August 8, 2025
Austin Gilliam and The Well Fed Texans to perform in Bonus Concert at Central Park
Special by Myra Salinas, Main Street & Destination Management Tourism Coordinator
(Seguin) -- Music lovers, mark your calendars! Seguin Main Street and Seguin Radio KWED are excited to present a bonus concert featuring local favorite Austin Gilliam and The Well Fed Texans in Central Park on Saturday, August 9, from 7 to 9 p.m. This special event is being held to make up for the June concert and Freedom Fiesta that was unfortunately canceled due to weather.
Known for their dynamic vocals and smooth blend of Texas rock and country, this band brings an energetic and soulful sound that promises a great night of live music in the heart of downtown Seguin. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to their music, this free community concert is the perfect way to enjoy a summer evening with friends and family.
Joining the party with us will be Seguin’s very own DJ DTrayne, spinning from 6 to 7 p.m.
You can always catch DJ DTrayne rockin’ at Seguin Schoolyard, birthday parties, bars, weddings, 4th of July Parade, Holiday Lighted Parade, and quinceañeras. He’ll be setting the tone with high-energy mixes to kick off a great night of entertainment.
“We’re thrilled to have Austin Gilliam and The Well Fed Texans in Seguin,” said Charissa McLain from Seguin Main Street. “This bonus concert is our way of thanking the community for their continued support and ensuring no one misses out on the summer fun.”
Concert, pg. 3
Let the shopping begin!
Tax-Free Weekend offers savings on Back-to-School shopping in Texas
Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
(Seguin) -- Shoppers across Texas will be taking advantage of the state’s annual sales tax holiday which is now underway. The holiday began at midnight and runs through midnight on Sunday, August 10. The Texas Comptroller’s Office says the weekend offers families an opportunity to save money as they prepare for the upcoming school year, with tax exemptions available on a wide range of qualifying items.
Most clothing, footwear, school supplies, and backpacks priced under $100 will be eligible for the exemption, whether purchased in-store or through online and catalog sellers doing business in Texas. The Comptroller’s office encourages Texans to support local businesses while stretching their dollars on essential items needed for students heading back to class.
They say parents and students can stock up on commonly needed supplies without paying state sales tax, from face masks and notebooks to backpacks and footwear.
The tax break applies whether these items are
bought in person, over the phone, by mail, or online, as long as the transaction is completed within the threeday window.
Shoppers using layaway plans, rain checks, or placing custom orders should also be aware that the timing of payment determines whether the tax exemption applies. Meanwhile timing is key, especially for online purchases. For example, items paid for on Sunday evening before the deadline still qualify, even if they are shipped or delivered after the tax-free weekend ends. However, if payment fails to go through before the deadline and is resubmitted afterward, the purchase becomes taxable. Texas residents are reminded that only purchases made during the designated dates qualify. Items bought before or after the weekend -- even if they are the same type -- will not be eligible for a tax refund.
State leaders say the sales tax holiday is designed to ease the financial burden of back-to-school shopping, offering timely relief to families and reinforcing support for Texas-based retailers.
Seguin gears up with two free Backto-School Haircut events for kids
Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
(Seguin) -- Back-to-school season in Seguin is getting a fresh new look — literally. Seguin families have two special opportunities to get their kids classroom-ready — both offering free haircuts and a strong dose of community spirit.
On Saturday Cut N Crüe is hosting what’s being called the “Biggest Small-Town Back-to-School Event” at its salon located at 225 N. Saunders St., Room #12. From 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., more than 17 hairstylists and barbers will be offering free haircuts for students. The event will be packed with family-friendly fun, including a live DJ, ice cream truck, jumpy houses, and a photographer to help capture those fresh new looks.
Cut N Crüe’s event located at The Schoolyard also features a Market Day beginning at 11 a.m.
Also on Saturday, the Seguin Elks Lodge #1229 is inviting families to its lodge at 1331 CH Matthies Dr. for another round of free back-to-school haircuts. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is open to students in grades K-12. Families are encouraged to RSVP by calling 830-549-7212.
Both events are free and open to the public.
Concert, continued.
As always, attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and their dancing shoes.
Food and drink vendors will be on-site.
The June Concert Series wouldn’t have been possible without the generous support of local sponsors. A special thank you goes to Presenting Sponsor Seguin Chevrolet, and Supporting Sponsors: The Seguin Gazette, Tri-County A/C & Heating, LLC., Seguin Electric Co., Inc., Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority, Guadalupe Regional Medical Center, The Gathering Place, TRC Infrastructure Inc., CMC Steel Texas, Anders Pierce Realty, Gift and Gourmet, and GVEC.
The series is proudly hosted by the City of Seguin Main Street Program.
Don’t miss this chance to enjoy great music under the stars. Come out and help us give a warm Seguin welcome to Austin Gilliam and The Well Fed Texans!
Texas Sports Headlines
The Latest
(Undated) -- Here is the latest sports news: The Cowboys are closing in on their preseason opener. The Texans are hitting the road for their first preseason matchup. The Astros failed to sweep the Marlins on the road.
Cowboys Open Preseason Against Rams This Weekend
(Inglewood, CA) -- The Cowboys are closing in on their preseason opener. Dallas will visit the Los Angeles Rams on Saturday afternoon in Inglewood. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer said that quarterback Joe Milton the Third is expected to play in the game after suffering an injury scare during Tuesday’s practice. Milton had hit his hand on a helmet during the session and was forced to lead practice early.
Texans To Visit Vikings In Preseason Opener
(Minneapolis, MN) -- The Texans are hitting the road for their first preseason matchup. Houston will visit the Minnesota Vikings on Saturday afternoon in Minneapolis. The team held a walkthrough practice yesterday and there were no competitive periods during the session. Linebacker Christian Harris participated in the practice and lined up with the first-team
defense after not taking part in the first few weeks of camp. In other news, Houston has signed wide receiver Quintez Cephus.
Astros Lose To Marlins In Series Finale
(Miami, FL) -- The Astros failed to sweep the Marlins on the road. Houston lost to Miami 6-4 in the finale of a three-game series in South Beach. Christian Walker was 2-for-4 with a home run, two runs scored and two RBIs. Starting pitcher Spencer Arrighetti was charged with his second loss after allowing five runs through three-and-two-thirds innings. It was Arrighetti’s first start since April 5th. The Astros remain atop the AL West at 64-and-51. They visit the New York Yankees tomorrow night.
Rangers Lose To Yankees In Arlington (Arlington, TX) -- The Rangers failed to sweep to reigning American League champions. Texas lost to New York 3-2 in the finale of a three-game set in Arlington. Sam Haggerty and Marcus Semien each had an RBI to lead the team at the plate. Robert Garcia was tagged with his seventh loss after allowing one run in less than an inning of relief. The Rangers are third in the AL West at 60-and-56. They host the Philadelphia Phillies tomorrow night.
VITAL STATISTICS
Silvia
Eileen Mary Silvia, also known as Mrs. Hotshots, the Queen of McQueeney, and more affectionately, Mom and Gigi, died on July 20, 2025 peacefully in her home surrounded by her family. Eileen was born Aug. 16, 1935 to George and Alice Holt in Derby, England. She was the second of their three children.
Eileen, along with her husband, Philip Silvia, bought Hotshot’s Lakeview Camp in 1973 and expanded it to a full fledge restaurant that was known for its Friday Night Fish Fries and Hotshot’s famous green bean salad.
It was on the banks of the Guadalupe River where Eileen began expanding her family beyond her husband and four children. She considered any and all employees her child and her customers family and friends. While she loved all of her extended family, none could compare to that of her immediate family.
After the Flood of ’98, Eileen worked for Seguin ISD as an aide, helping children read. She also spent several years working at Walmart as a door greeter in the garden center.
She loved basketball and was an avid supporter of the Lady Matador Basketball team and enjoyed watching any NBA game on television, especially the San Antonio Spurs. She had a special place in her heart for all animals. She supported the Guadalupe County Humane Society any chance she could get, including playing Santa for its annual fundraiser.
She was quick to give you a hug or give you her personal salute followed by
strong words. She was a character and a firecracker, but she had a heart the size of Texas. She was feisty until her last breath.
She was loved by all and will be greatly missed.
She is preceded in death by Alice Holt, George Holt and stepmother, Lillian Holt, Phil Silvia, Charlie Hanlon, brother, Geoffrey Holt, and sister Madeline (Richard) Holt Vivricka.
Those left to cherish her memory are her children: Steven (Carrie) Silvia, Dale (Jana) Hanlon, Kerry (Michael) Frazar, Robin (Stig) Larson; grandchildren: Sabrina (Chris), Erica (Connie), Felicia, Bradley (Jennifer), Tyler (Dayna), Benjamin, William (Kayla), Andrea, and Alexandria; great grandchildren: Clay (Skylar), Christopher, Addison, Connor, Zachary, Weston, Taylor, Paisley; great great grandson: Guage Wilder; sisters: Caroline (Steve) and Michelle (Clive), sister-in-law Margaret (Holt) Brown, her beloved fur babies Bo and PV, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and adopted family and friends.
In honor of her wishes, instead of a funeral, the family invites everyone to celebrate her life from 2 to 6 p.m. on Aug. 16, 2025 at the Geronimo Community Center, 280 Navarro Drive, Seguin in a come and go style party, with words from family and friends at 4 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, make donations to the Guadalupe County Humane Society, Guadalupe Regional Medical Foundation’s Bras For A Cause, or any charity of your choice.
Cheers!
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.
VITAL STATISTICS
Leissner
Joyce Theresa Bonaventure Leissner, 88 passed away peacefully at her home in Seguin on July 22, 2025. Joyce was born on September 7, 1936 in Oscar, Louisiana to Beulah (Hernandez) and Threz Bonaventure.
She graduated co-valedictorian from Rougon High School in Lakeland, LA, in 1954. She attended nursing school in New Orleans at Charity Hospital School of Nursing and graduated in 1957 with a Registered Nurse diploma.
Joyce was a woman of remarkable skills, known for her incredible talent as a seamstress and an avid bridge player. Her amazing bedside manner was front and center during her career as a registered Nurse for 50+ years including 40 years at GRMC. Her passion for sewing & quilting was evident in the beautiful pieces she created, each stitch infused with her love and care. She also had a deep appreciation for gardening, where she lovingly tended to her African Violets and outdoor plants. Joyce found beauty in these blooms, just as she found beauty in the relationships she nurtured throughout her life. She was a member of multiple bridge groups, St. Ann’s Circle at St. James Catholic Church and a true-blue friend to ladies across the country.
Joyce met the love of her life, Jim Leissner, at New Orleans Mardi Gras in 1957 and married him in 1958. They moved to Seguin in the early 1970’s and, as a devoted wife and mother, she exhibited boundless love and patience, becoming both a guiding light and a nurturing support for her family. Her legacy will
Person
Judy Staggs Person, age 81 of Stockdale, Texas, passed away on August 5, 2025. Judy was born on December 5, 1943 in Nixon, Texas to Jonnie (Anderson) and Harry Staggs. Raised in Stockdale, she was a 1962 graduate of Stockdale High School and enjoyed lifelong friendships with many of her classmates. Judy lived in Cuero, Seguin, and Jasper before returning to her hometown of Stockdale in 1975. She was a lifelong member of the First Baptist Church. She began playing the piano there in her teens and was still playing it regularly at the time of her death. Other than family, her piano ministry was the joy of her life, particularly all of the musicians she played with over the course of seven decades.
Judy is preceded in death by her husband Jimmy Person, her parents, her brother Larry Staggs, her brothers-in-law Bobby Bielke, Jimmie Penshorn and John Tom Person, her beloved aunt Marjorie Anderson, niece Leea Staggs White, and her lifelong friend Gail Woolems Jones.
Survivors include her sons, Brent Akin and wife Tracey Pogue, and Brad Akin and wife Leslie; grandchildren Stevi Harrington and husband Jake, Dawson Akin, Matthew Akin and wife Michelle, Mary Claire Akin, and Amber Perez and
continue to resonate within them, a reflection of her loving spirit.
Joyce is preceded in death by her loving husband of 66 years, James “Jim” Calhoun Leissner, daughter, Laura Leissner Carlson, son, Nathan Charles Leissner, her parents, her siblings, Joseph & Lurline Bonaventure, and brother-inlaw, Richard Bello.
Survivors include her daughters, Blanche Walker and husband Neal, Naomi Williams and husband Tom, and Diane Baines and husband John; grandchildren, Trez & Skyler Walker, and Violet Carlson; sister, Hazel Bello; niece, Carmen Lemons; Aunt Helen Black; other loving family members and a host of friends.
As we remember Joyce, we celebrate a life well-lived, full of creativity, compassion, and unwavering love. She touched the lives of so many and will be deeply missed, but her spirit will forever bloom in the memories she leaves behind.
Visitation will begin on Saturday, August 16, 2025 at 10 a.m. at St. James Catholic Church followed by the Memorial Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. with the Reverend Monsignor Dennis Darilek officiating. A reception will follow in the Parish Hall at St. James.
Private graveside services will be held at Boeker Cemetery in Guadalupe County.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be offered to the Charity Hospital School of Nursing Alumni Association (of which Joyce was a graduate from the Nursing School) for the Leissner Scholarship established in memory of their deceased children, Nathan and Laura, P. O. Box 19103, New Orleans, Louisiana, 70179.
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.
husband Michael; great-grandchildren Grace Harrington, Anna Harrington, Isabella Soto, Olivia Soto, Charlotte Harrell, Michael Perez and Natalie Perez; sister Jerry Penshorn; sisters-in-law Billie Staggs and Berniece Person, her nieces, nephews, cousins and many, many friends.
She cherished her coffee drinking, bridge playing, globe trotting, care giving, loyal and loving friends to the end, and their husbands that drove them to many locales, some of which may or may not have had a casino. She took her football seriously and believed to her last day if the Cowboys put Roger Staubach in the game, they were going to win.
Visitation will begin on Saturday, August 9, 2025 at 10 a.m. followed by funeral service at 11 a.m. at First Baptist Church, 202 S. 7th St., Stockdale, Texas, with Reverend Kevin Skinner officiating. Interment will follow in the Stockdale Cemetery.
Serving as pallbearers will be Jerry Penshorn, Brent Akin, Brad Akin, Leslie Akin, Matthew Akin, Mary Claire Akin, Stevi Harrington, Dawson Akin, Deanne Woolems Bridwell and Marc Woolems.
Memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church in Stockdale, P.O. Box 95, Stockdale, TX 78160.
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
Matthies
Betty Ann Dolle Matthies, age 90 of Seguin, passed away on August 4, 2025. Betty Ann was born on September 23, 1934 in Guadalupe County, Texas, to Frances (Butler) and Henry Dolle. Betty Ann was born and raised in Guadalupe County, attended the Dowdy School, and graduated from Seguin High School, Class of 1953. She graduated from Seton Nursing School in 1956 and was licensed as a Registered Nurse. She received a certificate in Hospital Administration from Trinity University in 1978. Her career in health care spanned seven decades.
On July 21, 1957 she married C. H. “Pokey” Matthies, and they moved to San Antonio where she worked at the Nix Hospital. They returned to Seguin in 1961 where Betty Ann began working in the operating room of the old Siepman and Hazard Hospital which had been purchased by the City/County. She was instrumental in helping establish the new hospital on Court Street in 1965, in fact she was part of the small crew who trucked the equipment over to the much anticipated modern facility. In 1971 Betty Ann was promoted to the pivotal role of Director of Nurses and Assistant Administrator. She helped to usher in many exciting changes from Guadalupe Valley Hospital to Guadalupe Regional Medical Center, while always exemplifying her uncompromising values of excellence, compassion and service to others.
After the unexpected death in 2000 of her beloved husband and life companion Pokey, Betty Ann was asked to fill his term on the Seguin City Council. After fulfilling that role for four years, she retired from GRMC and served as the Mayor of Seguin for two terms. After fulfilling those two terms she accepted the City’s nomination to serve on the Hospital Board and did so until 2022. She also served for years on the Seguin Housing Commission and on the SAWS water board.
Betty Ann and Pokey were devoted members of First Methodist Church in Seguin. Always eager to learn and an avid reader, she was a longtime member of the local Shakespeare Club and enrolled in an art appreciation course in the 1980’s at Texas Lutheran University. In addition, she was a renowned hunter, proudly bagging a big deer each fall. She had a wonderful sense of humor, loved to laugh, had an incredible memory that could recall the smallest of details regarding everyone she met, and was famous for her exquisite Christmas rum cake.
Betty Ann is preceded in death by her husband C. H. “Pokey” Matthies, Jr.,
Crees
Linda Kay Grossman Crees, age 82 of Seguin, passed away on August 5, 2025. Linda was born on January 12, 1943 in Hebbronville, Texas to Theresa (Baker) and Robert Anthony Grossman.
Linda was preceded in death by her son, Robert “Rob” Lester Dietrich, Jr., her parents, her brother, Robert Grossman, and her sisters, Theresa Fielder and Pam Farrington.
Survivors include her loving husband of 44
her parents, and her sister, Louise Fuselier and husband Ralph.
Survivors include her cherished children, C. Henry Matthies, III, Elizabeth Matthies Kelly and husband Bill, and Wesley Matthies and wife Marnie; grandchildren, Amanda Dunn and husband Ryan, Sarah Kappel, and Trevor Truesdell; great-grandchildren, Dolly Ann Dunn, and Wyatt Daniel Dunn; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other loving family members and a host of friends including her Guadalupe Regional Medical Center Family and her City of Seguin Family.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 7, 2025 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel. Funeral service will be held on Friday, August 8, 2025 at First Methodist Church at 2 p.m. with the Reverend Jim Price and the Reverend Ray Perales officiating. A reception will follow in the Christian Life Center (CLC).
Serving as pallbearers will be Nolan Lange, Scott Garrett, Andrew Glover, Ryan Dunn, Allen Wilson, and Lawrence Sampleton.
Honorary Pallbearers will be Robert Haynes and Dr. Thomas Raetzsch.
Private interment will be held later at the Matthies Family Cemetery near Seguin.
Throughout her career in health care, Betty Ann’s basic rule of thumb was to always do what is the best for the patient and the rest will follow. That held true in her leadership positions with the City and in her commitment to always do what was best for the citizens of Seguin. In all of her many roles, including that of mother and friend, she always encouraged those near her to pursue their education, advance their career and make the most of their life. Among the many bits of sage advice she often shared was that one only regrets what they don’t do. Betty Ann’s commitment and service to her beloved hospital and community of Seguin will never be forgotten as she leaves an inspiring and positive legacy for the thousands of lives she has influenced.
The family would like to thank Guadalupe Regional Hospice Services and Charlotte’s Cove Staff for their loving care of Betty Ann.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Betty Ann Matthies (BAM) Scholarship Fund for all GRMC employees to advance their education and careers, c/o Guadalupe Regional Medical Foundation, 1215 E. Court Street, Seguin, Texas, 78155 or you may visit the link https://grmedfdn.ejoinme.org/ donatenow .
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.
years, Charles “Chuck” Allyn Crees; sons, William Dietrich, and David Box and wife Cindy; step son, Sean Allyn Crees; brother, Stanley Grossman; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, other loving family members and friends.
A private celebration of her life is being planned for a later date.
MOM WE WON!!!!!
Memorial contributions may be made to the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation, Inc., 1359 Broadway, STE 1509, New York, New York, 10018.
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
Berry
Joyce Goodwin Berry, age 79 of Seguin, passed away on August 1, 2025. Joyce was born on April 18, 1946 in York Run, Pennsylvania to Lulu Beryl (Breakiron) and Earl Wilbur Goodwin.
Joyce spent much of her career as an educator, teaching college level English and history and special education within the public-school system. She was a longtime member of the First Methodist Church. Joyce enjoyed volunteering at the Texas Theatre, Seguin Public Library and the Christian Cupboard alongside her husband, Marvin, for many years.
She is preceded in death by her loving husband of 48 years, Marvin Berry, Jr., her parents, her brothers, William Goodwin and wife Joyce and Gerald Goodwin and wife Sarah, sisters-in-law, Lowana Jones and husband Harry and Mary Goodwin, and brother-in-law, Tom Yahner.
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
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
She is survived by children, Leandra Berry and spouse Kevin Sheffield, and Jarrett Berry and spouse Reene Berry; step-son, John Berry; grandchildren, Kyler Berry, Quinn Sheffield, Sawyer Sheffield; sister, Kathy Yahner; brother, Leonard Dale Goodwin; brother-in-law, David Berry; numerous nieces and nephews, many other loving family members and friends.
Visitation will begin on Friday, August 8, 2025 at 9 a.m. at First Methodist Church followed by funeral service at 10 a.m. with the Reverend Cathe Evins officiating. A reception will follow in Hierholzer Hall.
Private interment will follow at a later date in Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First Methodist Church, 710 N. Austin, Seguin, Texas 78155 or to the Christian Cupboard, 516 N. Camp 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.
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.
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.
VITAL STATISTICS
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.
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.
RFK Jr. Cancels Funding For New mRNA Vaccines
(Washington, DC) -- The Department of Health and Human Services is canceling nearly two-dozen vaccine development projects targeting viruses like COVID-19 and the flu. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced Tuesday he’s halting 500-million dollars in funding for mRNA-based vaccines. Those vaccines were credited with helping to slow the COVID-19 pandemic. Kennedy has long been a critic of mRNA vaccine technology. He says the funding would be better spent elsewhere.
Patient In Nebraska Is World’s First To Receive New MS Treatment
(Omaha, NE) -- Doctors at Nebraska Medicine are testing a new treatment for multiple sclerosis that’s never been used before. The hospital is the first in the world to treat an M-S patient using an allogeneic [[ al-oh-jen-AY-ick ]] CAR T-cell therapy. Unlike traditional methods, the treatment uses genetically modified cells from a healthy donor rather than the patient. Doctors say it could also pave the way for treating conditions like lupus.
Poor Sleep Linked To 170+ Diseases
(Undated) -- A new Chinese study links poor sleep to more than 170 diseases including diabetes, dementia and Parkinson’s disease. It was conducted out of China’s Army Medical University and analyzed the medical data of more than 88-thousand adults in the UK Biobank. Sleep deprivation, poor sleep patterns and inadequate sleep duration also increased the risk of hypertension, acute kidney failure, cirrhosis and even gangrene. The study’s co-authors say the good news is that modifying behavior and getting good sleep can improve health and longevity.
20+ Reported Sickened By
Raw Milk In Florida
(Tallahassee, FL) -- Recent illnesses have state health officials in Florida warning about raw milk. The Florida Department of Health has issued what it calls an update on raw milk. The update comes after more than 20 people, including six children, got sick after consuming raw milk from the same farm. Seven people had to be hospitalized. Raw milk is unpasteurized milk, and it can contain disease-causing bacteria that can lead to gastrointestinal illness. Some consumers, however, claim raw milk tastes better and helps with conditions like asthma and allergies.
August
Seguin ISD Meet the Teacher and Schedule Pickup Events
Ball Elementary will be hosting Meet the Teacher by appointment on Friday, August 8. Jefferson, Koennecke, McQueeney, Patlan, Rodriguez, Vogel, and Weinert elementary schools will hold Meet the Teacher events on Monday, August 11 between 4:00 and 6:00 p.m. (specific times vary slightly by campus).
Seguin High School will host Freshman Orientation on Thursday, July 31 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (Schedule pickup details to be announced.)
MBLC will hold its Meet the Teacher event on Wednesday, August 6 from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m.
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.
FEMA Disaster Outreach Center Opening in Seguin
The City of Seguin will be hosting a FEMA Disaster Outreach Center beginning at 11:00 a.m. on August 6 at the former Wells Fargo Building, 101 E. Nolte Street, Seguin. The center will be open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. through August 13 to assist Guadalupe County residents affected by recent flooding in Central Texas. Representatives from FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and the Texas Division of Emergency Management will be available to help with disaster assistance applications and connect residents with available resources. The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is September 4.
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.
Wildflowers Seminar at Schertz Public Library
The Guadalupe County Master Gardeners will be hosting a Wildflowers seminar with Advanced Master Gardener Karen Brkich from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 9 at the Schertz Public Library, 798 Schertz Parkway. The program is free and open to the public. Registration is available at the Schertz Public Library events page.
Singo Fundraiser: Music Through the De-
cades
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.
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 9 a.m. on August 12. The class is designed to help participants gain the confidence and skills to take control of their finances.
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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 830305-0472 or visit 104 S. Austin Street in Seguin.
Tower Gardening Program in Seguin
The Guadalupe County Master Gardeners will be hosting a Tower Gardening/ Aeroponics program at noon on Wednesday, August 13 at the AgriLife Extension Office, 210 E. Live Oak Street, Seguin. Presented by Karen Schobel, this free lunchtime seminar is open to everyone. Attendees are encouraged to bring their lunch. More information can be found at GCMGTX.org or on Facebook.
Guadalupe County Republican Women August Meeting in McQueeney
The Guadalupe County Republican Women will be hosting their August “Happy Hour” meeting at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, August 14 at the Lake Breeze Ski Lodge, 225 Ski Lodge, McQueeney. District 44 State Representative Alan Schoolcraft will serve as the guest speaker. The event will include a cash bar and light snacks, and no RSVP is required. For more information, contact Tamara Berger at 512-201-5848 or Anne Costas at 830-433-1038.
Friedens Church Fish Fry in Geronimo
The Friedens Church will be hosting its Fish Fry at 5:00 p.m. on August 15 at Friedens Church in Geronimo. Plates are $15 each and will be served until sold out. All proceeds will benefit the Geronimo and Zorn Volunteer Fire Department first responders.
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.
Hermann Sons Dance Try-It Night in Seguin
The Hermann Sons Lodge Seguin will be hosting a Dance Try-It Night at 6:00 p.m. on August 18 at 2918 W. Kingsbury, Seguin. The event is open to all and does not require prior registration. A parent meeting will follow at 6:45 p.m. Participants should wear t-shirts and shorts if they do not have dancewear, and tennis shoes are required if ballet or jazz shoes are unavailable. Sandals, crocs, and bare feet are not allowed. For more information, contact Lori at 210-573-7796 or email hermannsonsdancesanantonio@ gmail.com.
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.
White-tailed Deer Management Symposium in San Antonio
The Bexar Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee will be hosting the White-tailed Deer Management Symposium at 9:00 a.m. on August 26 at 3355 Cherry Ridge Dr., Suite 208, San Antonio. The event will cover topics including basic deer habitat management, use of game cameras, and antler scoring. Presenters include specialists from Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service and Texas Parks and Wildlife. The cost is $15 per participant, payable in advance or at the door by cash, check, or credit card.
To RSVP by August 22, contact Kennedy Green at 210-631-0400 or kennedy. green@ag.tamu.edu.
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.
Q:I planted a crape myrtle near my front door and am now afraid it is going to be too much work to keep it off of my house and roof. What do I do now?
A: You will either have to move it, or resign yourself to the fact that it will need to be trimmed. Crape myrtles come in different sizes: miniature (2 to 3 feet); dwarf (3 to 6 feet); semidwarf (5 to 12 feet); small tree (10 to 20 feet); and tree (over 20 feet). I made this same mistake twenty years ago when I moved into my present house. I planted a crape myrtle according to its color (a Red Rocket) without looking at how high it was supposed to get. I did move it successfully and it is still alive in the back yard, about 30 feet high, and blooming.
If you want more crape myrtles, they can be easily propagated from dormant cuttings, according to Doug Welsh in his Texas Garden Almanac. Take your cuttings in the winter from the top branches. These should be brownish in color, not new growth, and be the diameter and length of a pencil. Cut the bottom of the cutting at an angle, dip it in rooting compound, and place in good potting soil.
Q:
Should I be doing something to my rose bushes?
A: Later on in August trim your bushes back by about 25 percent. Remove all the old blooms and any diseased rose leaves. Welsh
then suggests fertilizing with a straight-nitrogen product. Be sure to water. This should generate new growth and your roses should bloom until the first heavy freeze.
Q:
A:
My tomato plants look awful. What now?
It is probably a good idea to just plant new ones. However, I asked at my local nursery and they said plants wouldn’t be available until mid to late August. My Ruby Crush still has fruit but no blooms. As soon as the fruit ripens, I will cut back the plant. Then with water and fertilizer, we will see what happens.
You might want to try growing pumpkins. Several of my friends did so this past year. Other fall vegetables can also be planted. Warm season vegetables should be limited to those you buy as transplants, such as eggplant, pepper, squash and tomato. One of our local nurseries has containers of seeds labeled as cold or warm season to make it easier on you. Remember that planting this time of year requires water and perhaps shade when the sun is the hottest.
Your pears and apples will probably be ready to harvest in a few weeks. My Kieffer pear is loaded this year. Aggie-horticulture says this old standard is poor to fair for dessert use but good for canning and baking. (Some years, however, the fruit is sweet enough to eat like apples). The tree is highly resistant to fire blight.
