Wrapping up the summer in downtown Seguin
Freedom Rocks: Bonus Concert in the park
Folks took advantage of the shade in Central Park Saturday night for an evening of live music, food and vendors. The event was a joint effort of the Seguin Main Street Program and Seguin Radio KWED. The event was an intimate “makeup celebration” for one of the June Concerts in the Park and Freedom Fiesta celebration. Featuring music by DJ DTrayne to kick the night off, Austin Gilliam and the Well Fed Texans brought the live music playing for two hours while folks relaxed and enjoyed the show. Photos by Lizz Daniels.
Sweet Snacks and summer shade
VITAL STATISTICS
Silvia
Eileen Mary Silvia, also known as Mrs. Hotshots, the Queen of McQueeney, and more affectionately, Mom and Gigi, died on July 20, 2025 peacefully in her home surrounded by her family. Eileen was born Aug. 16, 1935 to George and Alice Holt in Derby, England. She was the second of their three children.
Eileen, along with her husband, Philip Silvia, bought Hotshot’s Lakeview Camp in 1973 and expanded it to a full fledge restaurant that was known for its Friday Night Fish Fries and Hotshot’s famous green bean salad.
It was on the banks of the Guadalupe River where Eileen began expanding her family beyond her husband and four children. She considered any and all employees her child and her customers family and friends. While she loved all of her extended family, none could compare to that of her immediate family.
After the Flood of ’98, Eileen worked for Seguin ISD as an aide, helping children read. She also spent several years working at Walmart as a door greeter in the garden center.
She loved basketball and was an avid supporter of the Lady Matador Basketball team and enjoyed watching any NBA game on television, especially the San Antonio Spurs. She had a special place in her heart for all animals. She supported the Guadalupe County Humane Society any chance she could get, including playing Santa for its annual fundraiser.
She was quick to give you a hug or give you her personal salute followed by
strong words. She was a character and a firecracker, but she had a heart the size of Texas. She was feisty until her last breath.
She was loved by all and will be greatly missed.
She is preceded in death by Alice Holt, George Holt and stepmother, Lillian Holt, Phil Silvia, Charlie Hanlon, brother, Geoffrey Holt, and sister Madeline (Richard) Holt Vivricka.
Those left to cherish her memory are her children: Steven (Carrie) Silvia, Dale (Jana) Hanlon, Kerry (Michael) Frazar, Robin (Stig) Larson; grandchildren: Sabrina (Chris), Erica (Connie), Felicia, Bradley (Jennifer), Tyler (Dayna), Benjamin, William (Kayla), Andrea, and Alexandria; great grandchildren: Clay (Skylar), Christopher, Addison, Connor, Zachary, Weston, Taylor, Paisley; great great grandson: Guage Wilder; sisters: Caroline (Steve) and Michelle (Clive), sister-in-law Margaret (Holt) Brown, her beloved fur babies Bo and PV, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and adopted family and friends.
In honor of her wishes, instead of a funeral, the family invites everyone to celebrate her life from 2 to 6 p.m. on Aug. 16, 2025 at the Geronimo Community Center, 280 Navarro Drive, Seguin in a come and go style party, with words from family and friends at 4 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, make donations to the Guadalupe County Humane Society, Guadalupe Regional Medical Foundation’s Bras For A Cause, or any charity of your choice.
Cheers!
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.
VITAL STATISTICS
Leissner
Joyce Theresa Bonaventure Leissner, 88 passed away peacefully at her home in Seguin on July 22, 2025. Joyce was born on September 7, 1936 in Oscar, Louisiana to Beulah (Hernandez) and Threz Bonaventure.
She graduated co-valedictorian from Rougon High School in Lakeland, LA, in 1954. She attended nursing school in New Orleans at Charity Hospital School of Nursing and graduated in 1957 with a Registered Nurse diploma.
Joyce was a woman of remarkable skills, known for her incredible talent as a seamstress and an avid bridge player. Her amazing bedside manner was front and center during her career as a registered Nurse for 50+ years including 40 years at GRMC. Her passion for sewing & quilting was evident in the beautiful pieces she created, each stitch infused with her love and care. She also had a deep appreciation for gardening, where she lovingly tended to her African Violets and outdoor plants. Joyce found beauty in these blooms, just as she found beauty in the relationships she nurtured throughout her life. She was a member of multiple bridge groups, St. Ann’s Circle at St. James Catholic Church and a true-blue friend to ladies across the country.
Joyce met the love of her life, Jim Leissner, at New Orleans Mardi Gras in 1957 and married him in 1958. They moved to Seguin in the early 1970’s and, as a devoted wife and mother, she exhibited boundless love and patience, becoming both a guiding light and a nurturing support for her family. Her legacy will
Crees
Linda Kay Grossman Crees, age 82 of Seguin, passed away on August 5, 2025. Linda was born on January 12, 1943 in Hebbronville, Texas to Theresa (Baker) and Robert Anthony Grossman.
Linda was preceded in death by her son, Robert “Rob” Lester Dietrich, Jr., her parents, her brother, Robert Grossman, and her sisters, Theresa Fielder and Pam Farrington.
Survivors include her loving husband of 44
continue to resonate within them, a reflection of her loving spirit.
Joyce is preceded in death by her loving husband of 66 years, James “Jim” Calhoun Leissner, daughter, Laura Leissner Carlson, son, Nathan Charles Leissner, her parents, her siblings, Joseph & Lurline Bonaventure, and brother-inlaw, Richard Bello.
Survivors include her daughters, Blanche Walker and husband Neal, Naomi Williams and husband Tom, and Diane Baines and husband John; grandchildren, Trez & Skyler Walker, and Violet Carlson; sister, Hazel Bello; niece, Carmen Lemons; Aunt Helen Black; other loving family members and a host of friends.
As we remember Joyce, we celebrate a life well-lived, full of creativity, compassion, and unwavering love. She touched the lives of so many and will be deeply missed, but her spirit will forever bloom in the memories she leaves behind.
Visitation will begin on Saturday, August 16, 2025 at 10 a.m. at St. James Catholic Church followed by the Memorial Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. with the Reverend Monsignor Dennis Darilek officiating. A reception will follow in the Parish Hall at St. James.
Private graveside services will be held at Boeker Cemetery in Guadalupe County.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be offered to the Charity Hospital School of Nursing Alumni Association (of which Joyce was a graduate from the Nursing School) for the Leissner Scholarship established in memory of their deceased children, Nathan and Laura, P. O. Box 19103, New Orleans, Louisiana, 70179.
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.
years, Charles “Chuck” Allyn Crees; sons, William Dietrich, and David Box and wife Cindy; step son, Sean Allyn Crees; brother, Stanley Grossman; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, other loving family members and friends.
A private celebration of her life is being planned for a later date.
MOM WE WON!!!!!
Memorial contributions may be made to the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation, Inc., 1359 Broadway, STE 1509, New York, New York, 10018.
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.
New COVID Variant Making The Rounds
(Atlanta, GA) -- A new COVID variant is spreading in the U.S. this summer. Known as Variant XFG or Stratus, the variant first popped up in Southeast Asia back in January. It’s now responsible for about 14 percent of U.S. cases, according to the Centers for Disease Control. The variant doesn’t seem to be any more severe than other more common ones.
NYC Legionnaires’ Outbreak Linked To Three Deaths Is Growing
(New York, NY) -- New York City health officials say the Legionnaires’ outbreak in Manhattan is expected to grow before improving. There are 67 confirmed cases and three deaths so far. The disease is a type of pneumonia caused by bacteria that grow in warm water, such as cooling towers. The elderly and people who are immunocompromised are most at risk for Legionnaires’ disease. The CDC says symptoms include flu-like illness, cough, fever, headaches, muscle aches and shortness of breath and may not show up for two weeks after you’re exposed. If you’re having symptoms, you’re urged to see a healthcare provider immediately.
Cases Of Deadly Flesh-Eating Bacteria Rise
(Miami, FL) -- Cases of a deadly, flesh-eating bacteria are growing in Florida. Four deaths and 13 cases of vibrio vulnificus [[ vih-breeoh - vul-NIH-fih-cus ]] have been reported in recent weeks. The victims were in Broward, Bay, Hillsborough, and St. Johns counties. Health officials say the bacteria is found in warm seawater. They’re urging people to avoid raw or undercooked seafood and stay out of warm saltwater if they have open wounds.
West Nile Virus Typically Spikes This Time Of Year
(Cleveland, OH) -- The Cleveland Clinic is reminding Americans that West Nile virus cases typically rise this time of year. The virus that is transmitted through mosquitoes is most active through September with multiple cases being reported now. Doctors at the Cleveland Clinic recommend folks try to avoid being outdoors at sunrise and sunset, the time mosquitoes are most active and apply an EPAapproved mosquito repellent. West Nile symptoms include fever, muscle aches and sometimes nausea but doctors say most people that get the virus are not going to have any symptoms at all.
August
Seguin ISD Meet the Teacher and Schedule Pickup Events
Ball Elementary will be hosting Meet the Teacher by appointment on Friday, August 8. Jefferson, Koennecke, McQueeney, Patlan, Rodriguez, Vogel, and Weinert elementary schools will hold Meet the Teacher events on Monday, August 11 between 4:00 and 6:00 p.m. (specific times vary slightly by campus).
Seguin High School will host Freshman Orientation on Thursday, July 31 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (Schedule pickup details to be announced.)
MBLC will hold its Meet the Teacher event on Wednesday, August 6 from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m.
Nominations Open for 2025 Guadalupe County Healthcare Worker of the Year
The Seguin Chamber of Commerce is now accepting nominations for the 2025 Guadalupe County Healthcare Worker of the Year. This annual award honors a local healthcare professional who demonstrates compassion, excellence, and dedication to the health and well-being of the community. Eligible nominees include nurses, physicians, therapists, technicians, support staff, and others making a difference in healthcare. Nominees must work in Guadalupe County. The deadline to submit nominations is August 1. For more information, contact the Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce at 830-379-6382 or seguinchamber@ seguinchamber.com.
FEMA Disaster Outreach Center Opening in Seguin
The City of Seguin will be hosting a FEMA Disaster Outreach Center beginning at 11:00 a.m. on August 6 at the former Wells Fargo Building, 101 E. Nolte Street, Seguin. The center will be open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. through August 13 to assist Guadalupe County residents affected by recent flooding in Central Texas. Representatives from FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and the Texas Division of Emergency Management will be available to help with disaster assistance applications and connect residents with available resources. The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is September 4.
Canned Good Drive to Support Flood Victims
Refuge III will be hosting a Canned Good Drive throughout the month of August to benefit flood victims. Donations can be dropped off at 7535 Elm Creek Rd. For more information or directions, contact Lorraine Davis at 210-548-8780.
Wildflowers Seminar at Schertz Public Library
The Guadalupe County Master Gardeners will be hosting a Wildflowers seminar with Advanced Master Gardener Karen Brkich from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 9 at the Schertz Public Library, 798 Schertz Parkway. The program is free and open to the public. Registration is available at the Schertz Public Library events page.
Singo Fundraiser: Music Through the De-
cades
The Seguin Sunrise Lions Club will be hosting the Singo Fundraiser at 4 p.m. on August 9 at the Silver Center. Themed “Music Through the Decades,” the event will feature five rounds of music bingo highlighting hits from the 1950s through the 2010s. Tickets will be sold in advance for $20.
True North VBS at Cross Church
Cross Church will be hosting its True North Vacation Bible School every Sunday through August 10, from 8:45 to 11:15 a.m. at 814 N. Bauer St. The program is open to children ages 4 to 11. Registration forms are available in the church office, on the website, and via the QR code displayed on the outside banner.
Elm Creek Community Cemetery Meeting
The annual Elm Creek Community Cemetery Association Meeting will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 10 at 1951 Settlers Way, Seguin. Donations for continued maintenance would be greatly appreciated. For more information or questions, call or text 210-414-3308.
Financial Health Class: “Lettuce” Talk About Money
The New Braunfels Food Bank in partnership with Credit Human will be hosting “Lettuce” Talk About Money, a free financial health class, at 9 a.m. on August 12. The class is designed to help participants gain the confidence and skills to take control of their finances.
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Beginning Watercolor Class at Seguin Art League
The Seguin Art League will be hosting a Beginning Watercolor class at 1 p.m. on August 12 at the Seguin Art League. The class runs until 4 p.m. and will focus on mixing colors and color theory. Students will create and take home a watercolor color wheel for future reference and receive instruction on brush care, gradient washes, and basic watercolor techniques. The class is limited to five students and costs $35, with all supplies included. For more information, call 830305-0472 or visit 104 S. Austin Street in Seguin.
Tower Gardening Program in Seguin
The Guadalupe County Master Gardeners will be hosting a Tower Gardening/ Aeroponics program at noon on Wednesday, August 13 at the AgriLife Extension Office, 210 E. Live Oak Street, Seguin. Presented by Karen Schobel, this free lunchtime seminar is open to everyone. Attendees are encouraged to bring their lunch. More information can be found at GCMGTX.org or on Facebook.
Guadalupe County Republican Women August Meeting in McQueeney
The Guadalupe County Republican Women will be hosting their August “Happy Hour” meeting at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, August 14 at the Lake Breeze Ski Lodge, 225 Ski Lodge, McQueeney. District 44 State Representative Alan Schoolcraft will serve as the guest speaker. The event will include a cash bar and light snacks, and no RSVP is required. For more information, contact Tamara Berger at 512-201-5848 or Anne Costas at 830-433-1038.
Friedens Church Fish Fry in Geronimo
The Friedens Church will be hosting its Fish Fry at 5:00 p.m. on August 15 at Friedens Church in Geronimo. Plates are $15 each and will be served until sold out. All proceeds will benefit the Geronimo and Zorn Volunteer Fire Department first responders.
Financial Health Class: “Lettuce” Talk About Money
The New Braunfels Food Bank in partnership with Credit Human will be hosting “Lettuce” Talk About Money, a free financial health class, at 1 p.m. on August 16. The class is designed to help participants gain the confidence and skills to take control of their finances.
Hermann Sons Dance Try-It Night in Seguin
The Hermann Sons Lodge Seguin will be hosting a Dance Try-It Night at 6:00 p.m. on August 18 at 2918 W. Kingsbury, Seguin. The event is open to all and does not require prior registration. A parent meeting will follow at 6:45 p.m. Participants should wear t-shirts and shorts if they do not have dancewear, and tennis shoes are required if ballet or jazz shoes are unavailable. Sandals, crocs, and bare feet are not allowed. For more information, contact Lori at 210-573-7796 or email hermannsonsdancesanantonio@ gmail.com.
Gabe Galvan Band
The Silver Center will be hosting Gabe Galvan Band at 7:30 p.m. on August 22nd at the Crystal Chandelier Ballroom. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Presale tickets are $10 by calling 830-303-6612. Tickets are $15 at the door.
Financial Health Class: “Lettuce” Talk About Money – August 26
The New Braunfels Food Bank in partnership with Credit Human will be hosting “Lettuce” Talk About Money, a free financial health class, at 9 a.m. on August 26. The class is designed to help participants gain the confidence and skills to take control of their finances.
White-tailed Deer Management Symposium in San Antonio
The Bexar Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee will be hosting the White-tailed Deer Management Symposium at 9:00 a.m. on August 26 at 3355 Cherry Ridge Dr., Suite 208, San Antonio. The event will cover topics including basic deer habitat management, use of game cameras, and antler scoring. Presenters include specialists from Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service and Texas Parks and Wildlife. The cost is $15 per participant, payable in advance or at the door by cash, check, or credit card.
To RSVP by August 22, contact Kennedy Green at 210-631-0400 or kennedy. green@ag.tamu.edu.
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.
