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The Voice of Seguin
WEEKEND EDITION
TODAY
Council Wants CVB Board Saved, Restarted Darren Dunn
(Seguin) -- The city of Seguin is not getting rid of its Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) Board after all. The Seguin City Council recently turned down a request to dissolve the CVB advisory board. Staff had suggested that the citizen advisory board might no longer be necessary because the Destination Seguin office is already handling most of those functions, with oversight coming from city management and the council. Destination Management Director Blaire Friar provided the council with some history on the cityrun board, which was created when the city took over the Convention and Visitors Bureau. It was a somewhat contentious decision at the time because the bureau had been tied to the Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce for years. CVB, pg. 3
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Navarro High School, athletic complex nearing full completion Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
(Geronimo) — The Navarro ISD this fall is excited to open its doors to a fully completed high school thanks to the final phases of construction now underway with the athletic complex. Navarro ISD Superintendent Mandy Epley says crews are wrapping up with some of the final details. “We’re just finishing some final adjustments on the air conditioning units and a few remaining construction details inside the building,” said Epley. “The athletics complex is still under construction, but we’re expecting to dedicate it sometime during the second or third week of September.” Among some of the other new amenities are turf
fields, softball facilities, batting cages and the district’s first dedicated golf practice facility. Dr. Epley says although students moved in during the spring, this fall will showcase the full high school experience. “It’s exciting to see everything coming together. The kids are ready to get out there, and we’re excited for our community to experience the high school fully completed with all of the athletic facilities available,” said Epley. The flagship campus will also served as the spot to help welcome back staff for the new school year. All of the staff/faculty welcome events, including the district’s convocation, were held on Monday in the new high school’s auditorium.
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CVB, continued. When taking over the operation, the city agreed that it would maintain the citizen-based CVB Board to help advise staff. However, questions about the need for the board began to surface after it was revealed that the committee had not met in years. “This board was established at that point when the city overtook the Convention of Visitors Board from the Chamber of Commerce. It was established to serve in advisory capacity to the Seguin City Council to oversee kind of the operation of the Convention and Visitors Burea,” said Friar. “The purposes included advising on the promotion of Seguin, on solicitation of groups and meetings to bring some of those organizations into our community for overnight stays. suggesting advertising campaigns and then just overall discussing other means to attract tourists, visitors, groups, meetings, sports teams, etc.” Friar says that the city’s ordinance not only defined the board’s work, but also its membership. “The composition of the board was very specific. It was seven members. Two from the lodging sector, one from the Hispanic Chamber, one from the Chamber of Commerce, a restaurant representative, a tourism attraction representative, and a city council representative,” said Friar. Friar says the fact that the board hasn’t met in years, coupled with much of its work now being handled by staff, ultimately led them to bring the item to the council for consideration. “All of these things are still happening. Tourism planning is still happening at the staff level. Our budget recommendations are done annually through the budget process and overseen by City Council. Our occupancy funding allocation is reviewed annually with a full proposal to the occupancy tax committee. Marketing direction is all handled in-house and with staff. And then our strategic planning is done with staff and City Council oversight,” said Friar. Staff time was also a concern as the duties of the Destination Seguin office continue to grow. Friar says some cities have similar advisory committees, while others do not. “Our team has three responsibilities. We are Main Street, we are tourism, and we are arts. So, we tried to look at some communities that may have one or two or all three of those pieces. Both models do exist, and they exist well. Some of the ones to look at that maybe don’t have boards, they do have Main Street. Some that do have boards maybe don’t have Main Street. It varies all across the board and there’s no perfect way. It’s just finding the best way for us. One thing that we did notice is that some of the ones that do have a CVB or tourism board, that board also kind of owns something. They manage an event or they handle the occupancy tax grants for the city or they have a facility that department also oversees,” said Friar. When the committee stopped meeting, the advisory work was largely picked up by staff, which reached out to
stakeholders throughout the community and then used those contacts to help inform its day-to-day work. “Some of the challenges…with any board is maintaining active participation. And then it’s also just that a lot of the advisory functions do already occur in other channels. And then (there’s) the administrative support that is needed for managing multiple boards,” said Friar. Councilman Paul Gaytan pushed for the board to be restarted. He says he believes that citizen input is important to the city. “I think it’s very important to have a board made-up (citizens) that are voicing their opinions on how it affects their businesses, how it affects the community, (and) how it affects downtown. I see no negative at all. In the parks board, we have meetings, and there were things brought to those meetings that the administration was recommending, and the Parks Board said no. And I think we did some good things in stopping some of the things that were going to happen. And then of course, there’s a lot of great things that did happen. That’s the give and take of a democracy. You have the experts, the administrators, and then you have the people who it’s their money and it’s their city and they want a voice and they want to give their opinion. And that’s a beautiful thing,” said Gaytan. But Councilwoman Monica Napier questioned whether the board was still necessary, given the current structure and operation of the city’s destination management office. “I think from what I’m understanding is what would be covered on that board, again, it’s already being covered on the multiple other boards. And I’m in agreement with what you’re saying that again, this just almost seems like it would be another board, just for the sake of saying there’s another board,” said Napier. Despite the issues raised by staff, the council voted last Tuesday to retain the committee. Friar says they will now look at reworking the board and its membership. “I would want to kind of re-envision it. Maybe look at board composition and ensuring that we are open to as many (people) as possible. In my opinion, it’s pretty strict…so you are limiting yourself. So, maybe expanding that a little bit, opening it up for say a meeting planner, somebody that organizes meetings and conventions and can really bring that perspective,” said Friar. The proposed changes will be brought back by staff at a future meeting. The council will then be asked to consider revisions to the existing ordinance that created the CVB Board.
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8 VITAL STATISTICS ACHTERBERG
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Robert Lee Achterberg, age 68 of New Braunfels, formerly of Seguin, passed away on July 27, 2026. Robert was born on July 8, 1958, in Seguin, Texas to Joyce Barbara (Koenig) and Herbert Gus Achterberg. Robert was a 1976 graduate of Seguin High School. He was employed by CMC for many years where he worked as a machinist. He also owned and operated a motorcycle repair shop in Seguin. Helping anyone repairing items was a favorite job and pastime as he had many different tools to work with. He enjoyed gun hobbies and freshwater fishing. Robert is preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Allen Arthur Achterberg, and his cousin, Shirley Hacker. Survivors include his children, Elaine Rose Achterberg-Rios and husband Randy, Barbara Lynn Achterberg and partner Carl Verow, and Robert Lee “Robbie” Achterberg, Jr.; grandchildren, Christian Jude Santos, Lesley Verow,
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Robbie Verow, Lilly Verow, and Daphne Achterberg; brother, David Anton Achterberg; sister, Katherine Ruth “Kathy” Achterberg; cousins, Douglas, Caroline and Kenneth; numerous other loving family members and friends. Visitation will begin on Friday, August 14, 2026, at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel at 9:30 a.m. followed by a memorial service celebrating Robert’s life at 10:30 a.m. at with the Reverend Jeremy Roy officiating. Private interment will be held later in the Achterberg Family Cemetery near LaVernia. 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.
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Five Dead In Louisiana From Flesh-Eating Bacteria (Baton Rouge, LA) -- Five people are dead in Louisiana from flesh-eating bacteria. State health officials said Thursday a total of nine cases of the bacteria have been reported in the state. Officials said all nine patients had underlying health conditions and became infected after their wounds were exposed to seawater. Health officials say the bacteria are found in higher concentration in certain coastal waters from May to October. FDA Approves Flu Vaccine For Older Adults (Silver Spring, MD) -- The first U.S. approved flu vaccine for more older people for the upcoming season is approved. The FDA has signed off on the Moderna version for adults 50 to 64 and it’s expected to be available this fall. The FDA already approved a flu vaccine for adults 65 and older. Side effects include pain at the injection site, fatigue, joint pain and headaches. There are about 300-thousand flu deaths annually worldwide. AI Synthetic Virus (Stanford, CA) -- Scientists are using artificial intelligence to design viruses with genomes never before seen in nature. They say it’s a breakthrough that could help fight drug-resistant bacterial infections. A Stanford University-led research team used AI models to create bacteriophages, which are viruses that target bacteria like E. coli. Researchers say the AI-generated viruses were able to overcome bacterial resistance more effectively than naturally occurring versions in testing. The study could open new possibilities in medicine, but experts warn the technology also raises concerns about biosecurity and the need for oversight. New Patch Shown To Improve REM Sleep (Austin, TX) -- There’s a new device that may help people get to REM sleep faster. Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin say they developed a patch that in an experiment led to people getting to REM sleep 43 minutes earlier on average and keeping them in REM 16 minutes longer. That’s for both people who sleep well and those who struggle. Researchers say they will proceed to further larger studies on the patch.
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Candidate Filing Opens for Guadalupe Appraisal District Board Anyone interested in serving on the Guadalupe Appraisal District Board of Directors can begin filing now. Three at-large positions — Places 1, 2 and 3 — will be on the November 3 General Election ballot. Candidates have until 5 p.m. on Monday, August 17, to file with either the Guadalupe County Clerk or the Guadalupe County Elections Administrator. Filing information and eligibility requirements are available through the Guadalupe Appraisal District’s website guadalupead.org.
more information, call 830-433-7004.
Seguin ISD Back-to-School Family Bash Seguin ISD invites families to its 5th Annual Back-to-School Family Bash on Friday, August 7, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Seguin High School Cafeteria, 1315 E. Cedar Street. The districtwide event is open to students and families from Pre-K through 12th grade and will feature free games, a hot dog supper, resource booths, prizes, and activities for the entire family. Attendees can also meet representatives from Seguin ISD schools and departments while learning about services and resources available throughout the community. Admission is free. Geronimo Lions First Friday Feast The Geronimo Lions Club invites the community to its First Friday Feast on Friday, August 7, at the Red Barn. Dinner will be served from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., or until sold out, with proceeds benefiting the Guadalupe County Children’s Advocacy Center. Plates are $20 and include your choice of grilled steak or fried fish, plus cheesy bread, a baked potato, salad, a drink and dessert. Live music will be provided by the First Methodist Church Trio. Everyone is invited. Community Outreach and Back-to-School Carnival Greater Second Baptist Church invites the community to its free Community Outreach and Back-to-School Carnival on Saturday, August 8, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the church, located at 208 South Crockett Street in Seguin. Families can enjoy free school supplies, clothing donations, hot dogs, popcorn, games and prizes, plus free haircuts for boys and braids and curls for girls while supplies last. For
Elm Creek Community Cemetery Meeting The annual Elm Creek Community Cemetery Association Meeting will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, August 9 at 1951 Settlers Way in Seguin. Donations for continued maintenance would be greatly appreciated. For more information or questions, call or text 210-414-3308. Seguin Art League Ceramic Class The Seguin Art League is hosting a two-day ceramic class, The Little Fisherman, with clay artist Roger Betschler on Saturday, Aug. 8 and Saturday, Sept. 12, from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Participants will create a unique fish sculpture inspired by the story The Little Fisherman, then return for glazing after the piece has been fired. The class is open to ages 12 and older. The cost is $60. Register by calling the Seguin Art League at 830-305-0472. Greater Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church Pastor’s Anniversary Greater Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church will celebrate the 8th Anniversary of its pastor at 2 p.m. on Sunday, August 9. Guest speaker will be Pastor Cornelius L. Bass of Pleasant Valley Missionary Baptist Church in Creedmoor. The community is invited to attend this special celebration. Sunflower Watercolor Class Learn the basics of watercolor painting during the Sun Soaked Sunflower Watercolor class on Wednesday, Aug. 12, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Seguin Art League. Participants will paint vibrant sunflowers while learning watercolor techniques. The class is open to ages 16 and older, costs $45, and space is limited. Wear old clothes or an apron. Register by calling 830-305-0472. Navarro ISD to Celebrate Renaming of Junior High Campus Navarro ISD invites the community to celebrate the official reopening and renaming of its former high school campus as the new Navarro Junior High. The renaming ceremony will begin at 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 13, at 6350 N. State Highway 123 in Seguin, immediate-
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ly following Meet the Teacher activities from 4:30 to 6 p.m. The informal outdoor event is open to the community, with spirit wear encouraged. In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will be moved indoors. Seguin’s Birthday Party Fundraiser Celebrate Seguin’s birthday during the Seguin Conservation Society’s annual Birthday Party on Friday, August 14, at the Stephen & Mary Birch Texas Theatre. A drive-thru and sit-down chicken dinner will be served from 5:30 to 7 p.m. The evening will also feature homemade desserts, raffle items, live entertainment, and special awards and recognitions. Tickets are $20 per plate and are available from Seguin Conservation Society board members, Gift & Gourmet, Keepers, and the Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce. Proceeds benefit preservation efforts at the Texas Theatre and Heritage Village. Seguin Conservation Society Golf Tournament The Seguin Conservation Society invites golfers to take part in its annual Golf Tournament on Friday, Aug. 14, at the newly renovated Max Starcke Golf Course. The two-person scramble begins at 9 a.m. Registration is $110 per player, with entry forms available at Starcke Furniture. Registration and payment are due by Friday, Aug. 7. Proceeds benefit the Seguin Conservation Society and its ongoing efforts to preserve and promote the community’s history. For more information, call 830-379-4622 or visit seguinconservation.org. Wildlife Association Meeting The Guadalupe County Wildlife Management Association invites the public to its next meeting on Friday, August 14, at the Texas Agriculture Education and Heritage Center, located at 250 Cordova Road in Seguin. A social begins at 6 p.m., followed by a $15 dinner at 7 p.m. and a presentation at 7:30 p.m. Texas Parks and Wildlife Biologist Olivia Kost will discuss New World screwworm best practices, and area game wardens are expected to attend. Reservations for the meal are requested by calling 512-227-2524. Continued on the next page.
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Sonrise Worship and Prayer Gathering Start your day in worship at the Sonrise Worship and Prayer Gathering from 6 to 7:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 15, at the Patricia K. Irvine-King Pavilion, 1412 River Drive East in Seguin. Hosted by Pastor Jeremiah Arevalo and Holy Tunes Media, the free community event will include worship, prayer, Scripture and a time of encouragement. Free coffee and pastries will be provided. Individuals, families, churches and community members are all invited to attend.
Registration is now open for the Precious Life Services “No Child Left Behind” Backto-School Assistance Program for families needing help with school supplies. Register online by August 15. No phone calls, please. Those wishing to donate school supplies can call 830-372-5980 for more information.
Explore advanced cyanotype techniques during Cyanotype II on Wednesday, Aug. 26, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Seguin Art League. Participants will create mixed-media images using watercolor, cyanotype, stencils, turmeric and salt. The class is open to ages 16 and older, costs $45, and all materials are provided. Wear old clothes or an apron and non-slip shoes. Register by calling 830-305-0472.
State to Offer Disaster Recovery Assistance at Back-to-School Fair The Texas General Land Office will host a disaster recovery outreach event from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15, during the Guadalupe County Back-to-School Fair hosted by Gruene Insurance Group at 958 W. Kingsbury St. in Seguin. Homeowners in Guadalupe County whose homes were damaged during the 2024 storms may be eligible for home rebuilding or repair reimbursement assistance. Residents can learn more at recovery.texas. gov/apply, email cdr@recovery.texas.gov, or call 1-844-893-8937 for additional information. Casino BASH 2026 The Guadalupe County Children’s Advocacy Center invites the community to Casino BASH 2026 on Saturday, Aug. 15, at the McQueeney Lions Club Hall. The event will be held from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., with casino games running from 6 to 9 p.m. Guests will enjoy gaming tables, heavy hors d’oeuvres, drinks, a live and silent auction, bucket drawings and prizes. Organizers encourage attendees to wear their brightest attire. General admission tickets go on sale July 22 for $50, and sponsorship opportunities are available now. Proceeds benefit the Guadalupe County Children’s Advocacy Center and its mission of bringing awareness, safety and hope to children and families. Precious Life Services Back-to-School Assistance
McQueeney Elementary Ribbon Cutting The Seguin Independent School District invites the community to celebrate the opening of the new McQueeney Elementary School with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 4 p.m. Monday, August 17. The ceremony will be held just before the school’s elementary Meet the Teacher Night. The public is invited to attend and help celebrate this exciting milestone for Seguin ISD. Healthy Lawns, Healthy Waters Workshop Learn how to create a healthier lawn while protecting local waterways during the free Healthy Lawns, Healthy Waters workshop from 1 to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 18, at the Seguin ISD Irma Lewis Outdoor Learning Center, 1865 E. U.S. Highway 90 in Seguin. The workshop will cover lawn and turf management, rainwater harvesting systems and water conservation practices. Participants can also receive a free soil test by picking up a soil test bag and submitting a sample before or within one week after the workshop. The event is free, but registration is required at hlhw.tamu.edu. For more information, contact Mandy Stamnitz at (979) 321-5944. Senior Resource Fair Planned at Seguin Public Library Area seniors, caregivers and families are invited to attend the Senior Resource Fair from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 19, at the Seguin Public Library, 313 W. Nolte St. The free event will connect attendees with local organizations offering services and resources that support older adults and their families. For more information, call 830-401-2422 or visit the Seguin Public Library. Cyanotype Art Class
Vendors Wanted for Kingsbury Farmer & Artisan Market The Pioneer Flight Museum is seeking vendors for the grand opening of the Kingsbury Farmer & Artisan Market on Saturday, Aug. 29, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Pioneer Flight Museum, 190 Pershing Lane in Kingsbury. The market is being hosted as a fundraiser for the nonprofit Pioneer Flight Museum. Vendor booth fees are a $25 donation to support the museum’s mission. Organizers are looking for farmers, artisans, crafters, bakers, makers, vintage vendors, woodworkers, jewelry vendors, specialty food vendors and other local small businesses. Anyone interested in becoming a vendor can register by scanning the QR code on the event flyer or by visiting the Pioneer Flight Museum’s social media pages for additional information. Come shop local, support area vendors and help benefit the Pioneer Flight Museum. Bead and Cord Bracelet Class Create a traditional bead and cord bracelet during a fun make-and-take class at the Seguin Art League. Sessions are offered Friday, Aug. 28, from 6 to 7 p.m., or Saturday, Aug. 29, from 4 to 5 p.m. The class is open to ages 14 and older, costs $15, and includes all materials. Register by calling 830-305-0472. To ensure non-profit organization’s meetings and events appear in this calendar, send information to: communitycalendar@ kwed1580.com, or drop off the information at the Seguin Daily News/KWED offices located at 609 E. Court St. in Seguin. For best results, submit information at least two weeks prior to the event.
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