Seguin Magazine - April 2022

G u a d a l u p e C o u n t y l i v i n g

APRIL 2022

Parrot Heads Community building, socializing, and raising money for great causes

Horse Therapy

Hands and hooves help others find peace in hard times

Mandy Anderson Local Shriner finds new ways to give to her community

Gift And Gourmet 212 S Austin - 830-379-1242 www.giftandgourmetseguin.com

HUGE SELECTION OF GENUINE RECLINERS

L

A

599

$

Z

B

f ro m to

O

$

Y

1199

In Stock & Ready for FAST - FREE DELIVERY

New Spring Styles have arrived 20% Off One Regularly Priced Item*

*Coupon Cannot be combined with any other offer, Does not apply to previous purchases, one Coupon Per day Per customer, Expires April 30, 2022

www.starckefurniture.com

300 S. Austin St. • 379-4622 La-Z-Boy Recliners | Broyhill Furniture

We Buy Diamonds!

Bring your diamond in today for cash, trade or design something new!

830-625-3203 | www.ernestos.com | New Braunfels Marketplace | 717 N. Business IH 35 Suite 150

in this issue april 2022

FEATURES 10 HORSE THERAPY FOR GOLD STAR FAMILIES The inspiring story of how horses turned one local woman’s loss into a foundation that helps many.

10

14

18

22

14 SHELTER COORDINATOR OFFERS SUPPORT

Stephanie Johnson, shares her story of why and how she serves the needs of the community.

18 SHRINERS FIRST LADY OF FUNDRAISING

Mandy Anderson gives insight into how she and the Seguin Shriners support children in need.

22 SOUTH TX PREGNANCY CENTER

Lifelong Pregnancy center supporter talks about the impact of education and love in Seguin and surrounding arreas.

ON THE SCENE 26 PARROT HEADS PARTY WITH PURPOSE

Giving back can be a blast! Read how this community group supports charity fundraisers through fun.

30 UPCYCLING USED ITEMS INTO ART

Artist renews discarded lights as festive and fun art projects.

AROUND TOWN 34 FAVORITE FINDS Unique items from small, local businesses

36 SAVE THE DATE See what events are coming up

38 FACES OF SEGUIN Submitted photos from our readers

on the cover Photo by Felicia Frazar

Donna and her horses Magic and Whiskey make an incredible team as they help their community heal through pain and loss.

2022

SG H

THE SEGUIN GAZETTE

BEST OF THE BEST

WOMEN’S & CHILDREN’S APPAREL • HOME DECOR ACCESSORIES • & SO MUCH MORE!

Best Boutique Best Childrens Clothes Best Clothing store

114 S AUSTIN ST (830)-463-5170

Mon - Fri 10am - 6pm Sat - 10am - 5pm Sun - 11 - 4 Follow us on social media for more info

@SouthernGood

G u a d a l u p e C o u n t y l i v i n g

FROM THE

editor

Vol. 8, No. 11 Seguin magazine is published twelve times a year by the Seguin Gazette.

Publisher

Elizabeth Engelhardt creative director / magazine Editor

Desiree Gerland

Graphic Designer

Rebecca Harrison Writers

Felicia Frazar Dalondo Moultrie Bianca Rawlings

ADVERTISING

Delilah Reyes Gay Lynn Olsovsky

W

ith everything that this year has thrown at me, I have thought a lot about what makes a someone “a good person.” I consider myself to be a good person because I find value in the way I treat people and I manage my responsibilities to an acceptable degree.

Though, when reading the stories in this month’s issue, I realize that there is so much more that I could be doing as a way to give back and support not just the community, but specific people that need it the most.

The people in these stories deserve a standing ovation. They make themselves available day and night, they give everything they have to people in need. They raise money and they give love from their whole hearts to strangers. If everyone gave a fraction of what these people do, the world would be a wholly different place to live in.

In the two years that I’ve done this job and learned about the people of Seguin, I still find myself astonished by how many kind, helpful and caring people live and work here.

Stay beautiful, Seguin.

TO ADVERTISE IN SEGUIN Magazine call 830-463-0770 have Story Ideas? let us know

seguinmagazine@seguingazette.com

To view the digital version visit issuu.com/seguingazette

SEARCH SEGUIN GAZETTE All material herein c. 2022 Southern Newspapers Inc., dba The Seguin Gazette, 805 E. Court St., Ste. #200, Seguin, Tx, 78155 All rights reserved

6

SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

Desiree Gerland Desiree Gerland

Creative Director / Magazine Editor desiree.gerland@seguingazette.com

An INSIDE look from our

WRITERS

“Hearing Donna Kiernan’s story of love and loss is heartbreaking.

But her work helping other families heal in their grieving is inspiring. There is something magical at the Chris Krossing Ranch, and it’s not just the horse named Magic. All of the animals from the tall draft horse, Whisky, to her newest edition a yellow Labrador puppy named Dusty, possess a healing quality. Just an hour at the ranch surrounded by the animals can make anyone relax, as the large animals carry their worries away. It’s no wonder Chris Krossing Ranch is a place where Gold Star families and more find a little bit of solace.”

– Felicia Frazar “I, as many who know me know, like to have a good time. But my times don’t seem nearly as good as those had by members of the Seguin Parrot Heads Club. Club members don’t just party but party with purpose, member Toni Waters told me. Club members raise a glass while raising funds for local charities.

Sounds like a good time for a good cause to me.”

– Dalondo Moultrie “Having the chance to meet Stephanie and learn more about the essential services provided by the shelter was enlightening and inspiring. She is truly a superhero to the women and men she helps along their healing journeys. I loved that she started her career as a volunteer just searching to pass the time productively. It is a real reminder to serve in any way you can because you never know where it will lead you and how many people you will help.”

– Bianca Rawlings

Everything for today’s trendy woman, kids & home 830-393-7993

918 10th Street, Floresville, TX 78114 Monday-Saturday 9-6 • Sunday 12-6

GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN

7

PROPANE Climate & CLIMATE Control CONTROL Soon! g n i m o COPENING 4/1/22

BOAT, RV AND SELF STORAGE FACILITY 885 FM78 EAST, MARION, TX 78124 • 830-743-5311 CALL (830) 743-5311 • 885 FM78 EAST, MARION, TX 78124 INSULATED ROOFS

AVAILABLE UNIT TYPES:

24-HOUR ACCESS

• Self Storage (10 x 10, 10 x 15, 10 x 20)

EXTRA SECURITY LIGHTING STATE-OF-THE-ART CAMERAS AIR AND WATER ONLINE RENTALS AND BILL PAY

• Covered Boat & RV Storage (35’, 40’, 45’) • Open Air Storage (Multiple Size)

backyardstorages.com

Keepers

Find something you love for your home

Furniture • Art • Lamps Beatriz Ball • Home Accessories Lampe Berger • Gifts Chalk Paint ® by Annie Sloan Paint & Workshops

April 9th at 9am Texas Ladies Championship Chili Cook-off Music, Vendors, Food, Chili, Fun! East Max Starcke Park

Custom Upholstery • Furniture Repair Interior Design Consultation Custom Window Treatments

April 30th from 10am-3pm Earth Day and Trade Days 80+ Vendors, Green Info Booths,Children’s Activities, Music, Entertainment, Demonstrations!

Downtown Central Park

830-379-9995 keepersinteriors.com 615 N Austin S t, S eguin, T X 78155

Earth day trade days

Interiors & Furniture

April in Seguin.... Ap

Ap Ea

B

www.visitseguin.com 830-401-5000 www

Spring Into Clear Vision Cataracts – LASIK Surgery Routine Eye Exams – Optical Diabetic Eye Care We Pay More!!

Glaucoma –• Silver Dry• Diamonds Eye • Gold Coins Gold Class Rings • Estate Jewelry

LASIK Vision Correction Special: $4000.00 Cash or Credit $4,200. CareCredit financing 24 months, 0% interest. $175.00 per month with approved credit. LASIK surgery performed in San Marcos at our new, modern LASIK center.

Offer good April 1 – April 30, 2022.

In New Braunfels, San Antonio, Seguin, San Marcos, Luling, Lockhart, Castroville, and Hondo • www.EyesTx.com

Offering appraisal & liquidation of estate jewelry, fine art and silver by appointment.

Trade in your old gold and let us design your new treasures ... or trade for store credit.

830-379-EYES (3937) 908 E. Court St., Seguin, TX A Fine Jewelry Store • Since 1981 • 830-625-3203 • www.ernestos.com New Braunfels Marketplace • 651 N. Business IH 35 Suite 240

{ feature }

Horseshoes Healers in

The Memory of a beloved military husband inspires those left behind to reach out Story by Felicia Frazar Photos by Felicia Frazar and Chris Krossing Foundation

D

onna Kiernan and her husband, Staff Sgt. Chris Kiernan, had a dream of owning land in the country and having a bunch of animals when he retired from the military.

But those dreams were put on hold as Donna’s worst nightmare came to life a year-and-a-half before he was able to retire. Her husband was killed in action May 6, 2007, in Iraq while serving with the 1st Cavalry Division’s 1st Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team. Eventually, her grief led her to help other families and create the Chris Krossing Foundation.

Those plans took time. A year after Chris’s death, Donna purchased five acres in southeast Guadalupe County and named the property Chris Krossing Ranch in honor of her husband.

“It’s his initials,” she said. “It took me a really long time to function. I was in so much grief that I didn’t do much; I didn’t socialize. I didn’t get the animals we talked about; I got two donkeys and a goat. Then, I started to get horses and, eventually, I had eight horses.”

Donna found her way back to the light through her animals, especially the 10 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

horses. So as a member of the Survivor Outreach Services, Donna began reaching out to other military families like her, those who had lost a loved one, also known as Gold Star families.

“The horses brought life back into me, so I wanted to share them, and that experience with other families that I knew were Gold Star families,” she said. “Because I belonged to Survivor Outreach Services, I was able to reach out to other family members and invite them to come and experience the horses.”

In 2015, Donna hosted her first Survivors’ Kids day, bringing families to the Chris Krossing Ranch and giving the children a day to play, ride horses and have fun. Donna reached out to people she knew with horses to see if they would come out and help, including the True Women Drill Team. Donna said that all of them volunteer their time and their horses for the children.

“We cook for these kids; they have lunch; we bring out a snow cone truck,” she said. “They can have as many snow cones as they want. We rarely say no. We always say yes.”

Volunteers help pony the horses, a

GO BACK

“I feel like, as long as his memory is alive, he doesn’t die, he doesn’t fade away. I have to make sure that doesn’t happen. I don’t want him to ever fade away. His memory has to stay alive.”

GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 11

rider guardian walks alongside the children and talks with them, answering any questions about the large animals.

There is also a petting zoo with Donna’s other animals, as well as a dairy cow, and a draft horse that pulls a cart giving the families rides.

“Each year, it has grown more and more,” she said. “It is unfortunate, but the survivor families are now facing suicide-related loss. It is awful. It is so hard for the kids to understand. I just want to make a difference; we just want to make a difference in these kids’ lives because they struggle, especially the teenagers.”

The Chris Krossing Ranch also serves as a place for Chris’ former unit to come together. This year, they decided to change their annual meeting date from May to March to help with Survivors Day. “They wanted to do it earlier this year so they could be part of it,” she said. “They take a lot of pride in doing this because they came home from war.

These kids’ dads did not. This helps them as well.”

In addition to Survivors’ Kids Day, Donna hosts a day for the Exceptional Family Member Program, which gives services to military families that have a member with special needs — physical and mental. Donna also invites families to come out for one-on-one sessions with the horses.

“These kids need this, and the moms need this,” she said. “We’ve had lots of families come out just for private sessions, and there is no cost to anybody.”

The events Donna hosts at her ranch cost nothing to the visitors, and she said that’s because of generous sponsors, donors and volunteers, including her now-husband, all of whom do it to see the children smile.

“It is that experience of watching the kids get on the horses and just smile,” she said.

Donna said Chris was known for taking care of others and making lasting impressions on their lives.

“He touched so many lives, and I need to carry that on for him,” she said.

“So I try through my horses because 12 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

horses touch my life.”

Chris Krossing Ranch and the Chris Krossing Foundation help her keep his memory and legacy alive, Donna said.

“I feel like, as long as his memory is alive, he doesn’t die, he doesn’t fade away,” she said through tears. “‘I have to make sure that doesn’t happen. I don’t want him to ever fade away. His memory has to stay alive.”

Each night before Survivors’ Kids Day, Donna walks the ranch and talks with Chris and all of the fathers, she said.

“I say, ‘please, no matter what, look down on us and help us make this day for your families. Help us make it great and bring a smile to their face.

And know that they are not alone,’” she said. “There are so many other families that have lost what they lost. We come together and we have a good day and I hope that they all watch over us and say, ‘wow, look at all of the people that care about my kids.’”

LE AS IN G NO W

KAYDEN PARK III 1913 Post Road

72,000 sq ft OFFICE/WAREHOUSE Now Pre-Leasing in 2,000 sf increments Build Out to Suit

STRENGTH. STABILITY. ROOTED IN HISTORY.

THE POWER OF THE PALM. 401 Main Plaza • New Braunfels MoodyBank.com • 830.743.9555

MEMBER FDIC

GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 13

GO BACK

Contact: Mary Ann Carter Realty • 830.606.5353

{ feature }

Helping Hands

A local with a big Heart supports survivors in her community

Story by Bianca Rawlings Photos by Felicia Frazar

S

tephanie Johnson has lived in Seguin most of her life, but it wasn’t until she moved back to be closer to family after her grandfather’s passing that she found out about the Guadalupe Valley Family Violence Shelter.

“I was born here, raised here, but never knew there was a shelter here until I moved back.” Johnson said.

It was during college that she stumbled across a volunteer ad in the Seguin Gazette for the shelter and decided it would be a good use of her time. Johnson started as a volunteer nearly 14 years ago, a few years later she became a case manager. Now she is currently the Sexual Assault Program Coordinator and Case Manager at the Guadalupe Valley Family 14 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

Violence Shelter.

She uses her time well at the shelter. From assisting with the creation of programs and providing support for countless families, Johnson continues to lean into every role she takes on at the shelter.

“As a volunteer I started out answering phones a couple hours a week and never thought I would be a full-time employee,” Johnson said.

Johnson may have never guessed it at the time, but she gave it her all and has since become a strong supporter of survivors of abuse across the four counties — Guadalupe, Gonzales, Karnes and Wilson — served by the shelter.

“She is a knowledgeable and experi-

GO BACK GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 15

enced advocate, has built a strong working relationship with our community partners, and deserves a great deal of credit for the growth of our Sexual Assault Service Program,” Guadalupe Valley Family Violence Shelter Executive Director Jennifer Fernandez said. “Stephanie has taken a lead role in developing our Human Trafficking Services Program and is a go-to member of our staff… She is truly an asset to our leadership team.”

Fernandez admitted the job is not easy.

“We carry our clients’ trauma with us every day.”

Johnson agreed, adding the sadness and stress can be overwhelming at times but by having coworkers to lean on, it makes even the darkest days brighter.

“It is better to laugh than to cry, especially when going on tough calls,” she said.

Johnson knows the difference she makes to her clients is worth the hard work, especially when she has a client continue to update her about how they are doing or reach out just to talk. No matter the time of day or night, she is there to listen with an open mind and heart.

Johnson works closely with Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners to ensure that the shelter is notified each time there is a sexual assault in the four counties. She said as a new staff member, she was surprised to learn that simply getting a SANE exam or services did not require a police report to be made.

“In the future, I would like to gain more volunteers, go into the schools...to talk about consent and what is and what is not sexual assault, and I would like it to be where people are more comfortable and felt like there was no judgment in calling the shelter, even just to ask a question,” Johnson said.

She feels like this can be done with education and pointed out when she started out as a volunteer that she unaware of the work the shelter does on a daily basis, and the ins and outs of the cycle of domestic violence, and how it is broken.

Johnson hopes to continue to grow the shelter’s services, be able to support many more survivors, and start a conversation about safety from family violence throughout the community.

16 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

Two Locations SAME HOMEMADE TASTE

2022

SG H

THE SEGUIN GAZETTE

BEST OF THE BEST

GO BACK

Open Dine in & Drive thru

Mon-THu 11am-8pm Fri & sat 11am-9pm Seguin Location: 830-433-4201 921 S. HWY 123 BYP, Seguin, TX 78155 Marion Location: 830-914-2572 129 W San Antonio St.. Marion, Tx 78124 GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 17

{ feature }

Giving A gift that keeps

Mandy Anderson shares her first-hand experiences with the Shriners Story Bianca Rawlings photos by Felicia Frazar

M

andy Anderson, a born and raised Seguin resident, had her life positively impacted

by Shriners Children’s hospitals before she was born.

In 1970, Anderson’s sister, Michelle, at the age of 2 years old had an electrocution accident which resulted in her mouth being badly burned. Anderson teared up when she spoke of her mother’s loss of her pregnancy with her second child after she suffered an electrocution herself while attempting to pull Michelle off the electric current.

“The doctors said my mother would be unable to carry any more children after the accident, but by a miracle she had me” Anderson said. “My mother always told me I was here for a reason and to always do good work.”

Anderson sincerely has the resilience 18 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

to see the silver lining in even the darkest rain cloud. Now she passes on that positivity through philanthropy and giving each and every day.

She pays her good fortune forward by fundraising for causes of all kinds, volunteering her time as a Shriner supporter, and simply seeking to serve others by giving more than she receives.

With her giving attitude, it is no surprise that Anderson even uses her business, Handy Mandy Custom Embroidery, as a way to support local schools and causes, and promote Shriners as a Brand Ambassador.

Mandy’s husband, Doug Anderson, is a big advocate and speaker for Shriners as an active member of two chapters, and a past president. Together they are a dream team of generosity. Mandy said it was full circle to meet and marry Doug,

GO BACK GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 19

who received her grandfather’s blessing, who was also a Shriner.

Mandy is creative, caring and courageous in all she does, especially with her fundraising efforts for the Shriners Children’s Texas in Galveston.

Mandy’s big give this year is focused on funding $10,000 to the Shriners in Galveston’s Motion Analysis Center which helps burn patients with both recovery and treatment. She recruited another local business owner and friend, Jamie Elizabeth Hilbert, owner of Jamielizabeth, to help her reach her goal.

“When I started the big goal this year, I wanted to have something that would fit anyone’s needs.” Mandy said.

Mandy has worked on smaller projects with Hilbert in the past that included a few pairs of earrings here or there and occasionally, 50 pairs or the Hilbert’s crafted creations.

“When I asked her if she would be interested in partnering on a big project that will last all year, Jamie said, ‘Sure.

What kind of numbers are you thinking?’” Mandy said. “When I said about 1,000 sets of earrings…her jaw dropped.”

Good thing Mandy’s giving spirit is as contagious as it is courageous. Her friend and fundraising partner cheerfully agreed and created two earring designs.

Mandy’s constant desire to give and grow are perfectly embodied in the two tree of life designs, which are perfect for sharing and spreading the word about the life-saving services available at Shriners.

“Without Shriners, my sister would have been on a feeding tube, wouldn’t have learned to talk, or been able to do so many other things.” Mandy said.

“My sister needed 13 surgeries within a 10-year period and a complete reconstruction of her mouth and lip area.”

This was all provided with no cost to her family. Everything from to transportation and lodging to skin grafting and rehabilitation was covered by Shriners. Mandy made it clear that she is committed for life to support the Shriners and give back more than she receives in life.

“Because if you don’t, who will,” Mandy said.

20 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

GRMC HOSPICE CARE — LIKE HAVING

ANGELS

BY YOUR SIDE. Did you know that an earlier referral to hospice care can lead to a prolonged survival rate? That’s why GRMC’s Hospice Care Team is dedicated to providing the emotional, spiritual, and physical support to patients and families — as early as possible.

1346 E. Walnut St. • Seguin, TX 78155 • 830.401.7561 • grmedcenter.com Serving Guadalupe, Comal, Hays, Caldwell, Gonzales & Wilson Counties 11/29/21 2:46 PM

GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 21

GO BACK

GRMC-1413 Hospice Print Ads-4_71x4_94-Angel.indd 1

{ feature }

life

Ministry of

Story and photos by Felicia Frazar

J

anice Weaver may have retired from teaching, but her job as an educator continues.

Just four days after retiring from her role as a teacher at Judson ISD, Weaver changed course and began her work at the South Texas Pregnancy Care Center, starting as the client service manager and rising up to her current role as the executive director.

In any role she has served at the center, her job is to help women of all ages by educating them and helping them

make the most knowledgeable choice.

“At the South Texas Pregnancy Center, we offer real choices,” she said.

“We educate young moms with the facts about abortion, adoption and parenting so they can make an informed decision.”

Weaver has spent a lifetime in education. She began her career as an elementary school teacher. She taught for six years prior to her family relocating to Seguin, where she joined Seguin ISD. During her two decades with the district, she taught mostly elementary GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 23

GO BACK

longtime educator expands her passion for teaching by helping young women

students, but then moved to the sixthgrade center when it opened with a focus on math.

She then made the move to Judson ISD where she spent the next eight years, and eventually retired from teaching.

Upon hearing of her impending retirement, the director of the South Texas Pregnancy Center approached Weaver, asking her to join their team.

Weaver was no stranger to the program, as she was a long-time financial supporter of the local non-profit.

“When the people started it, they were going around to different churches, talking about the mission and what they wanted to accomplish,” she said. “I was teaching school. I couldn’t come volunteer my time because I had a full time job, but I became a financial supporter.”

She assisted with the fundraisers, helping with flowers for the banquets and making centerpieces for the tables.

However, the offer to continue educating and helping women was an opportunity Weaver couldn’t pass up.

“I love this ministry, I love what they do, and I am very pro life,” she said. “I am big into education. I think our young people need to know what is going on with a pregnancy, what is going on with their body and also how to be the very best parent they can be.”

Four days after she retired from teaching, Weaver jumped into her work at the center as the client service manager. A year-and-a-half later, she was named the executive director.

“I just believe every child is a gift from God and that there is somebody out there, whether it is that parent or an adoptive parent, that are out there waiting to love that little one,” she said.

Among the services the center offers are administering pregnancy tests, counseling options, educational courses, ultrasounds, a baby boutique and community outreach.

“Our mission is to save these babies, but also restore the family,” Weaver said. “I enjoy watching people grow and improve their lives. I enjoy when we know that we have made a difference in the life of a child. It is so rewarding.”

24 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

Spring Cleaning Chores Clear your calendar for Fun in Seguin on April 21

Make a Game Plan for Third Thursday Grab your BFF & Head to Downtown Seguin

Have some Dinner Downtown Enjoy Shopping!

Listen to Music and Relax at our Bars Clean your house another day!

April 21

Seguin’sPremiere Premiere Medispa Seguin’s Medispa • Family Medicine • Weight Loss • Hormone Therapy • Aesthetics • Botox & Fillers • Ultherapy • Eyelash Extensions • Micro-needling • Microblading • Medi Facials • Women’s Health

Family Medicine Weight Loss • Hormone Therapy Aesthetics • Women’s Health

830-372-5200 www.SeguinFamilyMedicine.com 515 N. King St., Ste. 103 • Seguin, TX 78155 Lash CallLift us for to School Specials &Back Tint~$80

830-372-5200

515 N. King St., Ste.103 • Seguin, TX 78155 www.SeguinFamilyMedicine.com GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 25

GO BACK

#DowntownSeguin DowntownSeguin.com

{ onTHESCENE }

Birds

feather of a

PHlock Members spotlight the Parrot head club and how they party with a purpose Story by Dalondo Moultrie Photos Submitted by the parrot heads

M

ost everyone enjoys having a good time with friends. But one wild bunch in Seguin takes its enjoyment to soaring heights by partying with a purpose.

The Seguin Parrot Head Club hosts parties and raises money for charitable causes in the area, said chapter founding member Toni Winters.

“We have a big party and we call it a Phling — everything with Parrot Head is PH like Phling,” she said.

“We have a Phling in August. We have a party with drinks, tropical music, food and a silent auction. This year, we raised $16,000 in one night.

“We give back to local charities in Seguin and New Braunfels.”

Parrot Head Club members are fans of the singer Jimmy Buffett who choose to live out what they say is the performer’s spirit.

According to the Seguin Parrot Head Club’s website, they connect through his music, writings and dedication to community.

26 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

The club’s purpose is to promote friendship and organize social activities for fun and charity. Members try to make their communities better places.

To a Parrot Head, the “island is only a song and boat drink away.

Whether we are with a group of our phriends or by ourselves, all we have to do is turn on the music, grab our favorite refreshment, lay back and close our eyes and we are there,” the website read.

Parrot Heads in Paradise is a not-for-profit corporation that helps an international network of Parrot Head Clubs across the United States, Canada, Europe, the Caribbean and Australia, according to the international arm’s website.

In 2020, clubs contributed more than $1.4 million and 101,000 volunteer hours, the website read.

Members make sure to enjoy themselves while doing so much good, Winters said while describing the goal of the club.

“To have fun, enjoy company, play,

GO BACK GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 27

I hate to say drink, but that’s what they do,” she said. “I’m not a big drinker but they do drink. That’s part of it.

“We call it ‘partying’ instead of ‘drinking.’ We play and party.”

Seguin Parrot Head Club President Kathy Seeger said she helped found the local chapter in November 2009. Currently in her first stint as president, Seeger said her goal is to increase membership and raise more money for local charities while having fun.

To do so, the club hosts monthly happy hours at different locations in Seguin and New Braunfels, Seeger said.

“Four to five Parrot Head members sign up each month to bring raffle prizes to our monthly happy hours,” she said.

“We sell raffle tickets and we usually raise around $400 a month.”

The club has donated $160,800 since 2010, Seeger said.

The Seguin Parrot Head Club incorporates New Braunfels residents because, by rule, no two Parrot Head Clubs can be within 25 miles of each other, Winters said. So since Seguin had its club established by the time New Braunfels residents wanted to join in the fun, no New Braunfels club could be established.

The club helps charitable organizations in both cities like Blue Santa, Seguin Youth Services, Animal Rescue Foundation and more.

“I enjoy the camaraderie and the new friendships and the loving environment we all have,” Winters said. “We all love the laidback lifestyle and music of Jimmy Buffett. … We enjoy being together, having fun and giving back to the community as a community service.”

Parrot Head Clubs welcome all comers at all times, she said. Clubs are made up of very friendly bunches of individuals who form a community of their own to help communities at large.

They party with a purpose to better the environment.

“Parrot Heads are just super friendly people and are always happy to donate to each other and help our charities out,” Winters said. “That fills up my heart, too.”

THE OF

ST BE

BES T

M.E. Plumbing has served clients in Seguin, San Marcos, New Braunfels, San Antonio, Luling, La Vernia, Gonzales and surrounding areas of Texas since 2005.

2021

24 Hour Commercial and Residential Plumbing Services

RMP37076

ernia V a L Orthopedics Office GO BACK

830-303-5534 Seguin 925 S. Austin St., Seguin, TX 78155

a i n r e V a L Orthopedics in

280 S. King St. Seguin, TX musculos High quality care for • • • disorders injuries.

Walnut Springs Familyand Health

in

•SportsSt. injuries •Trauma 309 Silverado LaVernia, TX •Fractures Patients Seen Thursday Mornings •JointLaVernia Replacements •Arthritis •Hand/Foot P

r e V a L

Walnut Springs High Family qualityHealth care for musculoskeletal Steven White, MD 309 Silverado St.,disorders La Vernia andG.injuries.

Walnut Springs Family Health 309 Silverado St., La Vernia

trent J. twit

•Sports injuries •Trauma •Fractures Call •Arthritis for an•Hand/Foot appt. 830-379-9492 •Joint Replacements Problems

G. Steven White, MD

trent J. twitero, MDA

Call for an appt. 830-379-9492

Promp t ppoint ments Availab le!

High quality care for m disorders and i ances Most insur accepted, ing lud inc mp Worker’s Co & Medicaid

Walnut Springs Family Health 309 Silverado St., La Vernia

•Sports injuries •Traum •Joint Replacements •Arthritis •H

G. Steven White, MD

CALL FOR AN APPT. 830-379-9492

tre

Call for an appt. 830-379-9492 GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 29

{ onTHESCENE }

Upcycled

Illumination

Discarded items turned into imaginative works of art

STORY BY DALONDO MOULTRIE PHOTOS BY FELICIA FRAZAR

S

ome folks can look at a thing and, whereas others see refuse, they can find the beauty in it. Such is the case with Liz Romero, development chair at the Seguin Art League. Romero is an artist who, for years now, has taken discarded items and turned them into works of art.

She’s always had an artistic flair even if she didn’t always exhibit it.

“I always say that I’ve been an artist 30 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

my whole life except that I didn’t have time to make any art,” Romero said. “So when I retired, I retired from Guadalupe Regional Medical Center in 2012, and when I retired I joined the Art League and started taking some classes. I’ve been very involved in the Art League since then.”

In recent years, she has taken to making art out of recycled items. She calls it upcycling.

About three or four years ago, she did a piece in conjunction with a Guadalupe Valley Habitat for Humanity project using recycled materials, Romero said.

“I’m doing something different, now,” she said. “It’s really kind of funny. A lot of people would think it was silly.”

Romero takes used LED lightbulbs, paints and adorns them, and turns them into Christmas ornaments. Whether

The Crystal Chandelier Event Center

Wedding Venue, Banquet Hall, Meeting Rooms Available Perfect for Weddings, Birthdays, Dances, Service Club Meetings and Fundraising holds up to 300 people Full service catering available

The Silver Center

Dining Room

Tuesday-Friday 11am-1pm

Open to the Public Daily Deliveries

Yellow Rose Room Holds 80 people

PERSONAL TRAINING & VIRTUAL GROUP FITNESS YOGA - HITT - CARDIO - WEIGHT LIFTING WORKOUTS THAT FIT YOUR SCHEDULE NEW WORKOUT IDEAS • MOTIVATION AND ACCOUNTABLILITY LEARN PROPER AND SAFE TECHNIQUE

PERSONAL / VIRTUAL TRAINING they’re traditionally-shaped bulbs or the more modern ones shaped, like the curly-Qs, Romero sees them and envisions images for which the bulbs maybe weren’t originally intended.

“The traditional lightbulb-shaped ones, I make these into snowmen,” she said. “The candelabra-shaped bulbs, I make them into little Christmas trees because they have a Christmas tree shape.

I like the idea of recycling things like that

• • • •

$35 for 1 session $75 for 3 sessions $135 for 6 sessions $200 for 10 sessions

NEW

CLIENT

SPECIAL

Contact bianca.rawlings@yahoo.com or

512-213-7274 FOR MORE INFO GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 31

GO BACK

830-303-6612 510 E. Count - Seguin www.silverCenterSeguin.com

or giving them a new life.”

The idea just came to her. While it might seem off the cuff, the little projects come out to her liking, Romero said.

“I took out one of those burned out lightbulbs one day and thought, ‘Hmm, that looks like a little snowman,’” she said. “I started decorating them, putting hats and little scarves on them. I think they came out pretty cute.”

Romero shares an affinity for reclaiming materials to turn into art with 32 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

her fellow Art League members. She said members have been creating recycled art for years.

Shortly after the league bought the Klein Opera House building in 2014 at 104 S. Austin St., members began painting on pieces of wood reclaimed from the 1890s building.

“Each of these pieces is stamped on the back identifying it as reclaimed wood from the historic Seguin Opera House,” Romero said. “These pieces are small and work as Christmas tree ornaments or can

be displayed on mini easels.”

Art League members sell their recycled art on Third Thursdays at the league and during Yulefest at the Seguin Events Center, she said.

Romero has sold a few of her lightbulb pieces as well. Proceeds go into the Art League’s treasury, Romero said.

Her art made from lightbulbs is made of glass like fancier Christmas ornaments, though many of the nicer ones of those are old-fashioned blown glass. She has some handed down to her

If it’s important to you, it’s important to us. for it.

“When we work with our clients, we see No matter what’s ontoyour must-have list more than the opportunity help them buy new home, we’ll work tohard to find oryour sell a home.

We see the opportunity build families, communities, and to make dreams come true.” - Heath Anders

109 E Court St - Seguin 830-372-9466 Locally Owned and Operated

WWW.ANDERSPIERCE.COM WWW.ANDERSPIERCE.COM

480 S Seguin ave - New braunfels 830-214-6002

GO BACK

over the years that are beautiful and the ones she created may rival them in some ways, Romero said.

“It’s just giving a life to an old lightbulb,” she said. “I don’t know about other folks, but I have Christmas ornaments that were handed down to me by a great aunt; they’re the old-fashioned blown glass. They’re not the expensive ones that came from Germany but they’re pretty and they’ve lasted 50 years or more.

“I’m sure these lightbulbs will do the same.”

We are proud supporters of our community and all surrounding counties!!!!

1024 E. Court St. Seguin, Tx 78155 • 830-372-1944 Fabiosjewelry@gmail.com • FabiosJewelry.com Follow us on Social Media!

GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 33

Choose local and independent for all your shopping needs!

Thank you for continuing to support our community.

Walt’s Caesar (Bloody Mary) CY Distillery - $6.50

This tomato based tipple is great at any time of day for those who want some rich savoury umami flavours in their drink.

Wall Art Home Decor The Cranny - $14.99

Give your walls extra personality. Wall art, decorative mirrors and wall décor add visual interest to any room in your home.

1500 E. Court St. | (806)201-2420 www.safeseguin.org/the-cranny

1535 Hoffman Rd. | (832)422-3079 www.cydistillery.com

‘Earth’ Dad Hat

Vogue Shoes - $35 Dad hats aren’t just for dads. This one’s got a low profile with an adjustable strap and curved visor. 100% chino cotton twill.

114 W. Court St. | (830)379-4106 www.vogueshoes.com 34 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

Likha Handcrafted plant friends Green Jay Gardens - $27.99 - $36.99

Hand made planters in adorable shapes! Need a friend for your plants?

We have exactly what you need.

100 Elm Grove Rd, Seguin | (830) 433-4040 www.greenjaygardens.com

Antiques • Weird Stuff Cool Junk • Hand Crafts Furniture and more! SG

Funky Monkey

FUNKY MONKEY Vintage Venue

2022

H

THE SEGUIN GAZETTE

BEST OF THE BEST

308 E Court St 210.410.5943

“ BEST A N TI QU E ST ORE” One of the “BEST COLLECTIBLES STORE”

10-6 Tue - Fri. •10-5 Sat. Open until 8pm every Third Thursday

Not just oil, Pennzoil

Baby Essentials Gown & Headband The Gift Shop at GRMC

Beautiful and soft floral gown with matching headband, perfect for taking the cutest pictures of your newborn.

SEGUIN

NEW BRAUNFELS

SCHERTZ

128 Hwy. 46 S

988 Mission Dr.

482 Hwy. 46 S

1190 Borgfeld Rd.

(830) 379-6659

(830) 625-0401

(830) 626-3280

(830) 566-1077

at Court St.

123 S. King St. (830) 379-6654

at Landa St.

Next to Kohl’s

992 Business IH35 S 830-214-0622

at FM 3009

SAN MARCOS

1044 Hwy. 123 (512) 396-3493

RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL Providing Comfort To Our Customers Since 1994

Leather Purse Artesania’s Medina Boutique - $35

Your comfort is our Business

Cute handcrafted leather bag includes hand embroidered pendant ornament.

633 E. Court St. | (830) 822-5717 Find us on facebook!

VOTED BEST HEATING/AC COMPANY IN SEGUIN

Change your life with

(830) 303-8624

TACLA010612C

WIFI T-STAT

510 N. Austin • Seguin www.TriCountyAC.com GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 35

GO BACK

OPEN: Mon - Fri 8AM-6PM • Sat 8AM-5PM

1215 E. Court St. | (830)379-2411 www.grmedcenter.com

{ savethedate }

EVENT C A L E N D A R -aprilKnowledge is power: fourteenth – 6 pm

The Seguin Public Library and GVEC are working together to bring you an electrifying presentation on energy efficiency in your home. We will teach you about billing breakdown & Safety Tips. Learn all about alternative forms of energy. Plus, find out about community service & programs offered

by GVEC. Registration is required for this class, so register now! Please call 830-401-2422 or visit library.seguintexas.gov for additional information. Location: Seguin Public Library, 313 W. Nolte St.

Third Thursday - Spring fun in seguin: twenty-first – 4 - 8 PM Come out to see what Downtown Seguin has to offer! Shopping, food trucks, and live music.

Location: Central Park, 201 S. Austin St.

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAY: twenty-second – 11 AM - 2 PM

Join Guadalupe County and the Seguin Main Street Program every third Friday behind the Justice Center for delicious eats. Location: S. Camp and W. Donnegan.

Teatro 40th anniversary recital: twenty-ninth – 7pm

The recital is a milestone for our organization, and we are forever grateful to Seguin and surrounding communities who have celebrated with us for four decades. This year’s recital will feature Teatro’s Mariachi Juan Seguin, Ballet Folklórico De La Rosa — dancers will be accompanied by Mariachi Azteca de American — famous harpist Juan Cabrera, Grupo Danza Guadalupana and Charro Edmundo Rios III. For more information, visit www.teatrodeartes.org .

Location: Texas Lutheran University Jackson Auditorium

Seguin Kiwanis Flapjack Jamboree: thirtieth – 6:30 - 11:30 am

If you enjoy Hot Cakes & Sausage , then you’ll want to attend the Seguin Kiwanis Flapjack Jamboree.

It’s a Drive-Thru event and will be held at the parking lot at the First United Methodist Church, corner of College & North Austin. Plates are $10 each and proceeds will support various youth events, including scholarships and sponsorships. Your support is appreciated.

Location: First United Methodist Church, 710 N. Austin St.

Sounds of Seguin car show: thirtieth – 10 am - 4 pm

Hosted by Seguin High School Mighty Matador Band. Food, Raffles, games and more for the whole family on the day of the event. $25 to enter your car. Please register at https://tinyurl.com/ SOSCarShow. For more information, email soundsofseguin@gmail.com.

Location: Seguin ISD Administration Parking Lot, 1221 E. Kingsbury.

Send event details to seguinmagazine@seguingazette.com to have your event added to this calendar

A heartfelt thank you to my new clients who take a leap of faith with me, and to my loyal repeat clients who continue to renew their faith in me! I love what I do!

Please call me for all of your real estate needs! ~Kelley Rose

Professional Quality Service You Can Trust

wki

Residential • Commercial • Land

830-305-1346

WESTERHOLM K O E H L E R INSURANCE

HOME. AUTO. LIFE. COMMERCIAL.

830-379-7352 GO BACK

533 E. Court St. • Seguin www.wkitexas.com

Spend your ambitions Wisely.

Seguin Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting at 5:30 Happy Hour starts at 6:00 Live Music with the Jonas Lorence Band 7:00-10:00 April 7th at The Backyard 225 N Saunders St. Seguin Annual Phling (fundraiser) August 6th at McQueeney Lions Club.

Tropical Music, Appetizers, Drinks and AMAZING raffle items.

Kathy Seeger Seguin PHC President

Seguin Parrot Heads

PARTY WITH A PURPOSE

The money raised from our events and our monthly happy hours are donated to local 501 c 3 Charities each year in November.

Find us on Facebook www.seguinPHC.com seguinparrotheadclub@yahoo.com

Living a life of love and impact is a journey of small steps. And First United Bank is here to inspire and empower you along the way. We invite you to call or stop by today to learn more.

Seguin-East • 1539 E. Court St. • 830-401-1170 Seguin-Main • 200 N. Austin St. • 830-401-1100 Seguin-West • 901 N. State Hwy 46 • 830-401-1175 Member FDIC.

Equal Housing Lender. NMLS# 400025.

FirstUnitedBank.com

830-305-4547

GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 37

Faces of seguin email YOUR PHOTOS to SEGUINMAGAZINE@SEGUINGAZETTE.COM

CHOOSE

ADVANCED

women’s imaging. grmedcenter.com/choose

3D MAMMOGRAPHY

BREAST MRI

PELVIC STUDIES

BONE DENSITY EXAMS

BREAST BIOPSIES