SDN: May 17, 2024

Families invited to annual Badges, Bikes and Tykes event

Cindy Aguirre-Herrera

(Seguin) – Max Starcke Park this weekend welcomes the return of Badges, Bikes and Tykes. The free family event will again be hosted by the Seguin Police Department and the Seguin Fire Department. The event gets underway Saturday under the park’s large pavilion.

Sarah Chilutti, the community engagement officer for the Seguin PD says the event pairs up local kids with emergency personnel for a fun afternoon of games, food, and activities.

“It’s a great family oriented event. It’s a great afternoon of fun. The children get a free lunch. It is provided by our alumni association.

We have multiple inflatables, carnival games and several booths are set up that have informative handouts for the families as well as super fun activities for the kiddos to play. It’s a great way to meet the Seguin Fire Department and the Seguin Police Department,” said Chilutti.

Bikes, pg. 3

ISD’s district wide Teacher of the Year contest is again honoring a pair of educators who are sharing success in the classroom. Brianna Green of Vogel Elementary School, left, was named this year’s Elementary Teacher of the Year for the Seguin ISD while Traci Salazar of Barnes Middle School, right, was honored with the Secondary Teacher of the Year Award. See story on page 2.

The Seguin

Marion High School graduation set for this Saturday

Harborth, Rudisaile to lead the Class of 2024

Cindy Aguirre-Herrera

(Marion) – The Marion ISD will be among the first districts in Guadalupe County to host commencement exercises for its graduating Class of 2024. Marion High School will be recognizing the accomplishments of 109 students during this year’s graduation ceremony set for Saturday night at Veterans’ Stadium.

Leading the way across the stage will be Valedictorian Ava Harborth and this year’s Salutatorian Maggie Rudisaile.

Marion High School Principal Stacey Johnston says both Harborth and Rudisaile have rightfully earned their prestigious spots on the class roster. She says both ladies have worked very hard for this recognition.

“Ava Harborth is our Valedictorian this year and she is going to be going to Texas A&M University. It’s super exciting to be able to share that she’s going to be an animal science major and focus on meat science which is what I did. So, that’s an exciting thing that she’s following in that same path and I see huge things in her future and our Salutatorian is Maggie Rudisaile and she is going to Arkansas. Maggie was a tremendous pole vaulter for us. She was third in state this year so it’s awesome to see

two amazing young ladies that have really worked hard academically but they have also done extra curricular things and been able to be successful with their grades and to be able to do things outside of school and represent Marion well,” said Johnston.

In fact, Johnston says the entire graduating class should be commended for also putting in the work these last four years.

“They are a tremendous group. This is my first year here in Marion and they have welcomed me with open arms. They are great kids and I have created some fond memories with them so it’s a great bunch of kids. I think over half of the graduating class has a 90 GPA or better so that’s exciting as a principal to be able to see kids doing very well academically -- kids that have plans for the future so it’s a great group. I am blessed to have been able to work with them this past year,” said Johnston.

The ceremony gets underway at 8 p.m. on Saturday. Doors open at 7 p.m. Those unable to attend are encouraged to view the ceremony online at: https://www.youtube. com/Marion%20High%20School.

Seguin ISD names the district's top two Teachers of the Year

Cindy Aguirre-Herrera

(Seguin) -- The best of the best has been named in the Seguin ISD. The district Wednesday night announced its top teachers for the 2023-2024 school year.

Named as this year’s Seguin ISD Elementary Teacher of the Year was Brianna Green of Vogel Elementary School.

Green says she is humbled by the honor and appreciates the support of her peers.

"I am really just excited and thankful. I mean there were so many great teachers up there so it just feels a little crazy right now but I'm glad to have been a part of Seguin ISD for 10 years. I've been here my whole career and I love serving this community and these kids," said Green.

Green, a fifth-grade math teacher, says she remains inspired every day in the classroom and looks forward to seeing her students succeed.

Bikes, continued.

"I feel like every day when I show up, I am able to be in my room with my 23 kids so it makes it all worth it every day," said Green.

Earning the title of this year’s Seguin ISD Secondary Teacher of the Year was Traci Salazar, of Barnes Middle School. Salazar says the recognition is a two-way street and applauds her students for encouraging her to always do her best.

"Oh my God. I was super surprised. I was hoping that it would turn out this way but you know, you really never know and

Chilutti says the featured event each year is the bike raffle. The officer says close to 100 kids will be taking home a new bike this Saturday.

“We raffle off over 100 bicycles to children ages 3 to 16. So, when you come, we have a table that you can get registered at and what we do is we do it by height that way they get a bicycle that fits them right. We don’t want any little ones running around with a big bicycle that they can’t ride yet. So, we do it by their size and they get a ticket and about every 15 minutes or so, we do a raffle drawing and we will put the ticket

I'm just honored to be chosen in the first place and then to have it for the Secondary Teacher of the Year is like really exciting and I know my kids are going to be so excited too – my students, I can't wait to tell them because we worked hard this year and they've made a lot of progress and if I am a better teacher it is definitely because of them," said Salazar.

Salazar, an eighthgrade social studies teacher, says teaching is not always easy but is worth the effort every day.

"Teaching kids is

numbers on a white board for folks to see and raffle them off that way,” said Chilutti. “So, come out and possibly win a bicycle.”

challenging because we are trying to get them to do things they don't really want to do and try to convince them that it has value and I think really the approach is building relationships and getting them to be kind of like open minded and take risks academically so it is a challenge and it is difficult but it can be done and we are doing it every day," said Salazar.

Green and Salazar were selected from a batch of 13 teachers each representing their respective campus as Teacher of the Year. This year’s Teacher of the Year program also included the recognition of Seguin ISD employees who met their 25- and 30-year service awards. It also honored 17 employees who are retiring from the district. The program was held Wednesday night in the Seguin High School Performing Arts Center.

Agencies that will be hosting free games and activities for children include Evolve Health Insurance, Home Depot Seguin, Guadalupe Valley Young Marines, Bexar Metro 9-1-1 Network, REMAX GO of Seguin, Thriving Hearts Crisis Center, Guardians of the Children: Hill County Chapter, Pecan Country Chiropractic, and Community Council of South Central Texas. Also to celebrate National Bike Month, the Alamo Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (AAMPO) will be hosting an educational booth to promote bike safety.

Badges, Bikes and Tykes will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.

Tobey Wills Earns All-Region Honors

SEGUIN, Texas -- After leading the Texas Lutheran men’s golf team during the 2023-24 campaign, Tobey Wills (Richmond/Foster) was honored on the PING All-Region 7 Team, announced by the Golf Coaches Association of America (GCAA).

Wills, who also earned Second Team All-SCAC accolades this season, becomes the first golfer to earn the award since his former teammate, Chase Maus, in 2022.

During the 2023-24 campaign, Wills led the Bulldogs

in scoring in 9-of-10 tournaments. He finished the campaign with a 72.7 stroke average.

Wills would win two tournaments in 2024 and would finish seventh at the 2024 SCAC Championships. Overall, Wills finished in the top ten in eight out of the Bulldogs ten tournaments this season and finished under par in three of them.

You can find all updates on TLU Golf on tlubulldogs.com, @tlugolf on Instagram, as well as all official Texas Lutheran Athletics social media accounts.

Chris Austin

Chris Austin

VITAL STATISTICS

Windecker

Anita Frieda Windecker, Professor Emerita of Music at Texas Lutheran University and founder of the Mid-Texas Symphony passed away on May 11, 2024 at age 95.

Anita Windecker was born in Karnes City, Texas on December 6, 1928 into a home filled every day with classical music. Her father Konrad, a Lutheran minister, had played violin for the St. Paul Symphony while he was at the Seminary there. At his first church assignment, he met, fell in love with and married the pianist and organist, Frieda Loos. Able to speak multiple languages, he was called to serve Russian speaking congregations in Saskatchewan, where he began teaching his 3 sons to play musical instruments. In 1928, he was called to deliver the gospel in German to Karnes City TX and three other communities. Anita was born soon after they arrived.

Baby Anita was wrapped in music, the Christian faith and love. At age 5 she was invited to try the piano after her brother had finished his lesson. The piano teacher told Frieda that her daughter was a music prodigy and the teacher offered to teach Anita for free. By age 8, Anita was playing at her father’s churches with her mother and playing public concerts. She learned to play the organ and the harp. Anita, on harp, and Konrad, on violin were invited to play for the District Convention of the American Lutheran Church and a local radio station. She played concerts regularly in junior high and high school.

Anita Windecker attended Texas Lutheran College for two years and then earned a Bachelor’s degree in Music at the University of Texas. In 1950, she joined the music faculty of TLU teaching piano. In 1953, she took a sabbatical from TLU to study in New York. Her New York piano coach soon admitted that her skill on the piano was far beyond his ability to coach her and recommended she find a more advanced coach. Future piano star Byron Janis lived in the same building as she, so she knocked at his door. Janis told Anita that he did not coach and he was preparing for his first European tour. After Anita played for him, he agreed to coach her. For the time he was on his European tour, he left her a list of pieces to learn and practice, and asked Adele Marcus, his highly regarded coach at the Juilliard School in New York City, to take up Anita’s coaching. Upon returning from the tour, Janis coached Anita for her piano debut at Carnegie Hall on August 9, 1953. A standing ovation and cries for “encore” told the story of her performance that night.

Although her New York coaches wanted her to begin giving concert

tours, Anita wanted to do more. Her position at TLU was perfect for her passions of music, playing the piano and teaching. She could also do concert tours in Texas. The decision was an easy one.

Professor Windecker knew that a top tier auditorium would not only help the TLU music school, but all of TLU and the whole community as well. At faculty meetings every year she would propose it as a goal for TLU. Finally, after years of dogged determinism and absolute faith in the outcome, the faculty began chanting “au di tor ium” as she walked into the room. The faculty had given their approval. Measurements taken in the 1,050 seat Jackson Auditorium showed perfect acoustics.

With comparable determinism and faith, in 1977 Professor Windecker started promoting a professional classical symphony. She was aware that neither Seguin nor New Braunfels could support such a thing, but together … In 1978 the Mid-Texas Symphony was born. Today, 46 years later, it continues to grow, delivering exceptional concerts to both cities and surrounding communities.

Anita retired from Texas Lutheran University in 2000, after 50 years on the faculty and many years as head of the Music School. Her gifts of music have been well received. Like the 1928 Windecker living room in Karnes City, music runs through it. When asked how, she would point up and say, “to God the glory.”

Anita was preceded in death by her parents, Konrad and Frieda Windecker, and her three brothers, Leo James Windecker, Rev. Arnold Konrad Windecker and Roland Theodore Windecker.

Anita never married. Survivors include nephews and nieces Robert Windecker and wife Judy, Theodore Windecker and wife Charlotte, Gwendolyn Shannon and husband Mickey, Rev. Ronald Windecker and wife Deborah, Paula Milner and husband Brad, Roland Windecker Jr., and 9 great nieces and nephews and other loving family members and friends.

A memorial service celebrating Anita’s life will be held on Friday, May 17, 2024 at 3 p.m. at the Chapel of The Abiding Presence on the campus of Texas Lutheran University with the Reverend Marcus Bigott officiating. A reception will follow in the Timmerman Room at Hein Dining Hall at Texas Lutheran University.

Private interment will be held prior, at Mission Burial Park South in San Antonio, Texas.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Mid-Texas Symphony, 1000 W. Court St., #3216, Seguin, Texas, 78155, Texas Lutheran University, Development Office, 1000 West Court Street, Seguin, Texas, 78155 or Emanuel’s Lutheran Church, 206 N. Travis, Seguin, Texas, 78155.

You are invited to sign the guest book at www.treshewell.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155, 830-549-5912.

Norman VITAL STATISTICS

Lee Alan Norman, age 71 of Seguin, passed away on May 15, 2024. Lee was born on December 19, 1952 in Elk City, Oklahoma to Edna Ray (Howard) and Charles T. Norman.

Lee proudly served his country during the Vietnam War in the United States Navy where he was stationed on the USS Sierra. He will be remembered as a longtime employee of Guadalupe County where he worked in several different capacities including truck driver and detention officer.

Lee is preceded in death by his son Luke Aaron Norman, his parents, his mother-inlaw and father-in-law, Thelma and C W Tipton, brother, Charles E. “Charly” Norman sister, Alexa Ray Norman, and numerous brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.

Survivors include his loving wife of 49 years, Melva Tipton Norman; son, Clae Norman; daughter, Cayla Norman and partner, Patrick Cates; grandchildren, Christopher Norman, Khamani Norman, Cyndle Norman, Trance Norman, Kash Norman and Justin Cates; sisters, Theleda Fuller and Robin Anderson and husband Curtis Dean; nephew, Larry Norman and wife Michelle and their children, Hannah, Ian and Bella; sisters-in-law, Wilma Adams and Rose Kroboth and husband Danny; brother-in-law, Cleve Tipton; other loving family members and a host of friends.

A memorial service celebrating Lee’s life will be held on Sunday, May 26, 2024 at 3 p.m. at Cross Church with the Reverend Jim Price officiating. A reception will follow in the fellowship hall. Private interment will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to any Disabled Veteran’s Organization of choice.

You are invited to sign the guest book at www.tresehewell.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155, 830-549-5912.

Behal

Rhonda Hill Behal, 61, of Seguin, passed away peacefully on April 8, 2024. She was surrounded by family and friends and now joins her parents Amelia, John, and Estelle in their eternal home.

Rhonda is survived by her husband Charlie, her children Charles, Cara, and Jessie, and her siblings Karen, Robby, and Randy. She is also survived by an incredible host of friends and a gaggle of in-laws, nieces, nephews, and grandchildren.

Rhonda was a graduate of Seguin High School in 1980 where she was a member of the varsity choir and the Gold Battalion Dance Team lieutenant. After high school, she attended the University of Texas in Austin where she studied Art and Business. Shortly after school, she came back home to Seguin where she married Charlie in 1997. They lived there for the remainder of their 27-year marriage.

Those who knew Rhonda will remember her for a great many things, most of all for her never-ending acts of service centered around food, family,

and faith. She loved being in the kitchen preparing all of her favorite recipes for family and friends as well as those in need of comfort or joy. She was at her happiest when planning and coordinating trips, get-togethers, and community activities.

With what little free time she found, she volunteered her services to the charities she held dear, including the Christian Cupboard, the ELCA’s “God’s Work, Our Hands,” and The American Cancer Society’s “Relay For Life.” The few moments she took for herself were spent at home either on her and Charlie’s back porch or looking out the kitchen window where she loved watching the hummingbirds and looking at the wildflowers.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, May 19th, 2024 in the Worship Center of Spirit of Joy Church in Seguin at 3 pm with a reception to follow. If you can attend, please know that all are welcome. If you are unable to, please do as Rhonda would and enjoy the birds and the flowers with the next opportunity you get. You’ll find her there.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Guadalupe County Humane Society, P. O. Box 1593, Seguin, Texas, 78155-1593, or to the Christian Cupboard, 516 N. Camp St., Seguin, Texas, 78155.

You are invited to sign the guest book at www.treshewell.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155, 830-549-5912.

Minnesota, Wisconsin Under Air Quality Warnings Because Of Canadian Wildfires

(St. Cloud, MN) -- Health officials in Minnesota and Wisconsin issuing air quality warnings because of Canadian wildfire smoke. The Air Quality Index in the Twin Cities is in the “unhealthy” range. That range stretched to parts of Wisconsin on today. Canada says it’s dealing with six uncontrolled wildfires. Montana and the Dakotas were also experiencing toxic air conditions as the smoke blanked several northern states over the weekend. Over 145 wildfires are currently burning in Canada.

L.A. County Public Health Investigating Hepatitis A Outbreak

(Los Angeles, CA) -- The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is investigating a possible Hepatitis A outbreak. Public health officials confirm five homeless people have come down with Hepatitis A since mid-March. There is growing concern because of how contagious the infection is. Hepatitis A impacts the liver and is only detectable through blood or stool tests. Public health is offering free Hepatitis A vaccines to homeless people.

Mississippi Governor Signs Bill Limiting The Time Mental Health Patients Can Be Held In Jail

(Jackson, MS) -- Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves has signed a bill limiting the time people suffering from mental health issues spend in jail while awaiting treatment. It would only allow police departments and sheriff’s offices to hold such patients for no more than 24 hours. It also requires jail officials to exhaust all means available to find placement for those persons.

CO Kids Living Near Airports Have Higher Levels Of Lead In Blood

(Denver, CO) -- A Colorado study is showing a possible health risk of living near small airports. Children had slightly higher levels of lead in their blood than the statewide average, but still within the range the federal government considers normal. The Health Department didn’t prove location caused this, though levels dropped consistently as the distance from an airport increased. The EPA lists aircraft fuel as the largest source of new lead pollution in the country.

Library Closure: Staff Training

The Seguin Public Library will be closed on Friday, May 17 for staff training. The library will resume normal hours from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Saturday, May 18. Call 830-401-2422 or visit library.seguintexas.gov for additional information.

Unveiling of Seguin Giant Letters in Walnut Springs Park

The Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce Leadership Seguin Class of 2024 will have its Unveiling of Seguin Giant Letters in Walnut Springs Park at 3 p.m. Friday, May 17 in Walnut Springs Park.

Friedens Church Friday Fish Fry

The Friedens Church will have its Friday Fish Fry at 5 p.m. Friday, May 17 at 2555 Friedens Church Rd. Fish plates are $15 and include fried fish, fries, coleslaw, hush puppies and tea. There will also be a hot dog plate available for $5. Proceeds benefit new flag poles at Slumber Falls Camp in New Braunfels.

Geronimo VFW DJ Friday Night

The Geronimo VFW will have its DJ Friday Night free dance from 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, May 17. For more information, call or text 830-305-8829.

Community Tai Chi

The Seguin Public Library and GRMC Inpatient Rehabilitation will host Tai Chi for free at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 18 at the Seguin Public Library. Classes are led by Tai Chi instructor Barry A. Jackson for all skill levels every third Saturday. Call 830-401-2422 or visit www.library. seguintexas.gov for additional information.

All-In for Agricultural Education

There will be an All-In for Agricultural Education Tournament at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 18 at the the Big Red Barn, located at 390 Cordova Rd. Tickets can be purchased online at texagedu.org, at the door, Gift and Gourmet, Westerholm-Koehler Insurance, or at the Big Red Barn.

Mosaic Garden Stepping Stones Class

The Seguin Art League will offer a Mosaic Garden Stepping Stones Class from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 18 and continuing on Saturday, May 25 at 104 S. Austin St. in Seguin. Instructor, Karen Roberson, will give an introduction to basic mosaic and participants will learn to cut tile, affix a design, and finish with grout. The class is for ages 14 and older. The cost is $50 and participants should bring their own stepping stone. Call 830-3050472 for size and more information.

Resurrection Life Church Evangelistic Service

The Resurrection Life Church will have an Evangelistic Service from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, May 19 at 8367 FM 467 in Seguin. The speaker will be Evangelist Josiah Alway.

Caregiver Cafe

There will be a Caregiver Cafe at 9 a.m. on the 1st Thursday of the month at Spirit of Joy Lutheran Church and at 2 p.m. on the 3rd Sunday of the month at Emanuel’s Lutheran Church. This will be an informal gathering for caregivers to share with each other over a cup of coffee and refreshments while learning stress-relieving, relaxation techniques or hearing from guest speakers on helpful subjects. For more information, call 830-272-0040, ext. 104 and leave a message.

Geronimo VFW Sunday Dance

The Geronimo VFW will have its Sunday Dance from 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday, May 19. Entertainment will be provided by Glen Collins. The doors open at 1:30 p.m. with $10 admission. For more information, call or text 830-3058829.

AA Meetings

The Seguin Primary Purpose Group of AA will meet at 7 p.m. Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays at 315 S. Crockett St. in Seguin. For more information, call 830386-0334.

Business Improvement Grant (BIG) Program

The City of Seguin is now accepting applications for the Business Improvement Grant (BIG) Program. Applicants may be eligible to receive up to a 75 percent matching grant, with a maximum grant awarded to an applicant not to exceed $10,000. Improvements and other expenditures eligible under the Seguin BIG Program include facade improvements, sign improvements, site improvements, and other real property improvements. Program Guidelines and Applications are available online at www.SeguinTexas.gov or at www.SeguinEDC.com. Applications must be submitted through the BIG application portal which can be accessed by visiting: https:// bit.ly/seguin-big24 by the close of business on the last day of each month. For more information, visit www.SeguinEDC.com, or call 830-401-2476.

Jury Cancellation

The Guadalupe County Jury Pool scheduled for 8:30 a.m. on Monday, May 20 has been canceled.

Food Distribution Event

There will be a Food Distribution Event from 9 to 11 a.m. Monday, May 20 at First Baptist Church, located at 1314 E. Cedar St. in Seguin. Pre-register at www.Freshtrak. com.

Book Nuts Book Club

The Seguin Public Library will have its free Book Nuts Book Club at 1:30 p.m. and again at 4:30 p.m. Monday, May 20. This month’s book discussion will be The Lemon Tree by Sandy Tolan. Call 830-401-2422 or visit

www.library.seguintexas.gov for additional information.

NAMI Connection Recovery Support Group

The NAMI Connection Recovery Support Group for adults with mental health conditions meets from 6:30-8 p.m. on the first and third Mondays of each month at First Methodist Church. Learn more at www.NAMIGuadalupeCounty.org.

Jury Cancellation

The Guadalupe County Jury Pool scheduled for 9 a.m. Tuesday, May 21 has been canceled.

Tai Chi Tuesday

The Seguin Public Library and GRMC Inpatient Rehabilitation will host Tai Chi for free at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, May 21 at the Seguin Public Library. Classes are led by Tai Chi instructor Barry A. Jackson for all skill levels. Call 830-401-2422 or visit www.library.seguintexas.gov for additional information.

Heart to Heart Grief Support Group

There will be a Heart to Heart Caregiver Support Group from 4 to 5 p.m. the third Tuesday of every month at the Silver Center, located at 510 E. Court St. in Seguin. For more information, call 512-667-6816 or 512-557-7185 or email tberger@htohh.com.

Grand Parents Raising Grand Children Group

The First Presbyterian Church, Seguin is offering a Grand Parents Raising Grand Children Group at 6 p.m. Tuesday, May 21 at 1121 E. Walnut St. The group is available to assist with questions regarding your rights and benefits available to you and will meet the third Tuesday of the month. For questions or more information, call 830379-5421. If there is no answer, leave a message and someone will get back to you as soon as they receive the message.

Republican Women Meeting

The Guadalupe County Republican Women will meet at 11 a.m. on Thursday, May 23 at the Seguin Silver Center, located at 510 E. Court St. in Seguin. The guest speaker will be Dr. Debbie Cottrell, President of Texas Lutheran University. The cost of the lunch is $20. To make lunch reservations, email silvercenter@sbcglobal.net or call 830-391-3979 or. For more information, visit www. guadalupe-county-rw.com/.

All Ages Chess Club

The Seguin Public Library will have its free All Ages Chess Club at 6:15 on Thursday, May 23 for all skill levels. There will be chess sets but patrons can also bring their own chess equipment. Call 830-401-2422 or visit www.library.seguintexas.gov for additional information.

Continued on the next page.

Celebrate Recovery

The Celebrate Recovery ministry at Crossroads Church meets from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday nights at 3455 W. Hwy 90 in Seguin. Celebrate recovery is for anyone dealing with anxiety, alcohol, depression, codependency, unforgiveness, self doubt, addiction, grief, eating disorders, relationships, anger, substance abuse, destructive behavior, spending, stress, and more. For more information call 830251-2080.

Summer Reading Experience Registration Opens

Grab your suitcase, grab your passport, and get ready because the free Summer Reading Experience registration opens Friday, May 24 at the Seguin Public Library. Participants of all ages can track their reading to enter raffles to win cool prizes. Sign up and pick up your summer reading game boards. The summer reading experience encourages children to read during the summer months to promote summer learning and to help prevent the summer slide. Call 830-401-2422 or visit library.seguintexas.gov for additional information.

Kids Kingdom Playground Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

The City of Seguin will have a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the Kids Kingdom Playground at 10 a.m. Friday, May 24 at 1123 S. Austin St. in Seguin near the Little League fields.

Making Your Grief Count Program

The Emanuel’s Bereavement Care Ministry will present, Making Your Grief Count, a three-week program for those who have experienced loss, from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, May 26, Sunday, June 2, and Sunday, June 9 in the Emanuel’s Family Life Center, located at 206 N. Travis St. in Seguin. The program will be facilitated by Pastor Darwin Huartson. Participants will learn about healthy coping tools and a path to healing in a supportive environment. For more information email Donna@elcseguin.org or call 830-556-3542.

Geronimo VFW Sunday Dance

The Geronimo VFW will have its Sunday Dance from 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday, May 26. Entertainment will be provided by The Merles. The doors open at 1:30 p.m. with $10 admission. For more information, call or text 830-305-8829.

Memorial Day Flag Raising Ceremony

The American GI Forum of Seguin will conduct a Flag Raising Ceremony in commemoration of Memorial Day at 10 a.m. on Monday, May 27 at Manuel Castilla Park, located at 2261 N. Guadalupe St. in Seguin.

Library Holiday Closure

In observance of Memorial Day, the Seguin Public Library will be closed on Monday, May 27. Normal hours will resume at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, May 28, 2024,. Items may be renewed online, or returned using outdoor book return. Please call 830-401-2422 or visit library.seguintexas.gov for additional information.

Guadalupe Appraisal

District Closure

The Guadalupe Appraisal District offices in Seguin and Schertz will be closed on Monday, May 27 and will re-open at 8 a.m. on Tuesday, May 28.

Toddler Time

The Seguin Public Library will have its Toddler Time at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, May 28. There will be songs, rhymes, and stories followed by about 15 minutes of play time. This program is approximately 45 minutes long including play time and is geared towards ages 1-2. Call 830-401-2422 or visit www.library.seguintexas.gov for additional information.

Preschool Storytime

The Seguin Public Library will have its Preschool Storytime at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, May 28. There will be stories, rhymes, songs, and other fun early literacy activities for children ages 3 to 5. Call 830401-2422 or visit www.library.seguintexas.gov for additional information.

Teen Tuesday – DIY Key Chain Making

The Seguin Public Library will host its Teen Tuesday at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 28 featuring DIY Key Chain Making. Teens ages 12 - 17 can drop in anytime between 4 and 5:30pm on Tuesdays to hang out, play games, use makerspace supplies, draw, and more. Call 830-401-2422 or visit www.library. seguintexas.gov for additional information.

Chamber May After Hours Mixer & Media Night

The Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce will have its May After Hours Mixer & Media Night from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 28 at Smokey Joe Williams Field, located at 637 Midway Dr. in Seguin. The event is sponsored by the Seguin River Monsters.

Baby Time

The Seguin Public Library will have its Baby Time at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, May 29. Learn rhymes and bounces to do with babies, sing songs, and listen to 1 baby storybook. Song and rhyme time lasts approximately 25 minutes, followed by baby playtime with scarves, egg shakers, and more. Baby Time is geared towards ages 0-18 months and meets every Wednesday. Call 830-401-2422 or visit www.library. seguintexas.gov for additional information.

Family Storytime

The Seguin Public Library will have its Family Storytime at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, May 29. There will be stories, rhymes, songs and other fun early literacy activities for families with children ages 0 to 5 every Wednesday. Call 830-401-2422 or visit www.library. seguintexas.gov for additional information.

Kids Create: Popsicle Biplane

The Seguin Public Library will have Kids Create at 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 29. Participants will build their own biplane and learn about the first powered, controlled airplane that flew using a biplane wing arrangement, as did many aircraft in the early years of aviation. Attendees must be between the ages of 6 to 11. Registration is required by calling 830-401-2422 or visiting library.seguintexas.gov for additional information.

Women’s Council Social

The Seguin Chamber of Commerce will have a Women’s Council Social from 5 to 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 29 at the 1916 Bar & Bistro, located at the Aumont at 301 N. Austin St. in Seguin.

Seguin Construction Trades Booster Club Inauguration of Founding Members

The Seguin Construction Trades Booster Club will have its Inauguration of Founding Members from 5 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 29 at Sips & Gulps.

Adult Craft Night

The Seguin Public Library will have a free Adult Craft Night at 6 p.m. on Thursday, May 30. Participants will learn how to preserve natural flowers in resin and create a wooden coaster. All materials will be provided. Registration is required to participate by calling 830-401-2422 or visiting library.seguintexas.gov for additional information.

June

Nominations for Rising Stars of Guadalupe County

Nominations are open until Saturday, June 1 for The Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals Rising Stars of Guadalupe County. For applications and more information, call 830-379-6382.

Food Distribution Event

There will be a Food Distribution Event from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, June 1 at Faith Lutheran Church, located at 1326 E. Cedar St. in Seguin. Pre-register at www.Freshtrak.com.

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Summer Reading Experience Kick Off

The Seguin Public Library Summer Reading Experience kicks off with John O’Bryant the Magician at 10 a.m. and at 11:15 a.m. on Saturday, June 1. Register to participate for the 2024 Summer Reading Experience, it is open to all ages, just track your reading to enter raffles to win cool prizes. The summer reading experience encourages children to read during the summer months to promote summer learning and to help prevent the summer slide. Call 830-401-2422 or visit library.seguintexas.gov for additional information.

United Women in Faith Ladies Tea

The Wesley-Harper United Methodist Church United Women in Faith will have a Ladies Tea from 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, June 1 in Karrick Hall of First Presbyterian Church, located at 1121 E. Walnut St. in Seguin. RSVP by Saturday, May 25 to 210-3659627.

Geronimo VFW Sunday Dance

The Geronimo VFW will have its Sunday Dance from 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday, June 2. Entertainment will be provided by Cactus Country. The doors open at 1:30 p.m. with $10 admission. For more information, call or text 830-305-8829.

Chamber Championship Golf Tournament

The Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce will have its Chamber Championship Golf Tournament from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Monday, June 3 at The Bandit Golf Course. To register, visit www.seguinchamber.com. For more information, call 830-379-6382 or email cofc@seguinchamber.com.

NAMI Family Support Group

The NAMI Family Support Group for adult family members and friends of adults with mental health conditions meets from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on the first and third Wednesdays of each month at First Methodist Church Seguin. Learn more at www.NAMIGuadalupeCounty.org.

Seguin Art League Year of the Dragon Summer Camp

The Seguin Art League will have its Seguin Art League Year of the Dragon Summer Camp for ages 5 through 9 from 10 a.m. to noon and for ages 10 and older on Tuesday, June 4 through Friday, June 7 or Tuesday, July 9 through Friday, July 12 at 104 S. Austin St. in Seguin. Students will develop skills using a variety of media dealing with both two and three dimensions in space. The cost is $105 which includes supplies. For more information, call 830305-0472.

The Gathering Music Show and Dance

The Gathering Music Show and Dance will be held from 7 to 10 p.m. Tuesday, June 4 at the Geronimo VFW. The doors open at 5:30 with at $10 admission. The entertainment will be provided by Conrad Gonzales and Paul Sanchez. For more information, call or text 830-305-8829.

Military Appreciation Chamber Luncheon

The Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce will have its Military Appreciation Luncheon at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, June 5 at the Seguin Coliseum, located at 950 S. Austin St. in Seguin. The cost of the meal is $20 for member in advance or $25 for non-members and late registration.

Pecan Valley Communicators

The Pecan Valley Communicators, a community club dedicated to helping members become better speakers and leaders, will meet at 6:30 p.m. the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month at the GVEC Community Room, located at 927 SH-46 in Seguin. The annual dues are $24.

Parkinson’s Support Group

The Gonzales Area Parkinson’s Support Group will meet from 6 to 8 p.m. the 1st Thursday of each month in the Fellowship Hall at the Presbyterian Church, located at 414 St. Louis St. in Gonzales. For more information visit lonestarparkinsonsociety. com or email gapsg23@gmail.com.

First Friday Feast

The Geronimo Lions will have its First Friday Feast Fish or Steak Dinner from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, June 7 at the Big Red Barn. Meals are $20. A child’s hot dog plate (chips, drink and dessert) is also available. Tickets can be purchased at the door. The June entertainment will be provided by Madelyn Abrameit and the Beneficiary will be the Children’s Advocacy Center.

Geronimo VFW Sunday Dance

The Geronimo VFW will have its Sunday Dance from 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday, June 9. Entertainment will be provided by Paul Sanchez and Wrangler Country. The doors open at 1:30 p.m. with $10 admission. For more information, call or text 830-305-8829.

Geronimo VFW Jam Session

The Geronimo VFW will have a Jam Session from 1 to 4 p.m. Tuesday, June 11. For more information, call or text 830-305-8829.

Molly Hatchet/Knotty Grove at the Brauntex

Midales Entertainment will present Southern rock

legendary band, Molly Hatchet with special guests Knotty Grove from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Saturday, June 15 at the Brauntex Performing Arts Theatre, located at 290 W. San Antonio St. in New Braunfels. Tickets and more information are available at www.brauntex. org or call 830-627-0808.

Geronimo VFW Sunday Dance

The Geronimo VFW will have its Sunday Dance from 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday, June 16. Entertainment will be provided by Bob Appel. The doors open at 1:30 p.m. with $10 admission. For more information, call or text 830-305-8829.

Activities Fair for Veterans

There will be an Activities Fair for Veterans from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, June 20 at the Veterans Outreach Center, located at 205 E. Weinert St. in Seguin. For more information, call 830-303-4188, ext. 1249.

Fourth of July Parade Application Deadline

The City of Seguin Main Street Program is accepting applications for the Fourth of July Parade until Friday, June 21. Applications are available at the Seguin Visitor Center, located at 200 S. Austin St. or online at www.seguintexas.gov/fourthofjuly.

Build for Better Bash

The Guadalupe Valley Habitat For Humanity will have a Build for Better Bash from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 22 in the Seguin Hall parking lot on the campus of Texas Lutheran University, located at 1000 W. Court St. in Seguin. Tickets include a meal, ticket, and t-shirt and are $25 for individual and $15 for youth (16 & under). To purchase tickets visit https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/fgdzx77/lp/747ccb91-2f4c-4281-ae71-3939d63ff32f. For more information, call 830-401-0422.

Geronimo VFW Sunday Dance

The Geronimo VFW will have its Sunday Dance from 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday, June 23. Entertainment will be provided by Bimbo. The doors open at 1:30 p.m. with $10 admission. For more information, call or text 830-305-8829.

Geronimo VFW Sunday Dance

The Geronimo VFW will have its Sunday Dance from 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday, June 30. Entertainment will be provided by Gabe Galvan. The doors open at 1:30 p.m. with $10 admission. For more information, call or text 830-305-8829.

July

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www.SEGUINTODAY.com

First Friday Feast

The Geronimo Lions will have its First Friday Feast Fish or Steak Dinner from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, July 5 at the Big Red Barn. Meals are $20. A child’s hot dog plate (chips, drink and dessert) is also available. Tickets can be purchased at the door. The June entertainment will be provided by the Brushy Creek Boys and the Beneficiary will be Kidsight.

Food Distribution Event

There will be a Food Distribution Event from 9 to 11 a.m. Monday, July 15 at First Baptist Church, located at 1314 E. Cedar St. in Seguin. Pre-register at www.Freshtrak. com.

AP and Advanced Art Workshops

The Seguin Art League will offer AP and Advanced Art Workshops from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesday, July 24 and Thursday, July 25 at 104 S. Austin St. in Seguin. The workshops will be taught by certified art teachers and will provide real solutions and strategies for a successful portfolio with creative art concepts and lessons in order to provide a jumpstart for the 2024-2025 school year. The cost is $60 a day and supplies are included. Limit 10 students. For more information, call 830-3050472.

August

Food Distribution Event

There will be a Food Distribution Event from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, August 24 at GRMC, located at 1215 E. Court St. in Seguin. Pre-register at www.Freshtrak.com.

September

Food Distribution Event

There will be a Food Distribution Event from 9 to 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 16 at First Baptist Church, located at 1314 E. Cedar St. in Seguin. Pre-register at www. Freshtrak.com.

October

Understand Your Medicare Options Seminars

The GRMC, GHN and the Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce’s new Healthcare Advisory Committee will offer free educational seminars on Understand Your Medicare Options at 6 p.m. Tuesday, June 18 and at 10 a.m. on Thursday, June 20 in the GRMC Upstairs Classroom (Enter Central Entrance Lobby), located at 1215 E. Court St. in Seguin. For more information, call 830-303-4846.

Food Distribution Event

There will be a Food Distribution Event from 9 to 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 21 at First Baptist Church, located at 1314 E. Cedar St. in Seguin. Pre-register at www.Freshtrak. com.

November

Food Distribution Event

There will be a Food Distribution Event from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 16 at GRMC, located at 1215 E. Court St. in Seguin. Pre-register at www.Freshtrak.com.

Ongoing Community Calendar Items

CCSCT Utility Assistance Application for 2024 Applications are available for the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (C.E.A.P.) provided by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs through the CCSCT. The program will help low-income consumers reduce their utility bills. There is also assistance available through the Low Income Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP). For more information visit www.ccsct.org or follow them on the socials at https://linktr.ee/ccsct_cares.

Heritage Museum Calendars

The Heritage Museum is selling 2024 Then and Now Themed Calendars. There is a limited supply and they are available for purchase at the Heritage Museum, Gift & Gourmet, Pecan Town Books and Brews, Parker’s City Pharmacy, and online at www.heritagemuseum.net. All proceeds benefit Museum projects.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Dial 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline available 24 hours a day in English and Spanish.

Volunteer Van Drivers Needed

Guadalupe County Veteran Services Office is in great need of volunteer van drivers. Even those who can only commit to one day per month. Volunteers will drive local veterans who have no transportation to their VA medical appointments in San Antonio. To volunteer, call 830303-4188 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 830372-5980.

Free Accredited Adult Homeschool Program

The Life Changing Church is now offering a Free Accredited Homeschool Program for adults wanting to earn

their high school diploma. It is a self-paced, no classes to attend program. You work around your schedule and at the end of the program you will receive an accredited diploma that is acceptable for college. Tutors are available at no charge. Free placement testing, no previous records required. For more information call or text Crystal at 325-956-1155.

Salvation Army Office

The Seguin Unit Salvation Army office is located at 205 North King Street. The office is open to receive requests for assistance weekly from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.

Volunteers Needed

The Guadalupe Valley Young Marines need volunteers. They promote a healthy, drug-free program and need males, 19 years and up who would like to see the program grow by contributing time to help future citizens, boys and girls 8 to 18. Positions available include computer input, physical fitness training, planning/logistics, and medical. Contact Dina Dillon at 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 830-303-6478.

Free Bible Course

The World Bible School is offering free Bible correspondence courses. Answer questions from the Bible and send in for grading. Visit studygod.info for further information.

To ensure non-profit 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.

Q:When the weather gets warmer, you change out the plants in front of the library. You have snapdragon and pansies in there now. What warm season plant will you put in?

A: I am a lazy gardener. I will plant the tried and true periwinkle since it has done so well for me in the past. However, I could plant several other warm season annuals such as coleus, marigold, portulaca, purslane, scaevola, or zinnias. Recently I added a celosia to one of the library planters. Years ago, when Jack Linden took care of the planters, he planted celosias. They reseeded themselves, and one even ended up in an adjacent flower bed.

Aggie-hort.tamu.edu has an article on celosias citing them as one of the most eye-catching annuals to grow in the garden. There are three types: plumes, crests or spikes. And all have vivid colors, including red, yellow, cream, orange, rose, deep magenta and pink. Sizes range from four to six inches high up to over three feet. I am hoping the one I put in the planter is dwarf. Aggiehort speculates that the plant originated in Africa and India, and possibly in dry stony regions of North and South America. They have been grown in North America since the eighteenth century. The flowers are beautiful in flower arrangements.

Q:

My passion flower vine doesn’t look good. What could be wrong?

A:If the damage isn’t caused by Gulf Fritillary larvae, there could be a number of things wrong. Wildflower.org suggests too much water, too little water, sucking insects (aphids or scale), thrips or mites, or fungal disease, or larger insects like grasshoppers, snails or slugs. If you have checked the plant for each of these, and still need a better diagnosis, take a leaf or two to your County Extension Agent.

One of the old-time gardeners (Malcolm Beck?) said that the best way to control insects in the garden was with your shadow. In other words, every morning you should check current conditions and look for problems. This way you can solve the problem before it gets too far along.

Q:

Should I be killing the ladybugs I see in my garden? They don’t look quite like the ladybugs I am used to.

A: The ladybeetle is basically a good predator that feeds on aphids and soft-bodied insects that could cause plant damage. However, when the multicolored Asian beetles come in the house, they can become a nuisance. This is because some of them can bite hard enough to break the skin. Also, they can secrete a strong-smelling yellowish liquid from the joints of their legs according to extension.umn.edu.

FYI: Don’t forget to keep your bird baths full and be sure to plant some butterfly attracting plants such as butterfly weed, lantana,