SDN: December 15, 2023

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Dec. 15, 2023

Volume 58 l Number 211

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The Voice of Seguin

WE E KE ND E D I TI O N

Deadline arrives today for KWED Christmas Angel contest

TODAY

Cindy Aguirre-Herrera

(Seguin) -- Today is the deadline to submit your letters for a chance of winning $500 cash.

The deadline for the annual KWED Christmas Angel contest is 3 p.m. today. There is no need to come into the building. Just drop off letters in the mail slot attached to the front door.

Anyone is invited to write in and explain why they believe their family or someone they know is deserving or in need of $500 cash this holiday season.

The letters will be judged on the explanation and not on writing skills.

The contest started several years ago and is designed to illustrate the Christmas season’s true spirit of giving and sharing.

Nominations do not have to be based on need but may recognize those who go above and beyond in serving others or who have acted selflessly.

The winning letter will be read live on the air just a few days

before Christmas as part of the contest.

The winning letter along with photos of the family will also be printed in a holiday edition of the Seguin Daily News.

All entries must include the name of the person submitting the letter, along with their address and phone number.

Letters without a name or phone number will not be considered for the contest.

The winning letter will be chosen by an anonymous panel of judges not employed at Seguin Radio KWED or the Seguin Daily News.

All letters for this year’s contest must be submitted by 3 p.m. Friday, Dec. 15, at the radio station located at 609 E. Court St.

Hotter than homemade HOT COCOA! Seguin Today celebrates the Holidays in December issue

The latest issue of Seguin Today brings the Holidays home to you in print and online. This month our stories focus on how Guadalupe County celebrates the holidays as we learn about the origins of Blue Santa from county attorney, Dave Willborn. We also take a drive to the far reaches of the county where the Christmas spirit is in full swing at the Northern Lights. Grab your copy around town, or at the KWED offices located at 609 E. Court St, or read it on your device by clicking here. Check page 3 for a sneak peak our special feature this month...Letters to Santa!

Helping you find the right house to call HOME. Jeff Neil 830-643-9020

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Longtime local car salesman, KWED employee dies (Seguin) -- Friends and family today are mourning the loss of longtime KWED employee Roger Cutcher. Cutcher, who worked for KWED between 2008 and 2018, died Thursday, Dec. 7.

Prior to his time in sales, Cutcher and his family were remembered for the Cutcher Motor Company. After years of working outside the state as an independent marketing rep for various companies, Cutcher returned to Seguin, finding himself back in the family Ford business.

KWED News Director Cindy Aguirre-Herrera says it was shortly after that, that Cutcher put aside selling cars and joined the KWED and Seguin Daily News family.

“Roger will be deeply missed. He

was excellent in the sales department.

He never shied away from new prospects and worked closely to help folks get the service they deserved.

In most cases, Roger’s success in networking resulted in longtime friendships. Clients quickly became friends,” said Herrera.

While clients became friends, Roger made sure that his co-workers became family.

“Roger was always willing to help in whatever was happening here at KWED. He committed his time and attention to making sure that the operation ran smooth. Most importantly, he cared for each of us deeply and was always there to lend a hand. We only hope that he too realized how much our hearts also belonged to him and his wife Renee.

Roger thank you for being a wonderful part of my life story,” said Herrera.

A memorial service for Roger Cutcher is scheduled for 11 a.m.

Saturday at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church.

Cutcher was 80.

Seguin receives Las Posadas invitation Families invited to follow the journey to Bethlehem Cindy Aguirre-Herrera

(Seguin) -- You are invited tonight to follow the steps of Mary and Jesus as they take their journey into Bethlehem. For years, several local churches hosted the annual Las Posadas event in downtown Seguin. But for the last three years, one local church has worked on keeping the tradition alive on their own. La Trinidad United Methodist Church located next door to Seguin City Hall guide followers on this historic trek.

The Las Posadas tradition, a nine-day procession, has been celebrated in Mexico for 400 years. But this Friday night, La Trinidad will offer the one night event beginning at 6 p.m.

Pastor Nohemi Ramirez says the church is excited about pulling the community together for this historic reenactment.

"It's just to remind us about the journey of Mary, the mother of Jesus, and her husband Joseph and according to the Christian faith, the two traveled from Nazareth to Bethlehem. So, they were actually seeking shelter and a safe place for Mary to give birth to Jesus," said Ramirez.

Ramirez says the Las Posadas tradition includes a

variation of celebrations. Tonight, she says it will be about food, fun and fellowship.

"After the journey singing songs and carols and inviting people to come in to the Fellowship Hall, we will have food and beverages and desserts and then the children will break the piñata," said Ramirez.

Although being hosted at her church, Ramirez says Las Posadas is a community invitation and encourages all families to come out.

"We are using this celebration to let people know in our community that we as churches open our doors, our hearts and our minds to welcome everybody. In our church, everybody is welcome," said Ramirez.

The 6 p.m. procession will begin in the church's prayer garden.

In case of rain, Ramirez says they will host the event indoors.

La Trinidad UMC is located at 306 E. Gonzales St.

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Deadline to play is today (Seguin) -- Still need a gift for a child enrolled in the first through the sixth grade? Then, how about dropping into their stockings a registration letter guaranteeing them a spot on a team for next month’s Youth Co-ed Recreational Basketball League with the city of Seguin.

Today, Friday, Dec. 15 is the deadline to register kids for the winter league.

The six week league will be played on Saturdays beginning on Saturday, Jan. 6. Cost is $55 per youth.

Games will be played at a Seguin ISD middle school. The campus has yet to be determined.

All practices and games will be on Saturdays.

Both the jersey and team photo will be provided.

Volunteer coaches are also still needed. Signup is available online at https://web2.myvscloud. com/wbwsc/txseguinwt. wsc/splash.html.

The link can also be found on the city of Seguin park’s and recreation Facebook page.

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BUSINESS CONNECTION Keeping you plugged in to

BUSINESS in SEGUIN!

Get your business CONNECTED!

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5 VITAL STATISTICS

Christmas Celebration featuring

Live Music, Christmas Treats, & a visit from Santa with Photo Opportunities!

Tuesday, December 19 5:30pm - 7:30pm Member FDIC

1539 E. Court St. Seguin, TX 78155

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NATIONAL SPORTS HEADLINES Raiders Host Chargers On Thursday Night Football (Las Vegas, NV) -- The Las Vegas Raiders are setting up to host the Los Angeles Chargers for an AFC West showdown at Allegiant Stadium on Thursday Night Football. The Chargers have lost four of their last five games and come off a 24-7 setback to the Denver Broncos in Week 14. Easton Stick will make his first career start at QB after Justin Herbert’s season-ending finger surgery. The Chargers will also be without top receiver Keenan Allen, who was ruled out due to a heel injury. The Chargers are third in the division at 5-and-8. The Raiders will be looking to snap a three-game losing skid after a disappointing 3-0 loss to the Minnesota Vikings last week. Aidan O’Connell will reportedly make his seventh start of the season. The rookie has thrown for 1,365 yards, four touchdowns and seven interceptions. The Raiders round out the AFC West at 5-and-8.

NFL Meeting Recap (Irving, TX) -- The NFL made a major announcement on the final day of its special meeting in Irving, Texas. The league began the day by awarding a 2024 regular-season game to Brazil, and voting to expand the slate

of international games from four to up to eight games beginning in 2025. The game in Brazil will be played in Sao Paulo at Corinthians Arena, which was used for the 2014 FIFA World Cup and 2016 Summer Olympics. In addition, league owners voted to award Super Bowl 61 in 2027 to Los Angeles. It will be the second straight Super Bowl hosted in California, with Super Bowl 60 being played at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara. Super Bowl 59 will be played at the Superdome in New Orleans, and this year’s game takes place in Las Vegas.

Four-Star CB Kobe Black Commits To Texas (Austin, TX) -- Steve Sarkisian and the Longhorns are adding a major piece to their 2024 recruiting class. Four-star cornerback Kobe Black announced on Wednesday that he is committing to Texas. Black chose the Longhorns over other top programs LSU, Oklahoma State, Oregon and Texas A&M. He is ranked as ESPN’s 21st overall prospect in the 2024 class. The Texas native joins defensive end Colin Simmons, wide receiver Ryan Wingo, running back Jerrick Gibson and offensive tackle Brandon Baker as Top 50 recruits to commit to the Longhorns’ 2024 class.

Ben Roethlisberger Questions State Of The Steelers (Pittsburgh, PA) -- A Steelers legend is questioning the franchise. Former quarterback Ben Roethlisberger recently said on his podcast, “Maybe the tradition of the Pittsburgh Steelers is done.” Roethlisberger was commenting on the state of the team following their recent loss to the New England Patriots. The 41-yearold also called out head coach Mike Tomlin for his handling of timeouts in the second half. Pittsburgh will be looking to snap its two-game skid in Week 15. The Steelers are third in the AFC North at 7-and-6 and will visit the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday.

NBA Suspends Draymond Green Indefinitely (Undated) -- Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green will be out until further notice for hitting Phoenix Suns center Jusuf Nurkic [[ you-SUF nur-KITCH ]] in the face. The NBA suspended Green indefinitely on Wednesday following the incident during Tuesday’s game in Phoenix. Green received a Flagrant Foul 2 and was ejected. His suspension is effective immediately. Green will be required to meet certain league and term conditions before he returns to play. This is the sixth time Green has been suspended by the league.

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11 VITAL STATISTICS

Lara

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Israel Romo Lara, Jr., age 41 of New Braunfels, passed away on December 13, 2023. Israel was born on October 15, 1982, in New Braunfels, Texas to Minerva Viola Urquiza Lara Medina and Israel Romo Lara, Sr. Israel is preceded in death by his father, Israel Romo Lara, Sr., grandmothers, Frances Urquiza and Rosa Romo Lara, and aunt Norma Lara.

Survivors include his children, twins, Israel Romo Lara, III and Mercedes Lara and Kaidon Xavior Alegria; mother Minerva Lara Medina and partner Daniel Ochoa; siblings, Abel Acuna, Sr. and wife Elizabeth Castellanos, Rita Acuna Lagunas and husband Bryan, Natalie Lara Ibarra and husband Juan, Monica Luna, Linnet Lara, and Israel Pena Lara; grandfather, Moses C. Urquiza; aunts and uncles, Gracie Noriega and husband Daniel, Moses Urquiza, Jr. and wife Bertha, Rachel Urquiza, David Urquiza and wife Pam, Ernest Urquiza, and Emilia Romo Lara Gonzalez and husband Mario; friend and mother of his twins, Josefina Alegria; numerous great-aunts, great-uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, other loving family members and friends.

Visitation will be held on Monday, December 18, 2023, at Tres Hewell Mortuary from 5 to 7 p.m. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, December 19, 2023, at 10 a.m. at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel with the Reverend Nohemi Ramirez officiating. Interment will follow in San Geronimo Cemetery.

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

12 VITAL STATISTICS

Cutcher

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Roger Martin Cutcher, age 80 of Seguin, passed away on December 7, 2023. Roger was born on July 27, 1943, in Houston, Texas to Margaret Nell (Bock) and H. E. Cutcher.

Roger started his young life in Pasadena, Texas before his family moved to Seguin, TX where his father owned Cutcher Motor Company until Roger’s Senior year at Seguin High School. The family then moved to Amarillo, Texas. During this time Roger moved to Lockhart and lived with his grandparents where he attended Lockhart High School. He then transferred to Amarillo High School graduating in 1961. He graduated from Texas Tech University with a Marketing Degree and moved to Albuquerque NM where he began a career as an independent marketing rep for several different companies.

During college Roger worked for Ben E Keith Company and after many years in Albuquerque, Roger had the opportunity to return to Texas and Ben E. Keith Company. He then moved to Kraft Foodservice, working in Sales Management.

Returning to Seguin to be near family was always important, so in 1995, Roger went back into the family Ford business until finding a new home with KWED Radio. He loved working with his many friends and business acquaintances that he had known for years and made many new friends along the way.

He was first and foremost a dedicated family man who also didn’t mind spending a few hours on any golf course, including making it to walk the Master’s Golf Tournament twice. They loved to travel and didn’t waste any time finding new adventures to take them away but he said it was always good to get back to your old rut too.

Roger is preceded in death by his parents, his sister Sally Fritz and husband Paul, brother, William N. Cutcher, and father-in-law, Roger Herron.

Survivors include his loving wife of 46 years, Renee Herron Cutcher; sons, Craig Martin Cutcher and wife Kim, and Michael Newell Cutcher; daughter, Allison Denise Cutcher; grandchildren, Justin, Dalton, Corben, Hank, Jacob, and Sonny; greatgrandchild, Lavendar; mother-in-law, Audrey Herron; sister-in-law, Rhonda Cushatt and husband Randy; brother-in-law, Roger L. Herron and wife Wendy; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other loving family members, and many friends.

A memorial service celebrating Roger’s life will be held on Saturday, December 16, 2023, at 11 a.m. at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church with the Reverend Stephen Shortess officiating. A reception will follow in McKeough Hall.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 201 E. Nolte, Seguin, Texas, 78155, or to Faith Lutheran Pre-school, 1326 E. Cedar 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.

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Hardwick

In Loving Memory of George Hardwick George Hardwick, born on August 17, 1954, left this world on Tuesday, December 12, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of courage and a life well-lived.

He was preceded in death by his father, George Z. Hardwick, his mother, Rose M. Harrell, and his sister, Cathy Denise McAhon.

George is survived by his devoted wife, Jeanelle Hardwick, and their three sons: George VanValkenburg, Leif Hardwick (Amanda), and Jason Hardwick. He is also survived by two cherished grandchildren, Elizabeth VanValkenburg and Trenton Hardwick. Additionally, he is survived by his sister, Arlene Cline.

George was a proud Vietnam veteran, having served his country with honor and dedication. His commitment to duty was reflected in his military service and how he approached life.

In his spare time, George pursued his passions with enthusiasm. He found solace and excitement in the ocean’s depths through scuba diving as he had a special connection with anything on the water, and his adventurous spirit made every moment on the waves memorable. Additionally, he embraced the thrill of racing and took to the skies with a love for radio-controlled planes.

His presence will be missed, but his spirit will live on in the memories we shared and the love he leaves behind.

May George Hardwick rest in peace, surrounded by the eternal calm he found in the waters he so dearly loved.

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

Clay

Funeral Services for Eugene Clay will be held Tuesday,December 19th at 11 AM from the Wesley Harper United Methodist Church with interment at Ft Sam Houston National Cemetery. The body will lie in state at Eunice and Lee Mortuary Monday from 4 to 6pm. He died at the age of 84 years old and is survived by one sister Dorothy Redix and brother, Daniel Clay. Services entrusted to the reverent care of Eunice and Lee Mortuary.

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High Court Could Further Restrict Abortion Access (Washington, DC) -- The Supreme Court will take up a case involving the most widely used abortion pill. A lawsuit challenges the legality of mifepristone. Earlier this year a federal judge in Texas, who is a Trump appointee, issued an unprecedented ruling that suspended FDA approval.

It was later narrowed by the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals.

Study: Marijuana Use Linked To Low Birth Weight (Salt Lake City, UT) -- Marijuana use during pregnancy is being linked to low birth weight. A study published Tuesday by the American Medical Association looked at over nine-thousand pregnant women across the U.S. and found that cannabis use was associated with an increased risk of unhealthy outcomes, including low birth weight. Researchers at the University of Utah found the risk of possible negative outcomes rose by nearly 30-percent in those who used cannabis while pregnant.

“Big Bang Theory” Actress Kate Micucci Has Lung Cancer Surgery (Los Angeles, CA) -- Actress Kate Micucci says she just had surgery for lung cancer. The 43-year-old star best known for her roles in “The Big Bang Theory” and “Scrubs” released a TikTok video from the hospital over the weekend, and said her cancer diagnosis was “weird” because she never smoked a cigarette in her life. Micucci said the best news is they caught it early and got it out. She added, “I’m all good.”

Mayo Clinic Health Workers In Austin Ask NLRB To Remove Union (Austin, MN) -- A group of Mayo Clinic Health System workers is asking the National Labor Relations Board to let them leave the union that represents them. MCHS workers in Austin have petitioned the NLRB to let them hold a decertification election. If successful, the vote would remove the United Steelworkers Union as the organization representing the workers. A spokesperson for the United Steelworkers local says an anti-union organization is behind the decertification effort. A vote to leave the union is still pending.

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Toy and Food Drive Continues KWED radio will be accepting toy and food donations in its lobby through Dec. 21. Donations to benefit the Seguin PD Blue Santa Program and Christian Cupboard.

10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 16 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.

Dec. 19. There will be stories, rhymes, songs, and other fun early literacy activities for children ages 3 to 5. Call 830-401-2422 or visit www.library.seguintexas.gov for additional information.

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 830-4012476.

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. Gift Ornaments are also available at the Museum. All proceeds benefit Museum projects.

Youth Co-Ed Basketball League Registration is underway for the City of Seguin Parks and Recreation Department’s Youth Co-Ed Basketball League. The six-week league includes three age divisions: Grades 1 & 2, Grades 3 & 4 and Grades 5 & 6. All practices and games will be played on Saturdays at a Seguin ISD middle school campus.

The league begins January 6. The cost is $55 per youth, which includes a jersey and team photo. The deadline to register is Friday, Dec. 15. To register visit https://web2myvscloud. com/wbwsc/txseguinwt.wsc/splash.html. For more information, call 830-401-2480.

Community Tai Chi The Seguin Public Library and GRMC Inpatient Rehabilitation will host Tai Chi for free at

Little League Challenger Program The Seguin Little League will host a new Challenger Program giving children with disabilities a chance to play softball and baseball.

A community meeting will be held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, December 17 at the little league fields at Starke Park.

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 830-386-0334.

Lino Print Workshop The Seguin Art League will offer an Illustrated Letters Class from 1 to 3 p.m. Monday, Dec. 18 at 104 S. Austin St. in Seguin. Receive an introduction to linear design through carving a block. Includes drawing the image, composing the design, and transferring it to the block.

Students will also receive an introduction to color inks and print presentations. The class is limited to 12 adults (12 years to adult). The cost is $120 with supplies included. For more information, call 830-305-0472 or visit www. seguinartleague.com.

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.

Toddler Time The Seguin Public Library will have its Toddler Time at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 19. 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,

Teen Tuesday Drop-In – Button Making The Seguin Public Library will host its Teen Tuesday at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 19. 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.

Tai Chi Tuesday The Seguin Public Library and GRMC Inpatient Rehabilitation will host Tai Chi for free at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 19 at the Seguin Public Library. Classes are led by Tai Chi instructor Barry A. Jackson for all skill levels. Call 830401-2422 or visit www.library.seguintexas. gov for additional information.

Comal Country Music Show The Comal Country Music Show will be held from 7:30 to 10 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 19 at the Columbus Club Hall in New Braunfels. Doors open at 6 p.m. with an $8 cover charge. The featured guest performers will be Yesenia McNett and Loren Woods. All proceeds benefit charities.

Baby Time The Seguin Public Library will have its Baby Time at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec 20.

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 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, Dec. 20.

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.

Continued on the next page.

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LEGO Club The Seguin Public Library will have its free LEGO Club at 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 20. Kids ages 3-11 will use their creativity to build with LEGOs. Creations will be displayed on the library bookshelves. Call 830-401-2422 or visit www.library.seguintexas.gov.for additional information.

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 830-251-2080.

friend to storytime, then leave your stuffie at the library for a fun-filled sleepover at the library. Come back the next day, from 9 a.m. to noon on Thursday, December 28 to see what your cuddly friend got up to. Be sure not to bring your favorite stuffed animal since you’ll be leaving it at the library overnight. This event is for all ages.

Pecan Valley Communicators The Pecan Valley Communicators is a new community club dedicated to helping members become better speakers and leaders.

Meetings will be held 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. For the remainder of 2023 anyone who is a least fourteen years old can join without paying any fees. Starting Jan. 2024, the annual dues will be $24.

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.

Veterans Coffee & Camaraderie The Veterans Outreach Center will have Veterans Coffee & Camaraderie at 9 a.m. the 3rd Thursday of every month in the lounge.

To RSVP, call 830-303-4188, Ext. 1249.

Preteen STEAM Night: Gingerbread Cabin Challenge The Seguin Public Library will host its free Preteen STEAM Night at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 21 for preteens ages 9-12.

Youth will participate in science, tech, engineering, art, and math activities and experiments. This event is on a first come, first serve basis, space is limited to 20.

Preteen STEAM Night will meet on the third Wednesday of each month. Call 830-4012422 or visit www.library.seguintexas.gov. for additional information.

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

Library Holiday Closures In observance of the Christmas Holiday, the Seguin Public Library will be closed on Saturday, December 23 through Tuesday, December 26. Normal hours will resume at 9 a.m. Wednesday, December 27. Items may be renewed online, or returned using outdoor book return. Call 830-401-2422 or visit www.library.seguintexas.gov for additional information.

Crossroads Church Annual Candlelight Service in Central Park The Crossroads Church will have its Annual Candlelight Service from 6 to 7 pm. Sunday, Dec. 24 in Central Park in downtown Seguin. The community will come together to sing Christmas songs and read scripture celebrating the Christmas story.

Baby Time The Seguin Public Library will have its Baby Time at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec 27.

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 and meets every Wednesday. Call 830401-2422 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, Dec. 27. 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.

Stuffed Animal Sleepover at the Library The Seguin Public Library will have a Stuffed Animal Sleepover & Pajama Storytime at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, December 27. Wear your favorite pjs and bring your best stuffed

Chamber General Membership Luncheon The Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce will have its January General Membership Luncheon at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 3 at the Seguin Coliseum, located at 950 N. Austin St. in Seguin. The meal is $20 for members and $25 for non-members and after Friday, Dec. 29.

Christian Cupboard Annual Food Drive The Christian Cupboard will continue its annual Food Drive through Dec. 31. Donations can be dropped off from 9 to 11 a.m. Mondays through Thursdays at 516 N. Camp St. January Surviving Veteran Spouses Coffee & Tea There will be a Surviving Veteran Spouses Coffee & Tea at 10 a.m. the 1st Tuesday of every month at the Veterans Outreach Center, located at 205 E. Weinert St. in Seguin. Surviving spouses can come and spend time in the lounge and visit with other surviving spouses. To RSVP, call 830303-4188, Ext. 1249.

Veteran Ladies Night There will be a Veteran Ladies Night at 6 p.m. the 1st Tuesday of every month at the Veterans Outreach Center, located at 205 E. Weinert St. in Seguin. Ladies, spouses, and surviving spouses will gather for fellowship. Bring a snack and a drink. To RSVP, call 830-303-4188, Ext. 1249.

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.

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Brain Fitness Classes The City of Seguin Parks and Recreation Department will have Brain Fitness Classes $2 per class and light refreshments will be provided.

Discover simple and fun brain training activities that will challenge and stimulate your brain.

The classes will focus on memory, reasoning, processing speed, concentration, logical sequencing, problem solving and visual-spatial skills. For more information, call 830-386-2504.

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, Jan. 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 beneficiary will be the Lions Kidsight and entertainment will be provided by Brushy Creek.

Fiber Art Submission for Seguin Art League Fiber Show Fiber art submissions for the 8th Annual Seguin Art League Fiber Show will be from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Jan. 20. The show will hang until Saturday, February 10. Entries must be the original work of the artist and go beyond mere function. A prospectus can be found on the SAL website or picked up at the gallery, located at 104 S. Austin St. in Seguin. For more information call 830-305-0472.

February 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, Feb. 2 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 beneficiary will be the Our Lady of Guadalupe Food Pantry and entertainment will be provided by Lolli Truitt.

Showcase Seguin 2024 Business Expo: Business in Toyland The Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce will have its Showcase Seguin 2024 Business Expo: Business in Toyland from 5 to 8 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 8 at the Seguin Coliseum, located at 950 S. Austin St. in Seguin. Admission is free and registration is required. For more information, call 830-379-6382.

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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, Feb. 2 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 beneficiary will be the Guadalupe Child Welfare Board and entertainment will be provided by Wyatt Arp & Charlie Bragg.

Ongoing Community Calendar Items 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Dial 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline available 24 hours a day in English and Spanish.

Volunteer Van Drivers Needed Guadalupe County Veteran Services Office is in great need of volunteer van drivers. Even those who can only commit to one day per month.

Volunteers will drive local veterans who have no transportation to their VA medical appointments in San Antonio. To volunteer, call 830-3034188 ext. 1249.

CCSCT Releases Utility Assistance Application for 2023 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.

Precious Life Services Precious Life Services is accepting new clients who may need help with Anger Management, Parenting Skills, Christian Counseling, Group and Family Therapy, Anxiety and Depression, etc. Appointments are available in-office, by Zoom or Teleconference by calling 830-3725980.

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 di-

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ploma 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 New 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 423-2279610 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.

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Q

: I have some old shrubs in front of my house that have seen their best days. I would like to plant new ones, perhaps natives, and I would also like a line of shrubs as a hedge down the side of my house because the yard is bordered by a busy street that comes in off of Austin Street. Any suggestions?

A

: After checking my stand-by book, Doug Welsh’s Texas Garden Almanac, I also looked over the Native Plant Society’s suggestions.

Welsh lists a lot of old timers which would be better replaced with natives. One old medium-sized shrub he suggests is Elaeagnus, a graygreen evergreen that grows to 6 feet. The Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden site does not care for Elaeagnus and considers it invasive in Virginia.

This is another of those plants brought in from Japan, Korea and China because importers thought it would control erosion and provide food for wildlife as well as act as an ornamental hedge and screening plant. It has been in the U.S. since the early 1900s. The plant has root nodules that allow it to fix nitrogen, although if that is why it is planted, I would rather have bluebonnets which do the same thing.

The Native Plant Society Guadalupe Chapter in their handout “Invasive Plants and their Native Alternatives” suggests as replacements for privet or ligustrum the following shrubs: Barbados cherry, Cenizo, Cherry Laurel, Possumhaw, and Yaupon Holly. Of these, for street screening shrubs, I would use Cherry Laurel or Cenizo (Texas sage). The

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Cherry Laurel can be seen in use around the Seguin library parking lot. It grows to 10 feet with a width up to 6 feet. Dwarf Yaupon is nice as a low shrub in front of your house since it grows to 3 feet.

Other shrubs suitable for hedges and screening are Burford Holly and Nellie R. Stevens Holly. To me, the red berries on both hedges make it all worthwhile. I have a Burford Holly hedge in front of my house which screens my windows (and the sharp leaves deter burglars). Every winter it is covered with red berries. I use the clippings as inside decoration.

Standard Burford grows to 8 feet tall and 6 feet wide, while the dwarf form grows to 5 feet with a width of 4 feet. Nellie R. Stevens is better for street screening since it grows to 20-30 feet, with a width of 10-12 feet.

Q A

: What can I buy my gardening friends for Christmas gifts?

: One of the favorite gardening gifts I’ve ever received was a decent pair of gardening shears. Buy the bypass type which makes a nice clean cut. The anvil type of shears is best for cutting dead wood. Most gardeners will need one of these also, so buy both. My second favorite gift was a pair of leather rose gloves which I used for much more than just working with roses. The leather cuff came almost to my elbow and protected my forearms from many thorny plants. A more expensive gift might be an irrigation system, or drip lines in the flower beds, or even a water catchment system. Have a Happy Holiday.

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Place your ad in the CLASSIFIEDS by visiting the KWED office located at 609 E. Court St. during regular business hours. Or call us at 830-379-2234

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