Planning is key for safe New Year’s holiday celebrations
Darren Dunn
(San Antonio) -- If you’re planning to ring in the New Year with a bit of the bubbly or you other favorite alcoholic beverage, you’re encouraged to do so responsibly and safely. Several organizations are again encouraging you to have a plan before you head out to celebrate the New Year.
Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), a Texas based non-profit group, is again reminding people to be safe during the New Year’s holiday period. Prisca Osunsan is a MADD National Ambassador. She says having a plan is key to getting everyone home safely.
“There are multiple avenues to plan for a safe ride home. You can plan for a designated driver, one who has not had a drink of alcohol. You could also plan to use ground transportation, like public buses or cab, and we even have ride-share (services) as in Lyft, Uber and other companies,” said Osunsan.
Osunsan says having a plan it is not just good advice for those
who are headed out for a night of fun. But she adds that those hosting celebrations should also pay attention to what’s happening with their guests, and have a plan in place to keep them all safe.
“Even if you are planning to host a party or host a group of people, go ahead and decide to ask individuals to put the keys aside and just wait until the next morning. Pull put out blankets and pillows and make it an all-night affair. It is much better to plan ahead every step of the way, because...once you’ve had that one or two drinks, your mind and your thoughts are different,” said Osunsan.
MADD is not alone in this fight against impaired driving. It’s getting support from law enforcment agenices across the nation. Here in Texas, it’s also getting an assist from the Texas Department of Transportation. TXDOT is offering similar advice through its Drive Sober, No Regrets public awareness campaign.
Celebrations, pg. 4
Fire officials offer safety tips for those using fireworks
(Seguin) -- Fireworks are again expected to be used this year to ring in the New Year. Fireworks stands are open in the unincoprorated portions of Guadalupe County.
Patrick Pinder, county emergency management coordinator and fire marshal, says fireworks are still banned in area cities, but they can be used in the more rural parts of the county. Pinder says while they are legal in those areas, fireworks can still pose a danger.
“We want folks to remember that when they’re utilizing fireworks, that they are doing it safely. We want to make sure that when they are popping fireworks in an area, that it is not surrounded by trees and vegetation and things like. That’s because we are still in a burn ban, but fireworks aren’t prohibited during the burn ban. So, we just want to make sure that they’re doing it safely -shooting fireworks on a level ground, have a water source around, make sure that they are disposing of fireworks safely, and just being safe,” said Pinder.
The county did not ban aerial fireworks, despite the dry conditions this year. Pinder says they want people to take responsibility for their actions if they decide to use fireworks during these rather dry conditions.
“The fireworks are being allowed this year. We did not restrict (fireworks with) sticks and fins, which is typically something that the Commissioners (Court) considers (during a burn ban). This year, we went ahead and left them in. If those fireworks go into somebody else’s property and cause damage, you will be held liable – up to a charge of arson which could come into play because the state has enabled us to charge folks for that. You just want to make sure that you’re doing it safely. You
know, shooting them on concrete pads, or in areas that aren’t surrounded by a bunch of growth or vegetation. If you are surrounded by any kind of hay field or hay crops, just remember, those farmers live on that product a you don’t want to destroy somebody’s livelihood,” said Pinder.
People may have fond memories of shooting off fireworks as a kid, but Pinder says adult supervision is definitely advise. He says even simple fireworks, like sparklers, can cause severe burns.
“It’s not recommended for children to light fireworks. I know as a kid growing up, I lit fireworks. But you know, it’s recommended to have adult supervision. Remember to light one firework at a time, let the firework completely go out, and if the firework malfunctions – soak it in water. Don’t just sit there and try to relight it. We’ve seen many occasions where fireworks have exploded and caused injuries to folks just because they’ve tried to get that firework to do one more thing. You got to remember these fireworks sit in a box or a container. Over the years, they’re just sitting there until you buy them off the shelf. Those fireworks could be two to three years old. You don’t know how old that firework is. So, just make sure that you’re doing it safely. If you’re willing to put your kids in danger and let them just go out there and light fireworks -- that’s not recommended – just make sure you’re overseeing these things and making sure that it’s done safely,” said Pinder.
Fireworks are still prohibited inside the Seguin city limits. Both the possession and use of fireworks are both prohibited inside the city. People could face hefty fines if they violate the city’s fireworks ordinance.
Darren Dunn
Law enforcement officials on the lookout for speeders, drunk drivers this New Year's Eve
Darren Dunn
(Seguin) -- Local law enforcement officials will also be looking to keep people safe over the New Year's holiday period. The Seguin Police Department, the Guadalupe County Sheriff's Office, the Seguin DPS Office and others will all be out in full force in an effort to make sure people are not drinking and driving. Officers, deputies and troopers will be looking for impaired drivers, speeders and for those who are not wearing a seat belt.
The Texas Department of Public Safety is offering tips for people to follow to stay safe while they are ringing in the New Year:
- Don’t drink and drive. Make alternate plans if you’re consuming alcohol.
- Move Over or Slow Down for police, fire, EMS, Texas Department of Transportation vehicles and tow trucks stopped on the side of the road with emergency lights activated.
- Buckle up everyone in the vehicle — it’s the law.
- Slow down, especially in bad weather, heavy traffic, unfamiliar areas or construction zones.
- Drive defensively, as holiday travel can present additional challenges. Allow plenty of time to reach your destination.
- Eliminate distractions while driving, including the use of mobile devices.
- If you can Steer It, Clear It: If you are involved in a noninjury crash and your vehicle can be moved, clear the traffic lanes to minimize traffic impact.
- On multi-lane roads, use the left lane for passing only. Not only is it courteous driving and avoids impeding traffic, Texas law requires slower traffic to keep to the right and to use the left lane for passing only (when posted).
- Don’t cut in front of large trucks and try not to brake quickly in front of them. They can’t maneuver as easily as passenger vehicles and pickup trucks.
- Keep the Texas Roadside Assistance number [(800) 525-5555] stored in your phone. This number can also be found on the back of a Texas Driver License.
- Monitor weather and road conditions wherever you’re traveling. For road conditions and closures in Texas, visit DriveTexas.org.
Celebrations, continued.
Tanya Brown, TXDOT’s public information officer for the San Antonio District, says the campaign is all about encouraging people to have a plan before they go out drinking.
“We encourage motorists to make decisions or a plan before they go out to drink, so that they’re not drinking and driving. What that looks like is having a designated driver. And a designated driver does not mean somebody that’s consumed the least amount of alcohol. It means somebody that has not consumed any. So, you want to line that family member or friend up prior to going out, or use a rideshare program,” said Brown.
Brown says its important to make these decisions before you ever touch a drop of alcohol.
“You know you’re not right in your right mind, and making poor decisions happen when you have been under the influence. So, we encourage that those decisions are made prior to going out,” said Brown.
Even with all the warnings, there will still be
people out their who will not heed this advice. They’ll go out without a plan, and find themselves without a safe way to get home. Brown says there are still options available that should keep you from climbing behind the wheel.
“If you find yourself in a situation where you’ve already consumed and you did not make those plans in advance, there are still rideshare programs out there that are going to be running -- especially with New Year’s Eve – way into the morning. So, you can always contact those, or local cabs, and/or a family member or a friend to come get you,” said Brown.
MADD’s mission is to end drunk and drugged driving, but until that happens, Osunsan says everyone on the road needs to be on the lookout for those who still choose to drink and drive.
“People should also be very vigilant. Unfortunately, we know that people can potentially drive impaired. So, just be more aware of your surroundings, aware of the road and making sure that you’re driving responsibly. And if you see someone driving erratically, do not
hesitate to call the police. You know it’s better to be safe than sorry,” said Osunsan.
The holiday season is supposed to be joyous time, but impaired driving can forever ruin lives. It’s something that Osunsan knows all too well. She lost her brother, John Michael Patrick Jr., 19, who was killed by a drunk driver.
“This is very personal for me. Even throughout this holiday season, you are still thankful, and you want to celebrate it, but there’s still a piece missing. To go home and realize that person isn’t there to celebrate the holidays and to celebrate milestones, because somebody made a choice to drink alcohol and drive, which is 100 percent preventable. It does destroy families,” said Osunsan.
Rideshare apps are available on most mobile devices. In many cases, rides can be scheduled in advance, or they can be offered with short wait times. A responsible designated driver removes any need for you to scramble to find a way home. Whatever your plans are this New Year’s Eve, experts say its critical that you also have a clear plan to get yourself home safely.
Jones Records Double-Double as Bulldogs Beat UMHB
SEGUIN, Texas -- Texas Lutheran (6-2) downed visiting Mary Hardin-Baylor (8-4), 77-54, in what made for a historic afternoon for several Bulldogs on Sunday in Memorial Gymnasium. The win over the Crusaders is the first for the Bulldogs since 2013, ending a six-game losing streak to the Crusaders. Texas Lutheran finishes the 2024 calendar year with a 6-1 record at home dating back to last season.
Sarahi Jones (Los Fresnos/Los Fresnos) recorded her second career double-double, notching 14 points, a career-high 18 rebounds, three assists, two steals, and two blocks. The 18 rebounds are the most for the Bulldogs since Lynn Lumpkin-Boozer’s program record 27 rebounds against Sul Ross State in 2011 and the most by a Bulldog since joining the SCAC. The 18 rebounds also tie Sara Kainer and Shanna Dauchy for the sixth most in a single-game in program history.
All five TLU starters finished in double figures with Angelina Sotelo (San Marcos/San Marcos) leading the Bulldogs with a season-high 17 points on 7-of-10 shooting including going 3-of-4 from beyond the arc and added three assists. Kailee Mulkey (New Braunfels/New Braunfels) added 15
points, six rebounds, four assists, and a team-high five steals. Sunday was Mulkey’s fifth career game with at least five steals. Mulkey currently ranks third in the SCAC with an average of 2.8 steals per game and following Sunday’s game she moved into a tie with Tara Molina (2016-21) for second in program history in steals with 166 in her career. Lauren Sansano (San Antonio/FEAST) totaled 13 points on 5-of-8 shooting and matched Mulkey to dish out a team-high four assists. Elexis Morado (Kingsville/ Santa Gertrudis Academy), who made her first start since 2022 on Sunday, matched her career-high with 11 points on 5-of-6 shooting.
Texas Lutheran controlled the game from the outset taking an early 14-8 lead before carrying a 1916 lead into the second quarter. Elexis Morado and Angelina Sotelo scored six points each to lead the Bulldogs in the opening period. The Bulldogs would stretch their lead to nine entering the halftime break behind a seven point second quarter from Lauren Sansano.
After a slow start to the third, TLU was able to battle back to still win the quarter with an 1815 advantage led by five points from Sarahi Jones. The Bulldogs would dominate the fourth quarter,
outscoring a Crusaders team that beat 2nd-ranked Wartburg two weeks ago, 21-10 to put the game away. TLU would lead for all but 17 seconds Sunday afternoon with every active member of the team seeing at least one minute of action.
As a team, Texas Lutheran recorded 22 assists on 30 made field goals and forced 25 UMHB turnovers, the second most for the Crusaders this season - only trailing the 27 forced by the Bulldogs earlier this month.
Up next, TLU begins SCAC conference play on Thursday, January 2, as the Southwestern University Pirates travel to Seguin for the conference opener. Tip-off is set for 5:30 PM. The game will be streamed on TLU+. All streaming and live stats links will be available on tlubulldogs.com.
Fans can receive updates by following @ tluathletics & @tluwbb on X (Twitter) and catch up with the latest news and notes on the team by clicking LIKE on the TLU Athletics Facebook page at @tlubulldogs or by visiting the team’s Instagram page at @tluwbb and as always follow TLU athletics on all of our social channels for updates on all things TLU Athletics.
Bryce Hayes - TLU Sports Information & Sports Marketing
VITAL STATISTICS
Rangel
Amelia “Amy” C. Rangel, age 89 of Seguin, passed away on December 28, 2024. Amy was born in Guadalupe County, Texas, to Regina “Deleon” and Evaristo Campos.
A woman far ahead of her time, she was inspiring, courageous, and a role model to many. She was the anchor of her family, often described as the one who held everyone together. Her family would often say, “Were it not for her.” She was the person everyone turned to for help and guidance. After retiring from her career as a bookkeeper, she found joy in her home, tending to her yard, and caring for her plants.
She is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 52 years, Secundino “Cundo” Rangel, Sr.; her parents, Evaristo Campos and Regina DeLeon Campos; and her siblings, Patricio Campos, Marcelina Campos, Herminia Campos, Mario Campos, Edmund Campos, Adam Campos, and Eva Garcia.
She is survived by her brothers: Evaristo Campos Jr, Ciriaco Campos and wife Amparo. Her children: Cynthia Rangel, Secundino Rangel Jr. and wife Alicia, and Christopher Rangel and wife Ileen. Her legacy lives on through her grandchildren: Robert Cervantes and wife Jana, Jennifer Ramirez, Secundino Rangel III and wife Brandy, Marc Rangel and wife Windy, Brittany Rangel, Abel Rangel, Jennifer Luna and husband Rick,
Wilson
Briana Rangel, Marc Benavides, and Vincent Rangel. She was also blessed with great-grandchildren: Justin Ramirez, Alex Ramirez and significant other Austin Prentice, Milagro Moreno, Diego Cervantes, Beau Cervantes, Ariana Rangel, Delilah Menchaca and husband Nathaniel, Taytum Rangel, Presley Rangel, Gavin Rangel, London Rangel and Lucy Rangel, as well as greatgreat-grandchildren: Conley Anderson, Roman Anderson, Oliver Prentice, Aiden Noria, Katilena Rangel, Ryan Menchaca, and Onipaa Aweau; many other nieces, nephews, other loving family members and friends.
Her impact on her family and community is immeasurable, and her love and wisdom will be cherished forever.
Visitation will begin on Thursday, January 2, 2025 at 5 p.m. at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel followed by the recitation of the Holy Rosary at 6:30 p.m. with Deacon Nick Carrillo officiating. A procession will depart Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel on Friday, January 3, 2025 at 9:30 a.m. for the Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. Entombment will follow in St. James Catholic Cemetery Mausoleum.
Serving as Pallbearers will be her three grandsons, Robert Cervantes, Secundino Rangel, III, and Marc Benavides and other family members. Honorary Pallbearers will be Abel Rangel and Vincent Rangel.
Memorial contributions may be made to Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, 409 W. Krezdorn, Seguin, Texas, 78155.
You are invited to sign the guest book at www.treshewell.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155, 830-549-5912.
Faris Wilson Sr passed away recently. Wake will be held Friday January 3rd 2025 from 5pm to 7pm at Second Baptist Church. Viewing will be held Saturday January 4, 2025 from 9:30am to 11am at Emanuel Lutheran Church. Funeral services will be held Saturday January 4, 2025 at 11am at Emanuel Lutheran Church. Burial will follow at Capote Cemetery. Survivors include: son: Faris Wilson Jr, daughter: Deborah Harty and brothers: Curtis Wilson, Albert Wilson and Larry Wilson Services Entrusted to: Crenshaw Funeral Home, 216 Blumberg St Seguin, Tx 78155
VITAL STATISTICS
Sawyer
SGM Frank Charles Sawyer, Jr., USA (ret), age 88 of Seguin, TX, passed away on December 25, 2024. Frank was born on August 26, 1936 in Willimantic, Connecticut to Marie Luciene (Pepin) and Frank C. Sawyer, Sr.
Frank graduated from Windham High School in 1954. He served in the United States Army for 24 years with a rank of SGM. His military awards were the Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and the Armed Forces Expedition Medal.
Frank served in Okinawa Japan, Korea, Italy, New Jersey, Pennsylvania,
Hernandez
Jerry Don Hernandez, age 62 of Seguin, passed away on December 16, 2024. Jerry was born on July 13, 1962 in San Antonio, Texas to Agnes (Cortez) and Jose Juan Hernandez.
Jerry proudly served his country in the United States Army for sixteen years. He retired as a lieutenant from the Seguin Police Department after twenty-two years of dedicated service.
He is preceded in death by his father, his siblings, Doreen Hernandez, Jeffrey Hernandez, and Beatrice Hernandez and his brother-in-law, John Levi. Survivors include his loving wife of 25 years, Jessica Hernandez; children, John Hernandez and wife Ashlyn, Joshua Hernandez, Jennifer Gonzalez and
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.
Virginia, Washington D.C., and Texas.
Frank is preceded in death by his loving wife of 53 years, Gaile Mary Sawyer, his parents, and sister Shirley Landon of Chaplin, CT.
Survivors include his son, Nelson Sawyer and his wife Suzanne of Colorado Springs, CO; daughter, Norma Engelmann and husband Douglas of Lufkin, TX; grandchildren, Heidi Engelmann of Seguin, TX, Tiffany Engelmann and husband Fred Booker of San Antonio, TX, Korey Engelmann and wife Kayla of La Vernia, TX, Molly Sawyer, Christopher Sawyer, and Benjamin Sawyer of Colorado Springs, CO and Erin Greszler and husband Brian of the Netherlands; nine great-grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and other loving family members.
Private graveside services and interment with full military honors will be held at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery at a later date.
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.
husband Tony, Jerry Hernandez, Jr., and Jacqueline Hernandez; grandchildren, Caleb Cantu, Dominic Soto, Marie Hernandez, Josiah Gonzalez, London Andrew Barrlowe, Laramie Labelle Hernandez and Izabella Rose Zayas; great-grandchild, Cash Cantu; mother, Agnes Hernandez; siblings, Joe David Hernandez and wife Mary, and Debra Levi; sister-in-law, Paty Fraga and husband Juan; best friend, John Hutchinson; numerous other loving family members and a host of friends.
Visitation will be held on Monday, January 6, 2025 at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel from 5 to 7 p.m. Funeral services will begin on Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at 10 a.m. at Crossroads Church in Seguin with the Reverend Marcus Avalos officiating. Interment with military honors will follow at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.
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.
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.
CDC Reports Increase In Norovirus Cases
(Undated) -- Outbreaks of norovirus have been reported nationwide and the CDC reported twice the amount of cases compared to past years. Norovirus is known widely as the stomach flu and is the main cause of diarrhea and vomiting from inflammation of the stomach, intestines or gastroenteritis, according to the CDC. The week of December 5th the CDC reported just over 90 cases of norovirus -- more than double the highest number reported between 2021 and 2024. The CDC report follows the Minnesota Department of Health saying the state saw twice the average number of cases in December. The virus is also the top contributor of foodborne illness in the U.S. and causes 58-percent of acquired illnesses.
Flu Season Picking Up
(Undated) -- Flu season is picking up after a slow start this winter. Data from the CDC found that positive tests went up by 12-percent for the week ending December 21st, compared to the week before. Over 12-thousand people were hospitalized from the virus. Flu activity typically starts to pick up around Halloween but this year, activity just started picking up in recent weeks. The CDC says flu activity was highest in Louisiana and Oregon for the week ending December 20th. Activity was also high along the West Coast and throughout the South.
Company Hopes To Expand Lifespans Of Dogs
(San Francisco, CA) -- A biotech startup is hoping to bring a pill to market as soon as 2025 that could give dogs at least an extra year of healthy life. San Francisco-based Loyal has raised 125-million-dollars to develop the drug with the hopes that the work can also eventually benefit humans. The daily pill looks to lessen or reverse a dog’s metabolic changes as it gets older.
A Virginia NICU Closes Due to Unexplainable Infant Fractures
(Richmond, VA) -- A neonatal intensive care unit in Virgina has closed due to several infants having unexplainable fractures. Several newborns at Henrico Doctors’ Hospital in Richmond have been found to have the fracturesThe hospital will now require all NICU caregivers to participate in safety training programs, will have additional head-to-toe exams of newborns, and have installed new security systems. The Virginia Department of Health and Henrico Police are still investigating.
January
First Friday Feast
The Geronimo Lions Club’s First Friday Feast Has been Postponed until February 7th from 5:50PM-7:30PM or until they out!
Unwind Your Drawing Skills.
This Seguin Art League class will concentrate on value scale and pencil techniques. Everyone will have the opportunity to draw the basic geometric forms and convert them into everyday objects. Open to ages 18 and up. January 10 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. $20. Basic supplies included. Minimum 8 participants. For more information call 830-305-0472. 104 S. Austin St., Seguin.
Native
Plant Society Guadalupe Chapter Meeting
• Date: Tuesday, January 14, 2025
• Time: Social time and plant/seed exchange at 6:30 PM, program begins at 7:00 PM
• Location: First Presbyterian Church, 1121 E. Walnut Street, Seguin, Texas (Parking in the rear, enter from N. Moss Street)
• The Guadalupe Chapter of the Native Plant Society invites the community to its monthly meeting. This month’s program will feature Jane Tillman from Austin, presenting via Zoom on the topic “Plants that are Good for Birds in Our Area.”
• Meetings are open to the public, and visitors are welcome.
• For more information, visit https://npsot.org/wp/guadalupe/.
Guadalupe County Republican Women Meeting
• Date: Thursday, January 23, 2025
• Time: Seated lunch at 11:30 AM
• Location: Seguin Silver Center, 510 East Court Street, Seguin
• Join the Guadalupe County Republican Women for their first meeting of the new year, featuring speaker Luke Macias, a Texas-based political consultant known for working with the most conservative public servants across the state. Macias has been recognized as one of the most valuable consultants in Texas by Capitol Inside.
• Cost for Lunch: $15.00 (Reservation required)
• Program: Free to attend
• Reservations for lunch can be made by contacting Glenda Partain at 830.391.3979 (call or text) or by emailing silvercenter@sbcglobal.net. Payment accepted by cash or check. For more information, visit https:// www.guadalupe-county-rw.com.
• Contact Information:
• Tamara Berger: 512.201.5848
• Anne Costas: 830.433.1038
• Guadalupe County Republican Women ~ P.O. Box 176 ~ Seguin, TX 78156
• Don’t miss this timely and informative program!
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. 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 830-379-6382.
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.
Continued on the next page.
Mid-Texas Symphony
The Mid-Texas Symphony, with conductor, Akiko Fujimoto, will present Bond and Beyond, at 4 p.m. on Sunday, March 30 at the New Braunfels Civic and Convention Center in New Braunfels. To purchase tickets, visit www.mtsymphony.org or call the box office 830-463-5353 For questions, email boxoffice@mtsymphony.org.
April
Mid-Texas Symphony
The Mid-Texas Symphony, with conductor, Akiko Fujimoto, will present Ode to Joy, at 4 p.m. on Sunday, April 27 at Jackson Auditorium at Texas Lutheran University. To purchase tickets, visit www.mtsymphony.org or call the box office 830-463-5353 For questions, email boxoffice@mtsymphony.org.
Ongoing Community Calendar Items
CCSCT Utility Assistance Application for 2024 Applications are available for the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (C.E.A.P.) provided by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs through the CCSCT. The program will help low-income consumers reduce their utility bills. There is also assistance available through the Low Income Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP). For more information visit www.ccsct.org or follow them on the socials at https://linktr.ee/ ccsct_cares.
Heritage Museum Calendars
The Heritage Museum is selling 2024 Then and Now Themed Calendars. There is a limited supply and they are available for purchase at the Heritage Museum, Gift & Gourmet, Pecan Town Books and Brews, Parker’s City Pharmacy, and online at www.heritagemuseum.net. All proceeds benefit Museum projects.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Dial 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline available 24 hours a day in English and Spanish.
Volunteer Van Drivers Needed
Guadalupe County Veteran Services Office is in great need of volunteer van drivers. Even those who can only commit to one day per month. Volunteers will drive local veterans who have no transportation to their VA medical appointments in San Antonio. To volunteer, call 830-303-4188 ext. 1249.
Precious Life Services
Precious Life Services is accepting new clients who may need help with Anger Management, Parenting Skills, Christian Counseling, Group and Family Therapy, Anxiety and Depression, etc. Appointments are available in-office, by Zoom or Teleconference by calling 830-372-5980.
Free Accredited Adult Homeschool Program
The Life Changing Church is now offering a Free Accredited Homeschool Program for adults wanting to earn their high school diploma. It is a self-paced, no classes to attend program. You work around your schedule and at the end of the program you will receive an accredited diploma that is acceptable for college. Tutors are available at no charge. Free placement testing, no previous records required. For more information call or text Crystal at 325-956-1155.
Salvation Army Office
The Seguin Unit Salvation Army office is located at 205 North King Street. The office is open to receive requests for assistance weekly from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.
Volunteers Needed
The Guadalupe Valley Young Marines need volunteers. They promote a healthy, drugfree program and need males, 19 years and up who would like to see the program grow by contributing time to help future citizens, boys and girls 8 to 18. Positions available include computer input, physical fitness training, planning/logistics, and medical. Contact Dina Dillon at 423-227-9610 or visit www. gvyoungmarines.org.
La Trinidad Blessing Box - Food Pantry
The La Trinidad United Methodist Church invites you to “Take what you need, Bring what you can, and above all be Blessed!” by its Blessing Box Food Pantry located at the corner of the church at 306 E. Gonzales St. in Seguin. The Blessing Box is filled with items to help those in need.
The Country Church Attic
The Country Church Attic is now open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Wednesday and Thursday.
Clothing Ministry
The Refuge III Clothing Ministry continues to give away clothing, some furniture, dishes, and other items at 7535 Elm Creek Road in Seguin. For further information call 830-3036478.
Free Bible Course
The World Bible School is offering free Bible correspondence courses. Answer questions from the Bible and send in for grading. Visit studygod.info for further information.
To ensure non-profit organization’s meetings and events appear in this calendar, send information to: communitycalendar@kwed1580. com, or drop off the information at the Seguin Daily News/KWED offices located at 609 E. Court St. in Seguin. For best results, submit information at least two weeks prior to the event
SDN Classifieds
FOR RENT: 512 E. Ireland - Newly remodeled, 3 bedroom/2 bath home available now. Require 1 year lease, deposit and references from previous landlord(s). $1500 monthly plus $1500 deposit. No pets. Call 830-401-4797, leave message, if no answer.
