubt, addiction, grief, eating disorders, relationships, anger, substance abuse, destructive behavior, spending, stress, and more. For more information call 830-251-2080.

AA Meetings

The Seguin Primary Purpose Group of AA will meet at 7 p.m. Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays at 315 S. Crockett St. in Seguin. For more information, call 830-386-0334.

September

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. 1 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 beneficiary will be the Geronimo Volunteer Fire Department and entertainment will be provided by Brushy Creek.

Buggy Roundup

The Texas Manx Dune Buggy Club will have its Buggy Roundup Friday, Sept. 1 to Sunday, Sept. 3 at the Seguin Hampton Inn. There will be a Meet & Greet from 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 1. Saturday and Sunday cruises begin at 9:30 a.m. There is no charge. For more information, call Sandy at 830-305-3751.

City Hall and Library Closure

The non-emergency City of Seguin offices and the Seguin Public Library will be closed Monday, Sept. 4 in observance of Labor Day. Offices reopen on Tuesday, Sept. 5. Garbage and recycling will be collected as normal.

Guadalupe County Fair Hay Show Call for Entries

The Guadalupe County Fair Hay Show will accept entries from 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 6 at the Navarro High School Agriculture Science Building. For more information visit www.gcfair. org or call Kristie Weller at 830-372-1093.

State of the City Luncheon

The Seguin Are Chamber of Commerce will have its State of the City Luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 6 at the Silver Center, located at 510 E. Court St. in Seguin. The meal is $20 for members in advance and $25 for non-members and after Friday, Sept. 1. For more information, call 830-379-6382.

Seguin Premier Toastmasters

Seguin Premier Toastmasters will meet from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month at GVEC Community Room, located at 927 SH-46 in Seguin. Toastmasters is a place to practice your speech for work or school where friendly people encourage and give tips to help you improve your communication skills. For more information, call Dina at 423-227-9610.

Guadalupe Appraisal District Closure

The Guadalupe Appraisal District will be closed on Monday, Sept. 4 and will re-open at 8 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 5.

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 first and third Wednesdays of each month at First Methodist Church Seguin. Learn more at www. NAMIGuadalupeCounty.org.

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.

Glue Batik Class

The Seguin Art League will offer a Glue Batik Class from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 9 at 104 S. Austin St. in Seguin. Learn a fun and nonmessy way to create batik on fabric. The class is for adults. The cost is $30 with supplies included. For more information, call 830-305-0472 or visit www.seguinartleague.com.

Healthy Lawns Healthy Waters Program

The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service’s Healthy Lawns and Healthy Waters Program will host a residential rainwater harvesting and turf management training from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 12 at the Guadalupe County Extension Office, located at 210 E. Live Oak St. in Seguin. Attendees can submit a free soil test by picking up soil test bags and dropping off their soil sample and urban information sheet at the AgriLife Extension offices in Guadalupe County prior to or by one week following the meeting. The soil sample can also be brought to the training. To RSVP email john.smith@ag.tamu.edu or call 979-204-0573.

Native Plant Society Meeting

The Native Plant Society of Texas Guadalupe Chapter will meet at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 12 at the First Presbyterian Church, located at 1121 E. Walnut St. in Seguin. (Parking in rear, enter from N. Moss St.) The program will be “Snakes of Central Texas,” with Ryan Collister, founder of the Central Texas Herpetological Society.

Teatro De Artes De Juan Seguin Ancestral Historical Recovery Applications

Applications are currently being accepted for the Teatro De Artes De Juan Seguin youth program, Ancestral Historical Recovery: Reframing the Self Through Auto-Retratos (Self-Portrait). Participants will be accepted on a first come first basis and must be 14-18 years of age, 8th grade through 12th grade. The program will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m. every Thursday from Sept. 14, 2023 to June 2, 2024 at Teatro’s Cultural Arts Center, located at 921 W. New Braunfels St. in Seguin and also via Zoom. For more information, visit www. teatrodeartes.org.

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Youth Co-Ed Recreational Basketball League

The City of Seguin Parks and Recreation Department will offer a Youth Co-Ed Recreational Basketball League from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. from Saturday, Sept. 16 through Saturday, Oct. 21 at a SISD Middle School – Location TBD. The Cost is $55 per layer, resident/non-resident for grades 3 and 4 and grades 5 and 6. For more information, call 830-401-2480 or visit www.s eguintexas. gov/sports.

St. James 5th Annual Classic Car, Truck & Bike Show

The St. James Catholic Church will have its 5th Annual Classic Car, Truck & Bike Show from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 16 in the St. James Church Parking Lot, located at 510 S. Camp St. in Seguin. The entry fee is $25. Entry time will be from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., with the awards beginning at 1 p.m. Pre-registration and more information is available at https://saintjamescc.org/ car-show. Proceeds benefit St. James Catholic School. For questions, email stjamesclassiccarshow @gmail.com.

Seguin Hermann Sons Craft & Vendor Show

The Seguin Hermann Sons will have a Craft & Vendor Show from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 16 at 2918 W. Kingsbury St. next to Granzin’s Meat Market. There will be craft and vendor booths and food trucks. Tables are available to rent for $20 (inside) and $25 (outside). For table rentals call Tammy at 830-272-8106.

Fiestas Patrias

The Seguin Guadalupe County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce will have its Fiestas Patrias on Saturday, Sept. 16 at the Columbus Club Hall, located at 1015 S. Austin St. in Seguin. There will be food vendors and arts and crafts. A dance with Ricardo Castillon y La Difernzia will be held from 8 p.m. to midnight. Admission to the dance is $10 pre-sale or $12 at the door. Tickets are available at the Hispanic Chamber office from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Thursday. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 830372-3151.

St. James Fall Family Festival

The St. James Catholic Church will have its Fall Family Festival from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 17 on the church grounds. There will be a $13 pork steak dinner with drive-thru and onsite eating from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be a raffle, games, rides, petting zoo, food booths, DJ and live music, and live and silent auctions. For raffle and dinner tickets, call 830-379-1796 or visit 510 S. Camp St. For more information visit

https://saintjamescc.org/festival.

Food Distribution Event

There will be a Food Distribution Event from 9 to 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 18 at First Baptist Church Seguin, located at 1314 E. Cedar St. in Seguin. Pre-register at www.Freshtrak.com.

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.

Comal Country Music Show

The Comal Country Music Show will be held from 7:30 to 10 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 19 at the Columbus Club Hall, located at 111 Landa St. in New Braunfels. The featured guest performers will be Jay Eric and Lorraine Chavana. The doors open at 6 p.m. with an $8 cover charge. All proceeds will benefit charities.

SHS Class of 1983 40-Year Reunion

The Seguin High School Class of 1983 will have its 40-Year Reunion Friday, Sept. 22 and Saturday, Sept. 23. On Friday, classmates will gather for the homecoming football game at 7:30 at Matador Stadium. Purchase tickets beginning Monday, Sept. 18 and use code: SHS1983on the Hometown app to purchase tickets in Section C. Tickets will not be available at the gate and there is a Clear Bag Policy. After the game, there will be a toast at Highwater Bar, located at 210 E. Kingsbury

October

Downtown Scarecrow & Skeleton Display Contest

The Seguin Main Street Program and the Guadalupe County Fair Association will have its Downtown Scarecrow & Skeleton Display Contest

Tuesday, Oct. 3 in downtown Seguin. The window displays go up the week of the fair parade which goes through downtown Seguin and the displays remain up until Pecan Fest at the end of October. Any local business or organization may decorate scarecrows or skeletons. If your business or organization is outside of downtown, the Seguin Main Street Program will assist in finding a location for your entry downtown. All entries need to be up by Monday, Oct. 2 for judging on Tuesday, Oct. 3. Entries forms are available at www. seguintexas.gov or at the Seguin Main Street Office, located at 116 N. Camp St. in Seguin.

The MLNDA 5th Annual Membership Meeting will be held from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, October 7 at the Seguin Public Library. Information will be shared concerning Nolte Dam including the latest updates concerning the Engineering Study, GBRA response and anticipated financing, information on the WCID Tax Rate Election this Nov. 2023, member voting, and a Q&A session.

Geronimo VFD BBQ & Live Auction

The Geronimo Volunteer Fire Department will have its BBQ & Live Auction beginning with a drive thru from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7 at the Geronimo Community Center, located at 260 Navarro Dr. Dinner will be served from 5 to 8 p.m.. The Live Auction will begin at 6:30 p.m. Pre-sale meal tickets are $12 and $15 the day of the meal. There will also be a raffle and live music by Best Friends. For more information, call Justin Schwanz at 210-254-3183.

Creative Crochet Class

The Seguin Art League will offer a Creative Crochet Class from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7 at 104 S. Austin St. in Seguin. Participants will go beyond a pattern and make a piece of fiber art using free form crochet to make an original design. The class is for adults. The cost is $30 with supplies included. For more information, call 830305-0472 or visit www.seguinartleague.com.

Guadalupe County Fair Parade

The Guadalupe County Fair Parade will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 13 in downtown Seguin. Line-up begins at 8 a.m. with judging of the entries at 8:30 a.m, The parade will proceed down Austin St. to the Seguin Wave Pool parking lot. Parade entry forms are available at www.gcfair. org.

Food Distribution Event

There will be a Food Distribution Event from 9 to 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 16 at First Baptist Church Seguin, located at 1314 E. Cedar St. in Seguin. Pre-register at www.Freshtrak.com.

Navarro Education Foundation Clay Fest

The Navarro Education Foundation will have its Clay Fest from 2 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21 at Moyesway Shooting Sports, located at 12601 FM 20. The fee is $500 for a 4-man team or $150 for an individual (will be teamed). A guest meal and beverage is available for $25. There will be dinner and live music. For questions, contact Katie Clark at 830-305-0699 or email NavarroEducationFoundation@gmail.com.

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Pecan

& Vine Fundraiser

The Guadalupe County Crime Stoppers will have a Pecan & Vine fundraiser, Wine and Cigar Soiree: A Toast to Crime Stoppers, at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 26 at the Lake Breeze Ski Lodge, located at 225 Ski Lodge Road. Individual tickets are $100 and tables of 8 are also available. Four vine tastings, two cigars and a seated dinner are included with ticket purchase. A cash bar will also be available at the event. Purchase tickets online at www.evenbrite. com. For more information call 210-771-5755 or 830-481-7824.

SEF’s

Nuts About Education 5K

The Seguin Education Foundation will have its Nuts About Education 5K at 9 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 28 beginning at the Guadalupe County Finance Building, located at 307 W. Court St. in Seguin. To register to race or sponsor visit https://tinyurl.com/ympm2eua.

November

Jr. Squirrels Youth Disc Golf Clinic & Tournament

The City of Seguin will have its Jr. Squirrels Youth Disc Golf Clinic & Tournament beginning with checkin at 9 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 4 at the Starcke Park East Disc Golf Course/Patricia K. Ivine-King Pavilion. The Clinic starts at 9:30 a.m. followed by a shotgun start Par 2 – 9 Hole tournament. Parent/guardian is required as Caddie. Co-ed ages 8-10, 11-12, 13-15, and 16-17. The cost is $40. Prizes will be awarded to top boy and girl finishers in each age division. For more information, call 830-401-2480.

Food Distribution Event

There will be a Food Distribution Event from 9 to 11 a.m. day, Saturday, Nov. 18 at GRMC Hospital, located at 1215 E. Court St. in Seguin. Pre-register at www.Freshtrak.com.

Illustrated Letters Class

The Seguin Art League will offer a Lino Print Workshop from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Nov. 18 at 104 S. Austin St. in Seguin. Learn to create stunning illustrated letters to celebrate your unique name and interest of those you care for. Draw, paint, color, collage, and invent. The class is limited to 12 adults. The cost is $30 with supplies included. For more information, call 830-305-0472 or visit www.seguinartleague.com.

December

Rising Stars of Guadalupe County

The Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals will have its Rising Stars of Guadalupe County from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7 at the Texas Theatre, located at 425 N. Austin St. in

Seguin. Guadalupe County’s most promising young professionals will be recognized at the event.

Lino Print Workshop

The Seguin Art League will offer an Illustrated Letters Class from 1 to 3 p.m. Monday, Dec. 18 at 104 S. Austin St. in Seguin. Receive an introduction to linear design through carving a block. Includes drawing the image, composing the design, and transferring it to the block. Students will also receive an introduction to color inks and print presentations. The class is limited to 12 adults (12 years to adult). The cost is $120 with supplies included. For more information, call 830-305-0472 or visit www.seguinartleague.com.

Ongoing

Community Calendar Items

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.

CCSCT Releases Utility Assistance Application for 2023

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.

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.

Heritage Museum Calendars

The Heritage Museum is selling 2023 calendars for $10 featuring turn of the century everyday life of kids, social groups, parades, etc. 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. Gift Ornaments of Juan Seguin for only $5 are also available at the Museum. All proceeds benefit Museum projects.

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 325-9561155.

Salvation Army New 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.

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RADIO PERSONALITY

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The SEGUIN DAILY NEWS was begun as a single page flier in 1972 by the radio station and was distributed to local restaurants and coffee shops at the request of local businessmen who wanted something to read while they had their morning coffee.

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