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The Voice of Seguin

WEEKEND EDITION

TODAY

Seguin ISD reports academic gains following release of state accountability rating Cindy Aguirre-Herrera

(Seguin) -- The Seguin ISD is celebrating a major step forward. The school district has earned a C accountability rating for the first time since 2019. And also, for the first time since Texas introduced the A–F accountability system, the district is finishing the year without a single campus receiving an ‘F.’ The district’s 2026 score of 70 is up four points from last year’s 66, following four consecutive years with a ‘D’ rating. For Seguin ISD Superintendent Dr. Jack Lee, the numbers matter. But what matters more –he says -- is what is behind them. Lee says the improvement is not simply a collection of numbers on a state accountability report. “Probably the biggest point that I would want everyone to understand in the positive movement that we’re seeing is that

behind every single one of those points is a classroom. It’s a teacher, it’s a paraprofessional, it’s parents, it’s families, it’s administrators, it’s students. All of the work that we’re seeing is because our students are achieving at higher levels than they have. And that’s the result of quality instruction happening across the district. Last year, Middle of the year, about November, I released an accountability improvement plan for the district. The whole point was to try to increase student achievement. That’s what we were going to focus on, not student growth or not how we’re compared to other districts that have same demographics as us, but specifically how well students achieve,” said Lee. Lee says nine of the district’s 11 rated campuses improved in student achievement. Accountability, pg. 2

Seguin tackles growth, revenue challenges in proposed city budget Darren Dunn

(Seguin) -- The city of Seguin on Wednesday unveiled its proposed budget for the new fiscal year. The budget was presented as part of a workshop meeting hosted by the Seguin City Council. City Manager Steve Parker says there were several challenges in putting together next year’s budget.

The city is one of the fastest-growing communities in the state, but revenue hasn’t quite reached the same level as the expenditures necessary to provide services to the community. He says the city isn’t alone in this battle. Revenues are down for several taxing entities across the state. Growth, pg. 3

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Accountability, continued. He says this progress includes Seguin High School, which moved from a D-- 64, to a C -- 70. The campus increased 11 points in Academic Growth and 14 points in Closing the Gaps. Barnes Middle School also posted one of the district’s most significant areas of growth, increasing 22 points in Closing the Gaps, from 47 to 69. That’s a jump from an F- 55 to a D –66. It should be noted that Texas public school accountability ratings are based on measures of Student Achievement, School Progress, and Closing the Gaps. The ratings incorporate data including STAAR performance, academic growth, College, Career and Military Readiness, and graduation rates. Seguin ISD showed improvement across each major accountability measure: Student Achievement increased from 68 to 70; Academic Growth increased from 66 to 68; Relative Performance increased from 68 to 71; and Closing the Gaps increased from 61 to 67, representing the district’s largest domain increase. Lee says those improvements are important because they represent real students and the people working with them every day. “We made some fairly significant changes even over this last year, which you don’t typically do when it’s your first year as a superintendent. You do a lot of sitting back and looking. One of the common themes that I’ve pushed really hard with our team here across the district is that we have to have a sense of urgency. Students deserve to have quality instruction. Students deserve to have high functioning schools, and we’re able to provide that. What I have learned over this last year is that we have very dedicated people. We have dedicated people who work in this district. We have dedicated people in our community that support Seguin ISD, and they want to see us be successful also. That dedication is really what’s pushed it. And then if there’s anything else that I would say, it’s that we really set out on trying to make sure that we had a shared vision and shared understanding of where we’re going and what we want. And we did that when we did some strategic planning. There at the very end of the fall, in the beginning of the spring semester. And so, for half of the year, we really focused on living out our mission, our vision, our values, and following that strategic plan. And I think the results have paid off. If anything, I think this next year is an opportunity for us to continue growing,” said Lee. Lee says the district spent much of the past school year focused on improving student achievement, including the implementation of an Academic Accountability Improvement Plan and the development of a long-term strategic plan. Additional campus highlights include: • •

Mercer-Blumberg Learning Center earned an A with a score of 93, increasing three points overall. Patlan Elementary earned a B with a score of

• • •

84, increasing three points overall. Patlan also earned distinctions for Academic Achievement in Science, Top 25 Percent in Academic Growth, and Top 25 Percent in Closing the Gaps. Weinert Elementary earned a C with a score of 74 and increased by 7 points in Student Achievement and by 12 points in Relative Performance. Rodriguez Elementary increased its overall score from 67 to 69 while improving by 7 points in Academic Growth. Vogel Elementary earned a C with a score of 71, while increasing Student Achievement by three points and Relative Performance by four points.

All in all – • Mercer-Blumberg Learning Center earned an A with a – 93 • The B Rating again went to Patlan Elementary with a – 84 • C Ratings included…. • McQueeney Elementary – 75 • Koennecke Elementary – 75 • Weinert Elementary – 74 • Vogel Elementary – 71 • And again, Seguin High School – with 70 • Campuses receiving D Ratings were • Barnes Middle School – 66 • Briesemeister Middle School – 69 • Jefferson Elementary – 69 • Rodriguez Elementary – 69 Lee says the results show that the district is moving in the right direction, but he cautions against treating the ‘C’ as the finish line. “People are excited because it’s improvement and we want to see improvement. The district is moving in the right way. I strongly believe that. And while this is a win, it’s not necessarily the win. We still have growth that needs to happen. We still have some campuses that are rated at a D. Maybe, they’re right there at that 69, but we don’t want any campuses rated that way. We want more campuses that are achieving an A and a B. And so, we still have work to do. It’s good momentum. It’s not necessarily that we’ve hit the destination,” said Lee. Meanwhile, the Seguin ISD was not the only area district that reported academic progress by the state. The Seguin Daily News this week will continue to look at the overall ratings for both the Navarro and Marion ISDs.

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Growth, continued. “We’re one of the fastest growing cities in the state. We did experience some challenges. Every city experienced some challenges if you talk to them. We’ll talk a lot tonight about tax rate, proposed tax rates, and the no new revenue rate. The no new revenue rate is really based on the existing properties from last year. What would the existing tax rate need to be to make the same amount of revenue, because if values go up or goes down, then those numbers change. And so, we’re going to have a lot of explanation related to that. But I want to start out by saying this staff has done a tremendous job,” said Parker. Parker praised his team for being creative with the budget while also remaining good stewards of taxpayer money. He says directors focused on taking care of the city’s employees so that they can continue to take care of the people of this city. He says they reduced their overall departmental budgets in an attempt to continue offering pay raises to all city employees. “We talk about every year how our goal is to focus on our existing employees. And these directors stepped up this year and really took that to heart because we were having trouble funding some of our recommendations. And so they went back and actually made a recommendation on behalf of their staff. I was on vacation and they came back and said, we’d like to recommend a ten percent decrease in our existing operating budgets to help fund some costof-living increases for our employees. We think we’re one of the leanest communities around when you look at the staffing levels and we’ve got some comparison notes to show you that. We do have some positions we’re recommending in this year’s budget, but I think they’re very, very minimal and they’re really focused on being efficient and making sure that we’re growing smart,” said Parker. Making that investment in city employees makes a big difference in the operation of the city. Parker says it’s part of the culture they’ve tried to build that puts employees and customer service first. He says it also helps keep the city competitive, which helps reduce staff turnover. “The focus was really to try to fund and stay competitive when it comes to cost of living increases for our staff. Since 2022, the cost-of-living increases have been… just barely keeping up with the consumer price index,” said Parker. “This was the one priority of our directors. When shown some of the numbers and what we weren’t going to be able to afford, they went back and reduced their budgets by about $600,000 in the general fund to fund some of these increases here.” Unlike in past years, Parker says only a handful of positions were added to the proposed budget. He says they tried to prioritize the new positions and make sure they were for things that improved the level of service the city is able to provide. One of those jobs will be part of a new community paramedic program that’s directly aimed at improving the quality of life for some residents with chronic illnesses who need additional support to make sure they stay healthy and out of the hospital’s

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emergency room. “This is one of the next items that I think we’re… most proud. It is to create a community paramedic program in the city of Seguin. It would actually have a paramedic that would go out and really focus on our frequent flyer callers who use EMS as their emergency room attendant. So, we’re making a lot of transfers to the emergency room because people aren’t taking their medications, they’re not keeping up with their health. This would give us the ability to make sure that we’re going out focusing on them and diverting them from having to be transported in an ambulance and really taking time because when they get so bad then you end up taking them to San Antonio or New Braunfels and so forth. We can keep up with their medications, and we think it would be a great plan to do,” said Parker. The general fund budget will be funded by a proposed tax rate of 52.94 cents per $100 of property valuation. Finance Director Susan Caddell says the proposed rate is higher than both the current rate and the No New Revenue Rate, but it’s significantly lower than the maximum rate the city could set without triggering an election. Photo courtesy SISD “We are recommending a (tax) rate of 52.94 cents. That’s an increase above the current rate by 1.59 cents. That’s above the current rate, and (it’s) 0.94 cents above the no new revenue rate,” said Caddell. The overall tax rate includes funds to cover the city’s existing debt. Caddell says they were able to keep that portion of the tax rate down by using some existing funds to reduce that debt. “The debt service payments increased by $316,760. This represents less than a penny of the tax rate. And we’re able to do that because of the recommendations I’m making to use roadway impact fees of $2,496,000, stormwater utility fees of $888,000, and golf capital funds of $200,000 to buy down that tax rate,” said Caddell. Parker says despite the challenges in putting this year’s budget together, he’s proud of the work of city staff. He says they want to make sure they provide the services necessary to keep this fast-growing community moving forward, while also taking care of the employees who, in turn, take care of the people of Seguin. He says it’s something they’ve been doing over the years, and the data shows that it’s paying off for the city. “Last year, our turnover rate without retirements was 2.5 percent. It was 8.9 with those retirements. And then in 2026, we have increased a little bit, but we’re still at 7.41 percent. I think that’s due to the culture and the way that this council recognized our staff in so many ways. But I think it’s kudos to this team that we do put employees on the forefront. Not always going to be possible, we’ll admit that, but it meant a lot to these employees to be able to step up and do that,” said Parker. No action was taken during the budget workshop. A second budget workshop will be held today, August 18 during the regular city council meeting. Public hearings on the budget and tax rate will be held on September 1 and September 15. The city’s new fiscal year begins on October 1.

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Texas Lutheran Announces the Hiring of Seth Vela as Inaugural Strength & Conditioning Coach Bryce Hayes, TLU

SEGUIN, Texas -- Texas Lutheran Director of Athletics Bill Miller ‘77 announced the hiring of Seth Vela as the Bulldogs’ inaugural Head Strength and Conditioning Coach on Monday. Vela spent the past four years working in numerous roles within the Texas State athletic department, primarily serving as a powerlifting coach for Texas State’s powerlifting team. Most recently, Vela served as the Texas State Cheer Strength and Conditioning Coach while also working with the Bobcats women’s basketball, women’s soccer, tennis, softball, volleyball, baseball, and golf programs. Vela played a role in the development of Texas State Baseball and women’s soccer programs that each made the NCAA Tournament last season. Vela also served as a strength and conditioning intern for the Texas

State football team that qualified for the Armed Forces Bowl in their final season in the Sun Belt Conference. While working with the Texas State powerlifting, Vela developed more than ten Collegiate National Level powerlifters. Vela also has spent time as a coach at D1 Training Lake Travis in Austin, where he has helped design and implement strength and conditioning programs for athletes of all ages and skill levels. Vela officially started in Seguin earlier this month and will be present as Texas Lutheran starts preparation for the 2026 fall seasons. Vela earned his bachelor’s degree in exercise sports science from Texas State in May and is pursuing his CSCS certification.

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8 VITAL STATISTICS HERZOG

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Margot Lieselotte Herzog was called home to be with our Lord and Savior on August 16, 2026. Margot was born on October 13, 1930, in Schönwitz, Silesia, Germany to Emma Anna Elizabeth (Schwarz) and Alfred Max Klehr. Throughout Margot’s life she was known to obtain the title of Domestic Engineer. She loved gardening when in season and enjoyed keeping everything clean. Margot is preceded in death by her loving husband of 56 years, Herman Louis Herzog, her parents, her sister, Adelheid Aster Franke, her brother, HansJoachim Alfred Klehr, and her daughter-in-law, Donna Faye Hudson Herzog.

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Survivors include her children, Herman Hans-Joachim Herzog, Tink Herzog and wife Frances Herzog, Evelyn Lieselotte Lehmann, and Frank Louis Herzog and wife Irene Pacheco Herzog; six grandchildren; ten greatgrandchildren; from Germany, two nieces and four nephews; other loving family members and friends. Visitation will begin on Friday, August 21, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel followed by funeral service at 10:30 a.m. with Pastor Ralph Hernandez and Pastor Rolando Del Toro officiating. Private burial will be held at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery. 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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ACHTERBERG

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,

GUNCKEL

Joann “Jodi” Hall Gunckel, age 89 of Seguin, passed away on August 6, 2026. Jodi was born on April 22, 1937, in San Antonio, Texas to Elena (Vargas) and John Hall. Jodi was one of the most positive and caring person anyone could know. This was reflected in the more than 40 comments and three shares on her Facebook page. She graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School in San Antonio, Texas, in 1955 and was attending San Antonio College when she met Charles Butler, who was serving in the U.S. Air Force. They were married for 15 years before he passed away while serving in Spain, where Jodi and their two children had accompanied him. The family traveled extensively during the period as a military family, joining Charles at bases from the East coast to the West coast, and to his final assignment at a base in Spain. While in Spain Jodi and her family became immersed in the Spanish culture. In 1972, Jodi and her children returned to San Antonio and settled in the MacArthur High School area, where she purchased a home. While raising her children, Jodi enrolled at San Antonio College and earned an associate degree in 1974. She continued her education at UTSA, earning a bachelor’s degree in 1978 and a master’s degree in education in 1985. She then began a 20-year career as a history teacher at Judson High School. There, she met band director Bill Skelton, whom she married in 1980. Jodi deeply enjoyed her brief time with Bill, attending band concerts and many outings organized by band directors. He passed away five years later, leaving her a widow again. Larry Gunckel was also teaching in the history department at the time. After they had worked together for five years, Larry’s wife passed away. In time, Larry and Jodi’s friendship grew into a relationship, and they

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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.

married during spring break in 1988. They remained married until Jodi’s passing in 2026. Friends often joked that her full name was Jo Ann Hall Neumann Butler Skelton Gunckel. After retiring, Jodi and Larry purchased an RV and traveled to all 48 contiguous states. They spent much of their time in Tucson, Arizona, where they bought a mobile home in a 50-and-over community. They still maintained residence, first in Bulverde and for the last 20 years in Seguin. They made many friends in these locations, age and difficulty in traveling forced them to stay in Seguin. Jodi was a devoted Catholic who remained active in her church wherever she lived. About four years ago, health issues prevented her from participating, but her faith stayed strong. As her life neared its end, she remained positive. On the last day she could communicate verbally, although she could no longer speak in complete sentences, she repeated, “It’s OK, it’s OK,” and “I did my best, I did my best.” Yes, you did Jodi and your best was fantastic. Jodi is preceded in death by her parents, her son David Butler, and her step-sons, Forrest Gunckel and Gary Gunckel. Survivors include her loving husband of 38 years, Larry Gunckel, daughter Cathi Barnes, stepdaughters Cindy Curnel and husband Avery, Terry Atkinson, sister Helen Reynolds and husband Roy, grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other loving family members and friends. Visitation will begin on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at 9 a.m. at St. James Catholic Church in Seguin, with the recitation of the Holy Rosary at 9:30 a.m. followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. with the Reverend Joss Randriamiharimanana officiating. A reception will follow in the Parish Hall. Private interment will be held at a later date at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery. Memorial Contributions may be made to St. James Catholic Church, 505 Camp St. Seguin, Texas 78155, or the charity of your 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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PENALUNA

Stephen H. Penaluna was born September 22, 1948, in Rensselaer, Indiana, to Lovetra Aleen (Mynatt) and Richard Edwards Penaluna. Stephen and his sister, Connie, were both adopted and raised by loving parents. Stephen considered his adoption a blessing and was proud to have been chosen and deeply loved by his family. His father served as an Air Force chaplain, and Stephen’s childhood took him to various military bases, on the West Coast and in Panama. Following his father’s active-duty military career, the family settled in Saratoga, California, where his father pastored a church. Stephen graduated from Westmont High School in 1966 and went on to graduate from the University of California, Riverside, in 1970 with a degree in sociology and a minor in music. Stephen met his beloved red head, Adriana Lewis, at church in Saratoga, California, and they were married in 1974. Together they raised four children. Their life centered on family, homeschooling and adventures together through the many moves required by Stephen’s military and civilian careers. They lived in Arizona, Colorado, California, Alaska, and Kansas, before settling in Seguin, Texas, where they retired to be near family. Stephen was a hard worker from his high school years onward and held a variety of jobs before building a successful career in banking. He also spent a brief period driving a log truck before beginning a ten-year active-duty career in the United States Army with the Criminal Investigation Command. After leaving active duty while stationed in Alaska, he transitioned into civil service and spent another 18 years working for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in wetlands permitting. Stephen was saved at the age of seven and remained faithful to the Lord throughout his life. He was a devoted church member and served in music ministry, and as a Deacon wherever he lived. He was always involved in Bible studies and even helped establish a still thriving church that began as a Bible study in his home in Arizona. Music was an important part of Stephen’s life from an early age and remained a lifelong passion. He played many instruments, including piano, organ, banjo, guitar, and sousaphone, and sang as a bass in choirs throughout his life. His primary instrument was the bass trombone, which he played with great skill and enthusiasm. He participated in marching band, symphony,

PROCTOR

Funeral Services for Bruce Allen Proctor will be held Saturday the 15th at Heritage Oaks Mortuary corner of Sinclair Rd and WWWHITE RD at

JACKSON

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community bands and church music ministry. One of Stephen’s greatest passions was automobiles. He was a skilled mechanic who could often diagnose a problem simply by hearing the motor over the phone. He shared his knowledge and love of cars with his children and grandchildren, creating countless memories working together on vehicles. He built a Model A at just 19 years old and later owned other antique cars. He enjoyed participating in car clubs, attending car shows, displaying his vehicles in parades, and winning trophies for his beloved cars “Flossie” and “Lucile”. For ten years, Stephen worked part-time at Tres Hewell Mortuary in Seguin, a role he considered a ministry. His genuine compassion and ability to connect with people allowed him to offer comfort and friendship during times of loss. Stephen was a people person who had a remarkable ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Whether talking with a businessman, a mechanic, a fellow church member, or someone he had just met, he took a sincere interest in others and made them feel valued. Stephen will be remembered for his faithful service to the Lord, his love for people, his devotion to his family, his passion for music and automobiles, and his willingness to encourage others wherever he went. He will be deeply missed by his wife, children, grandchildren, extended family, church family, car club friends, and the many people whose lives he touched. Stephen is preceded in death by his parents, his mother-in-law and fatherin-law, Alice and George Lewis, and brother-in-law, Alan Lewis. Survivors include his loving wife of 52 years, Adriana Lewis Penaluna; children, Devin Penaluna and wife Deborah, Marjorie Miller, Chelsea Farran and husband Ryan, and Scott Penaluna; grandchildren, Elissa Evans and husband James, Brett Penaluna, Abigale Penaluna, Nathan Penaluna, Tristan Miller, Tait Miller, Grant Miller, Blythe Farran, Byron Farran, and Chaucer Farran; sister, Connie Knapp; brother-in-law, Paul Lewis and wife Michelle Lundquist; two cousins, several nieces, nephews, other loving family members and a host of friends, including his car club friends and his beloved church family. Visitation will begin on Monday, August 17, 2026, at Pathway Bible Church, 1314 E. Cedar, Seguin, at 10 a.m. followed by funeral service at 11 a.m. including military honors, with the Reverend Dr. Brice Mandaville officiating. A reception will follow in the fellowship hall. Private interment will be held at a later date in Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Pathway Bible Church, 1314 E. Cedar, Seguin, Texas, 78155 or to the South Texas Pregnancy Care Center, P. O. Box 1962, 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.

11AM. Interment will be held Friday, the 21st at Ft.Sam Houston National Cemetery at 10:30 am. He is survived by sisters,Esther Proctor, Ada Proctor, Jo Ann Proctor. Arrangements under the direction of Eunice and Lee Mortuary.

Arrangements are pending at Eunice and Lee Mortuary for Jennifer Jackson who died recently at the age of 51. She is survived by her son, Jacob Jackson.

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FDA Upgrades Egg Recall To Highest Risk Level (Silver Spring, MD) -- The Food and Drug Administration has upgraded an egg recall to Class one, the highest risk level. Nearly 100 people have been sickened across 17 states, with 26 hospitalized. No deaths have been reported. The recalled products were sold under several brands, including Kroger, Brookshire’s, Country Morning, Simple Truth and Sunups as well as various bulk Grade A and Grade AA eggs. Research Reveals Key Sleep Memory Link to Diseases (Houston, TX) -- Houston researchers have uncovering a sleep-associated brain breakthrough that could help fight Alzheimer’s and epilepsy. Scientists at Baylor College of Medicine found that star-shaped brain cells called astrocytes [[ ASS-truh-sites ]] build and store memories during sleep, rather than just supporting neurons. In lab tests, disrupting a single gene in those once-overlooked cells scrambles brainwaves and triggers rapid memory loss during sleep. Researchers say targeting that cellular pathway could lead to new treatments for memory disorders. Top Exec Coach Addresses Poor Sleep Due To Work Stress (Darien, IL) -- The health benefits of a good night’s sleep are well-established, but work-related sleep disruption is a growing problem for many Americans. A survey by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine shows that nearly three-fourths of Americans report disrupted sleep due to work-related sleep disruptions called “swirling,” in which you obsess about the problem and what you should have done at the time. In his new book, “The 25th Hour,” Executive coach Neal Schore discusses how to head-off the swirls by managing ourselves and our emotional reactions to work situations in real-time. Therapy Tested On Animals Speeds Recovery From Jet Lag (Houston, TX) -- Bioengineers at Rice University say they’ve found a shortcut to beating jet lag. It’s an implantable cell therapy that releases the metabolic hormone leptin [[ LEP-tin ]]. It’s designed to reset the body’s internal clock more rapidly after major schedule shifts. Northwestern University was also involved with researchers from both schools testing the therapy on animals dealing with a six hour time change. They adjusted about a full day faster than normal, with zero impact on overall sleep quality. The researchers says it could eventually help people working overnight shifts or traveling across time zones.

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15 COMMUNITY

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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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