April 28, 2026
Groundbreaking marks final phase of $37.8 million drainage overhaul in Seguin
(Seguin) -- Even as major construction nears completion, Seguin city leaders gathered to break ground on what they call the “final leg” of a sweeping, multi-million-dollar effort to reduce flooding across the city.
Last week’s ceremony signifies both the start and near completion of four priority drainage projects funded through a $37.8 million grant from the Texas General Land Office. The funds were provided to help with recurring flood damage tied to heavy rains, hurricanes and tropical storms that move across the area.
Seguin City Manager Steve Parker says it’s important for the public to know just how rare this funding is for a city of this size.
“Cities this size do not get this kind of allotment when it comes to federal funds. Usually, I’ve seen it really twice in my career.
Overhaul, pg. 4
Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
Seguin’s four priority drainage projects
Walnut Branch
Drainage Improvements
• Land acquisitions to expand the existing detention ponds near Interstate 10 and Huber Rd (north basin) and Fleming Drive (south basin)
• Build bridge crossings on San Antonio Avenue at Walnut Branch and William Street at Walnut Branch and replace low water crossing further downstream
• Construct a small drainage system on Aldama at Kingsbury for a neighborhood access road North
Heideke Street Drainage Improvements
• Create an underground storm water conveyance system on the northern end of downtown Seguin bound by North Austin and Heideke Streets. The storm drainage system will allow for conveyance of stormwater runoff from the street channel to an underground conveyance system and increase the storm drainage network for a total of 6,700 LF.
Mays Creek Drainage Improvements
• Replace culverts at State Hwy 46, County Road 725, River Oaks Dr, and County Road 402 to the appropriate size for a total of 5,650 LF
• Construct an additional driveway to ensure residential safety by allowing two ingress/egress points during flooding
North Guadalupe
Street Drainage Improvements
• Install a regional detention basin via land acquisition near Guadalupe Street and FM 78
• Install a new storm drain system that will include a storm trunk line along 8th Street to West New Braunfels Street, a storm drain branch to extend east and west along West New Braunfels, a branch with inlets will extend east from 8th Street along Collins Avenue to Guadalupe Street, and a smaller branch to extend west along Kingsbury Street, for a total 11,175 LF.
Courtesy Photo
Navarro ISD voters face final day of early voting in May 2 election
Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
(Geronimo) -- Time is running out for Navarro ISD residents to cast their ballots early. Today marks the final chance to vote early in the May 2 uniform election which includes the consideration of a multi-million-dollar bond issue for the local school district.
Among the several ballot items appearing in the various races across Gudalupe County will be the proposed $65 million school bond designed to address continued student growth and campus needs across the Navarro ISD.
Navarro ISD Superintendent Mandy Epley says the single proposition focuses on upgrades, expansions, and infrastructure improvements.
“It is for facilities reinvestment. That’s a roof and HVAC system at the current Navarro Elementary, as well as the current annex building. All of that will become the future early childhood center. It’s also got a junior high expansion. It’s additional classrooms and a cafetorium, as well as some refresh to the secondary gym, some drainage fencing, and renovation of the current cafetorium and kitchen. And
then our transportation, which would be the last part of the proposition, which includes buses and secure parking expansion for the district fleet. And that is a total of $65 million, which is at a no tax rate increase,” said Epley.
District leaders also continue to emphasize that, while the ballot is required by state law to include language referencing a property tax increase, the intent of the proposal is to maintain the current tax rate.
Other races in the uniform election include school board contests, city council races, ballot propositions in New Braunfels and a $295 million bond election in SchertzCibolo-Universal City ISD.
Early voting locations include the Guadalupe County Elections Office; Redemptive Grace Ministries in New Braunfels; the Schertz Annex; Selma City Hall and the Marion ISD Tondre Room.
Early voting polls will be open today from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Election Day is scheduled for Saturday, May 2.
Overhaul, continued.
One was San Marcos, which I worked at before and now Seguin. So, we’re very, very privileged. You know, Seguin is extremely old community. 1838, very flat community, not a lot of drainage infrastructure and the drainage infrastructure that is here is very old. And we’ve experienced that just as last July 5th. You can see that. And one of the major initiatives when I got here and Melissa took the lead is we’ve been trying to implement a drainage utility for a number of years because we saw those issues. And so, we implemented a drainage utility fee program. That’s where the matching dollars can come from for projects like this. And it’s allowing us to do drainage master planning all over our community. And when you’re shovel ready and you know where these projects should go, You’re going to be first in line for these grant dollars, right? Because the federal government doesn’t want to waste taxpayers’ money. And so, when they see communities that are ready to go, have their stuff in order, it just says mountains and it makes mountains move when you actually are able to align all these things and let them know that you’re going to do this. And now that we’ve actually proven ourselves and got these projects done on time, the next round of grants that come through, I think we would rate very, very highly because they know we’re not going to embarrass them, right?” said Parker.
The projects -- Walnut Branch, Mays Creek, North Heideke Street and North Guadalupe Street -- are all designed to tackle long-standing drainage challenges. Improvements include expanded detention ponds, upgraded culverts, new stormwater systems, bridge construction and additional access routes for residents during flood events.
Melissa Reynolds, the city’s director of engineering and capital projects, says the initiative has been years in the making and is now entering its final stretch.
“This was huge. It allowed us to conquer a lot of drainage issues across the entire city. It was four different design projects, six different construction projects, and all of them have been running very well -- on time for the most part and under budget for the most part so that’s another win no pressure D&D but the last phase is kicking off as of now so this was our last chance for a groundbreaking --- we will be executing the final leg of these projects with a new bridge and we’ll be ending it with the ribbon cutting as we reopen that roadway,” Reynolds.
On hand to represent the Texas General Land office was Heather Lagrone. Lagrone, the director of the disaster recovery programs at the Land Office, says Seguin stood out for its preparedness and strategic planning in securing this competitive funding.
“I am the director of our disaster recovery programs at the Land Office. I am not Commissioner (Dawn) Buckingham, but she sends her best regards. She wished that she could be here too but thank y’all all for including us. We get to spend a lot of disaster recovery money on the coast. We don’t get to spend a lot of money in your area, but I will tell you that Seguin has done an amazing job at getting a very large amount of money to your community. But you are getting over $40 million here in the city, $55 million in the county. And looking at how you’re prioritizing that money on flood and drainage is super obvious that you all take this very seriously and you are working to achieve some things that probably would not have been achieved otherwise. So, we just love the fact that we’re getting to be a partner with you all and getting us to this last project in this whole program that y’all are working on with us and we’re looking forward to continuing and finalizing that with you all,” said
Parker says the improvements are not just about infrastructure, but about peace of mind for residents who for years have faced “repeated flooding.”
“I just can’t say enough about our whole entire team, finance, our new grants administrator has just done a phenomenal job. Our consultants that does the grant stuff with us as well. Our engineering firms and our contractors
have just performed phenomenally. And our drainage utility, I can’t say enough about Adam Rossing being a new addition to the team. They’ve been going out and taking care of our existing infrastructure. And just since the start of the fiscal year, they have taken up out of our manhole covers for our drainage utility system. He did some numbers the other day. We would have taken enough out of our dirt and silt out of our drainage system that would have filled up the Seguin Coliseum. So, we’re going to bring that presentation back to the next council meeting. Those are the type of maintenance programs that we have to do to keep up with our infrastructure and make sure it’s taken care of and it maintains and so forth. So, I just can’t say enough about this team, about this community and the support. We really do want to change lives and when you have people that get scared every time a thunderstorm pops up because they’re not, they’re concerned about what’s going to happen to their house, their garages, all those types of things. It just really does say these are the life-changing, quality of life things that we want to do. So, I just want to say thank you to everybody that’s worked on this project and the partnerships that we have with everyone,” said Parker.
Also thanking staff and the contractors who have all helped to make this happen was Seguin Mayor Donna Dodgen. Dodgen says she credits the longterm vision for making these projects possible.
“We’re sitting in a pecan bottom, and we are flat and we are very old, as Steve said, and haven’t done many, many things. But when Steve came on board and when the directors and as we’ve continued to move with council members and mayors, we’ve continued to take that bar to the next level to see how we can make things work. How can we get it ready to make it work and to take advantage of everything that’s available to us. And we’ve done that and you are part of that. And the staff is to be commended because I say this all the time and our council truly believes this. We’re the ones, the elected officials change, the staff stays the same. We must trust and move within them and we do. That’s what makes us successful. That’s what makes us successful is trusting each other, believing in each other and having that relationship,” said Dodgen.
The projects were all funded through a Texas General Land Office disaster mitigation grant, awarded in response to repeated storm damage in 2015 and during Hurricane Harvey in 2017.
Additional funding was also approved for the city of Marion. The funds are part of more than $47.8 million allocated in Guadalupe County for the improvement of water, wastewater and drainage systems.
Networking
Guadalupe
#RV Baseball Splits with Dallas, clinches SCAC title
Bryce Hayes
IRVING, Texas -- #RV Texas Lutheran Baseball split a doubleheader against Dallas, securing the series with a 17-0 win in seven innings to to win the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference Regular Season Championship before dropping the series finale 3-2 on Saturday at Crusader Fields in Irving.
The Bulldogs finished the regular season with a 28-11 overall record and 21-9 league mark to earn the No. 1 seed in the 2026 SCAC Tournament at La Moderna Field in Cleburne, Texas. The championship is the first since 2023’s regular season championship and the first under head coach Kyle Palmer ‘09. The 2026 SCAC Tournament, which will feature six teams for the first time, begins on April 30. The Bulldogs have earned a bye with the No. 1 seed and will begin SCAC Tournament play on May 1. The tournament will be streamed in its entirety on FloCollege. All streaming and live stats links can be found on tlubulldogs.com.
Freshman Jack Grames (Elgin/Elgin) tossed a seven-inning complete game shutout, facing just four batters over the minimum. He allowed three hits and two walks, while striking out three to improve to 8-2 this season.
The Bulldogs launched four home runs, matching their season-high. Adam Peavy (Houston/Memorial) finished the game 2-for-5 with a homer, four RBI, and three runs scored. Cole Cravens (Round Rock/Round Rock) went 2-for-3 with a homer, a walk, three RBI, and two runs scored. Mathew Elizondo (Eagle Pass/Eagle Pass) and Tyler Helpenstill (Houston/Lutheran South) also homered in the game with Elizondo’s homer being the first of his career.
An RBI single from Peavy and a two-RBI double from Cravens gave the Bulldogs an early 3-0 lead in the first inning.
Texas Lutheran added two more runs to go up 5-0 in the third after a sacrifice fly from Caleb Small (Round Rock/Gateway College Preparatory) and an RBI fielder’s choice from Cooper Jen (Kyle/Hays).
The Bulldogs added another run in the fourth on an RBI sacrifice bunt from Brayden Sprencel (Robstown/Calallen).
TLU scored 11 runs over the final three innings, starting with four more runs in the fifth to extend their lead to 10-0. Cole Cravens led off the inning with his third homer of the season. A two-RBI single from Caleb Alfaro (San Antonio/St. Anthony Catholic) and an RBI single from Sprencel concluded the scoring in the inning.
A Caleb Small RBI double in the sixth pushed the game further into run-rule territory.
The Bulldogs ended the game with a three-homer seventh inning. Adam Peavy hit his team-high seventh homer of the season, a three-run homer to give the Bulldogs a two touchdown lead over the Crusaders. After a pinch hit double from Drew Burnett (Seguin/Seguin), Mathew Elizondo hit his first career home run and Tyler Helpenstill followed with a solo home run as TLU hit back-to-back homers to wrap the scoring in Saturday’s first contest.
Texas Lutheran Baseball was unable to complete the sweep, falling 3-2 to the Crusaders in the regular season and series finale.
Senior Parker Schutte (Arlington/Lamar) pitched well in relief, tossing 2.1 innings and striking out one but was charged with the loss after allowing the gamewinning run in the eighth.
Cody Andrade (Calallen/Calallen) got the final two outs in relief of Schutte. Starter Isaiah Ramirez (San Antonio/Marshall) pitched five innings and allowed two runs on seven hits with five strikeouts.
Michael Barrera (San Antonio/East Central) had a good day at the plate with two hits including a double and a run scored, while Caleb Alfaro had two hits and an RBI.
Dallas scored its first run of the day in the bottom of the second, utilizing a trio of singles to go up 1-0. Ramirez was able to get out of the one-out, bases loaded jam to limit the Crusaders to just one run.
A TLU error led to the Crusaders second run in the sixth inning as the TLU deficit extended to 2-0.
Texas Lutheran tied the game up 2-2 in the seventh on an RBI sacrifice bunt from Caleb Small and a bases loaded, infield RBI single from Alfaro.
Entering the game with the winning run on third, Cody Andrade came out of the bullpen and was greeted by an RBI double in the eighth in what turned out to be the game-winner for the Crusaders.
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).
VITAL STATISTICS
SCHLEIER
Judy Ann Schleier of Lake McQueeney, Texas, was welcomed to Heaven on April 20, 2026, surrounded by her beloved family. During her courageous battle with cancer, Judy carried herself with patience, grace, and a dash of her dry and witty humor.
Judy was born in the beautiful Bluegrass Region of Harrodsburg, Kentucky, on February 1, 1956, to Ina (Winchester) and Earl Sherrow. She attended the University of Kentucky and, after graduation, began working in the oil and gas industry in Lexington. There, she formed close friendships with colleagues, including Tommy. Together with friends, they spent their early years traveling throughout Europe, the Bahamas, Mexico, and the Florida Keys, embracing adventure and the freedom of their twenties. After returning from a diving trip to the British Virgin Islands, Tommy asked Judy on a date, and they began their 44-year love story. Judy and Tommy married in 1988 and made homes in Wyoming, Kentucky, and on a farm in Pleasanton, Texas, before planting roots on beautiful Lake McQueeney, where they raised their family. She later moved from land work into teaching before choosing to devote herself to raising her children, Jacy and Eric, who were the center of her world. She carried an adventurous spirit from her earliest days, with a gritty, fearless nature, enjoying hobbies from horseback riding and water skiing to scuba diving and snow skiing. Beneath that strength was a genuinely caring and calm presence, a quiet beauty that made people feel at ease. She embraced experiences, welcomed people, and lived with an energy that made even ordinary moments feel meaningful. Her competitive nature also shined in the moments she shared with friends and family, whether she was challenging girlfriends at Mahjong, playing tennis with her Wednesday group, or enjoying
a lively game of Shanghai Rummy during Christmases in Kentucky. Judy loved Thursday evenings with her book club gals, walking the dog with cherished neighbors, and delighting in the sun by the lake or pool. She held a deep appreciation for Keeneland and the Kentucky Derby.
Above all, Judy devoted her life to her children with unwavering selflessness and was a loving and supportive partner to Tommy through every stage of their life and business together. She filled their home with warmth, delicious meals, and a sense of security. She was a steady and patient presence for Eric, always there to tend to whatever adventure or mishap came his way, and a constant companion and best friend to Jacy, with whom she shared a deep and inseparable bond. Her greatest joy and proudest role was being their mother.
Judy is preceded in death by her parents, Ina and Earl Sherrow.
Left to cherish her memory include her loving husband of 37 years, Thomas Schleier; daughter, Jacy Oechsli and husband Matthew; son, Eric Schleier; sister, Donna Murphy; sisters-in-law, Nancy Polis and husband Nyle, and Ellen Lawler and husband James; brother-in-law, Tim Murphy; nieces, Merideth Pittman and husband Tyler, and April Ellis and husband Myron; Elizabeth and Sarah Lawler; nephews, Austin Lawler and Robert Polis; and numerous other loving family members and many friends. She would not want us to forget her sweet Spaniel companion, Pepper.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, April 27, 2026, at Oakwood Church in New Braunfels, Texas. A reception will follow at 1:00 p.m. at Lake Breeze Ski Lodge, McQueeney, Texas.
Private graveside services and interment will be held before at Guadalupe Valley Memorial Park.
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.
VITAL STATISTICS
MENCHACA
www.SEGUINTODAY.com
Michelle T. Menchaca, age 54 of Seguin, passed away on April 21, 2026. Michelle was born in Bedford, England on August 22, 1971, to Pauline (Woollcott) Posch and Jim Woods.
Michelle worked for many years as a Certified Nurses Assistant at Windsor Nursing Home (formerly Care Inn) and later became a Licensed Vocational Nurse and was currently working at Advanced Home Health here in Seguin. Many good times were spent watching the San Antonio Spurs with family and friends.
Michelle is preceded in death by her grandparents, Betty and Peter Woollcott, her uncles, Chris Woollcott and Ian Woollcott, aunt, Jean Dicks, father-in-law, Santos Menchaca, Sr., sister-in-law, Jessica Menchaca, and her fur baby, Toby.
Survivors include her loving husband, Santos Menchaca, Jr.; son, Reymond Acosta; daughters, Brittany Acosta and Alisha Acosta; step-son, Santos “Trey” Menchaca III; mother, Pauline Posch and husband John; father, Jim Woods
SCHIEVELBEIN
Margaret Lucille Jung Schievelbein, age 101 of McQueeney, passed away on April 15, 2026. Margaret was born in Sisterdale, Texas, on July 11, 1924, to Bertha (Seay) and William Henry Jung.
She was a very loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great grandmother.
She was the light of the family. She enjoyed gardening, reading, painting, and singing with different quartets throughout the years. But most of all, she loved the Lord and her family.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Kurt Schievelbein, parents, brothers Merlin Jung and C.J. Jung, sister Arlene Lenz (Val), and son-in-law, Jerry R. MyCue.
She is survived by her sons, Fernon J. Schievelbein (Julia) and Kurt
WAHL
DeAnna Lyn Marie Wahl, age 56 of Seguin, passed away on April 24, 2026. DeAnna was born on March 17, 1970, in New Braunfels, Texas to Norma Gene (Christy) and Ray Joy Wahl, Sr.
DeAnna was a 1988 graduate of Marion High School. She was an active member of the Marion Bulldog Band where she played the clarinet and proudly served as Drum Major, her senior year. She enjoyed playing all sports in high school.
DeAnna retired from Continental in New Braunfels after 25 years of faithful service. She was a member of Cross Church in Seguin.
DeAnna is preceded in death by her mother, her brother, Ray Joy Wahl, Jr., her nanny, Edna Wahl Bruemmer, and her aunt Verna Mae Bierstedt.
Survivors include her daughters, Tifny Funderburg and wife Andrea, and Emily Hodgkins; her grandchildren, Jaden Witty, Olivia Witty, Peyton Beeman, Evalynn Stevens, and Harold Stevens; her father, Ray Joy Wahl, Sr.; sister, Monica Stevenson and husband Eric; brother, Brad Wahl and wife Bebbi; nieces and nephews, Brytni Krause and husband Bubba, Brian Wahl, Kassidi Wahl, Reagan Herrera, Donnie Wahl, Genesis Greathouse, Regina
and wife Elsie; mother-in-law, Janie Menchaca; sister, Christine Woods; brothers, Alan Posch, and Jon Posch; sisters-in-law, Irene Gil and husband Darius, Sonia Menchaca and husband Johnathan, Jennifer Meloccaro and husband Gary; brother-in-law, Steven Menchaca; fur babies, Cash and Tango; three grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews, other loving family members and many friends.
Visitation will be held on Monday, April 27, 2026, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel with the recitation of the Holy Rosary at 6 p.m. Visitation will begin again on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at St. James Catholic Church at 10 a.m. followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. with the Reverend Canon Stanislaw Fiuk officiating. Interment will follow in San Geronimo Cemetery.
Serving as pallbearers will be Reymond Acosta, Ray Tovar, Josh Nieto, Alan Posch, Steven Menchaca, Santos “Trey” Menchaca, III, Nathaniel Menchaca, Jonathan Posch and Gabriel Garcia.
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.
Schievelbein (Debbie), and daughter, Carol MyCue; grandchildren, Brent MyCue, Kyle Schievelbein and Erin Schievelbein; great-grandchildren Darren MyCue, Mason MyCue (Kylie), and Jaxon MyCue, great-great-grandchildren Louise Faye MyCue and Lucian Karr MyCue; numerous nieces, nephews, other loving family members and friends.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, April 24, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel with the Reverend Rudy Salazar, Jr. officiating. Interment will follow in San Geronimo Cemetery.
Serving as pallbearers will be Randy Lenz, Brent MyCue, Mason MyCue, Kevin Lenz, Wesley Hart, Kyle Schievelbein, and Mark Jung.
Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of 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.
Wahl and Jethro Wahl; uncle, O’Brien Bierstedt; special friend, Roger “Rocky” Ramirez; numerous cousins, other loving family members and many friends.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, May 3, 2026, from 3 to 5 p.m. at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel. Funeral service will be held on Monday May 4, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Cross Church with the Reverend Jim Price officiating. Interment will follow in San Geronimo Cemetery.
For those who desire, the service can be livestreamed at the Cross Church Facebook page.
Serving as pallbearers will be Carl Steffen, Al Hewell, Brian Wahl, Donnie Wahl, Michael Wilson, and Carol Allen.
A reception will follow at the Gerth Party Barn.
Memorial contributions may be made to Lacuna Autism Services, 17319 San Pedro Ave., San Antonio, Texas, 78232, Suncrest Hospice Services, 911 Central Parkway N., Ste. 100, San Antonio, Texas, 78232, or to the San Geronimo Cemetery Association, P. O. Box 1061, 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.
Rectal Cancer Deaths Rising More Rapidly Than Colon Cancer Deaths
(Syracuse, NY) -- Rectal cancer deaths are rising more rapidly than colon cancer deaths with millenials hit especially hard. That’s according to a new study out of SUNY Medical University in Syracuse, New York. The lead researcher says the rate of rectal cancer is increasing more than two to three times that of colon cancer. Colon cancer and rectal cancer form in different parts of the digestive tract. The American Cancer Society says nearly 160-thousand colorectal cancers will be diagnosed this year with more than 55-thousand deaths. Colon cancer is the number one cause of cancer death in adults under 50.
FDA Fast-Track Review Of Some Psychedelics
(Washington, DC) - The FDA is allowing select psychedelic drugs to undergo a fast-track review process to be used as mental health treatments. Three companies studying psilocybin and methylone based medicines received the national priority voucher which launched last year to potentially cut down the time it takes for the products to reach patients. Psilocybin-based medicines are targeting treatment-resistant depression and major depressive disorder while methylone-based would be for post-traumatic stress disorder. The FDA plans to release final guidance to provide sponsors with recommendations for developing these products.
Nearly 2 In 5 Americans Cut Ties With Family
(New York, NY) -- A new survey shows more Americans are choosing to end strained relationships. A survey of two-thousand adults taken in March for the therapy platform Talkspace found that nearly two in five adults say they have gone “no contact” with a family member or friend in the last year. Talkspace’s chief medical officer said the results show that cutting off toxic relationships is becoming more common. Younger Americans were more likely than older generations to report cutting someone off. The survey found that 60-percent of Gen Z respondents had gone “no contact,” compared to 50-percent of millennials, 38-percent of Gen X and 20-percent of baby boomers.
Trachoma Eliminated In Algeria
(Algeria) -- The World Health Organization says Algeria has eliminated trachoma as a public health problem. That’s the 29th country to reach the status. WHO officials say the milestone proves sustained political health professional leadership can eliminate neglected tropical diseases. Trachoma causes blindness and the disease remains an endemic in 30 countries. The disease is caused by a bacteria spread through contact with infected eye discharge.
GRMC WELCOMES PRIMARY CARE + OBSTETRICS PHYSICIAN
Caroline Flowers, MD
Caroline Flowers, MD, is a family medicine & obstetrics provider passionate about whole-person care for all stages of life. Originally from Houston, Dr. Flowers earned her undergraduate degree at Carnegie Mellon University and taught high school science through Teach for America before completing her medical degree at UT Southwestern. She trained in family medicine at the University of Arizona and completed a surgical obstetrics fellowship at Full Circle Health in Boise, Idaho. Her clinical interests include maternal-child health, breastfeeding support, women’s reproductive care, adolescent medicine, preventive care, and managing complex chronic conditions. Outside of medicine, she enjoys family time, reading, podcasts, and cheering on the San Antonio Spurs.
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 catch-and-release fishing at the pond. The community is encouraged to take advantage of this outdoor space for recreation and relaxation.
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. 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.
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 Boogie Down Disco Dinner & Auction
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.
TLU 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.
TLU Presents “The Best of The Carol Burnett Show” Texas Lutheran University’s TheatreXpress program will present The Best of The Carol Burnett Show April 17 to 19 at the Studio Theatre, located inside the Weston Center for the Performing Arts on the TLU campus. The student-led production brings classic comedy sketches to life for a new generation. For showtimes and tickets, visit ticketsource.com/tlu-dramatic-media-texas-lutheran-university.
Seguin-Guadalupe County Black History Bus Tour
The Seguin-Guadalupe County Black History Bus Tour will be held Saturday, April 18, with tours running from 10 a.m. to noon and from 2 to 4 p.m. The narrated tour departs from the Davila’s BBQ parking lot at 418 West Kingsbury Street in Seguin. Participants will explore local Black history aboard a chartered bus and receive a commemorative booklet and snack bag. Tickets are $30 per person.
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 to 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.
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.
Community Blood Drive
Green Valley Special Utility District, in partnership with South Texas Blood & Tissue, will host a community blood drive from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, April 24 at 605 FM 465 in Marion. Residents are encouraged to roll up a sleeve and help save lives. To schedule a donation time, scan the QR code on the flyer at gvsud.org. For questions, call South Texas Blood & Tissue at 210-731-5590.
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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.
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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/409044AA4AB22A1F5863409752-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.
All-Inclusive Special Needs Dance Party
Beyond 22, Artable Curiosities, and Seguin Schoolyard will host the 2nd Annual All-Inclusive Special Needs Dance Party from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, April 26 at 225 North Saunders Street in Seguin. The free, family-friendly event will feature sensory-friendly activities, face painting, games, arts and crafts, a photo booth, and prizes. Individuals of all ages are invited to attend and celebrate Autism Awareness Month.
Students are invited to a night of worship, food, and an encouraging message at “Elevate,” happening April 29 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Matador Stadium. The event will feature guest speaker Isaac Eisner and is open to everyone. Organizers say the evening is designed to bring students together for connection, community, and inspiration. Admission is free, and all students are welcome to attend.
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.
Student Life “Elevate” Night Coming to Matador Stadium
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.
