Food drive continues for Christian Cupboard
(Seguin) -- It might be a couple days after Christmas, but it doesn’t mean that the season of giving has stopped. Seguin’s food pantry, the Christian Cupboard, continues its holiday food drive. The drive runs through New Year’s Eve, Tuesday, Dec. 31.
Non-perishable food donations and other supplies are still in great demand. Despite having collected plenty of donations over the past two months, Christian Cupboard Executive Director Regina Lee says the need in this community continues. She says the donations that are collected now will not stay on their shelves for long, but it helps them get a jumpstart on providing services for people in the in the new year.
“Within the cycle of life (for donations), it continues to last us through January. It doesn’t sound like a lot (of time). But when we have, we have over 900 families that you service in a month -- that’s a lot of food (to provide). And we try to be as generous as possible,” said Lee. Cupboard, pg. 3
Cindy Aguirre-Herrera and Darren Dunn
Volunteers from Seguin's Crossroads Church recently helped out at the Christian Cupboard. The non-profit food pantry is still accepting donations as part of its Holiday Food Drive.
Community Council of South Central Texas Honored as AACOG’s Non-Profit of the Year
(Seguin) – A local non-profit group has received a top award from AACOG. The Community Council of South Central Texas (CCSCT) recently announced its selection as the Alamo Area Council of Governments, AACOG’s Non-Profit of the Year.
CCSCT officials say this prestigious honor is shared with Reaching Maximum Independence Group, reflecting the exceptional impact both organizations have made in the communities they serve.
CCSCT’s nomination came from its valued community partner, CVS Aetna, in recognition of the organization’s outstanding efforts in assisting the houseless population and fostering strategic partnerships across the greater South Central and West Texas region. This accolade underscores CCSCT’s commitment to empowering vulnerable families and individuals by breaking down barriers to self-sufficiency through innovative programs and collaborative efforts.
“Being named Non-Profit of the Year by AACOG is a profound honor and a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff, volunteers, and partners,”
said Bobby Deike, Executive Director of CCSCT. “This recognition reinforces our mission to create sustainable pathways for those in need, and we are grateful to CVS Aetna for acknowledging our impact.”
For 60 years, CCSCT has been a beacon of hope for residents in the greater South Central Texas area, offering comprehensive services that include housing assistance, energy support, financial literacy programs, and much more. With a service footprint spanning 31 counties, CCSCT’s innovative approach to addressing community needs has made it a leader in community action.
This recognition by AACOG celebrates the organization’s tireless work to tackle homelessness headon through tailored services and a steadfast commitment to building a network of support for the region’s most vulnerable populations. By leveraging partnerships with organizations like CVS Aetna, CCSCT continues to forge new paths toward stronger, more resilient communities.
The award was formally presented at AACOG’s 50th Anniversary Awards Ceremony held earlier this month in San Antonio.
The Seguin based CCSCT has been named Non-Profit Organization of the Year. Pictured receiving the award are, from left, Daniela Flores, CCSCT Marketing and Communications Manager; Bobby Deike, CCSCT Executive Director; Ken Loy, Veterans Financial Assistance Program Coordinator; Raynaldo Valles, Aetna Community Coordinator; and Crystal A. Oliva, Aetna Community Strategist.
Cupboard, continued.
Lee says although the emphasis may be on food, personal hygiene products, like body wash and other toiletries are also important. She says these donations are gladly accepted at the shelter, or you can make a cash donation that can be used to purchase some of these items. Lee says they do all they can to help people in need in this community. She says there are no donations that are too small. She says it all begins to add up for those who need the help.
“When you share, you’d be surprised how much it multiplies with you being able to share and how much you’re willing to share. So, when we are able to buy toiletries, we buy the three-in-one body wash, that you can use from head-to-toe. We do buy men’s deodorant and women’s deodorant. We do (also) buy the shaving cream and we do buy razors occasionally, but it’s nice to get it (all) donated also,” said Lee
Lee says the non-profit food pantry is always appreciative of the donations that it receives during this time of the year. She says the more items they can collect now, means they’ll be able to help even more people in 2025. Lee says unfortunately the need for food continues to grow. She says too many working families are finding it difficult to keep food on the table. She says it’s getting
harder for some families to get the food and other supplies that they need to live.
“Can you imagine people that use sugar, who use and buy coffee, who have children that take snacks to school or whatever -- can you just imagine what they’re spending on food? So, they definitely need help. There’s definitely a shortage of funds to get food. That’s why we’re there,” said Lee.
Lee says the Christian Cupboard has a long list of needs for its Holiday Food Drive. The grocery list includes things like assorted cereals; canned carrots, peas and mixed vegetables; pasta sauces; and canned soups, stews, pasta meals, and tuna.
Toiletry items include, but are not limited to shampoo and conditioner, bar soap, toothpaste and shaving supplies. All donations can be dropped off at the Christian Cupboard Mondays through Thursdays, and every first and third Saturdays from 9 to 11:30 a.m.
Donations are also accepted 24/7 when utilizing the drop off box, located on the north side of the Christian Cupboard building at 516 N. Camp St.
Food donations will also continue to be accepted through Dec. 31 in the lobby of radio station KWED. The radio station is located at 609 E. Court St., near the intersection of Court and San Marcos streets in downtown Seguin.
VITAL STATISTICS
White
Eunice “Diane” Carpenter White passed away recently at 57 years old.
Viewing will be held Saturday December 28th, 2024 from 9:30am to 11am @ Emanuel Lutheran Church.
Funeral will begin at 11am at Emanuel Lutheran Church.
Burial will take place Monday December 30th, 2024 at 9:30am at Fort Sam Houston Cemetery.
Survivors include: Husband: Felipe White. Children: Courtney White, Jacquelyn Roberson, Naomi Taylor White, Richard Taylor White, Deveon Taylor White, Neisha Taylor, Anton White, Antanique White, Tamiriana White, Ja’Nayah White, Davion White, Drew Allen Gibson, Mother: Zeda Carpenter Shepherd, Brother: Emanuel Carpenter Jr. and Sister: Lois Carpenter Stevenson Services entrusted to: Crenshaw Funeral Home, 216 Blumberg St. Seguin, Tx. 78155
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Memorials Processing, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105-9959 or to the Guadalupe County Humane Society, P. O. Box 1593, Seguin, Texas, 78155-1593.
Ball
George Floyd Ball, Jr. Died Christmas Eve at the age of 71. He is survived by one sister, Ann Ball. Arrangements are pending at Eunice and Lee Mortuary.
Not Everyone Gets Into The Holiday Spirit
(San Antonio, TX) -- There’s pressure this time of year to be happy but, for many, the holiday blues are a real thing. Counselors say that seasonal depression can show up in many different ways. Experts say if you’re not feeling the spirit, it’s important to know that you’re not alone. Sometimes the best thing to do is talk it out. Studies show that voicing your feelings can help those who are facing depression. Also, don’t forget that it’s important to get adequate rest and eat right.
FDA Approves Generic GLP-1 Medication
(Washington, DC) -- The FDA is approving a generic daily injectable GLP-1 medication. Victoza will provide a lower-cost option for patients ten years and older with Type 2 diabetes. According to White House statistics, about one in every ten Americans have diabetes. An FDA official said in a statement that the move “underscores the FDA’s continued commitment to advancing patient access to safe, effective and high-quality generic drug products.”
Bill Backed By Damar Hamlin Becomes Law
(Washington DC) -- A piece of legislation supported by Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin is becoming law. The NFL star collapsed after suffering a cardiac event on the field during a game in January of 2023. A bill backed by Hamlin and signed into law by President Biden this week will help to equip schools with automated external defibrillators -- making immediate assistance possible for kids who suffer the sort of cardiac event that Hamlin did. Biden signed the HEARTS Act on Monday.
Sensors Not As Accurate As Doctors Office
(San Antonio, TX) -- Smart watches were among the most popular Christmas gifts this year. Experts say they can be very useful for our health as they track things like heart rate and blood pressure. However, Texas-based cardiologist Dr. Ildiko Agoston has a word of caution. She says the sensors for smart watches are not exactly accurate. And, for that reason, she worries that they could lead to increased anxiety and unnecessary medical tests. Their best use, she says, is to encourage people to exercise.
January
Membership Luncheon
The Seguin Chamber of Commerce will host a Membership Luncheon Sponsored by Rapid Urgent Care on Wednesday, January 8th. Check in and Networking will be held from 11:30AM
�� Welcome 2025: New Year Netw orking Kickoff
Join the Seguin Chamber for a Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony and Networking Event to start the new year!
• January 9, 2025
• 4:45 PM: Ribbon-Cutting
• 5:00–6:30 PM: Networking
• The Caldwell – 3101 Palm Springs, Seguin, TX
• Chamber Membership Card Required for Entry
• Sponsored by: The Caldwell. Don’t miss this chance to connect and celebrate the new year with fellow business leaders!
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 Show case Seg uin: 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. 13 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 830-3796382.
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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 Sec-
ond 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 830-463-5353 For questions, email boxoffice@mtsymphony.org.
April
Mid-Texas Symphony
The Mid-Texas Symphony, with conductor, Akiko Fujimoto, will present Ode to Joy, at 4 p.m. on Sunday, April 27 at Jackson Auditorium at Texas Lutheran University. To purchase tickets, visit www.mtsymphony.org or call the box office 830-463-5353 For questions, email boxoffice@mtsymphony.org.
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Ong oing 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.
Heritag e Museum Calendars
The Heritage Museum is selling 2024 Then and Now Themed Calendars. There is a limited supply and they are available for purchase at the Heritage Museum, Gift & Gourmet, Pecan Town Books and Brews, Parker’s City Pharmacy, and online at www.heritagemuseum.net. All proceeds benefit Museum projects.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Dial 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline available 24 hours a day in English and Spanish.
Volunteer Van Drivers Needed
Guadalupe County Veteran Services Office is in great need of volunteer van drivers. Even those who can only commit to one day per month. Volunteers will drive local veterans who have no transportation to their VA medical appointments in San Antonio. To volunteer, call 830-303-4188 ext. 1249.
Precious Life Services
Precious Life Services is accepting new clients who may need help with Anger Management, Parenting Skills, Christian Counseling, Group and Family Therapy, Anxiety and Depression, etc. Appointments are available in-office, by Zoom or Teleconference by calling 830-372-5980.
Free Accredited Adult Homeschool Pro-
g ram
The Life Changing Church is now offering a Free Accredited Homeschool Program for adults wanting to earn their high school diploma. It is a selfpaced, no classes to attend program. You work around your schedule and at the end of the program you will receive an accredited diploma that is acceptable for college. Tutors are available at no charge. Free placement testing, no previous records required. For more information call or text Crystal at 325956-1155.
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 org anization’s meeting s and events appear in this calendar, send information to: communitycalendar@kw ed1580.com, or drop off the information at the Seg uin Daily New s/KWED offices located at 609 E. Court St. in Seg uin. For best results, submit information at least two weeks prior to the event.
