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830-379-2234 l 609 E. Court St., Seguin TX, 78155
The Voice of Seguin
WEEKEND EDITION
TODAY
Guadalupe County works through one of its toughest budget years Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
Seguin ISD board calls for voter-approved tax ratification election Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
(Seguin) -- The Seguin ISD is asking voters to weigh in on a proposed tax-rate change that would keep the district’s overall tax rate flat while allowing the district to maximize additional state funding.
The school board unanimously approved calling for a Voter Approved Tax Ratification Election, or VATRE, during a recent meeting. Election, pg. 2
(Seguin) -- Guadalupe County is working its way through what County Judge Kyle Kutscher describes as “an unprecedented budget year,” one marked by a shrinking tax base, changes in state exemptions, rising costs and continued growth across the county. Kutscher says the county started the budget process in May facing a significant loss in taxable value. “Well, this year’s budget has been a challenge, and it’s a challenge every year, but with appraisal reductions and a few big changes at the state, the county did lose a considerable amount of appraised value,” said Kutscher. “With a few big changes at the state, the county did lose a considerable amount of appraised value. There was about $1.45 or $1.46 billion dollars of value that was lost from a freeze/ refreeze recalculation of certain exemptions. There was also new
personal property or business exemptions that were given through the state that individuals voted on that reduced the appraisals in the county by about 400 million total. And then when you add back in the new property and all the development and construction that all of us see as we’re driving around it right over $860 million. The result of all of those things has the Guadalupe County total appraisal going down by almost $1.1 billion.” According to the proposed budget, the county’s total taxable value dropped from about $21.98 billion in 2025 to approximately $20.90 billion in 2026. That decline came even as the county continued to add new development and with about $864.2 million in new property added to the tax rolls this year. For the county, Kutscher says the lower tax base translates directly into less money available to operate. Budget, pg. 3
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Election, continued. The fall election will allow voters to decide whether the district can make the proposed adjustment to its maintenance and operations tax rate while keeping the overall tax rate at $1.0828 per $100 valuation. Seguin ISD Superintendent Dr. Jack Lee says the election is designed to gain more funding rather than having to go through taxpayers. “What that means is that the board has adopted a tax rate that requires voter approval. The interesting piece about it is that the tax rate that we have adopted is identical to the total tax rate that we have adopted the past two years. So this would be the third year in a row that we have done that, but essentially by maximizing our M&O, which is our operational funding tax rate -- it generates about 2.4 more million dollars for the district in an ongoing process, primarily through the state having to kick in funding on its side for the public schools,” said Lee. The district’s total tax rate for the 2026-27 school year is $1.0828 per $100 of property valuation, the same total rate adopted for the previous school year. District officials say the proposed amount would increase the maintenance and operations, or M&O, rate from $0.6778 to $0.6978 while reducing the interest and sinking, or debt-service, rate from $0.405 to $0.385. If approved by voters, the VATRE is expected to generate about $2.4 million annually beginning with the 2027 school year. About $942,000 would come from local tax revenue, while approximately $1.5 million would come through additional state funding. Lee says the district is encouraging residents to learn more about how this school funding system works. “I think that the biggest piece would be to be as educated as possible. School funding is a complicated mess of funding that public schools go through. The state’s intentional about it being complicated. I think if you asked the elected legislatures, they would tell you the same thing because it’s trying to be as equitable as
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possible. The reality of it is, is that school districts are funded less today than they have been funded in the past. And so the result is that schools have to make some pretty hard decisions on what it is to do,” said Lee. Lee says Seguin ISD’s financial planning and the district’s debt-service rate played an important role in allowing the district to pursue the VATRE without increasing the overall tax rate. “We’re thankful here in Seguin ISD for the fact that we do have a school board that is diligent about overseeing and watching the financials of the district. And so part of what is allowing us to move forward with this voter approved tax ratification election, with it being a 0 tax rate impact election in overall tax rates, is because we have been intentional with our debt service rate. And so we’re lowering our debt service rate by a couple of pennies and the voter approved tax ratification election is us increasing it by a couple of pennies on the M&O side for operations. And so it’s a 0 tax rate impact for our folks,” said Lee. Lee says the additional funding is all about prioritizing student achievement and maintaining services that directly affect students. “The other thing that we know for certain is that our community and our district wants to see a student achievement at the priority. In order for us to continue doing student achievement, and making it a priority with smaller class sizes, teacher pay increases, those types of things. The only way that we can continue doing that is if we have the funds to be able to do it. And so that is what we’re looking. We’re trying to maximize as much as possible the funding that we get from the state,” said Lee. Again, Lee says the district will provide additional information about the VATRE as the election approaches in November.. The upcoming election will allow voters to decide whether the district can make the proposed adjustment to its maintenance and operations tax rate while keeping the overall tax rate at $1.0828 per $100 valuation.
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Budget, continued. “And what that means in our calculations of providing county services, is that just in maintenance and operation, we had almost $4 million less this year to work with as compared to last year,” said Kutscher. “And that puts a strain on a lot of departments and a lot of services that all departments and elected and appointed are trying to provide to the public and it just creates other challenges and stress points.” At the same time the county was dealing with less revenue, he says some of its costs were going up just like what folks have seen in their everyday lives. Kutscher pointed to increased EMS contracts, higher fire service costs, employee health insurance and debt tied to projects already approved or underway. He says the proposed budget anticipates an approximately 8 percent increase in county health insurance costs. It also includes funding for several county projects. “We had about a15 percent increase on EMS contracts because of increased call value, and increased cost to our partners who help provide those services,” said Kutscher. “We had health insurance that went up for county employees that estimated initially 15 percent, now reduced to about 8 percent, restructure of debt, which are for specific projects, that are expansion, renovation of our existing jail, and adult detention facility.” The combination of those expenses and the reduction in available revenue created a situation Kutscher says the county has not faced before. “With $4 million less in revenue with about $4.5 to $5 million of funds spent before we started, really did create some challenges that we haven’t had to deal with and haven’t seen in the past in Guadalupe County,” said Kutscher. Kutscher says the proposed budget also includes a property tax rate of $0.3549 per $100 of valuation. He adds that the county’s required budget notice also states that the budget would raise approximately $4.9 million more in property tax revenue than last year’s budget, an increase of 6.2 percent. “The last thing any court member, anybody at the county, because we are a group of conservative people – the last thing we want to do is try to raise taxes or do anything,” said Kutscher. “But with that revenue shortfall, with the changes at the state, the additional exemptions, this 5.65 percent change in the tax rate does not add new positions. It didn’t change and give a tremendous amount of resources to anybody. No departments were singled out.” Instead, he says, this proposed rate is simply to get the county back to a level where it can maintain the services it currently provides. “Basically, that’s really just funding at an equal or balanced level what we already have in the current year budget,” said Kutscher. “So that was one of the biggest challenges we’ve seen, and this year was really just trying to get back to a level playing field at a tax rate that funds what we already had, so services did not have to be reduced.”
Kutscher says the budget process takes a team and is appreciative of all efforts to make it work even though folks don’t get all that they want. Although cuts to the budget are required, Kutscher says the proposed budget still does include a 3 percent cost-of-living adjustment for eligible county employees. Kutscher says it’s important for county officials to still recognize employees “while also keeping the impact on taxpayers in check.: He says many county employees are entry-level or hourly workers who are dealing with the same rising costs as everyone else. “They have stability in a job with the Photo county, courtesythey SISD get good insurance, but have a lot of employees that are hourly, that are struggling just to pay their bills also, and handle those issues with their families, and just live like a lot of our residents are,” said Kutscher. Kutscher adds that the budget is not final and encourages citizens to also look at their proposed spending. The proposed budget has officially been filed with the County Clerk and is now available for public review. On Sept. 1, the Guadalupe County Commissioners Court is scheduled to hold public hearings and take potential action on both the budget and tax rate. Kutscher says the budget process began in May with department heads developing and submitting their requests. Commissioners Court then held individual meetings, group budget meetings and workshops “as officials worked through the impact of the lower tax base and increased expenses.” And while the proposed budget calls for a higher tax rate, Kutscher said the county is also asking its departments to absorb some of the financial pressure. “It’s still really tight and it’s just an unprecedented event,” said Kutscher. “I think, around the state, but especially in Guadalupe County because of the recalculation. ... All of these things coupled together create, make a very tight fiscal environment for the county to be able to expand at a time when things are booming and growing very fast.” Residents can review the 244-page proposed FY 2026-27 Guadalupe County budget online through the county’s website. The county’s budget documents and transparency filings are available through the county website, and Kutscher said residents who have difficulty accessing the information or who want specific details are encouraged to contact his office or any Commissioners Court member. View the Guadalupe County FY 2026-27 Proposed Budget (Click Here)
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FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL TYPE VIBES
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6 SPORTS
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Navarro Panther Preseason Report: Feeling Fine Ahead of Devine Reily Chestnut
(Geronimo) -- Last week, Navarro football got the ball rolling with anticipation for Head Coach Glenn Hill’s second year in charge. Though merely a morsel, Navarro’s preseason trip to Fredericksburg revealed a team playing with real “Panther Pride”. “It was definitely a good start to the season,” Hill said. “Communication and knowledge of assignments were [a few things] that stuck out. Now, there’s always a million things watching film that we can improve on.” When asked where he thought the Panthers could commit some extra attention, Hill didn’t have to look too far away from the rock for a spot to chisel away some trouble. “Both sides of the line of scrimmage, just some really fine details defensively, different stunts and movements that we need to continue improving. Offensively, we’re not overly complicated in the run game. We’re just making sure all five [lineman] across the board are on the same page.” Man, if there are some kinks to work out on offense, Panther opponents might be in for some long nights this year. The Panthers’ first-team offense made quick work of the Fightin’ Billies with three of their four TDs landed on passes that flew at least 41 yards. Projected starting QB Eli Baker’s shift from the secondary to the pocket got off to a flying start. Baker tossed touchdowns on three consecutive plays to three different perimeter threats. “We’d like to be an offense that can be multiple,” Hill spoke. “We can spread the ball out to a lot of different players. If we have different guys making plays [then] that means we’re fortunate and blessed to have some good playmakers out there.” Defensively, Hill’s defense created chaos consistently in their first
scrimmage. The biggest key that unlocked the blitz? An understanding of how they fit together on the field. “Their knowledge of assignment is at a point right now to where they can just kind of pin their ears back and go. They trust their keys and each other. [That goes for] the back half as well. Fredericksburg could pass the ball around, have a really good quarterback [who’s] dynamic when he’s out of the pocket. So just being able to stay in coverage for some of those extended scrambles was impressive.” After that promising first step, how can Hill’s Panthers push forward when they host Devine’s Warhorses tonight? “It’s just continuing to add little bits and pieces offensively,” Hill said. “We’re still installing a few things, and all of it is growth on things we can master. Every week, if they show that they’ve mastered a concept or scheme, we can continue to tweak that and add on to it. We’re just trying to get [our] playmakers the football. How can we be creative enough to not just do the same thing week after week?” That’s a great question. How does a guy like Hill unlock true creativity? “I don’t know if I’m intelligent enough to label myself as creative, so I think we’re safe there. I think being able to adapt. Everybody goes into the week with stuff they think is going to be great, then you show up Friday night, and [your opponent has] something totally different. So, who can adapt on the fly and communicate effectively with teenagers? I think that’s where creativity comes from.” Whatever the cause, Hill and his staff seem to be unlocking something in this Navarro program. If the returns keep rolling in hot, then Navarro could prove capable of rising back into playoff position.
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10 VITAL STATISTICS SEMMLER
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Judy Frels Semmler, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, friend, and nurse, passed away peacefully on August 8th at the age of seventy-five. She was born in Seguin, Texas on March 27, 1951 to Leo Frels and Estelle Frels Hill. Judy was the oldest daughter but third born of eight children in the Frels family. She was incredibly close to her siblings, perhaps due to the close quarters on Ireland Street, but it didn’t end there. Throughout her life, her brothers and sisters, along with her siblings-in-law, remained among her closest friends. She attended St. James Catholic Church then Seguin High School where she met and eventually married her high school sweetheart and true love John Semmler. Married for more than fifty-five years, they grew closer together, not apart. From the early years as a bowling duo to playing co-ed softball with Judy as the star pitcher, their lives were interwoven from the start. They camped together (seemingly never checking the weather before),they attended concerts together (a table at the Mucky Duck was a regular date spot), they even knew how to be still together — most often on a patio letting an afternoon drift by. Everywhere they went, they built family out of friends, and they spent their retirement in what they lovingly dubbed “Kingsbury East.” They modeled what a committed marriage looks like. Judy and John had four children. Judy poured her life into her daughters. She was there for all of it: soccer, swimming, cheer, dance, cross country, gymnastics. And later, for the things that came after: careers, husbands, children, pets. She was patient. She listened. She wanted a deep and meaningful relationship with each of her girls, and was successful in doing so. As a natural caregiver, she made her career as a labor and delivery nurse at The Woman’s Hospital of Texas. She practiced with compassion and selflessness—from handmaking bereavement boxes for families who lost children during childbirth so no parent would leave the hospital emptyhanded to covering shifts during natural disasters and working nearly every Christmas Day so her colleagues with young families could be home with their children. There was no other person like Judy. Judy had a passion for travel that always brought a spark of joy to her life. Whether it was visiting her favorite places in Texas or traveling around the world, she found delight in the simple things. Walking the coast in Rockport with her beloved dog Monte. Taking a dip in the Guadalupe River in McQueeney. Watching for shooting stars from a riverbank in Wimberley.
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Enjoying a sunset in Kingsbury. These are the moments Judy loved best. That same spirit led her around the world wandering the streets of Prague, taking in the coastline of Portugal, marveling at the glaciers of Alaska and soaking up the sun in Mexico. Wherever she went, she went with curiosity and an open heart, and she went in good company. To know Judy was to feel loved. She was an extraordinary mother and even better Omi to her six grandchildren. She made ordinary moments feel like occasions and built traditions her family will carry forever. With Christmas as her favorite, she hosted an annual Semmler Christmas Eve party along with a cookie decorating party, both not complete without Bing Crosby on repeat and Judy singing along. It is with big shoes to fill that her parties will continue, her spirit living on, her children knowing she is singing and preparing in just another room. Judy is survived by her husband of fifty-five years, John; her children Erin Semmler Lehnert and spouse Cory Don Lehnert, Emily Elizabeth Semmler, Amanda Kate Switalski and spouse Brian Robert Switalski, Kate Semmler Cornelius and spouse Trey Cornelius; and her cherished grandchildren Jack William Lehnert, Sarah Elizabeth Lehnert, William Gready “Gray” Cornelius, John “Cooper” Cornelius, Andrew Frels Cornelius and Benjamin Frels Cornelius; siblings, Jack Frels and partner Katherine Metzger, Stephen Frels, Terry Buck and husband Dee, Mary Briers and husband Lewis, Chris Frels and wife Sharon, and Tony Frels and wife Harriette; brother-in-law, Rob Gordon; sister-in-law, Suzy Wilson; numerous nieces, nephews, other loving family members, and a host of friends including her beloved Seguin High School Class of 1969. She was preceded in death by her parents, Leo Frels and Estelle Frels Hill, and her sister, Jan Frels Gordon. With a warm smile and a giving heart, Judy touched the world with laughter and kindness. Her legacy of deep love and unwavering integrity will shine through her family and everyone blessed to know her. Visitation will begin Saturday, August 29, 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. A reception will follow at the Red Barn at 250 Cordova Rd, Seguin, TX 78155. Memorial contributions may be made to Memorials Processing, St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Pl., Memphis, Tn, 38105-9959 or to Angel Babies Matter Network. Angel Babies Matter Network angelbabiesmatter.com 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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SCHWERDTFEGER
Survivors include her children, Darla Whitman and husband Kris, Gregory Schwerdtfeger and wife Anne, Lori Riebe, Eric Schwerdtfeger and wife Dallas, and Kevin Schwerdtfeger and wife Crystal; grandchildren, Loriann and husband Ryan, Samantha, Ryan and wife Rebecca, Skylar and wife Alexandrea, Victoria, Sydney, Amanda, Logan, Nolan, Katherine and Alexander; great-granddaughter, Mireya, Bentley, Rome and Beau; brother, Wilburn “Sonny” Brown and wife Judy; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other loving family members, and many friends. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at Tres Hewell Mortuary from 5 to 7 p.m. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at Cross Church at 10 a.m. with the Reverend Jim Price officiating. Interment will follow in Guadalupe Valley Memorial Park. A reception will follow in the Cross Church fellowship hall. Pallbearers will be Gregory Schwerdtfeger, Eric Schwerdtfeger, Kevin Schwerdtfeger, Kris Whitman, Ryan Riebe, Skylar Riebe, Logan Schwerdtfeger, and Nolan Schwerdtfeger. The honorary pallbearer will be Alexander Schwerdtfeger. Memorial contributions may be made to Cross Church, 814 N. Bauer, Seguin, Texas, 78155, or to 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
HERZOG
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.
Mary Ann Schwerdtfeger, age 85 of Seguin, passed away on August 20, 2026. Mary Ann was born on May 29, 1941, in Guadalupe County, Texas to Elizabeth M. (Roemisch) and Alvin Wilburn Brown. Mary Ann was a 1959 graduate of Seguin High School. She and Donald Schwerdtfeger met while both working at Wuest’s Supermarket. On July 15, 1962, they were married. Mary Ann will be remembered as a wonderful seamstress, making seven family wedding dresses, including her own, as well as many bridesmaid dresses. She also made many Barbie Clothes, many of which were shown at the Guadalupe County Fair. Mary Ann and Donald were faithful, active members of Cross Church. She enjoyed assisting with Vacation Bible School and the Christmas programs. Her favorite role in life was that of “Grandma” where she enjoyed keeping each and every one of her grandchildren. Mary Ann is preceded in death by her loving husband of 61 years, Donald; her parents, her brother, Joseph “Butch” Brown, and sister Elizabeth Gladys Dotson.
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.
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
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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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14 VITAL STATISTICS
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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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Breast Cancer Surging Among Asian American Women (San Francisco, CA) -- The number of breast cancer cases is surging among Asian American women. A new study out of UC San Francisco in JAMA Network Open shows cancer cases have risen by more than three percent annually for nearly all Asian American ethnic groups looked at for a recent 22 year period. Researchers are not sure why. An author of the study says the patterns are highly concerning from a disparities standpoint. Fewer Americans Drinking Alcohol (Undated) -- Fewer Americans say they drink alcohol than at anytime since at least 1939. A new Gallup survey finds that for the second year in a row, 54 percent say they imbibe, the lowest number since the poll started. Just over half of Americans say drinking one or two alcoholic beverages a day is bad for health. More people are also becoming aware of research tied to the negative long-term effects of drinking. Psychiatrist Says Fear Fuels Procrastination (Detroit, MI) -- Fear, not laziness, could be the reason you’re procrastinating, whether it’s studying for an exam or dealing with paperwork and bureaucracy. Dr. Arash Javanbakht, a psychiatry professor at Michigan’s Wayne State University’s School of Medicine, says the brain often responds to difficult tasks viewed as overwhelming by freezing up. He says, paradoxically, “we think something is so important for us that you’re terrified of touching it.” His advice is to jump in and get started. Dr. Javanbakht says, “The worst is that you will be able to do some of it; sometimes, you break it into tinier tasks which makes it easier and more tangible to do.” Eye Expert Highlights Signs Of Vision Struggles In Children (Columbus, OH) -- An eye expert is alerting parents of what signs show a possible vision problem with children. Dr. Marjean Kulp, an optometry professor at Ohio State University, says difficulty in keeping place when reading, problems seeing things clearly, difficulty paying attention and an eye turning in or out all indicate possibly vision trouble. It’s recommended school aged children get an annual eye exam. Studies show children who got screenings and glasses had a better chance of passing their state proficiency exam.
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20 COMMUNITY
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MON. August 24, 2026
United Way Red Barn Bash BBQ The United Way of Comal and Guadalupe Counties will host its Red Barn Bash BBQ from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 27 at the Red Barn, 250 Cordova Road in Seguin. The event will feature barbecue from Burnt Bean Co., drinks from Blue Lotus Winery and live music by the Brushy Creek Boys. Tables seat eight and are $2,500. For more information, call 830-620-7760.
are provided. Wear old clothes or an apron and non-slip shoes. Register by calling 830-305-0472.
Seguin Sunrise Lions SINGO The Seguin Sunrise Lions will host its fourth SINGO fundraiser from 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 29, at the Silver Center, 510 E. Court St. Tickets are $20 for five rounds of songs and prizes and will be sold at the door beginning at 3:30 p.m. Cards are limited. Proceeds benefit local charities and service projects.
Brotherhood of Cross Church Barbecue Fundraiser The Brotherhood of Cross Church will hold a barbecue meat sale fundraiser benefiting college scholarships. Choices include two barbecue chicken halves for $15, one-and-a-half pounds of Granzin’s barbecue sausage for $15, or one pound of grilled chicken tenders for $10. The deadline to purchase tickets is Sunday, Aug. 23, at the Cross Church office, 814 N. Bauer St., or following Sunday worship. Meat pickup will be from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 30, at the church. Cyanotype Art Class 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
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.
Faith Lutheran Church 60th Anniversary Celebration Faith Lutheran Church, 1326 E. Cedar St, invites members, former members, friends and the community to join them on Sunday, August 30th, 2026 as they celebrate 60 years of faith, fellowship and wonderful memories. The celebration begins with a church service at 9:00 am, followed by a special day filled with celebration activities, games, historical photos and memorabilia displays, a delicious barbecue lunch, and a special anniversary program. Come reconnect with old friends, share cherished memories, and help celebrate this incredible milestone.
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 830305-0472.
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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www.SEGUINTODAY.com
MON. August 24, 2026