Nov. 21, 2024
Community responds to handling of Seguin ISD’s Town Hall meeting
Comments on bullying shared with district officials
Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
(Seguin) -- The Seguin ISD didn’t score well on its Town Hall meeting this past Monday at the Seguin High School Performing Arts Center. Several individuals shared their failing grades with the district as they took to the podium to discuss concerns the following day during Tuesday night’s school board meeting.
Recent incidents of suicide involving students and alleged bullying across campuses prompted the district to host the community-wide meeting.
Prior to the meeting, the district collected, filtered, and grouped questions submitted by the public. Many said the district failed to deliver on promises of fully breaking
down the issue of bullying. Expectations included the district sharing more details about procedures and consequences and/or explaining its attempts at facilitating conflict resolution.
Most of all, stakeholders were disappointed that the format did not include room for public comments or questions. They said the town hall meeting was simply a presentation –– a PowerPoint –– an attempt to waylay concerns that ultimately left attendees feeling ignored.
Among those addressing the school board was Levi Robertson. Robertson says accountability starts with the school board and all those in charge of keeping kids safe.
Town Hall, pg. 3
Matador Legends Ballpark
SISD settles on names for new baseball/softball complex
(Seguin) -- Spring can’t come fast enough for the new Matador Legends Ballpark.
The name for the new Seguin High School Baseball/Softball Complex was unanimously approved last night by members of the Seguin ISD Board of Trustees. The name was chosen from a pool of community nominations. Making the motion to move forward with the name was District 7 Trustee Josh Bright.
Even though the district had plenty of names to choose from, Bright says he felt the name Matador Legends Ballpark included all those who played or contributed to the sport.
“With the naming of the complex Legends Ballpark, we want to come up with an idea of plaques representing these people who have been the legends of Matador Baseball. I know we have talked about a plaque for the whole team for the 1960s
State Champs. They are going to get their own plaque to begin with – to begin with. We are looking at the sides of the dugouts for putting the plaques up and then any other places. It’s going to be legendary,” said Bright.
While the name of the complex is designed to honor all the great players, trustees voted to independently name both the baseball and softball batting cages. The complex comes complete with a hitting area for each program. Those areas now include the Chloe Belicek Softball Batting Cages and the Manuel Rodriguez Baseball Batting Cages. Despite appearing on the agenda as the naming of the baseball and softball fields, trustees were forced to strike out the word field and amend it with batting cages.
District 5 Trustee Denise Crettenden explained the decision.
“I can’t speak for everyone but I know that we were looking at really
the fields belonging to everyone –the whole complex belonging to everyone but we wanted to make sure and highlight these two important people and the thing that came to my mind was that all that effort, all the work that no one ever sees – it’s not the homerun – it’s not all those things that everyone sees. It’s those hours and hours of hard work and dedication. That’s what I think of when I think of Chloe and so many of the stories that I have been told about her and I just thought that was perfect and I felt that way about Mr. Rodriguez as well. It’s the hours of dedication behind the scenes that people don’t see that lifts up the team and lets you bring that A game, and I think that setting that example of the hard work in the background is just a wonderful way to honor them,” said Crettenden.
Ballpark, pg. 4
Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
Town Hall, continued.
‘“I recognize some of you are new to your roles and genuinely want to make positive changes. I also recognize that some of you have been here for a while and care deeply about this community, but feel limited in your power to enact real change. Let me be clear. If you want to hold Chief-level titles and operate like a corporation, you must expect to be held to the same standards as a corporation. Accountability is not optional. You must listen to the parents who are heartbroken and struggling. You must listen to the students who are emotionally damaged from their experiences within this school district,” said Robertson.
Robertson added that although he has no children in the district, protecting kids is a community responsibility.
“When you say, it starts at home, you ignore the reality that some homes will never change. And while I commend initiatives like the Ministerial Alliance and student engagement efforts (as mentioned in the town hall meeting), these are just starting points. Real change requires more than surface-level solutions,” said Robertson.
Also finding the courage to speak on behalf of all children was local mother Caitlin Aguirre. Aguirre has four children in the Seguin ISD and says she continues to be disappointed by the district’s handling of this issue.
“I would like the chance to express a few of my concerns after (Monday’s) town hall meeting, which was more of a, you listen and we talk. I am highly disappointed in our administration with how this was handled – the fact of the matter is, the staff at the meeting had more safety measures put in place than our own students have during school hours. I want to say, how dare the district not provide time (Monday) night for parents to raise concerns and ask questions. It was just very belittling to not be able to speak. We were also met with a hollow Power Point with measures that are already in place, but these have already failed,” said Aguirre.
Also sharing her family’s fight against bullying was local mother Megan Strickland. Strickland says it’s been eight years of trying to hold someone accountable.
“I’ve had my son videoed while he was in a stall using a restroom. My daughter was on a school trip, the HEB Camp, and had her towel ripped off of her
and her body made fun of while other girls laughed at her. Do you know what all of these have in common? Nothing was ever done. Everything was reported to the administration. Everything was reported to the principals. Nothing was ever done. Now, if we had done any of those out in public, we would have been arrested. We would have been in trouble, so what are we showing our children –– that it is okay to do it now but later on, it’s not? I speak for a lot of parents in the Seguin ISD, when I say, it’s time for resolutions. No pre-selected questions. No excuses and no placing blame,” said Strickland.
Strickland says these highlighted examples were only two of the handful of incidents endured by her children alone.
She says the journey has been exhausting. She is tired. Yet, she is still willing to seek a resolution with the Seguin ISD.
“At last night’s town hall, the superintendent was talking about a mentor with teachers. I think there should be a mentor program with peers and students who have either been bullied before, or just those who need some extra help like my son. He would benefit from a peer mentor – someone to come sit with him at lunch, come check on him and it shouldn’t be up to her group of people,” said Strickland.
Also mustering up the courage to speak at the podium thanks to one of her teachers was, Seguin High School Junior Karla Sanchez. Sanchez says she believes there’s been a lack of consideration for her peers, especially as they continue to mourn. She says losing two of her friends to suicide is not being acknowledged the way she thinks it should be.
“I think like people who have not gone into the high school -- like for example -- the school board, in my eyes, it feels like they really don’t care and it’s like as long as we look good and everything is fine – throw it under the trash can, nobody really cares. But for me, it’s not like that and I think everything needs to be heard,” said Sanchez.
Also speaking at Tuesday night’s board meeting was Local Resident Sylvia Marmolejo. Marmolejo says she could no longer just sit back and allow the parents to be silenced.
“Last night’s meeting was a hard ‘D.’ It would have been an ‘F’ if it weren’t for the cute little fifth graders (who led the meeting). But the silence was horrible. Another thing, just tell it like it is. Don’t go around with whatever you have written. Just say it straight. We are adults here. There’s so many good kids and they come here to learn. There’s so many good teachers and they come to teach but it does need to be taken care of now. There is no time to wait. I would like to, next week, hear that you have another kind of meeting coming up with some answers. Change it. It is up to y’all,” said Marmolejo.
All comments were provided during the public hearing portion of Tuesday’s meeting. During this opportunity, trustees are not allowed to respond but only listen.
Ballpark, continued.
Chloe Belicek, of course, would have been a senior at Seguin High School. However, a tragic accident over the summer claimed her life. Belicek was a star player for the Matador Softball team and a top athlete on the SHS volleyball team. Manuel “Pee Wee” Rodriguez is best remembered for helping to begin both the Seguin High School and Seguin Little League fast-pitch softball programs. For more than 15 years, Rodriguez coached youth in the Little League softball and baseball programs. He also played for the SMI Steelers, the Seguin White Sox, and the Seguin Aztecs. Most notably, he served in the U.S. Air Force and is a member of the Seguin High School Wall of Honor.
Crettenden says the board has also given the okay to honor and remember some of the other well-known players whose names were also submitted for consideration.
“Three of the plaques that we want to highlight are for Mr. Patek and for Mr. Hartenstein and then for that state team from 1960 that we heard so much about at that last regular meeting and I feel like that is just a start. I think we are going to hear more about people who have made a difference and
so, putting those plaques at the dugout or wherever exactly they end up being, I think it gives us a space to tell those stories and to just really honor these people that we are starting with. But it is just a starting point,” said Crettenden.
Chuck Hartenstein, a professional baseball player from Seguin, had a full career in the sport, playing for teams such as the Chicago Cubs, the Pittsburgh Pirates, the St. Louis Cardinals, the Boston Red Sox, and the Toronto Blue Jays.
Freddie Patek was also a Major League Baseball player from Seguin who is known for his lengthy career with the Pittsburgh Pirates, Kansas City Royals and California Angels.
Crettenden says Belick, Rodriguez, Hartenstein and Patek were again only a handful of the names nominated for the new sports facility.
“It was really hard. People forwarded wonderful names and even after the second nomination process was over, people still had wonderful ideas and I think that just not with baseball/softball – I said this when we named the Jack Lee Learning Center – I think we haven’t named things after people in a long time and I think there is a chance to honor some of the people who really have impacted this community over the last 50 years. I think there is a gap. We have some naming to do and so I hope that we will open up some more processes to name some things after some of the wonderful people who have made the Seguin ISD what it is,” said Crettenden.
The new Matador Legends Ballpark awaits an official grand opening in January. The voterapproved facility currently sits on the south end of the Seguin High School campus.
Marion Lady Bulldog volleyball team collects postseason all-district awards
(Marion) — The alldistrict accolades have rolled in for the 2024 Marion Lady Bulldog volleyball team. Eight members of the team, which finished tied for second place in District 273A, were recognized by the district coaches.
Marion senior Bristin Birdwell was named the District 27-3A Libero of the Year. Birdwell recorded her 500th dig of the season in a Lady Bulldog Senior Night victory over Young Women’s Leadership Academy at Marion High School on October 22nd.
The Lady Bulldogs finished 7-3 in district play, tied for 2nd place in the district with San Antonio Cole. Randolph, led by District MVP Jayde Taylor, won the district going 10-0. Randolph and Marion were eliminated in the second round of the playoffs.
Marion defeated Crystal City in the UIL Class 3A Division I BiDistrict round and then fell to Goliad in the Area round. The Marion Lady Bulldogs were led by thirdyear head coach Melissa Mitchell Schuetz.
Chris Austin
Joyce-Klingemann VITAL STATISTICS
Elaine Ann “Lainey” Joyce-Klingemann, devoted and loving nurse, wife, and mother, peacefully passed away on November 14, 2024 surrounded by family and friends, her battle with an aggressive pancreatic cancer and its complications coming to an end.
Lainey was born in Scranton, Pennsylvania to Thomas Joseph Joyce and Mary Ann Korjeski Joyce on January 26, 1957. She and her older brother, Tommy Joyce, grew up in a loving Irish family with many aunts and uncles, and numerous cousins who were more like her siblings. She treasured memories of weekends spent at the lake as a youth, and, later, of adventures with her cousins and friends in Scranton and up the pike.
Lainey graduated from Scranton High School and went to Penn State University, where she attained a degree in nursing. In college, the work-study program placed her in the Athletics Office while Joe Paterno was head coach. A member of the Penn State Alumni Association, she was an avid and loyal Nittany Lion and would allow no disparagement of Penn State in her presence.
After graduation, she worked as a home health nurse in Scranton and Hershey, PA. She then took a job as a charge nurse on the neurology floor at George Washington University Hospital in Washington D.C. There, was a nurse to James Brady after he was shot during the Ronald Reagan assassination attempt. She also cared for a Saudi prince and got to visit Saudi Arabia and Egypt as his private nurse.
Eventually, Lainey began looking around the country for a sunny place to relocate. She moved to San Antonio and took a job at Santa Rosa Hospital as Nurse Director of the neurological unit. Soon thereafter, she met her future husband, Bill Klingemann, and the two were married in Scranton, Pennsylvania on August 23, 1991, honeymooning at Niagara Falls.
Lainey then took a job with the Methodist Hospital system where she worked at Metropolitan Hospital for a few years before moving to Northeast Methodist Hospital, where she found her home. She worked in various leadership capacities at Northeast Methodist Hospital for 30 years, including as Vice President of all Methodist rehabilitation units in San Antonio, head of the Joint Replacement Academy, and Director of the rehab and dialysis units. At Northeast Methodist she mentored many young nurses and touched
countless patient lives. She received various awards and recognitions, including 2023 Unit of Distinction – Inpatient Rehab and two awards for her actions while off duty in resuscitating two individuals who had stopped breathing.
In 1993 and 1995, Lainey became mother to her two adored sons, James and Matthew. She loved taking the boys and their friends on various adventures across the state like crystal hunting, major league baseball games, beach trips, and shopping sprees. As the boys grew older, she fostered in them a love of golf, and the three could often be found enjoying a round together at Starcke Park.
Over the years, Lainey developed and maintained many friendships that she held dear. She treasured her time with friends, whether it was playing with the Golf Girls on Tuesdays, enjoying Wednesday happy hour, or taking trips to the coast. Lainey also made new friends wherever she went and was always the life of the party, drawing people in with her laughter and warmth. You couldn’t be around her for long without hearing one of her unforgettable stories about the mob changing her tires, her adventures with a Secret Service agent, or meeting Bill on the dancefloor, among many others.
Lainey loved St. Patrick’s Day, Penn State, Korean dramas, long walks, tennis, apples, sunny days, and her puppies. But above all, she loved her family and friends. Her zest for life was contagious, and she lived each day to its fullest. She will be deeply missed by all.
Lainey was predeceased by her parents, brother, aunts and uncles, and several cousins. She is survived by her husband, Bill J. Klingemann of Seguin, TX, and sons, James Thomas Klingemann of Philadelphia, PA and Matthew Joseph Klingemann of Seguin, as well as cherished cousins, friends, and colleagues.
Services will be held at St. James Catholic Church, 510 S. Camp Street, Seguin, Texas 78155 on Saturday, November 23, 2024 at 10:00 a.m., with interment and a reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Penn State THON via thon. org (please credit donations to the Boulevard student organization). THON is the world’s largest student run philanthropy and raises funds for children with cancer. Donations may also be made to the charity of one’s choice.
Sláinte, Lainey.
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
Natalie Riojas Barron, age 80 of Seguin, formerly of Nixon, passed away on November 19, 2024. Natalie, the youngest of 18 siblings, was born in Nixon on July 27, 1944 to Rosenda (Esquivel) and Patricio Riojas.
Natalie and Jesse lived in Nixon until 1997 when they moved to Seguin to be closer to their daughter Sylvia and her family. In Nixon she was involved in many community and school activities and especially enjoyed singing and playing guitar in the Church Choir at St. Joseph Catholic Church. She retired from Motorola Corp. in Seguin after 25 plus years. After, she enjoyed working for the Seguin Independent School District as a bus monitor for special needs children and worked part time at Chiro Java Coffee Shop.
Natalie was an active member of both the Catholic Daughters of America and Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. Fun times were spent traveling with family throughout the United States. She enjoyed going to Planet Fitness and Zumba Classes at the Wellness Center, cooking and especially baking for all her family, friends and neighbors, as no one would go hungry on her watch. One might also find her outside gardening and tending to her plants and yard, especially her favorite, the rose bushes.
Natalie is preceded in death by her parents and fifteen siblings.
Survivors include her loving husband of 60 years, Jesse Barron; daughter, Sylvia Ramirez and husband Rene; granddaughter, Mia Marie Ramirez; sisters, Rosa Bustamante and Mary Riojas DeLeon; sisters-in-law, Lydia Barron, Donna Smith and husband Billy, and Connie Barron Ramirez and husband Ernie; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other loving family members and a host of friends.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, November 24, 2024 at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel from 2 to 4 p.m. The recitation of the Holy Rosary will begin on Monday, November 25, 2024 at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. A reception will follow.
Private interment will be held at a later date.
Natalie will always be remembered for her smile, her warmth and her love and kindness to all. She will be missed.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, SouthWest Affiliate, P. O. Box 841125, Dallas, Texas, 75284-1125 or to the charity of one’s choice.
You are invited to sign the guest book at www.treshewell.com.
Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155, 830-549-5912.
VITAL STATISTICS
Alexander
Ramona Bernice Alexander, age 86 of Seguin, Texas, passed away peacefully with her beloved family by her side on Sunday, November 10, 2024. Ramona was born on May 20, 1938 in Ookala, Hawaii to Andrew Peters, Sr., and Josephine (Silva) Peters.
She is preceded in death by her parents, her son Marion J. Alexander Jr. (MJ), brother, Andrew Peters Jr., and her great-grandson, Nathan Mejia.
Survivors include her loving husband of 68 years, Marion J. Alexander Sr., daughters, Wendy Hawver and husband Ray, Sheryl Nelson and husband Kirk and Martha Alexander; brother, Jimmy and wife Maryann Peters; sisters, Barbara McDaniel and husband Jim, Karen Peters, Mary Kay Carvalho and husband Gerald, Priscilla Gray and husband Bill, Cindy Peters, Susan Pascal-Beck and husband John, Brenda Harris and husband Brian, Kathy Vogt and husband Nelson and Veronica
Goforth and husband Roy; 21 grandchildren, 35 great-grandchildren; and 2 great-great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Mabel Toussaint and husband Tom and brother-in-law, Ken Evans; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, great-great nieces and nephews and many others that called her mom.
Ramona was a longtime member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, and was a past member of Jokers Wild Motorcycle club. She was also an incredible employee with the Seguin school district as a long time School bus Driver. When Ramona wasn’t working, she enjoyed spending time with her large and beautiful family, or taking rides with her beloved husband. She will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.
A memorial service celebrating Ramona’s life will be held on Friday, November 22, 2024 at 10 a.m. at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel.
Memorial Contributions may be made to a charity of one’s choice. You are invited to sign the guest book at www.treshewell.com.
Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155, 830-549-5912.
UVA Study Finds Blood Pressure Meds Can Damage Kidneys
(Charlottesville, VA) -- A new study from researchers at the University of Virginia School of Medicine indicates that some types of blood pressure medication can cause damage to the kidneys. RAS inhibitors are widely used to block the effects of an enzyme that is produced by the kidneys when blood pressure drops. The UVA study shows that long-term use of RAS inhibitors can impair kidney function and lead to serious health problems. Researchers hope the study will lead to better ways to manage high blood pressure and other vascular diseases.
Surgeon General Murthy Issues Smoking Report
(Washington, DC) -- Cigarette smoking rates are the lowest they’ve ever been, but Surgeon General Vivek Murthy says there’s more that needs to be done. The nation’s top doc says nearly 500-thousand people die in this country every year because of a tobacco-related illness. His new report out today calls for lowering nicotine levels to non-addictive levels, predicting it could prevent eight million deaths by 2100. It also calls for banning menthol cigarettes, which he says are disproportionately used by minority groups.
Anti-Vax Sentiment Leads To Rise In Communicable Diseases
(San Antonio, TX) -- Measles cases are skyrocketing, according to a new report from the World Health Organization, which shows a 20-percent spike. Experts say the rise started during COVID with anti-vaccine movement. Baylor infectious disease expert Dr. Peter Hotez says that vaccine skepticism is showing no signs of slowing. He points to the nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Junior for Presidentelect Trump’s cabinet. He’s claimed there’s a link between vaccines and autism.
New Study Shows Stronger Link Between Healthy Habits and Lifespan
(San Diego, CA) -- A new study says a nice walk and a healthy meal can add years to your life. The study, led by Griffith University in Australia, reveals that adopting five healthy habits can add up to 11 years to your life. The results of the study show that these habits, such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, and drinking alcohol in moderation have about twice as strong an effect on mortality as previously reported. Researchers found that people who followed these habits had a significantly lower risk of dying from cardiovascular disease and cancer.
November
Kicks & giggles baby store
The Seguin chamber of commerce will host a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Kicks & giggles Baby store at 4:45 PM Thursday, November 21st at 108 W. Court St.
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
The Seguin chamber of commerce will host a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Santos Patronos Ranch WAGYU at 2 PM Tuesday, November 26th at 2075 W Kingsbury St.
Thanksgiving service
Life Changing Church, this Sunday, November 24th, will be hosting their annual Thanksgiving Dinner Service. They will be raffling off Thanksgiving baskets and gift cards from HEB for your Thanksgiving food items. You must be REGISTERED, PRESENT, and HERE DURING THE SERVICE to win! Only one basket/gift card per household, address, and family will be allotted. After the service ends, please stay for dinner provided for free by our church. Bring your family out for a day of fellowship and great food! You don’t want to miss this event hosted by Life Changing Church 842. E. Pine St Seguin. Call 830-463-9637 NO LATER than 11:30 for a ride, and we will pick you up! Registration: 12:151:45 PM; THERE WILL BE NO REGISTRATION AFTER 1:45.
The Table – A Community Thanksgiving Meal
The City of Seguin will host a Complimentary Thanksgiving Meal on Sunday, Nov. 24th, from 3 - 6 PM at the Seguin Coliseum. Approximately 1,000 plates will be served on a first-come, firstserve basis. All are welcome, and no registration is required. In addition to a delicious meal, there will be activities for kids. If you would like to make a donation or volunteer, sign up at https:// thetableseguin.com
Seguin Chamber Luncheon
The Seguin Chamber will host a Membership Luncheon on Wednesday, Dec 4th, at the Seguin Coliseum. Check-in and Network will be held from 11:30 AM - 11:45 AM, followed by Lunch and Program from 11:45 AM - 1 PM. The cost is $20 for Chamber Members and $25 for Future Members. This is an RSVP event, and no tickets will be sold at the door. All attendees must register. Due to the Thanksgiving holiday, the registration closes on November 26th, 2024.
Lunch & Learn
The Seguin Young Professionals will host a Lunch & Learn event on Nov. 20th from 11:30 PM - 1:00 PM @ Court Street Coffee Shop featuring guest speaker Elaine Bennett. Registration is highly encouraged.
Operation Blue Santa
Texas Lutheran University is having an Operation Blue Santa Christmas Toy Drive in partnership with KWED’s annual Holiday Food and Toy Drive until Friday, Dec. 6. Donated new, unwrapped toys, crafts, books, and games suitable for ages 0 to 18 to various collection points on the TLU campus or in the Seguin community. TLU will also accept cash or check only for Operation Blue Santa. Make checks payable to the Seguin Police Department Blue Santa Program and mail to Texas Lutheran University, Attn: Ali Bratcher, 1000 W. Court St. Seguin, TX 78155 or dropped them off at the First Year Experience & Student Engagement Center at TLU.
Municipal Court Case Reduction Campaign
The Seguin Municipal Court will run its first ever Case Reduction Campaign through Sunday, Dec. 15. During the campaign, the court will consider reducing fines owned and possibly establish payment plans, community service or other alternatives for those who may not be able to pay. Individuals with an active outstanding warrant issued out of the Seguin Municipal Court are encouraged to appear in person from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday at 660 S. State Hwy. 46 in Seguin or call 830-4012325 to discuss their cases.
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.
Book of Daniel Bible Study
The Redemption Fellowship will have a Book of Daniel Bible Study at 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays through Wed. Nov. 20 in the Joe Cools AC party room, located at 527 E Kingsbury St. in Seguin. For additional information, contact Linda Dietz at 830-660-6557.
Chamber Business After-Hours Networking
The Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce will have its Business After-Hours Networking event from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 14 at GRMC (Central Entrance), located at 1215 E. Court St. in Seguin.
Caregiver Cafe
There will be a Caregiver Cafe at 9 a.m. on the 1st Thursday of the month at Spirit of Joy Lutheran Church and at 2 p.m. on the 3rd Sunday of the month at Emanuel’s Lutheran Church. This will be an informal gathering for caregivers to share with each other over a cup of coffee and refreshments while learning stress-relieving, relaxation techniques or hearing from guest speakers on helpful subjects. For more information, call 830-272-0040, ext. 104 and leave a
message.
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.
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.
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.
Beginning Watercolor with Cat
The Seguin Art League will offer Beginning Watercolor with Cat from 1 to 3 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 21 at 104 S. Austin St. in Seguin. The cost is $35 with supplies included. The class is for ages 18 and older. This introduction to watercolor will include color theory, use of the color wheel, the correct watercolor brush and usage, description and types of watercolor paper, and how to control washes. Students will be working on a simple impressionistic landscape. For more information, call 830-305-0472.
Seguin Art League Drawing Skills Class
The Seguin Art League will offer a Drawing Skills Class from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 22 at 104 S. Austin in Seguin. This class is for all skill levels ages 18 and older and will focus on different drawing techniques and subjects each week. You will begin with a guided activity, then will continue on structured lessons or your own drawing projects. The cost is $20 with basic supplies included. For more information call 830-305-0472.
Continued on the next page.
TLU’s 2nd Annual Dia De Los Veteranos
Texas Lutheran University will have its 2nd Annual Dia De Los Veteranos from 3 to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 23 in the Langner Hall parking lot, located at 1000 W. Court St. in Seguin. There will be a car show & shine, free food and drinks, TLU Mariachi performance, live graffiti art, photo booth, moon bounce, vendor market, book reading and signing and music by Dj Chuko. There is no registration fee for the car show and check in is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, call 830-372-6073.
Geronimo VFW Sunday Dance
The Geronimo VFW will have its Sunday Dance from 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 24. Entertainment will be provided by The Posse. The doors open at 1:30 p.m. with $10 admission. For more information, call or text 830-305-8829.
The Table Seguin Free Meal
The Table Seguin offers a free meal from 4 to 6 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 24 at the Seguin Coliseum, located at 950 S. Austin St. in Seguin. There will be food, fellowship, and activities for children. For more information, visit www. Thetableseguin.com.
Guadalupe Appraisal District Closure
The Guadalupe Appraisal District will be closed on Thursday, Nov. 28 and Friday, Nov. 29. The office will re-open at 8 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 2.
Christmas Toy Assistance Program
The Precious Life Suicide Prevention will offer its Christmas Toy Assistance Program for Comal and Guadalupe Counties until Saturday, Nov. 30. No registrations will be accepted via phone, email the parents full name, full name of each child, age and gender of each child, full address including zip, and phone number, and any assistance currently receiving to registerforchristmas@gmail.com. Registration will close once max number of participants is reached.
December
Di Sucre by V
The Seguin chamber of commerce will host a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Di Sucre by V at 11AM Thursday, December 5th at 225 S. Saunders ST. inside The Schoolyard.
Guadalupe County Republican Women Meeting
On Friday, December 13th, 2024 the Guadalupe County Republican Women will be hosting a luncheon, with Chris Byrd as their main speaker. The luncheon/meeting will be held at the Seguin Silver Center at 510 East Court Street, Seguin. Social hour starts at 11:00 AM with a cash bar. Seated lunch at 11:30 AM. Cost for lunch is $20.00. Please make reservations with Glen-
da Partain by calling or texting 830.391.3979 or emailing silvercenter@sbcglobal.net. The program is free but lunch requires reservation. Payment by cash or check. Please join us for a timely and informative program. More information is available at https://www.guadalupe-county-rw. com/.
Agave Coffee
The Seguin chamber of commerce will host a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Agave Coffee at 10AM Tuesday, December 17th at 109 S. Crockett ST.
Serenity Boutique
The Seguin chamber of commerce will host a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Serenity Boutique at 11AM Thursday, December 19th at 837 E. Court St.
Christmas Market
Immanuel Lutheran Church will host its 9th annual Christmas Market from 9 AM- 2 PM Rain or shine, at 310 Seguin Street in La Vernia. There will be Breakfast Tacos, Cheesy Potato Soup, Wassail & More. Visit the country store for fresh baked and candied goods. There will also be Christmas pictures in front of the church, face painting & balloon animals for the kids. Outdoor vendor spaces are still available! For more information, contact ILCWOFChristmasMarket@ Gmail.com or call (830)-688-1810.
Parkinson’s Support Group
The Gonzales Area Parkinson’s Support Group will meet from 6 to 8 p.m. the first 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.
TLU’s Operation Blue Santa
Texas Lutheran University is partnering with KWED for an Operation Blue Santa Christmas Toy Drive until Friday, Dec. 6. New, unwrapped toys crafts, books and games suitable for ages 0 to 18 are being collected a various locations on the TLU campus and in the Seguin community. TLU is accepting cash or check donations only for Operation Blue Santa.
Wesley-Harper UMC Fashion Fusion
2024
The Wesley-Harper UMC will present its Fashion Fusion 2024 at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 7 at the Seguin Events Complex, located at 950 S. Austin St. in Seguin. Tickets are $25 pre-sale or $30 at the door and are available from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Thursday at the church, located at 754 W. Court St. in Seguin or at Serenity Boutique, located at 837 E. Court St. in
Seguin. For more information and tickets call 210-669-3404 or 210-857-4752.
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.
GCCWB Ugly Sweater Dinner Party
The Guadalupe County Child Welfare Board (GCCWB) will have its Ugly Sweater Dinner Party at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13 at the Stephen and Mary Birch Texas Theatre, located at 425 N. Austin St. in Seguin. There will be a silent auction, live entertainment with Magician, Carlos David, dinner, and an Ugly Sweater Contest. Tickets are available at www.gccwb.org/event-details/5th-annual-ugly-sweater-dinner-party.
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.
Public Service Award Nominations
The GVEC’s Public Service Award (PSA) acknowledges deserving individuals and organizations who consistently make a positive impact on their community. Nominations for the GVEC 2025 Individual or Organization PSA are being accepted until Monday, Dec. 16 at www.gvec. org/psa.
Seguin Art League Creating Fabric Designs Class
The Seguin Art League will offer a Creating Fabric Designs Class from 1 to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 18 at 104 S. Austin St. in Seguin. Participants will learn to use block print techniques to create their own unique fabric. A reusable block will be carved using custom colors that you create. The class is for adults and the cost is $35 with supplies included. For more information call 830-305-0472.
Seguin Art League Beginning Drawing Class
The Seguin Art League will offer a Beginning Drawing Class, for ages 9 to 13, from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 21 at the Seguin Art League, located at 104 S. Austin St. in Seguin. The class will cover basic skills and lead up to drawing in 3D, and finish with a still life drawing. The cost is $35 with supplies included. Participants can also bring their own supplies. There is a minimum of 5 students and a maximum of 10. For more information, call 830-305-0472.
Continued on the next page.
January
First Friday Feast
The Geronimo Lions Club will host their First Friday Feast from 5:30 - 7:30 PM or until they run out @ The Red Bar on 390 Cordova Rd. There will be $20 Steak or Fish Dinner with sides and a drink. This event is benefiting local non-profits. Happy New Year from the Geronimo Lions.
February
Chamber 2025 Showcase Seguin: Wild West Business Round-Up
The Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce will have its 2025 Showcase Seguin Wild West Business Round-Up from 5 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 23 at the Seguin Coliseum, located at 950 S. Austin St. in Seguin. Registration is required for all attendees. Register by Friday, Jan. 31 to avoid a $5 entry fee. For more information, call 830-379-6382.
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.
Brown Cultural Event Series – Elizabeth Smart
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 – The Second City 65th Anniversary
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 830-4635353 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 Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (C.E.A.P.) provided by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs through the CCSCT. The program will help low-income consumers reduce their utility bills. There is also assistance available through the Low Income Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP). For more information visit www.ccsct.org or follow them on the socials at https://linktr.ee/ccsct_cares.
Heritage Museum Calendars
The Heritage Museum is selling 2024 Then and Now Themed Calendars. There is a limited supply and they are available for purchase at the Heritage Museum, Gift & Gourmet, Pecan Town Books and Brews, Parker’s City Pharmacy, and online at www.heritagemuseum.net. All proceeds benefit Museum projects.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Dial 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline available 24 hours a day in English and Spanish.
Volunteer Van Drivers Needed
Guadalupe County Veteran Services Office is in great need of volunteer van drivers. Even those who can only commit to one day per month. Volunteers will drive local veterans who have no transportation to their VA medical appointments in San Antonio. To volunteer, call 830303-4188 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, 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 423227-9610 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.
CLASSIFIEDS
YARD SALES
GARAGE SALE: 832 St. James, Seguin - Saturday, November 23 from 8am to 4pm. Lots of household items and tools.
CRAFT & YARD SALE: 244 Wildflower Lane, SeguinSaturday 11/23 from 10 am to 4 pm. Find good gifts for Christmas!!
CHRISTMAS SALE: 1419 Lakeview Drive - Saturday, November
23 starting at 8am. New Christmas lights unopened, ornaments, nice Christmas gifts, men’s clothes and shoes, and decorations!
GARAGE/ESTATE SALE: 188 Wampum Way, Saturday, 11/23 from 8 am to 4 pm. Clothes, household items, Christmas decorations, furniture, antiques, linens, curtains, and much more!!
