Navarro ISD seeks community input for first-ever elementary attendance boundary committee
(Geronimo) -- As Navarro ISD’s newest elementary school continues to take shape, district leaders are already looking ahead by asking the community to help determine future attendance boundaries.
Navarro ISD has officially launched applications for its 2026-27 Elementary Attendance Boundaries Committee, a citizen-led
group that will recommend attendance boundaries ahead of the August 2027 opening of Navarro South Elementary located on East Martindale Road.
Navarro ISD Superintendent Dr. Mandy Epley says the committee will play a vital role in the district’s fast paced growth.
“This is the point in the process where we
really need our community involved,” said Epley. She explained that committee members will work alongside the district’s demographer and staff to examine enrollment growth, neighborhood geography, transportation routes and future development before making recommendations to the Navarro ISD Board of Trustees.
Navarro, pg. 3
Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
Message from library: Not too late to join Summer Reading Program
(Seguin) -- There is still plenty of time for local readers to join the summer fun at the Seguin Public Library.
The library’s annual Summer Reading Program continues through Thursday, August 6, giving children, teens and adults an opportunity to read, complete activities and earn chances to win prizes.
Library Assistant Director Hannah Farmer says this year’s program has already seen record participation, but there is still room for more readers to join.
“It is not too late. We have all the way until August 6th for people to read, do activities and turn in their raffle tickets for a chance to win some awesome prizes,” said Farmer. “We’ve had a record number of signups this year, but we would love to get more people signed up and participating.”
Farmer says joining the program
is simple and does not require a library card.
“You can sign up online on our website or on the library catalog, but you do need to come in in person to pick up the game board that kind of tells you what to do, what activities to do, how much reading to do for your age group,” said Farmer. “It’s free to participate. You do not even have to have a library card.”
Farmer says the program is also open to visitors who may only be in town for a short time, making it an
activity the whole family can enjoy.
“Maybe you’ve got family visiting and they’re here for a couple weeks. They can participate too,” said Farmer. “It’s just something to keep the whole family engaged in reading and educational and fun activities.”
Participants also have the chance to win a variety of prizes. Farmer says prizes include free books for children, gift cards for teens and larger raffle prizes for adults.
“The winner gets like a $50 Amazon gift card, and that’s also one of the things we’re raffling off for teens,” said Farmer. “Adults can participate too. We have a Kindle for adults, a gift card for teens and there’s lots of stuff that I’m leaving out, but come check it out.”
For more information or to sign up, visit the Seguin Public Library or check out the library’s online calendar.
Former Stockdale ISD
teacher sentenced to prison
(Stockdale) -- A former Stockdale Independent School District teacher will spend time behind bars for having an improper relationship with a student.
Prosecutors announced Thursday that Peter Leach has been sentenced to 13 years in prison. Leach pleaded no contest to multiple felony counts and ultimately took a plea deal in the matter. He was teaching at nearby Stockdale High School when he was first arrested in February of 2025.
Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
Peter Leach
continued.
The new attendance zones will serve “students in grades 2-5 beginning with the 2027-28 school year, when Navarro South Elementary opens and the current Navarro Intermediate campus transitions into Navarro Elementary.”
Epley says the committee’s work will begin Aug. 26 and continue through four meetings ending in October.
“We want to have plenty of time for the board to make decisions so families know well before the next school year where their students will attend elementary school,” said Epley.
District leaders say the committee’s recommendations will again account for the “area’s rapid residential growth.”
Epley pointed to recently approved housing developments, including the planned Red Oak subdivision, which could bring as many as 1,300 new homes surrounding the district’s existing campuses.
“We have to be forward-thinking,” said Epley. “We don’t want to constantly be moving these boundary lines every time another development comes in. We’re looking at where permits have been issued and working with our demographer to make the best long-term decisions possible.”
The superintendent says committee members will be expected to attend every meeting and actively gather
feedback from other residents throughout the process.
“This is a significant commitment. We want people who are willing to stay engaged through the entire process, hear different viewpoints and help create recommendations that support our students, families and the continued growth of our district,” said Epley.
The committee also marks the first time in Navarro ISD history that attendance boundaries have needed to be established between two elementary campuses serving the same grade levels. Up until now, all campuses have been located at the corner of Link Road and State Highway 123.
Although the committee will focus on Navarro South Elementary, Epley says it is also about laying the groundwork for future expansion.
She says the district already owns property near State Highway 758 and Huber Road --- the future location for its northern elementary campus.
“This committee becomes part of the district’s legacy of community involvement,” said Epley. “As we continue growing, community voices will remain an important part of making sound fiscal and logistical decisions for Navarro ISD.”
Applications and additional information about the committee, meeting schedule and bond projects are available through Navarro ISD. A link to apply for the committee can be found on both the district’s website and Facebook page.
Navarro,
STATISTICS
MUDD
www.SEGUINTODAY.com
Ronald Lee “Ronnie” Mudd, age 83 of Seguin, passed away on July 29, 2026. Ronnie was born on March 13, 1943, in Victoria, Texas to Agatha Evelyn (Hoffer) and Leber Alphonse Mudd.
Ronnie grew up in Edna, Texas, and graduated from Edna High School. He attended Southwest Texas State University in San Marcos on a football scholarship and excelled at the linebacker and deep snapper position. As a member of the Alpha Psi fraternity, he was voted “college favorite” by his classmates in recognition of his strong character and personality.
After college, Ronnie was a well-liked and respected high school biology teacher, coach, and driver’s ed instructor in Rockdale, TX. In 1970, Ronnie married the love of his life, Kathryn “Kit” (Lyle). After adventures living in Singapore, they ultimately settled in Portland, Texas, where they raised their two children, Miki and Michael.
Ronnie started his career in Workplace Safety in 1971, inspecting commercial and industrial facilities throughout Texas. Even when work required him to travel, he remained present for his family, either in the bleachers or on the sidelines proudly watching his kids play sports, usually with video camera in hand.
Ronnie and Kit moved to Seguin in 2002, where he worked for Commercial Metals Corporation before retiring in 2009. He was an adored “PawPaw” to his four amazing granddaughters and continued his tradition of showing up for the people he loved. He proudly attended dance performances, volleyball matches, barrel races, basketball and soccer games, and countless other activities.
A devoted Catholic, Ronnie was actively involved in the church parishes
at both Mount Carmel Catholic Church in Portland and St. James Catholic Church in Seguin, including Knights of Columbus, church choir, and other forms of ministry. He supported the church through his dedication to fundraising and was known for grilling delicious BBQ chicken. Ronnie also held many leadership roles in the McQueeney Lions Club that served multiple local communities.
Ronnie and Kit built a strong community of treasured friends in both Portland and Seguin. He never met a stranger, and humor was one of his favorite ways to show affection. Ronnie always made a lasting impression wherever he went and never missed an opportunity to make someone smile with a joke, funny story, or a little good-natured teasing.
Ronnie is preceded in death by his parents, older brother Kenneth Mudd, and sister-in-law Vicki Lyle Mudd.
Survivors include his loving wife of 55 years, Kit Mudd; daughter Miki (Mudd) Gulbrandsen, and husband Tom of Folsom, California; son, Mike Mudd and partner Sarah of Austin, Texas; grandchildren, Madilyn Mudd, Grace Gulbrandsen, Maya Mudd, and Kathryn Gulbrandsen; other loving family members and a host of wonderful friends.
Visitation will begin on Monday August 10, 2026, at 10 a.m. at St. James Catholic Church with the recitation of the Holy Rosary at 10:30 a.m. followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. with the Reverend Gregory J. Nevlud officiating. A reception will follow at the Knights of Columbus Hall.
Private inurnment will be held in St. James Catholic Cemetery Columbarium.
Serving as honorary pallbearers will be the Knights of Columbus Honor Guard.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. James Catholic Church, https://saintjamescc.org/give or charity of choice.
You are invited to sign the guest book at www.treshewell.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155, 830-549-5912.
VITAL STATISTICS
BRANTLEY
Wayne T. Brantley, age 70 of Seguin, passed away on July 6, 2026. Wayne was born in San Antonio, Texas on March 23, 1956, to Ann (Tice) and William Elzy Brantley.
From the age of six, Wayne grew up as a selfproclaimed river rat along Lake McQueeney. He attended Navarro Schools and was a 1975 graduate of Navarro High School. When he wasn’t fishing, one could find him boating, skiing, or swimming. Other times Wayne was with his buddies’ trapping raccoons and selling the hides. He also liked hunting, however one of his favorite pastimes was spent enjoying NASCAR racing.
As a mason, Wayne was a member of Guadalupe Masonic Lodge 109 AF & AM.
Wayne is preceded in death by his parents, his grandson, Ethan William Brantley, his brother, Bobby Ray Brantley, his mother-in-law and father-in-law,
CONEJO
Adela Conejo of Seguin, TX passed away on July 16, 2026. She was born on December 1, 1933, to Francisco Conejo and Enriqueta Rodriguez Conejo.
Adela is preceded in death by both her parents and sister, Frances Conejo McHaney of Seguin, TX. She is survived by her sister, Natalia Conejo Lozano; brothers, Joe Conejo of Tyler, TX and Robert Conejo of Seguin, TX.
Barbara and Lenord Coleman, Sr. and his brother-in-law, Lenord “Lennie” Coleman.
Survivors include his loving wife of 36 years, Linda Kay Coleman Brantley; son, Allen Brantley and wife Tracie; daughter, Lacy Kay Brantley and partner, Scott Bauer; grandchildren, Emery, Avery, and Everett Brantley, and Jack Bauer; sister-in-law, Donna Guenther; brother-in-law, Allen Coleman and wife Debbie; numerous nieces, nephews, other loving family members and many friends.
A memorial service celebrating Wayne’s life will be held on Friday, August 7, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel with the Reverend Audrey Hewell officiating.
Wayne will be remembered by all who knew him as friendly, trustworthy and giving person, sharing his time and talents to anyone who needed help. He will be missed by his family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hope Hospice, 611 N. Walnut Ave., New Braunfels, Texas, 78130.
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.
Services honoring Adela will be held on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at St. James Catholic Church. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. with the Holy Rosary recited at 10:30 a.m. and the Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Cemetery.
Arrangements are under the direction of Goetz Funeral Home, Seguin, Texas.
Red Cross Declares Blood Supply Crisis
(Washington, DC) -- The American Red Cross is warning of a nationwide blood shortage. It has declared its second-ever national blood supply crisis. The organization says donations have fallen to a four-year summer low, leaving less than a one-day supply of type O positive blood, the most commonly transfused blood type. Health officials are urging eligible donors of all blood types to make an appointment, saying even a single donation can help patients in critical need.
FDA Looking For Source Of Separate Cyclosporiasis Outbreak
(Silver Spring, MD) -- The FDA is investigating a separate cyclosporiasis outbreak not linked to lettuce. Almost a hundred cases have been connected with the separate outbreak. The outbreak linked to lettuce has caused thousands of cases. Traceback efforts can prove to be difficult due to the time it takes people to experience symptoms. Nine states have been linked to the outbreak caused by lettuce from Mexico. U.S. health officials have said the U.S. food supply is safe.
Alabama Pregnancy Hypertension Rate Rises 90%
(Birmingham, AL) -- Dangerous high blood pressure is hitting pregnant Alabama women at a rate 90-percent higher than eight years ago. New CDC data released Wednesday shows the spike came even as statewide births fell by over two-percent. Gestational hypertension affected nearly 14-percent of Alabama births in 2024, or about one in every seven births. That gives Alabama the country’s third-highest rate. High blood pressure can make it harder for a developing baby to get enough oxygen and nutrients, raising the risk of premature birth and low birth weight.
Trial Shows Liquid Treatment For Cavities Is A Success
(Ann Arbor, MI) -- Researchers have a new way to treat cavities that avoids drilling at the dentist office. A University of Michigan study discovered that a liquid brushed onto cavities stopped tooth decay in more than half of cases with baby teeth. The liquid called silver diamine fluoride has been used in other countries but officials in the U.S. have not completed trials proving its safety and effectiveness up until this trial. Tooth decay impacts more than 40 percent of U.S. children.
AUGUST
Music Camp at Spirit of Joy Lutheran Church
Children who have completed 2nd through 5th grade are invited to attend the free Music Camp at Spirit of Joy Lutheran Church, Aug. 4-6, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. each day at 416 Dolle Ave. in Seguin. Lunch will be provided, but space is limited. Register online at www.spiritofjoylc.com. For more information, email chris@spiritofjoylc.com.
Summer Reading Experience Underway at Seguin Public Library
The Seguin Public Library is inviting readers of all ages to participate in its 2026 Summer Reading Experience, “Unearth a Story.” The free program features books, activities, special events, and opportunities to win dino-mite prizes throughout the summer. Children, teens, and adults are all encouraged to join. Registration is available in person at the library or online at Seguin Public Library Summer Reading Experience. No library card is required to participate. Participants have until Aug. 6, 2026, to complete their activity boards and be entered into drawings for raffle prizes.
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.
Pack the Bus School Supply Drive
Communities In Schools of South Central Texas is inviting the community to help local students get ready for the new school year during its annual Pack the Bus school supply drive. Donations of school supplies, hygiene items and monetary gifts will be accepted on Saturday, August 1, at the H-E-B store in Seguin and other participating H-E-B locations across the region. Donations will help provide students with the supplies they need throughout the school year. For more information or to make a financial donation, visit the Communities In Schools of South Central Texas website.
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-toSchool 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 more information, call 830-4337004.
Continued on the next page. 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.
Continued on the next page.
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.
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 830379-4622 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.
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
Registration is now open for the Precious Life Services “No Child Left Behind” Back-to-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.
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.
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 are provided. Wear old clothes or an apron and non-slip shoes. Register by calling 830-305-0472.
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.
