August 4, 2025
Bonus Summer Concert featuring Austin Gilliam coming on August 9 to downtown Seguin
Darren Dunn
(Seguin) - Central Park will once again come alive with the sounds of summer this weekend.
The city of Seguin Main Street Program and KWED Radio are teaming up on Saturday to present a Bonus Summer Concert in the Park — and it’s a show that you don’t want to miss it. The Freedom Rocks: Bonus Summer Concert kicks off at 6 p.m. on Saturday, August 9 in Central Park.
The evening begins with food trucks, local vendors, and music from DJ D’Trayne — setting the perfect summer vibe.
Then, at 7 p.m., get ready for the highly anticipated live performance by Austin Gilliam. Gilliam says he’s looking forward to the performance, which will feature a special blend of rock and country music.
“Well, we just play good old
fashion rock’n’roll. I wouldn’t necessarily describe it as any one in particular (type), just rock’n’roll. You know, we like to have a good time, but we like to be thoughtful about our presentation, and we want everybody to have a good time, just the same. So, we try to present ourselves in that kind of manner. We play the kind of music that we feel like everybody — from ages eight to 80 — can enjoy,” said Gilliam.
Gilliam says he grew up with all kinds of music, and that’s reflected in his shows. He says they aren’t all one thing, and he thinks that people will really in enjoy this final Concert in the Park for 2025.
“My mom raised me on like Def Leppard and let me listen to like Guns N’ Roses and stuff.
Concert, pg. 3
Photo courtesy CIS Facebook
Cell phones being banned from Texas schools
(Austin) -- When kids head back to school this month, they will need to leave their cell phones at home. Cell phones, under most situations, are now going to be banned from public schools in Texas.
Governor Greg Abbott recently signed legislation to restrict cell phones in schools.
“Educators and researchers have raised concerns about the impact that smartphones have on student learning and student engagement,” said Governor Abbott. “Experts have explained that smartphones and social media affect the mental health of children. If we are going to be number one in education, it is going to require the undivided attention of our students in the classroom.”
Abbott says the ban is cheered by teachers, who are tired of seeing their kids getting sidetracked by text messages and social media.
“Teachers report that phones are a persistant source
of distraction in the classroom,” said Abbott.
He says that’s why the ban is a good idea for Texas public schools. He says this should help to improve the overall performance of Texas students.
“They hinder instruction time, and they undermine academic performance,” said Abbott.
The bill orders schools and districts to craft their own phone policies. They can either be stored during the school day or banned on campus. There will be exceptions for those who need them for health care reasons.
The governor also signed a bill known as the App Store Accountability Act, which requires application (app) stores to verify a user’s age when creating an account. A minor’s account must be affiliated with a parent’s account and parental consent is required before a minor can download or purchase an app or make inapp purchases.
Guadalupe County added to federal disaster declaration list
(Austin) — More help could soon be on the way for local residents impacted by the recent flooding. Guadalupe County has now been added to the federal disaster declaration list, following a recent announcement by Governor Greg Abbott.
That means individuals and families in this area may now qualify for FEMA assistance programs to help with recovery efforts. The declaration, issued under President Trump’s Major Disaster Declaration, also includes Kimble, McCulloch, and Menard Counties for individual aid.
Six other counties — Edwards, Lampasas, Real, Reeves, Schleicher, and Sutton — have been approved for FEMA’s public assistance program.
“I thank President Trump for approving these 10 additional counties for critical disaster assistance,” said Governor Abbott. “This approval will help Texas families and communities rebuild after the catastrophic floods that impacted so many Texans across our state. Workers and self-employed Texans in Guadalupe, Kimble, McCulloch, and Menard counties can also now apply to receive crucial Disaster Unemployment Assistance. Texas will continue to work closely with local and federal officials to ensure every affected community has the resources and support they need to heal and rebuild.”
Officials say more counties may be added as damage assessments continue to be sent to the state.
Concert, continued.
My dad raised me on George Strait and Keith Whitley, and you know all that kind of stuff. So, I got the best of both worlds. I discovered a lot of like singer-songwriter stuff and rock’n’roll on my own, and it just so happens that rock’n’roll contains elements of both. It kind of meets in the middle sometimes. So, that’s kind of where I like to be,” said Gilliam.
Gilliam and his band are expected to deliver a show that you’ll be talking about long after the final chord.
“I try to give them an experience of peaks and valleys. I hope that they enjoy the show all the way through, not just certain aspects that that would be memorable to them. I want people walking away from the show, thinking ‘Austin Gillan is awesome or Austin Gillam and the Well Fed
Texans are a great band. I don’t want them coming away going ‘well, Austin Gilliam and the Well Fed Texans were okay, but they did this one song that I remember them for.’ I really would prefer them to think of the show and the presentation, as a whole, as a great product and a great experience,” said Gilliam.
Gilliam is known for his powerhouse vocals and dynamic blend of country and rock. His sound is partially unique because of his voice.
“I had to develop that over the years. I was in choir whenever I was youngerm, and so I knew that I could sing. But I didn’t really come into my own voice until around 2009 (or) 2010, when I started doing my own project and my own gigs to kind of start getting booked more. Because the thing is that I ran out of lead singers to work for one
summer. Nobody was hiring any side musicians, and so I was like, ‘well, looks like I have to start my own band.’ So, that’s that’s whenever I started coming into my own voice,” said Gilliam.
This free, family-friendly concert, featuring Austin Gilliam and the Well Fed Texans, is open to everyone. Organizers say you’re encouraged to grab your lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy a night of great music, food and fun. They say you should not miss your chance to celebrate the end of summer with one last big event — the Freedom Rocks: Bonus Summer Concert in the Park. It runs from 6 to 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, August 9 in Central Park. The community is invited to come early and come hungry. and enjoy the food and fun that will be in available in the park before Gilliam and his band takes the stage.
VITAL STATISTICS
Arriaga
Maria Salaz Arriaga, 93 of Seguin, Texas was born September 29, 1931 in Nixon, Texas to parents Bernabe Salaz and Senayda Martinez Salaz. Maria peacefully passed away in her home surrounded by her loved ones on July 31, 2025. Maria is survived by her husband Maximino Arriaga. Sons Ruben Arce from San Antonio, Eliberto Arce from Seguin, two daughters, Nelly Flores (Marcello) and Patricia Arce-Mestas all of Seguin. Brother Joe Salaz from San Antonio, Sisters Dora Rubio of Houston and Soila Herrera of Seguin. Son in law Alberto Jimenez from New Braunfels and numerous grandchildren, greatgrandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.
Maria was truly an inspiration dedicating her life to helping and caring for those around her. She always strived to work hard and provide for her children after the passing of her late husband in 1966. She loved baking/cooking and shared her passion with the town when she opened the original Marias Mexican Restaurant. Afterwards, continued to serve others by working as a hospital dietitian in Seguin where she retired but then returned to continue bringing comfort to patients and staff then retired a second time. Throughout all the years, her pecan pie won awards, including a Blue Ribbon with an invitation to the state
Strey
Willfloyd “Willie” Paul Strey was born on January 31, 1931 in Guadalupe County Texas. He entered eternal rest on August 1, 2025 at the age of 94. He was the son of Otto and Alvina Mattke Strey, and was one of eleven children.
Willie married Lillian Luensmann Strey on April 29, 1961. Together they had three daughters, eight grandchildren, nine great grandchildren and two on the way.
Willie served in the US Air Force in South Dakota for four years. He started out doing sheet rock work with his brothers Kenneth and Otto Strey. He then went on to work for the US Postal Service for approximately 30 years, retiring in 1989.
Willie was well known for his “grape juice”. He made wine for approximately 50 years and it was sold in many an auction. He also grew watermelons in La Vernia and always had lots of vegetables from his garden to share with others. He enjoyed hunting and fishing. He also loved ten pin and nine pin bowling. He was a lifetime member of Bexar Bowling Club and Hermann Sons.
Willie was preceded in death by his parents, his great granddaughter, Ava Canham, numerous brothers/brothers-in-law, sisters/sisters-in-law, nephews and nieces.
capitol and her recipes have made the GVEC annual calander many times. She catered to many and her home was a haven to all of her family and friends. She was a woman of wisdom, had a sense of humor unlike no other, was a shoulder to cry on and always forgiving even when she was wronged and never one to judge. She was protective of all her loved ones even had fisty words if needed and someone to count on giving all she had no matter the cost. She believed in the power of family, God and prayer. Her legacy lives on through every life she touched.
Maria is preceded in death by her parents Bernabe and Synayda Salaz. Husband Juan Arce, daughter Diana Jimenez, brother Pablo Salaz, sisters Dolores Ligues and Beatriz Vela. Son in law Ralph Mestas, daughter in law Sylvia Pena Arce, brother in law Frank Rubio, and grandsons Albert Jimenez II and Baby Ray Fonseca.
Visitation
Monday, August 4, 2025 5:00 pm- 8:00pm
Finch Funeral Chapel in Nixon Texas Funeral Mass
Tuesday, August 5, 2025 11:00 am
St. Joseph Catholic Church in Nixon Texas Interment
Nixon Latin American Cemetery
You are welcome to sign the online guestbook at www.finchfuneralchapels.com
Services in care of Finch Funeral Chapel, LLC
Willie is survived by his loving wife of 64 years Lillian, his daughters and their spouses Karen and Terry Canham, Loretta and John Corkran, Marsha and Mike Schulze. Grandchildren and spouses Cody and Krysta Canham, Tyler and Kelsey Canham, Trent and Collette Corkran, Avery Corkran and Sheyenne Strackbein, Colt and Shannon Canham, Mayson and Aerin Schulze, Garrett and Kaymey Corkran and Mady Schulze/Kaleb Collins. Great grandchildren Carson Corkran, Jaxon Corkran, Otto Corkran, Ellie Canham, Ace Corkran, Ozzi Corkran, Parker Canham, Luke Canham, Baby Canham and Baby Schulze. Numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other loving family members and a host of friends.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 7, 2025 from 9 to 10 AM at Redeemer Church in Zuehl, TX. The service will begin at 10:00 AM with Pastor Jennifer Gold officiating.
Interment with military honors will immediately follow the services in the Redeemer Cemetery.
Serving as pallbearers will be Cody Canham, Tyler Canham, Trent Corkran, Avery Corkran, Colt Canham, Mayson Schulze, Garrett Corkran, and Mady Schulze.
Memorials can be made to Redeemer Church, 7415 Gin Road, Marion, Texas, 78124, 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.
VITAL STATISTICS
Urias
In Loving Memory of Favian Campos Urias
August 4, 1965 – July 21, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Favian Campos Urias, who departed this life on July 21, 2025, in Seguin, Texas, just weeks before his 60th birthday.
Favian was a devoted husband, father, and stepfather, and a faithful servant of the Lord. He is survived by his beloved wife, Monica Flores Urias; his loving mother, Esmeralda C.Medina; his children and stepchildren: Mary Flores, Lavonne Bateman, Marcus Bateman Jr., Xavier Bateman; and as a loving father to Valerie Leonard (Tristan), Makayla Urias, AndrewUrias (Ronna), Alexander Urias, and Joshua Urias (Cynthia); his sister in law: Leslie Ibarra (Jorge), Maria Felan, Oralia Villanueva (Jaime); his brother in laws, Roy Flores, Raul Hernandez(Anna);his siblings Victor Medina(Iris), Linda Kissinger (Dan), Joe Medina(Tina), Beatrice Vela (Edward), And Sandra Valdez~all of whom
brought immense pride and joy to his life.
Born on August 4, 1965, Favian lived a life marked by dedication, humility, and faith. He was a committed member of Strong Tower Church, where he faithfully served as head usher. Always the first to arrive and the last to leave, Favian greeted each person with warmth and sincerity, making everyone feel welcomed and valued.
He will be remembered for his steadfast faith, his servant’s heart, and the quiet strength with which he supported and uplifted those around him. Whether in his church, his home, or his community, Favian’s life was a reflection of grace, integrity, and love.
A memorial service to honor and celebrate Favian’s life will be held at Strong Tower Church in Seguin on August 4, 2025.
Though Favian’s earthly journey has come to a close, he now enters his eternal home with our Lord Jesus Christ. The love he shared will live on in all who knew and cherished him.
Favian is now reunited with his loving parents, Favian and Maria (Mere) Urias, and his sister, Sandra Medina.
Silvia
Eileen ‘Gigi” Silvia, born Aug. 16, 1935, passed away on July 20, 2025 at her home surrounded by her family. Arrangements for a celebration of life on Aug. 16, 2025 are pending. Visit www.treshewell.com.
Murphy
William “Bill” Howard Murphy, age 85 of Seguin, passed away on July 29, 2025. Bill was born on July 4, 1940 in Madisonville, Texas to Josephine (Cox) and Homer George Murphy.
He proudly served his country in the United States Army for several years. Bill was a graduate of Centerville High School, Class of 1958. He graduated from Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, where he met his wife Patricia on a blind date. With a degree in Education, Bill began a long career as a High School Football Coach in several High Schools throughout Texas. Bill and Patricia retired to Seguin in 2000 and were members of First Baptist Church in Seguin.
Bill is preceded in death by his loving wife of 59 years, Patricia Ann Murphy, his parents, brothers, Grover Murphy and James Murphy; sister-in-law, Sherry
Murphy, and brother-in-law, John Michael Alexander.
Survivors include his son, Michael H. Murphy; daughter, Katie Ann Brothers and husband Larry; grandchildren, Ashley Kristen Brothers Funderburg and husband Cutter, and Travis William Brothers; One great-grandchild on the way; sister, Linda Bechtal and husband Bill; brother, Mark Murphy; sisters-in-law, Ann Murphy and Margaret Murphy; several nieces, nephews, other loving family members and friends.
A memorial service with military honors will be held on Thursday, August 7, 2025 at 1 p.m. at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel with the Reverend Jeremy Roy officiating. Interment will follow in Guadalupe Valley Memorial Park.
Memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church, 1314 E. Cedar Street, Seguin, Texas, 78155.
You may 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
Lindsey
Shelly Lindsey, age 57 of Seguin, passed away on July 20, 2025. Shelly was born in Snyder, Texas on September 13, 1967 to Ruby Jo (Stubbs) and Joe Gandy Mullins.
Shelly was a member of the Lakeview High School Class of 1986 in San Angelo, Texas. After living for many years in the Dallas Fort Worth Metroplex, she moved to Seguin in 2016 to be closer to family.
She will be remembered for her outgoing personality. Never meeting a stranger and making many friends wherever she went. There was never any shortness of laughter when one was with Shelly. Shelly maintained a fruitful 30 plus year career in cosmetology, primarily hairdressing, which she continued here in Seguin, along with volunteering at the Silver Center where she made many friends.
Survivors include her loving daughter, Lillian Baylee Lindsey; mother and
father, Ruby and Joe Mullins; sisters, Rhonda Driscoll and husband Shawn, and Amanda Smith and husband Bruce; sister-at-heart, Trika Follis and husband James; nieces, Taylor O’Dell and husband Jayden, and Regan Bender and husband Dustin; nephew, Trevor Taylor; great-nephews, Kysler and Lynx O’Dell, and Liam, Ashton, Bentlee, and Carsten Bender; uncle, Joe C. Stubbs, Jr.; aunt, Betty Williams and husband Arlen; several cousins, other loving family members and many friends.
Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 9, 2025 at St. James Catholic Church followed by the recitation of the Holy Rosary at 10 a. m. and the Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. with the Reverend Marek Kondrat officiating.
Private family interment will be held in the Dugger Cemetery. A reception will follow the mass at the Silver Center.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Silver Center, 510 E. Court St., Seguin, Texas, 78155.
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.
WH Targets High Price Of Drugs
(Washington, DC) -- The high price of Pharmaceuticals has got the attention of the White House. Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt says the U.S. pays three-times the price for drugs compared to other countries, and President Trump is “determined” to tackle the problem. Leavitt says Trump is sending out letters to the CEO’s of several drug companies, telling them it’s an “unacceptable burden on hardworking Americans.” The letters will be asking for “immediate relief,” and includes a 60-day deadline.
Legionnaires’ Outbreak Reported In NY’s Harlem
(New York, NY) -- One person is dead and 22 are injured in New York City from an outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease. City health officials say the disease was first detected last week in Manhattan’s Harlem neighborhood. No details have been released on who died. Legionnaires’ is a type of pneumonia caused by a bacteria that is found in warm water, and has been known to grow in spas, hot tubs, humidifiers, water tanks and large air-conditioning systems. The New York City Health Department is urging those living in the impacted area who have been experiencing flu-like symptoms to seek medical attention immediately.
Trump
Lays
Out
‘Making Health Technology Great
Again’ Plan
(Washington, DC) -- President Trump is rolling out his “Making Health Technology Great Again” agenda. The DOGE-backed plan is meant to “encourage more seamless sharing of health-care data” between states and the federal government. Trump said it’s about bringing healthcare into the digital world. He was joined by HHS Secretary RFK Jr., along with CMMS Administrator Mehmet Oz and tech companies that included Apple and Oracle.
Older Adults On SNAP Have Slower Cognitive Decline
(Toronto, CA) -- A new study suggests those relaying on government food assistance long term helps their brain health. The study shows people in the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program are showing a slower decline in cognitive function during a ten-year period, compared to those who are eligible but not in the SNAP program. That was a study presented at an Alzheimer’s Association International Conference in Toronto this week. Linlin Da, the lead author of the study tells CNN the study shows the SNAP benefits are equivalent to preserving two to three extra years of cognitive health. Da says it shows that supporting basic needs like food access can have long-term benefits for brain health.
August
Nominations Open for 2025 Guadalupe County Healthcare Worker of the Year
The Seguin Chamber of Commerce is now accepting nominations for the 2025 Guadalupe County Healthcare Worker of the Year. This annual award honors a local healthcare professional who demonstrates compassion, excellence, and dedication to the health and well-being of the community. Eligible nominees include nurses, physicians, therapists, technicians, support staff, and others making a difference in healthcare. Nominees must work in Guadalupe County. The deadline to submit nominations is August 1. For more information, contact the Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce at 830-379-6382 or seguinchamber@seguinchamber.com.
Canned Good Drive to Support Flood Victims Refuge III will be hosting a Canned Good Drive throughout the month of August to benefit flood victims. Donations can be dropped off at 7535 Elm Creek Rd. For more information or directions, contact Lorraine Davis at 210-548-8780.
Back-to-School Assistance Program by Precious Life
Services
Precious Life Services will be hosting its Back-to-School Assistance Program, “No Child Left Behind,” with registration now open for families needing help with school supplies. Families must register online at https://preciouslifesuicideprevention.org/ back-to-school/ by August 5. Supplies will be distributed on August 9. Those interested in donating school supplies may contact 830-372-5980. No phone calls regarding registration, please.
Resume Workshop at New Braunfels Food Bank
The New Braunfels Food Bank will be hosting a Resume Workshop at 10 a.m. on August 5 at the New Braunfels Food Bank, located at 1620 S. Seguin Ave. in New Braunfels. The free workshop will be led by local HR professionals and offers one-on-one guidance, tips, and support to help attendees create or improve their resumes.
Job Fair at New Braunfels Food Bank
The New Braunfels Food Bank in partnership with Workforce Solutions Alamo will be hosting a Job Fair from 9 a.m. to noon on August 6 at the New Braunfels Food Bank, located at 1620 S. Seguin Ave. in New Braunfels. The event will feature employers from various industries and is open to individuals seeking new job opportunities.
Singo Fundraiser: Music Through the Decades
The Seguin Sunrise Lions Club will be hosting the Singo Fundraiser at 4 p.m. on August 9 at the Silver Center. Themed “Music Through the Decades,” the event will feature five rounds of music bingo highlighting hits from the 1950s through the 2010s. Tickets will be sold in advance for $20.
True North VBS at Cross Church
Cross Church will be hosting its True North Vacation Bible School every Sunday through August 10, from 8:45 to 11:15 a.m. at 814 N. Bauer St. The program is open to children ages 4 to 11. Registration forms are available in the church office, on the website, and via the QR code displayed on the outside banner.
Financial Health Class: “Lettuce” Talk About Money
The New Braunfels Food Bank in partnership with Credit Human will be hosting “Lettuce” Talk About Money, a free financial health class, at 9 a.m. on August 12. The class is designed to help participants gain the confidence and skills to take control of their finances.
Beginning Watercolor Class at Seguin Art League
The Seguin Art League will be hosting a Beginning Watercolor class at 1 p.m. on August 12 at the Seguin Art League. The class runs until 4 p.m. and will focus on mixing colors and color theory. Students will create and take home a watercolor color wheel for future reference and receive instruction on brush care, gradient washes, and basic watercolor techniques. The class is limited to five students and costs $35, with all
supplies included. For more information, call 830-305-0472 or visit 104 S. Austin Street in Seguin.
Elm Creek Community Cemetery Meeting
The annual Elm Creek Community Cemetery Association Meeting will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 10 at 1951 Settlers Way, Seguin. Donations for continued maintenance would be greatly appreciated. For more information or questions, call or text 210-414-3308.
Financial Health Class: “Lettuce” Talk About Money
The New Braunfels Food Bank in partnership with Credit Human will be hosting “Lettuce” Talk About Money, a free financial health class, at 1 p.m. on August 16. The class is designed to help participants gain the confidence and skills to take control of their finances.
Gabe Galvan Band
The Silver Center will be hosting Gabe Galvan Band at 7:30 p.m. on August 22nd at the Crystal Chandelier Ballroom. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Presale tickets are $10 by calling 830-303-6612. Tickets are $15 at the door.
Financial Health Class: “Lettuce” Talk About Money – August 26
The New Braunfels Food Bank in partnership with Credit Human will be hosting “Lettuce” Talk About Money, a free financial health class, at 9 a.m. on August 26. The class is designed to help participants gain the confidence and skills to take control of their finances.
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.
