Seguin Main Street names Downtowner of the Year
Moonlight & Roses celebrates community partners making a difference
Special by Lindsay Hajek, Assistant Director of Main Street and Destination Seguin
(Seguin) — Community members gathered for an evening of music, recognition and celebration at Main Street’s annual Moonlight & Roses event, which highlighted the people and organizations shaping downtown Seguin’s continued growth.
Originally planned for The Memorial Rose Garden in Walnut Springs Park, the event was moved indoors due to inclement weather. Blaire Friar, Director of Main Street and Destination Seguin expressed appreciation for the quick support that ensured the celebration continued as planned.
“While we were disappointed
to move away from Walnut Springs Park, the support we received made all the difference,” said Friar. “St. James Catholic Church graciously opened their doors to host us, and Crown Event Rentals not only provided tables, linens and chairs, but also stepped in at the last minute to create a welcoming indoor atmosphere.”
The event featured live jazz music by Choo-Cha Booch and included a ticketed dinner with a meal by Burnt Bean Co. A highlight of the evening was the presentation of downtown and arts awards.
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Friar acknowledged the collective effort behind both the event and downtown’s recent momentum.
“Our community has so much to be proud of,” she said. “Downtown has experienced meaningful growth and improvement over the past year, and that progress reflects the people who invest their time and energy here. It truly takes a community to make it happen, and Moonlight and Roses is an opportunity to recognize
those who play such an important role.”
The Downtowner of the Year award was presented to the Downtown Business Alliance for their leadership in organizing events such as Third Thursdays and Sip ‘n Stroll, along with continued support of local businesses and promotion of downtown.
The Volunteer of the Year honor went to Seguin Rotary, recognized for their consistent, hands-on role supporting the Biggest Small Town Fourth of July Parade, including
staging and logistics that help bring the long-standing tradition to life each year.
Lynn Clark received the Beautification of the Year award for her efforts to keep downtown clean, routinely volunteering her time to maintain the area and enhance community pride.
The Partner of the Year award was presented to KWED 1580 for their continued promotion of local businesses and events, along with hosting Freedom Fiesta.
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Downtowner, continued.
Arts awards, selected by the Seguin Commission on the Arts through community nominations, recognized individuals and organizations advancing creativity and cultural engagement in Seguin.
Olivia Busskohl was named Youth Artist of the Year in recognition of her emerging talent and commitment to developing her artistic skills.
The Seguin ISD Fine Arts Department received the Arts
Organization of the Year award for the broad range of programs and for strengthening arts education.
Jeremiah Camacho of the Lion’s Den Collective was honored as Outstanding Contributor to the Arts for his efforts to create inclusive and accessible opportunities for artists in Seguin.
Moonlight & Roses was made possible through community support and in-kind contributions. Crown Event Rentals provided tables, chairs and decor. Complimentary desserts were
provided by Lolo’s Place, with wine from Blue Lotus Winery and beer from Seguin Brewing Co. Event photography was provided by Andybernie_pix. Floral arrangements were contributed by H-E-B Floral, Colonial Green Florals, Dietz Flower Shop, Reiley and Rose, and Viola’s Flower Shop.
Proceeds from Moonlight & Roses, including dinner tickets and raffle sales, will be reinvested into downtown revitalization efforts, supporting future beautification and improvement projects.
#RV Baseball clinches Hendrix Series with 11-7 Win
CONWAY, AR -- #RV Texas Lutheran Baseball held on for an 11-7 win to clinch the series over Hendrix College on Saturday at Warrior Baseball Field in Conway, Arkansas.
The Bulldogs (23-10, 17-7 SCAC) jumped out to an early 2-0 lead in the first inning before the Warriors immediately tied the game up in the bottom of the inning and took the lead in the second. Texas Lutheran then scored runs in the third, fifth and eighth innings to secure the win.
Caleb Small (Round Rock/Gateway College Preparatory) and Aiden Spires (Fort Worth/ Arlington Heights) each finished with a seasonhigh three hits. Small went 3-for-5 with a grand slam, five RBI, two stolen bases, and two runs scored. Spires finished 3-for-6 with a run scored. Adam Peavy (Houston/Memorial) also had a big day at the plate, going 2-for-3 with a two-run homer and three RBI.
Cody Andrade (Calallen/Callen) closed out the game, allowing one unearned run over 3 2/3 innings to pick up his fifth save of the season.
Isaiah Ramirez (San Antonio/Marshall) got the win, his fourth of the season, allowing six runs on eight hits and four walks over 5 1/3 innings.
The Bulldogs grabbed an early lead courtesy of a two-run homer from Adam Peavy, his sixth of the season, with all six coming on the road.
After the Warriors took a 3-2 lead in the second, Texas Lutheran responded immediately in the top of the third to retake the lead, 7-3. A pair of two out walks and a bunt single from Cooper Jen (Kyle/Hays) loaded the bases for Caleb Small who cleared the bases with a grand slam. An RBI triple from Chase Bourgeois (League City/Clear Falls) tacked on another run to end the inning.
Hendrix scored three runs in the bottom of the fourth to trim the lead to 7-6.
Texas Lutheran answered in the top of the fifth with a trio of runs to extend the lead to 106. Small and Spires both singled before Bourgeois hit an RBI single and came around to score on an RBI double from Brayden Sprencel (Robstown/ Calallen). Peavy drove in the final run of the
inning on an RBI single to score Sprencel.
A Caleb Small RBI single in the eighth added an insurance run to the Bulldogs lead. Hendrix attempted to rally in the eighth and ninth but would strand runners in scoring position in both innings.
TLU travels to Georgetown on Tuesday, April 14, for a rematch against the Southwestern Pirates before closing their 2026 home slate against the Concordia (TX) Tornados next weekend at KattIsbel Field. First pitch is set for 6 p.m. against the Pirates. The game will be streamed for FREE on Southwestern’s YouTube Channel. All streaming and live stats links can be found on tlubulldogs. com.
For more information on Texas Lutheran baseball and all TLU athletics, you can find updates on tlubulldogs.com and all official TLU social media channels (@tluathletics and @ TLU_Baseball on X (Twitter), @tlubulldogs on Facebook, and @tlu_athletics on Instagram and TikTok).
Bryce Hayes
VITAL STATISTICS
MUELLER
Ralph Wayne Mueller, age 80 of Seguin, passed away on April 9, 2026. Ralph was born on September 23, 1945, in Cuero Texas to Inez (Kruse) and Walter John Mueller.
Ralph proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. He served his entire career in Civil Service as a firefighter.
Ralph is preceded in death by his parents, and his brothers, Donald J. Mueller and wife Darla, and Gene F. Mueller.
Survivors include his wife of 60 years, Elaine Mitchell Mueller; daughter, Tracy Bittner and husband Roger; granddaughters, Savannah Clark and husband Stewart, and Ariel Rennspies and husband Derek; great-
ETLINGER
Robert “Bob” Etlinger, 72, was surrounded by family when he was called home to God on April 4, 2026.
Bob was born on October 8, 1953, to Germaine (Lambrecht) and Clemens Etlinger in Seguin, Texas. He was baptized, confirmed, and received the Eucharist at St. James Catholic Church and attended its school, then known as St. Joseph’s Catholic School. He attended Seguin High School, graduating in 1972, and went on to graduate from Texas Tech University in 1976 and St. Mary’s University School of Law in 1979. He began a career in law as Assistant District Attorney in Bexar County for four years, receiving honors as a Hidalgo de San Antonio de Bejar from the Commissioners Court for his work, before transitioning into private practice for almost two decades.
Bob was proud of the community he was born and raised in, working not only to pursue justice as the Assistant County Attorney for Guadalupe County for over 22 years, but also serving the community through various organizations like Seguin Main Street Advisory Board, Guadalupe County Republican Party, South Texas Children’s Habilitation Center, and Boy Scouts. As a pro-life advocate, he supported the work of South Texas Pregnancy Care Center.
Dedicated to his faith and Lord, he was a lifelong parishioner of St. James and served his parish community through various ministries, including the youth group, A.C.T.S. Retreats, UNITAS marriage preparation, the annual Fall Festival, and serving as lector. He was also a Third Degree Knight and
grandchildren, Hadley Rennspies and Blaine Rennspies; nieces, nephews, cousins, other loving family members and many friends.
Visitation will begin on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel followed by funeral service at 10:30 a.m. with Pastor Jeremy Pedersen officiating. Interment with military honors will follow in Lone Oak Cemetery.
Serving as pallbearers will be Walter Mueller, Wade Mueller, Joe Mueller, Brian Settle, James Coker, and Carl Coker. Honorary pallbearers will be Carlton “Coker”, Jim Hotchkiss, George Rehfeld, and Steve Bruington.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice. 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.
Advocate for the Knights of Columbus Msgr. Bruno Hubertus Council #3412. He could frequently be found at the Perpetual Adoration Chapel at St. James reading his Bible and praying.
At his wife’s insistence, Bob finally retired in 2023 and spent his time tinkering around his farm, gardening, serving at the Knights of Columbus, fishing at the coast with his son, and spending all the time he could with his grandchildren.
Bob is preceded by his parents and stepmother, Josephine (Blume) Etlinger. He is survived by his wife of 23 years, Jackie Etlinger; children, Zachary Etlinger and wife Thea, Candace Bryant-Lester and husband Levi, and Jayme Bryant; grandchildren, William Bryant, Jacob Etlinger, Jackson Etlinger, and Abigail Etlinger; siblings, Kay (Etlinger) Bloch and husband Albert Bloch, Jr., and Michael Etlinger; numerous nieces, nephews, other loving family members and many friends.
Visitation will begin on Monday, April 13, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. at St. James Catholic Church, followed by the recitation of the Holy Rosary at 10:30 a.m. and the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. with the Reverend Canon Stanislaw Fiuk officiating. Interment will follow in the St. James Catholic Cemetery. A reception will follow in the Columbus Club Seguin Hall.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. James Catholic School, 510 S. Camp St., Seguin, Texas, 78155 or to the Knights of Columbus, P.O. Box 115, Seguin, Texas, 78156.
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.
Fertility Rate Continues To Decline In U.S.
(Undated) --- The U.S. fertility rate continues to drop and is now at a record low. New data by the National Center for Health Statistics shows the number of births from women of childbearing age fell by one percent in 2025 compared to the previous year. The rate for teens dropped by seven percent. The fertility rate has fallen for nearly two decades in the U.S.. It is down by about 23 percent since 2007.
Experimental Pill Lowers Blood Pressure
(London) -- There’s a new pill being tested that reduces blood pressure for people having trouble lowering it through existing drugs. A trial at the University College London shows those who were tested saw a significant drop in their blood pressure after 12 weeks, lowering the risk of heart attack and stroke. Doctors say this pill could be a gamechanger for the scores of people with hypertension. Results were published in the New England Journal of Medicine.
Lawsuit Filed Against Energy Drink Company After Texas Teen’s Death
(Edinburg, TX) -- A Texas family has filed a lawsuit against an energy drink company following a teen’s death from an enlarged heart. Attorneys say 17-year-old Larissa Rodriguez died last year from excessive caffeine consumption. They claim the high school student had begun drinking Alani Nu energy drinks in the year before her death, and that the constant ingestion of excessive caffeine led to her death. The lawsuit is asking for a million dollars in damages from the distributor of the energy drink.
Study Examines Link Between Marriage And Developing Cancer
(Miami, FL) -- A new study claims adults who have never been married face a much higher risk of developing cancer than those who have been married. Researchers at the University of Miami conducted a large study of over four-million cases and found adults who have never been married face higher risks of nearly every major cancer type. The study’s co-author says the findings suggest that social factors such as marital status “may serve as important markers of cancer risk.” He adds it doesn’t mean getting married will prevent cancer. Previous studies have already linked marriage with earlier cancer diagnosis and better survival rates.
Irma Lewis Outdoor Learning Center Open Trails
The Irma Lewis Outdoor Learning Center is now open to the public from 4 to 7 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday. Visitors are invited to enjoy self-guided hiking and biking on the trails, have a picnic, or take part in catchand-release fishing at the pond. The community is encouraged to take advantage of this outdoor space for recreation and relaxation.
GCCAC Golf Tournament to Benefit Children’s Advocacy Center
The Guadalupe County Children’s Advocacy Center will host its annual golf tournament fundraiser on Thursday, April 16 at The Bandit Golf Course. The 4-person scramble begins with registration at 7:30 a.m. and an 8:30 a.m. start. The event will also feature opportunities for prizes, including a hole-in-one contest, along with food, drinks, and activities throughout the day. For more information, visit gccac.net.
Master Gardeners Hosting April Classes and Plant Sales
The Guadalupe County Master Gardeners will host a series of free educational programs and plant sales throughout April across the area. Educational classes include two programs on April 11 — “Native Gardening” from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Schertz Public Library in Schertz, and “Butterflies, Bees and Moths – Oh My!” from noon to 1:30 p.m. at the Seguin Public Library. Plant sales will also be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 11 at the Polley Mansion Heritage Garden in La Vernia, April 18 at the Ron Pedde Memorial Community Garden in Cibolo, and April 25 during the Seguin Earth Day Festival at Central Park in downtown Seguin. All events are free and open to the public, with registration required for select classes.
Seguin Art League Announces April Events, Classes & Deadlines
The Seguin Art League is hosting a series of upcoming events and classes throughout April, along with a deadline for its annual High School Art Show. Art in Action, a community-wide live art event, will take place April 11 to 12, with finished works displayed April 14 to 24. A Needle Felted Landscapes workshop is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. April 18, followed by an Ink and Watercolor Landscapes class from 1 to 4 p.m. on April 29, both at the Seguin Art League Gallery. Entries for the Annual High School Art Show are due from 4 to 6 p.m. April 30 at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church McKeogh Hall, with an awards reception set for May 2. Classes have limited space and require registration. For details, entry forms, and registration information, visit seguinartleague.com or call 830-305-0472.
Pantherpalooza Kids & Family Expo
Navarro ISD will host Pantherpalooza, a Kids and Family Expo, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 11, at
Navarro Intermediate School. The free event will feature family resources, student organizations, local businesses, games, food trucks and information about summer recreation and student job opportunities. For details or vendor information, visit navarroisd.us/pantherpalooza.
Child Abuse Awareness Fundraiser: Fiesta of Heroes and Villains
An 8th annual Child Abuse Awareness fundraiser, “Fiesta of Heroes and Villains,” will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 11 at the Comal County Sheriff’s Posse, 3826 Morningside Drive in New Braunfels. Hosted by Guardians of the Children Hill Country Chapter, the event will include a fun run, bike show, silent auction, raffle drawing, vendor booths, and a free bike giveaway for youth. Attendees are encouraged to dress as their favorite superhero or villain. Proceeds will benefit Guardians of the Children, a nonprofit organization supporting abused children.
TLU Education Career Fai
Texas Lutheran University will host an Education Career Fair from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, April 15 at the Dunne Conference Center in Tschoepe Hall, Room 115. The free event is open to students and community members seeking full- or part-time opportunities in education, with multiple school districts expected to attend. Attendees are encouraged to bring copies of their resume.
Navarro ISD to Host Pre-K and Kindergarten Roundup
Families with young children are invited to learn more about enrolling in Navarro ISD during the district’s upcoming Pre-K and Kindergarten Roundup events at Navarro Elementary School in Geronimo. Pre-K Roundup will be held from 4:45 to 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 16, followed by Kindergarten Roundup from 4:45 to 6:30 p.m. Monday, April 21. Parents will have the opportunity to meet teachers, tour classrooms and speak with district representatives about transportation, child nutrition and special education services while learning about the enrollment process for the 2026-27 school year. Children must be 4 years old for Pre-K and 5 years old for Kindergarten by Sept. 1, 2026. For details and required documents, visit navarroisd.us/roundup.
Master Gardeners Program: Landscape Mysteries
The Guadalupe County Master Gardeners will host their monthly membership meeting and educational program beginning at 5:45 p.m. Thursday, April 16 at 210 East Live Oak Street in Seguin. The evening will include a social at 5:45 p.m., a business meeting at 6:15 p.m., and a 7 p.m. presentation titled “Landscape Mysteries – ID That Plant or Bug,” led by Master Gardener, Master Naturalist, and Master Composter Peter Hernandez. The program is free and open to the public.
CASA of Central Texas will host its “Boogie Down Disco” Dinner and Auction from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. Friday, April 17 at The Chandelier of Gruene. The event, held in recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month, will include a seated dinner, live and silent auctions, and a special guest speaker who was once served by CASA. Proceeds from the evening will support advocacy services for children in foster care. Tickets are available online at givebutter.com/c/casadisco2026. For more information, visit casacentex.org or call 830-837-3026.
Pachanga 2026 to Benefit Teatro de Artes de Juan Seguín
The Center for Mexican American Studies and the Mexican American Student Association at Texas Lutheran University are inviting the community to Pachanga 2026, a free fundraiser supporting Teatro de Artes de Juan Seguín. The event will be held from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, April 17 at the TLU Alumni Plaza. The evening will include a silent auction, dinner, dancing, and live music featuring Llamativa, DJ Navarro, Mariachi AJB, the Seguin Starlettes, and Danza Guadalupana. The event is free and open to all ages.
Wildlife Association annual meeting
The Guadalupe County Wildlife Management Association will hold its annual Spring Meeting on April 17 at the Texas Agriculture Education & Heritage Center (Big Red Barn), 250 Corodova Road in Seguin. The meeting begins with a social hour at 6 p.m., with the dinner meeting set to begin at 7 p.m. Anyone interested in Guadalupe county wildlife management is encouraged to attend. Dinner cost $15. RSVP by sending an email to RSVP:GuadalupeCountyWMA@gmail.com.
Small Business Unite Symposium Coming to Northeast Lakeview College
The Texas Tri-County Chamber of Commerce will host the Small Business Unite Symposium on April 17–18 at Northeast Lakeview College in Paluxy Hall in Universal City. The two-day event is open to entrepreneurs, business owners, students, and community leaders. The symposium will feature business education sessions, networking opportunities, industry panels, and a Lean Six Sigma White Belt Certification included with registration. Registration is now open at busines.txtricountychamber.org.
Field of Honor BBQ fundraiser
Seguin Field of Honor will have a BBQ fundraiser from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 18 at Cash America Pawn, located at 1111 E. Court St. The plates are $12 each and consist of half a chicken, cowboy potatoes, beans and trimmings. Presale tickets are available from committee members, or call Connie at 830-243-2872.
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TLU Spring Fling
Texas Lutheran University will host its annual Spring Fling from 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, April 22 on the TLU Library Lawn. The free event will feature a live concert, food trucks, games, and activities for all ages. The community is invited to attend and enjoy the festivities.
SW Prep PTO hosts Bingo Night Fundraiser
The Southwest Preparatory School PTO is hosting a game night fundraiser to help build a new playground for students at the Seguin charter school. The event will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday, April 23 in the Southwest Preparatory School Cafeteria, located at 2400 E. Walnut St. Entry is $10 and includes a game book. Tickets will be available at the door or from any PTO member. Students in 6th grade and up may participate, but must be accompanied by an adult.
Texans Reaching Out 2026
Come one, come y’all to celebrate in true Texas style at St. Andrew’s “Texans Reaching Out” on Friday, April 24 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the church parish hall, 201 E. Nolte. The event features a lip-smackin’ fish fry by Johnny’s BBQ and music by The Magpies! You’ll also enjoy appetizers, drinks, and a handheld dessert bar. Tickets are free of charge, but reservations are required. A collection will be taken to benefit the local and international outreach ministries of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church. Seating is limited so reserve prior to April 17 by calling the church office at 830.372.4330 or emailing secretary@standrewseguin.org.
Seguin ISD Matador Family Bash
A Matador Family Bash will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Friday, April 24 at Matador Stadium in Seguin. Hosted by Seguin ISD, the free event will feature games, concessions, and family activities. A movie showing of “Zootopia 2” will follow from 7 to 9 p.m. Families are encouraged to bring blankets and pillows for the movie.
Geronimo Creek Spring Stream Cleanup
A spring stream cleanup for the Geronimo and Alligator Creeks Watershed Partnership will be held from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday, April 25. Volunteers in the Seguin area will meet at the Seguin ISD Outdoor Learning Center, located at 1865 E. U.S. Highway 90. Participants will help clean local waterways as part of a regional effort to improve water quality. Cleanup supplies will be provided, and a limited number of event T-shirts will be available for those who register. Free breakfast tacos and coffee will also be provided. Volunteers are encouraged to sign up in advance at geronimocreekwatershed.org.
Free Community CPR Training
The Seguin Fire Department will host a free Community CPR Training from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday, April 25 at the Seguin Public Library. Space is limited, and participants are encouraged to sign up in advance. Register online at signupgenius.com/go/40 9044AA4AB22A1F58-63409752-community.
World Tai Chi & Qi Gong Day Celebration
A World Tai Chi and Qi Gong Day celebration will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 25 on the east lawn of Emanuel’s Lutheran Church, 206 N. Travis St. in Seguin. Local practitioners will gather as part of a global event promoting peace, harmony, and wellness, joining others around the world during the same hour. The free event is open to all skill levels, including beginners and those who wish to observe and participate. Participants are encouraged to bring a lawn chair and water.
Denim Day Event Raises Awareness for Sexual Assault Prevention
The Thriving Hearts Crisis Center is inviting the community to take part in Denim Day, a special awareness event focused on supporting survivors of sexual assault. The event will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, April 29 at Seguin Central Park, located at 201 S. Austin St. in Seguin. Community members are encouraged to attend, show support, and help raise awareness with the message that consent matters.
Evening with the Texas Rangers Set for April 30
The Seguin Heritage Museum is inviting the community to “An Evening with the Texas Rangers,” a special program featuring history and live entertainment. The event will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, April 30 at the Palace Theatre, located at 114 S. Austin St. in Seguin. Entertainment will be provided by Dottsy Dwyer and the Hudiburgs, with concessions available during the evening. Admission is $20. Tickets can be purchased online at seguinheritagemuseum.org or locally at the Seguin Heritage Museum, Parker’s City Pharmacy, and Gift and Gourmet.
Seguin Art League High School Art Show Now Accepting Entries
The Seguin Art League will host its 16th annual High School Art Show, with artwork submissions accepted from 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday, April 30 at St. Andrew’s McKeogh Hall, located at 201 E. Nolte St. in Seguin. The show is open to all students in grades 9 through 12. Cash prizes will be awarded during a reception scheduled from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 2. For more information and a prospectus, visit seguinartleague.com or call 830-491-0778.
Friends of the Library Annual Meeting
The Seguin Friends of the Library will host its annual meeting at 2 p.m. Thursday, April 30 at the Seguin Public Library. Doors open at 1:30 p.m. The program, “Tejiendo (Weaving) Cultura: The Women Who Have, Who Are and Who Will Weave the Legacy of Teatro,” will be presented by Dr. Yvonne De La Rosa, followed by a brief business meeting. Refreshments will be provided.
Free Tax Help at Texas Lutheran University
Texas Lutheran University is offering free tax preparation assistance through its IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs. The clinic will be held Wednesdays from 5 to 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon through April 15 at the Beck Center on the Texas Lutheran University campus, 1020 Beck Drive in Seguin. The service is provided at no cost by accounting students from Texas Lutheran University and is open to individuals and households earning $69,000 or less, as well as seniors, people with disabilities, and limited English-speaking taxpayers.
Energy Assistance Available
The Community Council of South Central Texas is accepting applications for utility bill assistance through the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP). Funding is limited and available in select counties, including Guadalupe County. Apply online at ccsct.org/utility-assistance-apply-for-services/ and schedule an appointment with your county office. An appointment does not guarantee assistance.
Homestead Exemption Audit Process Begins for Property Owners
Property owners in Guadalupe County are being advised of a new requirement involving homestead exemptions. Under a new state law, appraisal districts across the state, including the Guadalupe Appraisal District, will begin conducting audits of homestead exemptions. As part of the process, property owners with an active homestead exemption may receive a notice asking them to reapply for the exemption every five years to verify eligibility. The appraisal district does not calculate taxes based on exemptions. Any tax adjustments will be handled by the Guadalupe County Tax Assessor-Collector’s Office and reflected either in amended bills for previous years or on the current year’s tax bill issued in October. Property owners who receive a notice should follow the instructions provided by the Guadalupe Appraisal District.
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.
Small steps to extend a car’s life expectancy
Vehicles continue to get more expensive. The automotive experts at Kelley Blue Book indicate the average American car buyer paid $50,080 for a new vehicle in September 2025, which was the first time the average price for a new car ever topped $50,000. More drivers are looking for ways to push their current vehicles past the 200,000-mile mark to save money.
According to S&P Global Mobility, the average age of a vehicle on the road hit a record high of 12.8 years in 2025. Although major mechanical failures concern drivers of older vehicles, it’s actually much smaller things that can affect vehicle longevity. There are small actions anyone can take to significantly extend a car’s life.
• Use caution on cold starts. When a vehicle sits, oil settles at the bottom of the engine. To help combat damage that can occur, drivers can wait about 30 seconds before shifting into gear, as this will allow the oil pump to circulate the lubricant to the upper valve train and help prevent extra wear on the engine. Modern fuelinjected engines warm up faster and more safely
by being driven gently rather than sitting still, so it’s not necessary to idle for a long while with the vehicle in the driveway, says Smart Motors Toyota. In fact, long idles actually can strip away oil.
• Treat fluids wisely. According to EngineeringCivil.org, checking and replacing fluids is cheaper than replacing hardware. Recent data suggests that consistent oil changes can add between 50,000 and 100,000 miles to an engine’s lifespan. It’s important to follow a vehicle’s manual for time-based intervals for fluid replacement, rather than just going by mileage.
• Drive faster on occasion. Oil will never get hot enough to evaporate internal condensation for those who primarily drive short distances under 10 miles. Once every few weeks, it’s important for drivers to drive at least 20 minutes at highway speeds to help get rid of contaminants.
• Drive smoothly on roads. Aggressive driving will not just burn more gas; such driving also creates heat, which can impact longevity. According to Kia, hard braking generates immense heat that can warp rotors and stress
suspension bushings. Likewise, it’s key to ease into acceleration. Rapid acceleration forces the transmission to downshift abruptly, increasing wear. Reports from The Zebra, an insurance shopping company, indicate that mindful driving can reduce mechanical strain by up to 30 percent.
• Fight corrosion. Rust can kill a car before the engine actually fails. People who live in areas where roads are treated with salt in the winter should use a winter car wash that includes an undercarriage spray. Auto Recycling World says road salt can eat through brake lines and fuel lines. In addition, applying a coat of wax twice a year can prevent UV rays and other damage to the clear coat, which protects the metal body from the elements.
• Address engine lights promptly. CarMD says addressing a “check engine” light immediately is 20 percent cheaper than waiting until the vehicle has a driveability issue. For example, ignoring a $150 oxygen sensor can eventually destroy a $1,500 catalytic converter. Small habits can help prolong the longevity of vehicles and help people save money.
