Seguin Magazine - August 2024

Forging Futures

Navarro High School fosters a passion for welding and transforms students' lives

Paving the way

Seguin High School students get a head start with early college credits

Vital Skills

Marion High School CNA program equips students with essential skills for thriving medical careers

Discovering

A Coastal Retreat Like No Other Palacios, Texas

A Coastal Retreat Like No Other Palacios, Texas Discovering

A Coastal Retreat Like No Other Palacios, Texas

Nestled on the shores of Matagorda Bay, Palacios, Texas, affectionately known as the “City by the Sea,” stands as the shrimping capital of Texas and a premier destination for those seeking an unplugged retreat. Beyond its tranquil beauty, rich heritage, and vibrant community, Palacios is embracing a future filled with promise and excitement, making it not just a hidden gem on the Texas coast but a cherished sanctuary for both residents and visitors alike.

embracing Nature and Adventure

Palacios has long been a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Its waterfront location is ideal for fishing, sailing, and kayaking, complemented by the picturesque Palacios Pavilion for those captivated by breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. The town’s status on the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail, celebrated by the annual Matagorda Bird Fest, underscores its commitment to preserving natural beauty and wildlife.

a rich Historical Canvas

The story of Palacios is told through landmarks like the City by the Sea Museum and the Luther Hotel, a beacon of architectural preservation undergoing a transformation into a modern destination hotel while retaining its historic essence. These sites, alongside Palacios’s pivotal role in the seafood industry and its significance in Native American history, paint a vivid picture of a community deeply rooted in its past.

the pulse of Community + Tradition

The spirit of Palacios shines brightest during community events like the Seaside Holiday, where Santa’s seaside arrival captures the imagination, and the annual seafood festival, which, alongside events such as Pedal Palacios and Birdfest, heralds the town’s burgeoning future. These traditions not only strengthen community bonds but also signal Palacios’s readiness to welcome the world.

Vision for the Future:

Vision for the Future: A Vibrant Seaside + Downtown Revival

A Vibrant Seaside + Downtown Revival

Vision for the Future: A Vibrant

Looking ahead, Palacios is set to further enhance its appeal with exciting developments. The establishment of the first oyster hatchery in Texas heralds a new era for the local seafood industry, promising economic growth and sustainability. Plans for seaside improvements, including a splash pad, kayak launches, and expanded recreational activities, aim to enrich the quality of life for families and adventure-seekers alike.

Seaside + Downtown Revival

Looking ahead, Palacios is set to further enhance its appeal with exciting developments. The establishment of the first oyster hatchery in Texas heralds a new era for the local seafood industry, promising economic growth and sustainability. Plans for seaside improvements, including a splash pad, kayak launches, and expanded recreational activities, aim to enrich the quality of life for families and adventure-seekers alike.

Efforts to revitalize the iconic downtown area are underway, with initiatives to transform it into a bustling center of excitement, culture, and commerce. These enhancements are designed not only to attract visitors but also to invigorate the local economy and foster a sense of pride among residents.

palcios: A Place to Call Home, Sanctuary, Loved

Efforts to revitalize the iconic downtown area are underway, with initiatives to transform it into a bustling center of excitement, culture, and commerce. These enhancements are designed not only to attract visitors but also to invigorate the local economy and foster a sense of pride among residents.

palcios: A Place to Call Home, Sanctuary, Loved

Through these concerted efforts, Palacios is emerging as more than just a coastal gem; it’s becoming a vibrant sanctuary where the community’s dreams and aspirations are coming to fruition. It’s a place where the past is cherished, the present is celebrated, and the future is bright with possibilities. Palacios invites all to discover its beauty, engage in its traditions, and contribute to its promising future. Here, amidst the gentle waves and open skies, lies a town that is not just to be visited but to be called home, to be called sanctuary, to be called loved.

Through these concerted efforts, Palacios is emerging as more than just a coastal gem; it’s becoming a vibrant sanctuary where the community’s dreams and aspirations are coming to fruition. It’s a place where the past is cherished, the present is celebrated, and the future is bright with possibilities. Palacios invites all to discover its beauty, engage in its traditions, and contribute to its promising

Palacios invites all to discoverits beauty, engage in its traditions, and contribute to its promising future.

In this issue August 2024

FEATURES

10 PAVING THE WAY

Seguin High School students get a head start with early college credits

14 VITAL SKILLS

Marion High School CNA program equips students with essential skills for thriving medical careers

18 FORGING FUTURES

Navarro High School fosters a passion for welding and transforms students' lives

ON THE SCENE

22 HEROES IN TRAINING

Schertz Police Academy programs give kids a VIP view of law enforcement life

AROUND TOWN

26 FAVORITE FINDS

Unique items from local small businesses

28 SAVE THE DATE

See what events are coming up

30 FACES OF SEGUIN

Submitted photos from our readers

on the cover

Sparks fly as a Navarro High School student expertly wields a welding torch, focused intently on their project.

Photo by Victoria Gaytan

Vol. 11, No. 3

Seguin magazine is published twelve times a year by the Seguin Gazette.

Publisher

Elizabeth Engelhardt

Magazine Editor

Desiree Gerland

Writers

Alex Lowe

Sarah Maskal

Dalondo Moultrie

Bianca Rawlings

Photographers

Victoria Gaytan

ADVERTISING

Gay Lynn Olsovsky

Delilah Reyes

Graphic design

Melissa Taylor

TO ADVERTISE IN SEGUIN Magazine Call 830-463-0766

Have Story Ideas? Let us know! seguinmagazine@seguingazette.com

To view the digital version visit issuu.com/seguingazette

As someone deeply passionate about empowering young minds, I’ve always held the belief that hands-on experiences are invaluable stepping stones that support our journeys through life. Early exposure to new skills can ignite passions, build confidence, and guide them toward futures that are both fulfilling and aligned with their true selves. These experiences that offer chances to learn from failures and celebrate successes, both of which are crucial in shaping a wellrounded individual.

Reflecting on my own journey, I cannot say that I had many opportunities to explore my interests during my formative years. This has fueled my dedication to encouraging my teenage children to engage in activities that might help them discover what truly excites their souls, which will pave the way for careers and lives that they are genuinely passionate about.

In this issue, we delve into various programs that highlight the importance of experiential learning. We feature inspiring young individuals who have embraced opportunities to explore their interests and how these experiences have set them on a path to success. Remember, the journey is as important as the destination. Embracing every opportunity to learn, grow and discover one’s unique place in the world adds to the richness of a personal tapestry and allows us to continue to champion the limitless potential of our youth.

Desiree

Gerland Magazine Editor desiree.gerland@seguingazette.com

SCHEDULE YOUR FREE LASIK CONSULTATION TODAY

More than 11 million people have made the choice to enjoy their world with visual freedom thanks to LASIK.

Visit nvisioncenters.com For LASIK Discounts No Money Down • Experienced Surgeons

Latest Advanced Technology 830-379-EYES (3937) 908 E. Court St., Seguin, TX

In Seguin, New Braunfels, San Antonio, San Marcos, La Vernia, Boerne, Hondo, Castroville and Gonzales. www.EyesTx.com

SPAVING THE Way

Seguin High School Students Get a Head Start with Early College Credits

Story by Bianca Rawlings

ince 2018, Seguin High School has been diligently working to provide students an early college experience thanks to a special program that enables students to graduate with an associate degree as well as their high school diploma. Bailey McAnulty, a former student of the program who graduated from Seguin High School's very first Early College High School cohort to a successful career, is a testament to the program’s impact.

"I graduated high school in 2018; I was in the first group of Early College High School students or AVID with Mrs. Ashley Spahn,” McAnulty said. “I had a great experience in the AVID program."

During her time in the AVID program, McAnulty acquired invaluable skills and she urged current high school

students to consider AVID or something similar.

She shared wise words of advice for current and future students.

“I would say that it's okay to have bumps in the road,” she said. “My path to where I am today was not even close to smooth, straight or simple. Life is going to throw things at you, but just keep your head up and put one foot in front of the other. Eventually, you'll be able to look back and see just how far you've come. Be proud of your successes large and small. And believe in yourself, your ambitions and your goals. If you can do that, you'll be so much farther than you ever thought possible.”

The AVID program also fostered lasting friendships and social aptitude, something that can have just as much meaning to youth in their formative

Photos courtesy of Bailey McAnulty

years as education.

"I got to create lifelong friendships and have continued to keep in close contact with my friends from the program," McAnulty said.

The AVID program’s rigorous coursework and college preparation were instrumental in McAnulty's academic success.

"The AVID program added an extra workload of college classes and the comprehensive TSI exam to an already strenuous high school experience,” she said. “But, in completing the program, I was far more prepared for the wellknown 'college grind.’”

This preparation paid off when she was accepted into Texas A&M University at Galveston's Maritime Studies program, where she graduated with a 3.97 GPA.

McAnulty's educational journey didn't stop there. She continued to excel at Baylor University, earning a master’s degree in museum studies with a focus on collections care and management.

"While studying at Baylor, I maintained a 3.98 GPA,” she said. “My area of study was centered on museum studies with a general focus on collections care and management and specific research into collections education for students with disabilities.”

Today, McAnulty is thriving as the collections manager and gallery coordinator for the Boyden Fine Arts Gallery at St. Mary’s College of Southern Maryland. Reflecting on her success, she credits the AVID program for providing the foundation she needed.

"My successes in my educational journey and in life would not have been possible without the support, tools and knowledge I gained from the AVID program,” McAnulty said. “I wouldn't be the person I am today without the guidance of Mrs. Spahn, who never let me doubt what I was capable of.”

Bailey McAnulty's story is a shining example of how the Early College High School program at Seguin High School can set students on a path to remarkable achievements, both academically and professionally.

Vital Skills

Marion High School CNA Program

Equips Students with Essential Skills for Thriving Medical Careers

Story by Bianca Rawlings

In Guadalupe County, Marion High School's Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program is a standout initiative designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful career in healthcare. The on-site program led by Kristy Russo provides a comprehensive curriculum that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience.

Students gain practical skills in patient care, anatomy and medical ethics, preparing them for both immediate employment in healthcare settings

and further education upon graduation.

Two graduating seniors, Taylor Zachary and Kaylee Jones, spoke about their positive experiences in the program and were excited about their post-graduation plans.

“I will be attending Texas A&MKingsville to study biomedical science,” Zachary said.

Jones, echoed her classmate’s academic goals and said that she would also be studying biomedicine alongside Zachary. The pair even plan to be roommates in the fall.

Photos By Victoria Gaytan

“One of the best parts of my experience in the CNA program is that I have gotten to know my classmates so much more,” Jones said. “Working and learning together has brought us all closer together.”

The impact of the CNA program on students is lifelong. By participating in the program, students not only gain valuable work experience but also develop a strong foundation for further studies in nursing or other medical fields. Hands-on training ensures that students are well-prepared for the challenges of the healthcare environment, giving them a competitive edge in both college and the job market.

Both Jones and Zachary said they learned so much from the program and that they feel more prepared for the responsibilities of college and their eventual careers.

“Many of my classmates plan to use their CNA to work part-time while studying in college,” Zachary said. “Many want to become nurses, doctors or other medical professionals.”

The skills and experience gained through the CNA program undoubtedly provide students with a head start in their medical careers. Additionally, the certification and clinical experience offers students a viable means to earn income at an early age. Jones and Zachary both said they planned to work throughout college with the knowledge they gained in high school to help support themselves.

Not only is Marion High School's CNA program an asset in creating a new generation of healthcare professionals who are ready to meet the demands of the industry, it is also an invaluable experience for students who may form lifelong friendships and develop a strong work-ethic during the experience.

Thanks to this program, students like Jones and Zachary will walk away from high school with both diplomas and certificates in hand, countless more positive connections made with classmates and instructors, and, most importantly, many wonderful career paths to choose from before themselves.

Forging Futures

Navarro High School Fosters a Passion for Welding and Transforms Students' Lives

Story

FDalondo Moultrie

or years, Vincent Jayne ambled through school not knowing exactly where his mediocre grades would lead him in life.

It wasn’t that he was incapable of learning, he just learned differently from other students, like his sibling who picked up on academic instruction at a quicker rate. However, he began to feel better about his future a couple years ago when he started welding in Navarro High School’s Agriculture Mechanics program, Jayne said.

“I’ve always been better with my hands. I have a brother who went to college and I’ve never been as book smart as him,” the 18-year-old senior said. “There’s something about welding. It’s just you and the bead. You ain’t gotta

worry about anything else going on.”

A welding bead is the joint made connecting two pieces of metal and Jayne has learned all about them and most other aspects of welding since entering into classes agriculture instructor Matthew Sewell teaches at Navarro High.

Sewell has been in the field a dozen years, two of them at Navarro. But he knew agriculture and welding would be his life back when he fell in love with them as a high school senior in Helotes.

Now, he directs the youth in fostering their affinity for welding, expanding their knowledge in the field and more, Sewell said.

Upon completion of his courses, students can earn American Welding Society certifications to carry into the

by

Photos by Victoria Gaytan

workforce or wherever their futures may take them, he said.

“We also compete in the Texas High School Welding Series. That’s a pretty big deal,” Sewell said. “We also compete in all the stock shows. … Even if you don’t become the best of welders, what we focus on is problem solving.”

Not all students will leave his class as the best welder or woodworkers, the teacher said. But they gain much more.

They gain a knowledge of figuring out the next best steps along with a ton of math fluency that goes along with welding and other ag sciences, Sewell said.

Part of the goal of his classes is to foster employability in his students.

“To be a well-rounded worker, be able to think through any problems, you have to be able to think on your toes,” Sewell said. “You have to be able to think. It gets hot but you’re still going to be welding.”

Haley Karlik, an 18-year-old Navarro senior, said she not only can take the heat but she thrives in it.

She’s held an interest in welding and similar disciplines for years but it piqued during her eighth-grade year when she and her father bought a 1982 Dodge pickup truck to restore together, Karlik said.

“It was a lot of work,” she said. “We had to weld in the floor panel. I liked it.”

Since then, the San Marcos resident hasn’t looked back.

After her second year in Sewell’s welding class, Karlik said she plans to make a living with the skills she continues to learn in high school.

“It’s something I’m good at,” she said. “It’s something I’d like to do. It never feels like work.”

She’s good enough at it to have been accepted to further her education at Northwest Kansas Technical College, Karlik said. She said the school offered her a softball scholarship and will admit her this year into its welding program in Goodland, Kansas.

An associate degree in applied sciences is in her future, Karlik said. From there, the goal is to eventually go into business for herself, while exactly

where will happen remains in the air, she said.

“I plan to become a building fabricator and eventually open my own (fabrication) shop,” Karlik said. “After Kansas, I plan on coming back to Texas. … There are a couple fabrication shops locally. It depends on where life takes me.”

Where life can take Karlik consists of a realm of possibilities. That is one of the benefits of Navarro’s Agriculture Mechanics program, said Vanessa Ritenour, director of the school district’s Career and Technical Education program.

“At Navarro High School, the Agriculture Mechanics program is revolutionizing traditional notions of vocational education,” Ritenour said. “More than just welding, this program equips students with a diverse skill set that extends to woodworking, problem-solving, organization, team work, plasma cutting, safety protocols, and various construction skills”

It doesn’t stop there, she said. Students engage in hands-on projects to build their skills, skills that will benefit the community and the world at large, Ritenour said.

For a long time, academia has pushed students toward four-year colleges and universities, she said. There are other paths available that can be lucrative and befitting all calibers of students, Ritenour said.

“Our kids, even high academic kids, may not be ready for a four-year college degree,” she said. “The important thing is they know there are options. We’re for all of it.”

Jayne knows the options as well as anyone. He made a plan to go to Texas State Technical College after high school and participate in the school’s structural welding program.

From there, the sky's the limit but most likely his future will revolve around welding, Jayne said.

“I’ve always been better at welding than most things I’ve done,” he said. “I may not have enjoyed most other parts of school but welding I do enjoy. I plan on doing welding most of my life or something hands-on.”

Heroes in Training

Schertz Police Academy Programs Give kids a VIP view of Law Enforcement Life

Story by Alex Lowe

Photos Courtesy of Schertz Police Department

The Schertz Police Department recently hosted its annual Junior and Teen Police Academy programs, which gave local youths a behind-the-scenes look at the operations of law enforcement. The programs’ participants were given opportunities to gain a better understanding of law enforcement through specialized presentations and hands-on activities. Community Projects Officer Anna Kraft — a Jackson, Mississippi, transplant — has overseen the programs for several years.

“Years ago we had only the Junior Police Academy,” said Kraft, who is also the Public Information Officer. “It was for kids between ages 8 to 12. We also had a Citizens Police Academy, which was for ages 18 and older. When I took over the position as community projects officer, I got to thinking that I didn’t have anything for teenagers. To me, that is the most critical time to get hold of them. They need to start thinking about careers and learning what to do if they get pulled over while driving. So, I raised the age this year for the junior

class to be 11 to 13. My teen academy is 14 to 17. Then my Citizens Police Academy is 18 and over.”

The programs are designed to do much more than just allow kids to pretend to be police officers for a week. The state of the world today requires earlier intervention to keep kids safe and aware of dangers that seem to be more prevalent in our modern society.

“We did this so we can start teaching these kids that what they decide to do now can impact them for the rest of their lives,” Kraft said. “This week with my Junior Academy (11 to 13), we’ve gone over bullying, what a bully is, and Internet safety. Right now, they are learning Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events (CRASE). It is sad that we must go over this with our kids. We started teaching that to our Junior Academy last year and it was well received not only by the kids but by their parents as well. We teach them situational awareness.”

The programs are among the more popular community programs offered by the Schertz Police Department. They are

open to Schertz residents or children who attend schools located in the community.

“For this class, we accept 15 kids, but we have a wait list,” Kraft said. “In total, I think we have like 30 kids on that list. I’ve been doing this for seven years. The program itself goes back to maybe 2012.”

The programs have multiple objectives. Creating situational awareness in crisis situations is one aspect of the program. Teaching children how to navigate potential pitfalls and how to make good choices in life is another.

“Now for the teens, that is when we start hitting home more with lessons about how to be careful with what you post on social media because you may think that after you hit delete that it is gone, but it is not,” Kraft said. “We are trying to get a guest speaker to come in and talk about the dangers of Fentanyl and how when you go to parties if someone offers you some pills that you don’t know what that is, don’t do any of that. It can mess your entire life up. Not only does that action hurt you, but it hurts your family, too. So, we try to hit on some of those safety issues with my older kids. What to do when you are pulled over is a big one. We basically are just teaching these kids to listen, not to argue or complain. We set up cars like a police car and have them approach another car like it is a traffic stop. They get to see what it is like on the officer’s side, too.”

A third goal of the programs is to introduce kids not only to what it is like to be a patrol officer but to also expose them to other careers in law enforcement.

“So, we let them run our obstacle course,” Kraft said. “That is always fun for them. It is the same course that candidates to become police officers must run. We modify it a little bit.”

For example, she said, if participants are not quite tall enough to successfully climb over the wall, program organizers allow them to run around it. Participants get to meet firefighters, EMS workers and different sections within the police department. The program also addresses investigations, Kraft said.

“We aren’t just TV cops. We talk about how on TV shows, the police manage to solve the crime and capture the bad guy in 60 minutes yet, in reality, it can take a long time to go through the entire process of solving crimes, arresting perps and getting convictions.”

Organizers also talk with teens about career options in law enforcement beyond being an officer. Departments need computer analysts, data analysts, even forensic technicians, she said. There are many different avenues for a career in criminal justice.

The program caters aspects to different age ranges, Kraft said.

“With the younger kids, it is about internet safety and bullying,” she said. “We really emphasize that if a kid sees bullying taking place that they should not participate but that they should tell an adult.”

Thirteen-year-old Rylee Kessler recently completed the Junior Academy program held in July.

“I enjoyed the slide shows that talked about internet safety,” Rylee said. “I also enjoyed going to see the fire department. I couldn’t do the obstacle course because I wasn’t wearing the right shoes.”

In addition, basic first aid is covered in the Teen Academy. How to create and apply a tourniquet are also demonstrated along with hunting safety instruction. Kraft believes there is a desire among Schertz parents to have their children exposed to situations that cannot be simulated in a home environment.

“I think parents are sending their kids to give them some perspective and understanding of what law enforcement is and how to interact with officers,” she said.

Rylee’s mom Katie agrees.

“We live right here in the neighborhood, and we saw this as a way to get her to do something different than she is normally doing, and see if she becomes interested in it,” Katie said. “We were interested in getting her some exposure to careers in law enforcement, but she really has learned a lot about things I had never even considered talking with her about, like dangerous situations, which has been a real benefit to us.”

seeing patients in Kenedy, Yoakum and Hallettsville

Obstetrics&Gynecology

Alyson Kirchner, MD

Choose local and independent for all your shopping needs! Thank you for continuing to support our community.

The Nyla Midi

Southern Good - $36.99

This navy belted shirt dress is a sweet staple for your wardrobe. Features front pockets, button front, scooped sides, removable belt with elastic waist and cuffed sleeves. Made from 100% polyester.

114 S. Austin St. | 830-433-4382 www.facebook.com/southerngood

SprayGround The Shark Hunt DLXSR Backpack Culture - $65

100% recycled polyester fabric made from water bottles collected from the ocean. Multiple zipper pockets, sunglass compartment, ergonomic mesh back padding, adjustable straps, slide through back sleeve connects to carry-on luggage, and separate laptop compartment.

114 E. Court St. | 830- 401-3352 www.culture8thirty.com

Letter From Hogwarts 18 oz. Mug

Father Christmas Shop - $29.99

Have you been waiting forever on your acceptance letter from Hogwarts School? Help make the wait a little more magical or celebrate the Harry Potter fan in your life with this watercolor ceramic travel mug.

101 S. River St. | 830-243-1430 www.fatherchristmasshop.com

EVENT CALENDAR

City blood Drive: Sixth – 9 am - 1 pm

The city of Seguin is partnering with South Texas Blood & Tissue Center to host a blood drive. Blood donors must be at least 16 years old, meet weight requirements, be in good general health and present a valid photo ID. The blood drive is open to the entire community. Appointments can be made online at donor.southtexasblood.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/140099.

All donors will receive a $20 Fandango e-gift card, while supplies last.

Location: Seguin Coliseum parking lot, 950 S. Austin St.

Texas Women of Influence Gala Night and Conference:

Seventh – 5:30 - 8:30 pm, Eighth – 9 am - 3 pm

A two-day event to honor all women of Texas and the people who support them. The Gala Night on Wednesday, Aug. 7 includes the presentation of the 2024 Guadalupe County Women of Influence Award. The conference on Thursday, Aug. 8 will be filled with dynamic speakers, interactive workshops and invaluable networking opportunities.

Location: Seguin Coliseum, 950 S. Austin St.

Third Thursday: Fifteenth – 4 - 8 pm

Businesses and shops in Downtown Seguin are open with sales, events, snacks and fun! Each month features a different, exciting theme. Shop Seguin. Shop Local. Shop Small. Help support local businesses as they change to meet the ever-changing environment. Shop online or in store.

Location: Central Park, 201 S. Austin St., Seguin

Undisputed World Famous Chicken Sale: Eighteenth – 8 am - 1 pm

The Knights of Columbus Council #3412 invites you to peck your way to supporting your local community and various charities with the undisputed world famous chicken. Get ready to cluck for a cause! For just $9, grab a whole, juicy chicken—cooked to perfection and ready to gobble up! Sales will last for just one hour after each mass! Don't be a chicken, come and get yours!

Location: Saint James Catholic Church, 510 S. Camp St.

Rising Stars of Guadalupe County: Twenty-First – 5:30 - 7 PM

Please join us in the celebration of the Rising Stars of Guadalupe County Award Reception. The event will honor the top Rising Stars. Family, friends and colleagues are welcome to attend.

Location: Texas Theatre, 425 N. Austin St.