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TASB selected to lead search for Seguin ISD’s new superintendent

(Seguin) -- The Seguin ISD Board of Trustees is now in full search mode for the next superintendent of schools. After approving a retirement agreement with Superintendent Dr. Veronica Vijil, the board on Thursday voted to begin the search immediately. Board members voted to hire the Texas Association of School Boards (TASB) to conduct its superintendent search.

Board President Denise Crettenden says Thursday night’s vote will now allow the search process to get underway.

“Now that we’ve chosen TASB’s Executive Services as our search firm, we’ll get started with surveys and forums and different sessions where the public can put their input in on what they’d like to see in the superintendent and get that from staff, parents, community -- from everybody. So, we’ll then have a profile of what we’re looking for (in a superintendent). Then TASB uses their resources to go out and try to find those people for us. We’ll look over all the people who apply. and then there’ll be a process of whittling that down. Hopefully that timeline looks like in summer, we would be able to find someone,” said Crettenden.

The board voted 6-1 to hire TASB. The lone dissenting vote came from Trustee Josh Bright, who says he would have preferred that the district use a different process to select a search firm.

“I have nothing against TASB. I think TASB is a great organization. I (had) a lot of really good trainings for us,” said Bright. “My thing is I really just think that there’s a lot of other companies out there...that we

could be looking at too. So, I was wanting to do, like a public request for professional services, just to see what all is out there.”

Most of the board disagreed and voted to hire TASB. Prior to that vote, Trustee Grace Mueller and Board President Crettenden spoke about why they believed TASB was the best choice to assist the district with its search.

“I’d just like to make a comment that TASB has a large national network, and they also have a very large component that involves the public to give their input. So, that’s one of the considerations about why we’re using them,” said Mueller.

Crettenden agreed, and says many districts use TASB’s Executive Search Services.

“I was impressed with how many people used them, you know, five years later when they were looking for another superintendent, and we ‘ve always worked well with TASB,” said Cretttenden.

TASB’s Executive Search Services will cost the district approximately $12,500. Crettenden

says there could be some additional small expenses, but most costs will be covered by that fee.

“That includes them leading all those sessions, the surveys, and then getting the applications, (and) getting ready for interviews. There are things that cost money, like printing and postage and it’s all inclusive. So, aside from some things we could add like if we want to do some additional national advertising -- there’ll be some national advertising included, but if we want to add some on, then there will be some (additional) expenses. If we bring people back for a second interview and things like that, then those things would be an additional expense to the district, but otherwise everything should be included,” said Crettenden.

Dr. Vijil’s last day acting as superintendent in the district will be June 30, 2025. She will remain an employee of the school district, serving as Superintendent Emeritus, until December 31, 2025. Officials say that’s in effort to assist with the transition of leadership.

Darren Dunn

Changes, continued.

Using a video released by the family, the details of the alleged mishandling of that incident on Aug. 27, 2024, were outlined by the family.

In that body cam footage, Grimm’s daughter-in-law

Lorie Shupp was seen outside the home in the gated Las Brisas Subdivision explaining to the deputy about Grimm’s mental condition. The deputy was first to respond after the family had called 9-1-1 to report that Grimm had reportedly cut himself.

In that video, the deputy is seen asking if Grimm was armed. When Shupp replies he has “a frying pan,” the deputy confronts Grimm. After another person is able to convince him to throw down the pan, the video immediately shows Grimm reaching from his back and pulling out a knife.

Seen armed and walking slowly towards the deputy, the officer grabbed his gun. He then asked Grimm to drop the knife and was seen backing up. That’s when the family says the deputy, just eight seconds later, shot Grimm twice.

Shupp says her father-in law should not have been killed that day. She says her family simply wanted help with a gash on his arm. She says the deputy did not do much in trying to de-escalate things.

“I kept telling him, I’ve got this please just back up. Let me handle my dad, and once again, the deputy did not acknowledge that I was standing there,” said Shupp.

Also weighing in on the situation was Kallinen. Kallinen says if properly handled and prepared by the sheriff’s office, this deputy would have arrived on the scene with better training and increased options for handling the situation.

“Why didn’t the officer have a taser? He could have used a taser. Why did he shoot to kill, he could have shot him in the leg,” said Kallinen.

The deputy has since been identified as Gary Courtney. According to the family, a grand jury declined to indict Courtney on criminal charges.

Having to still face the fallout of this tragedy is Grimm’s first wife, Rebecca Geinzer. Geinzer says she hopes the sheriff’s office takes the first obvious step and equips deputies with tasers. The family also asks that they

implement a mental health crisis team.

“Get tasers,” said Geinzer. “Train you officers, so that they look at the situation, and figure out how to deal with it before shooting. Look at how much pain, and agony, and grief one simple minute, eight seconds caused.”

Grimm’s son Byron says there’s a series of things that could have been provided. He says his father and the deputy could have both walked away safe that day.

“You read about this; you see it on the news happening to other people. It happened to us, and it can happen to somebody else, and that’s why we’re here,” said Byron Grimm.

Following the press conference, the current Guadalupe County Sheriff Joshua Ray provided a written response to the family’s request for change.

His statement reads, “I have reviewed the video footage and spoken with a member of Mr. Grimm’s immediate family in some detail regarding the incident that took place in August of 2024 before my term in Office. I am sincerely sorry for the loss of his life and the grief it has caused his family. In the law enforcement profession, we are often placed in critical situations and required to make split-second decisions that may result in either the preservation or loss of life. Sometimes police officers are faced with a decision that has no good solution. Either choice can result in a tragic outcome.

When I took office, I ordered my leadership team to conduct a full audit and review of Guadalupe County Sheriff’s Office policies and procedures in order to align our policies with best acceptable practices in the law enforcement profession. This is currently in progress. Additionally, we have already met with multiple vendors and intend to request funding from the Guadalupe County Commissioners’ Court to purchase tasers and other non-lethal tools that our personnel are not currently equipped with. Although, I’m not sure a less lethal option would have resulted in a different outcome in this specific incident.

Again, we are deeply sorry for the loss of Mr. Grimm and the grief his family has experienced.”

Following the officer-related shooting on Nogal Street, the investigation was turned over to the Texas Rangers.

Superintendent, continued.

outside the district -- once she assumes the position of superintendent emeritus this summer. She will continue to receive her current salary and full benefits until her official retirement date at the end of December 2025.

The agreement also calls for Vijil to serve as an advisor to the next superintendent on several matters, including the areas of instructional management, district improvements, student management, personnel management and facility improvement projects.

During her time as superintendent emeritus, Dr. Vijil will be provided with an office, computer and other equipment as necessary to perform any duties. In addition to her salary, Dr. Vijil will also receive a severance payment of $95,682, which must be paid before her resignation date.

The Seguin ISD Board of Trustees and Dr. Vijil issued a joint press release announcing her decision. Neither the board nor Dr. Vijil answered any additional questions about the resignation agreement. In the press release, Dr. Vijil explained her decision and said that she was making this announcement now so that the school board could have time to begin the selection process for the new superintendent. She also offered thanks for her time in the Seguin ISD.

“The level of community and district support we have experienced in Seguin ISD has been a hallmark of our success. I am grateful for the Board members who have allowed me to serve Seguin ISD. The Board and our dedicated staff have been committed to excellence at varied levels and facets of

our district. Lastly, I want to acknowledge the campus and district leaders who have exercised visionary leadership in their daily work so that every student will be prepared to succeed after graduation. I am very proud of the work we have accomplished during my tenure. Our teachers, leadership team, and Board deserve the credit for working together as a team for the success of our students. I believe new leadership and the Board will bring new ideas to the table and continue to build on our legacy of success,” said Vijil.

Board President Denise Crettenden also used the press release to speak on behalf of the rest of the board.

“We value Dr. Vijil’s hard work in leading the district. Along with the Board, Dr. Vijil focused Seguin ISD and its stakeholders on identifying and developing the strengths and gifts of every child so that students can achieve success beyond high school graduation,” said Crettenden.

The full press release can be accessed via a link on our website, seguintoday. com.

Dr. Vijil previously served as superintendent of schools in the Fabens ISD near El Paso. She was initially named Seguin ISD’s deputy superintendent while the district was under the leadership of former Superintendent Matthew Gutierrez. Shortly after she arrived, Dr. Vijil was named the interim superintendent when Dr. Gutierrez resigned to take another position in the Austin area. The board later removed the interim tag and then formally hired Dr. Vijil as superintendent a little over a year ago. Her combined service as interim and acting superintendent means she has been at the helm of the district for approximately a year and a half.

MyCue

Jerry Roger MyCue, age 83 of McQueeney, passed away on March 6, 2025. Jerry was born in Seguin, Texas on November 24, 1941 to Arline (Koepsel) and Roger MyCue.

Raised in Seguin, Jerry graduated from Seguin High School Class of 1960. Jerry earned his Bachelor of Industrial Arts and Master of Arts from Southwest Texas State University, and began his teaching career at Kermit High School. In 1967 he and Carol moved back to Seguin where he took over the Industrial Arts Department at Seguin High School and turned it into a first class state recognized program.

In 1972 he was offered a position with the Texas Education Agency, where he took what he accomplished at Seguin High School and was able to spread it to schools all across the state. His true passion while at the Agency was the Industrial Arts Competition, he grew that program to include over 10,000 volunteers, teachers, and students, as they competed with their wood, metal, and drafting projects and various other areas of Industrial Arts. After 21years with T.E.A., Jerry returned to Seguin High School where as he did his time before, he continued to touch and inspire many lives.

After retiring from teaching, Jerry continued to design and draw house

Stevens

Maj Richard Michael “Mike” Stevens, USAF, Ret., age 81 of Edgemont, Arkansas, formerly of Seguin, Texas, went home to be with Jesus on March 12, 2025. Born May 28, 1943 in Weslaco, Texas to Ralph and Esther Stevens, he was the youngest of 4 children, including Edith Drawe, Ralph Stevens Jr, and Patricia White.

He grew up on the Rio Grande River where he earned his nickname “Mud Hen” and wrecked many cars and airplanes. He attended Texas A&M University where he earned a degree in business and served in the Corps of Cadets; he later earned his MBA from St. Mary’s University. Upon graduation from A&M, he began his military career in the United States Air Force as a fighter pilot. He served with distinction and honor for 20 years, during which he fought in the Vietnam War and was a recipient of the Distinguish Flying Cross, the Meritorious Service Medal and the Vietnam Gallantry Cross, among other medals.

Upon returning from Vietnam, he married the love of his life, Nancy Pippin Brett on November 23, 1968. Together they had 2 daughters, Pippin and Summer, who were the apples of his eye.

More than being a husband and father, having a military career or owning his own real estate company, American Realty of Seguin, Mike Stevens was a man of God. After coming to know the Lord at 33 years old, Mike’s desire was to serve Jesus. His service began in his own home with his wife and children and spread to the community and beyond. Anyone who knew Mike, knew that he put God first. He led a nursing home ministry for 28 years, he went

plans for anyone who needed his knowledge and advice. Jerry liked traveling and camping with Carol and their group The Road Runners. Most important was spending time with his grandsons and as of late his great grandchildren, this is when you really saw the sparkle in his eyes, as he read them books and continued to teach as he had done his entire life.

Jerry is preceded in death by his parents, father-in-law, Kurt Schievelbein, his brother Richard “Dickie” MyCue, and brothers-in-law, Jimmie Johnson, G.R. “Bob” Hyatt, III and John Nash, III.

Survivors include his loving wife of 62 years, Carol MyCue; son, Brent MyCue; grandsons, Darren MyCue, Mason MyCue and wife Kylie and Jaxon Mycue; great-grandchildren, Louise MyCue and Lucian MyCue; siblings, Judy Johnson Hyatt, Scotty MyCue and wife Jacque, Merry Douberly and husband Ed, and Teri Nash Even and husband Mark; mother-in-law, Margaret Schievelbein; brothers-in-law, Fernon Schievelbein and wife Julia, and Kurt Schievelbein and wife Debbie; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other loving family members and a host of friends.

A memorial service celebrating Jerry’s Life will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. at Cross Church with the Reverend Jim Price and the Reverend Jim Craver officiating. A reception will follow in the fellowship hall.

Memorial contributions may be made to Cross Church, 814 N. Bauer, Seguin, Texas, 78155.

Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155, 820-549-5912.

on multiple mission trips and he served the Seguin community with all of his heart. This is the greatest inheritance that he could have left for us.

Preceding Mike in death are his parents, sister, Edith Drawe, brother, Ralph Stevens, Jr., and his brothers-in-law, Buzzy White and Tillis Brett. He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Nancy Stevens; daughter and son-in-law, Pippin and Jared Galloway and their 2 daughters, Ansley and Lily; daughter and son-in-law, Summer and Jeff Herrod and their 3 sons, Tristan, Jordan and Sevrin; his sister, Patricia White, brothers-in-law Gene and Henry Brett (Debbie) and sisters-in-law, Jane Jones (Jimmy), Claudette Brett and April Cubbison; numerous beloved nieces, nephews and a host of friends.

Visitation will begin on Monday, March 31, 2025 at 11:00 a.m., Monday, March 31, 2025 at the Porter Loring Mortuary Chapel, 1101 McCullough, San Antonio, Texas 78212, followed by funeral service at 12:00 p.m. with the Reverend Christopher Larson and the Reverend Robert K. Odom officiating. Graveside services and interment with full military honors will follow at 2:15 p.m. at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery. A reception will follow.

For those whom desire both the funeral service and the graveside service may be livestreamed at https://s3-us-east-2.amazonaws.com/mf-fwp/hewell/ hewell_20250331.html.

Serving as pallbearers will be Jared Galloway, Jeff Herrod, Jordan Herrod, Sevrin Herrod, Graham Allen, Grayson Allen and Conner Allen.

Memorial contributions to honor Mike’s inheritance can be made to: New Life Fellowship Church, 16489 TX-123, Seguin, TX 78155 or to West Side First Baptist Church, 7025 Greers Ferry Road, Greers Ferry, AR 72067.

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.

CDC Withdraws Billions In COVID Funding From Health Departments

(Washington, DC) -- The CDC is withdrawing over eleven-billion dollars allocated to health departments across the U.S. to help fight COVID-19. A spokesperson for the Department of Health and Human Services says they will “no longer waste billions of taxpayer dollars responding to a non-existent pandemic that Americans moved on from years ago.” HHS oversees over a dozen agencies, including the CDC. The CDC website says hundreds of people still die every week from COVID, adding that long-COVID symptoms are continuing to cause medical problems in some cases.

HHS To Cut 10k Employees, Close Half Of Offices

(Washington, DC) -- The Department of Health and Human Services is going to cut ten-thousand employees across different health agencies. It comes after another ten-thousand employees voluntary resigned earlier this year. The changes are meant to save close to two-billion-dollars yearly and will refocus the department’s priorities. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr said the restructuring will see the department consolidate from 28 to 15 divisions and will also reduce its regional offices from ten to five. The cuts are mainly targeting administrative roles with notices expected to go out to employees soon.

Trump Freezing Planned Parenthood Funding

(Washington, DC) -- President Trump is freezomg 20-million-dollars in funding for Planned Parenthood. Funding is being paused while the administration reviews whether Planned Parenthood is in compliance with Trump’s order to end all diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. The freeze news comes as hundreds of anti-abortion advocates are rallying on Capitol Hill against Planned Parenthood.

Vaccinated Southern California Toddler Contracts Measles

(Riverside, CA) -- A toddler in Riverside, California, has contracted the measles in spite of being fully up-to-date with her vaccines. It is rare, but it can happen. Sandra Mercado says her two-year-old daughter Everleigh started feeling sick a few days after attending an event with nearly two-dozen other toddlers. When she got worse over the weekend, they went to the emergency room where the measles diagnosis was made. Doctors say the two-year-old’s first MMR vaccine gave her 91-percent protection. It’s not until the second shot that protection rises to 97-percent. That’s not until the age of four at the earliest.

March

Seguin Pony League Baseball and Softball Registration

The Seguin Pony League Baseball & Softball season runs from March 18 to May 25, 2025, at the Seguin Softball 4 Plex, 833 Nelda St. Registration is $50 for ages 3-14, with a deadline of January 25. For more information or to register, text Gabe at 830-5564271 or email allyouthsports@yahoo.com.

April

Wellness Wednesday: Mountain Biking 101

The Guadalupe Chapter of Master Naturalists is hosting Wellness Wednesday: Mountain Biking 101 at 5:00 p.m. on April 2, 2025, at the Irma Lewis Outdoor Learning Center, 1865 E. Hwy 90, Seguin, TX. This free event is open to the community, with bikes and helmets provided. Participants will learn and practice basic off-road biking skills. Space is limited, and the ability to safely ride a two-wheel bike is required. Registration is required at this link.Moonlight & Roses Celebrates Downtown Successes Seguin Main Street is hosting Moonlight & Roses at 7:00 p.m. on April 4, 2025, at the Memorial Rose Garden in Walnut Springs Park. This free event will feature live jazz music from the Dirty River Jazz Band, complimentary desserts, and the presentation of the 2024 Downtown and Arts Awards. Guests are encouraged to bring their own beverages, lawn chairs, or blankets.

Seguin Parks & Recreation Nature Series: Paint & Plant

Seguin Parks & Recreation is hosting Paint & Plant at 9:00 a.m. on April 5, 2025, at the Irma Lewis Outdoor Learning Center, 1865 E. Hwy 90, Seguin, TX. This interactive workshop is part of the Nature Series and offers participants the opportunity to explore painting and planting techniques. Registration is required at this link.

Native Plant Society Monthly Meeting

The Guadalupe Chapter of the Native Plant Society will hold its monthly meeting on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at St. John Lutheran Church on FM 465 in Marion, Texas. Presenter Cheryl Hamilton will discuss “Invasive Plants: Stop the Spread, Spread the Word!” Social time begins at 6:30 p.m., followed by the program at 7:00 p.m., with a short business meeting to follow. Meetings are free and open to the public. For more information, visit npsot.org/chapters/guadalupe.

Seguin Art League’s Unwind Your Drawing Skills Class

The Seguin Art League will be hosting the Unwind Your Drawing Skills class from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on April 11 at 104 S. Austin, Seguin. This class, open to participants 18 and older, will focus on observing and practicing drawing skills with an emphasis on textures, from smooth to rough. The session will conclude with a setup featuring a furry favorite. The cost is $20, including basic supplies, with a minimum of eight participants required. For more information, call 830-305-0472.

Seguin Parks & Recreation Nature Series: Nature Discovery

Seguin Parks & Recreation is hosting Nature Discovery at 9:00 a.m. on April 12, 2025, at the Irma Lewis Outdoor Learning Center, 1865 E. Hwy 90, Seguin, TX. This handson workshop is part of the Nature Series and encourages participants to explore and learn about the natural world. Registration is required at this link. Geronimo and Alligator Creeks Spring Cleanup The Geronimo and Alligator Creeks Watershed Partnership will host the Spring Stream Cleanup from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 12. Volunteers can meet at either the Seguin Outdoor Learning Center (1865 E US Highway 90) or Oak Creek Elementary in New Braunfels (3060 Goodwin Ln). Cleanup supplies will be provided, and limited special event t-shirts are available for participants. Free breakfast tacos and coffee will be offered. Registration is open at geronimocreek.org.

Field of Honor® Plate Sale

Field of Honor® will be hosting a plate sale from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 12, at Cash America Pawn, located at 1111 E Court St. Each plate is $12 and includes half a chicken, cowboy potatoes, beans, and trimmings. Drinks and baked goods will also be available for purchase. Proceeds will support Field of Honor® and its initiatives.

Free Tax Clinic at TLU

Dr. Sally Cook announces that the annual Tax Clinic at Texas Lutheran University is now open. The clinic operates Wednesdays from 5:00 to 7:00 PM and Saturdays from 9:00 AM to noon, closing on the weekends surrounding Spring Break and the Wednesday of Spring Break. The final day of service is April 12. Taxpayers must bring their Social Security card, photo ID, all tax forms, and, if filing jointly, their spouse must be present to sign. Dependents claimed must also have Social Security cards. Taxpayers should line up in their cars on Beck Street, where student volunteers will assist. For more information, contact Dr. Sally Cook or Annette at 830-372-6050.

Festival for Life: A Community Celebration

The South Texas Pregnancy Care Center invites you to the Festival for Life on Saturday, April 12, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Columbus Club of Seguin Hall, 1015 S. Austin St., Seguin, TX. Enjoy live music, a burger meal for $10, and a dessert auction at 2:15 PM. Kids’ activities, including a dunking booth, rock wall, photo booth, balloon animals, face painting, and more, are free. Come celebrate life with fun for the whole family!

Panther Palooza Returns to Navarro ISD for a Night of Family Fun

Navarro ISD is hosting the second annual Panther Palooza on Saturday, April 12, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Navarro Intermediate Parking Lot (588 Link Rd, Seguin, TX 78155). In case of inclement weather, the event will be moved indoors.

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Dedication of Guadalupe County Historical Marker at Nash Creek Cemetery

The Guadalupe County Historical Commission will hold a dedication ceremony for a Guadalupe County Historical Marker at Nash Creek Cemetery on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. The cemetery, located at 1351 Nash Creek Road, Kingsbury, TX, is recognized for its historical significance in the region.

Business After-Hours Networking

The Seguin Chamber of Commerce will host a Business After-Hours Networking event from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 24, at the Seguin Chamber Office, located at 116 N. Camp St., Seguin, TX 78155. Sponsored by the Mid-Texas Symphony, this event provides an opportunity for professionals to connect and engage with the local business community. Chamber members are reminded to bring their membership cards for entry.

TLU Bands Present “PRISM 2025: American Visions”

Join Texas Lutheran University Bands for PRISM 2025: American Visions on Friday, April 25, 2025, at 7:00 PM in Jackson Auditorium. This concert will feature a wide variety of selections performed by both large and small ensembles from the TLU School of Music. Admission is free and open to the public. Don’t miss this exciting musical experience!

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.

May

16th Annual Cinco de Mayo Pachanga in Seguin

The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) Council 682 is hosting the 16th Annual Cinco de Mayo Pachanga on May 2-3, 2025, in Seguin’s Central Park. The festival runs from 5:00 p.m. to midnight on Friday and noon to midnight on Saturday, celebrating Seguin’s connection to the 1862 Battle of Puebla

Wings & Wheels Fly-In at the Pioneer Flight Museum

The Pioneer Flight Museum is hosting the Wings & Wheels Fly-In from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on May 3, 2025, at 190 Pershing Ln, Kingsbury, TX. This museum fun day will feature a 1909 Blériot XI, along with antique, vintage, and classic aircraft and automobiles, food trucks, vendors, and living history displays. This spring fundraising event welcomes donations at the gate. For more information, visit PioneerFlightMuseum.org or call 830-6394162.

Seguin’s Small Business Resource Fair

The Seguin Chamber of Commerce, Main Street & CVB, and Seguin Economic Development Corporation are hosting Seguin’s Small Business Resource Fair from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on May 7, 2025, at the Seguin Coliseum, 950 S. Austin St. This free event provides valuable insights and resources for entrepreneurs and small business owners. A luncheon hosted by the Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce will follow from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m., with tickets available for $20. Your Best Life Festival – Free Health & Wellness Expo

NAMI Guadalupe County is hosting Your Best Life Festival, a free health & wellness expo, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on May 17, 2025, at the Seguin Coliseum, 950 S. Austin St., Seguin, TX. Attendees can explore community resources, insurance options, mental health support, fitness demonstrations, and safety information. Kids can enjoy free activities, including a bounce house and face painting. Giveaways and interactive booths will also be available. For more information, visit NAMIGuadalupeCounty. org/festival.

Badges,

Bikes & Tykes Community Event

The Seguin Police Department and Seguin Fire Department are hosting Badges, Bikes & Tykes from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on May 17, 2025, at Max Starcke Park Large Pavilion. This family-friendly event will feature games, prizes, bike raffles, music, and more. Join local first responders for a fun-filled day promoting

2nd Annual Build for Better Bash – Hosted

by Habitat for Humanity of San Antonio & Guadalupe Valley

Habitat for Humanity of San Antonio & Guadalupe Valley invites the community to the 2nd Annual Build for Better Bash on Saturday, June 28, 2025, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Texas Lutheran University – Seguin Hall Parking Lot (1000 W Court St, Seguin, TX 78155). Join us for a community wall build to support local families in need.

June

20th Annual Seguin Area Youth Leadership Academy (SAYLA)

The Seguin Chamber of Commerce is hosting the 20th Annual Seguin Area Youth Leadership Academy (SAYLA) from June 22-27, 2025. This program is open to Guadalupe County students entering their junior or senior year, providing team-building activities, personal development, daily tours, and community service opportunities. A mandatory overnight stay is required for one night only on June 22, 2025. Applications are available now, with a deadline of March 20, 2025. For more information, contact the Seguin Chamber at (830) 379-6382 or cofc@seguinchamber.com.

Ongoing Community Calendar Items

Seguin Public Library Hosts Free Computer Giveaway

The Seguin Public Library, in partnership with Compudopt, is hosting a Free Computer Giveaway to provide families with access to essential technology. To qualify, applicants must not currently own a working computer at home. Selected families will receive a computer with a 2-year warranty and free tech support. Register today for a chance to receive a free computer at bit.ly/CUDSeguin. Families will be randomly selected and notified via text and email. For more information, call 855-532-5060.

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bike safety and community engagement.

AARP Tax-Aide Assistance at the Seguin Public Library

The AARP is providing free tax preparation assistance at the Seguin Public Library in the Technology Lab on Fridays and Saturdays from February 1 to April 12, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Assistance is by appointment only—walk-ins will not be accepted. Appointments can be scheduled at www. aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide. AARP Foundation Tax-Aide serves all taxpayers, with a focus on those over 50 or with low to moderate income. For more information, call 210-802-6196 or visit library.seguintexas. gov.

Seguin ISD Students to Provide Free Tax Assistance to the Public

Seguin High School students are offering free tax preparation services to eligible taxpayers through the IRS’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. These certified students, enrolled in the district’s Career and Technical Education business pathway, have completed IRS-required training in tax law and available tax credits. Assistance is available for individuals and families earning $67,000 or less annually, persons with disabilities, and limited English-speaking taxpayers. Sessions will take place at the Seguin High School Library on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:15 to 5:15 p.m. through March. To ensure timely tax preparation, attendees should bring photo identification, Social Security or ITIN documents, last year’s tax return, Forms W-2 and 1099, Form 1095-A (if applicable), and proof of bank account details for direct deposit. Married couples filing jointly must attend together. For more information, contact Seguin ISD Communications Director Emily Allen at eallen@seguin.k12.tx.us.

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 lo-

cated 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: March 31, 2025

Family of man shot, killed by deputy seek changes to handling of situation

in December, receive a severance package from Seguin ISD