Guadalupe County commissioner files for re-election
(Seguin) -- A Guadalupe County Commissioner is wanting a second term in office. Commissioner Pct. 4 Stephen Germann is seeking the Republican nomination during the March Primary.
Germann says he is committed to continuing the work that he started three years ago.
“When I started almost three years ago, I was elected by the people to go to work for them and they paid me to be their voice. They also want me to be responsive to them and answer calls and emails. I’m dedicated to them like the work that we did on the FM 1044 and 78 traffic light. I’m dedicated to my people. I don’t take days off. I work every day for the people,’ said Germann. Meanwhile, working every day for the people is not
an understatement for the commissioner who has reportedly not missed a single day of service as a commissioner.
Although the county has accomplished plenty over his first term, Germann says there is still plenty of work that needs tackling.
“I’m currently in charge of several projects including a $3 million remodel of a building in Commissioner, pg. 3
Get your nominations in
Friday marks KWED Christmas Angel contest deadline
(Seguin) -- With just four days left until this year’s Christmas Angel nomination deadline, Seguin Radio KWED is reminding the community to act quickly to help brighten the season for a Guadalupe County family in need.
The annual Christmas Angel Contest offers residents a chance to nominate someone facing hardship -- whether due to illness, job loss, financial strain, or personal crisis --for a special $500 Christmas blessing. The contest also recognizes those unsung heroes who give tirelessly to others but could use a helping hand themselves this holiday season.
Community members are encouraged to submit a short letter
explaining the nominee’s situation and why they deserve to be selected as this year’s Christmas Angel.
The deadline to submit nominations is this Friday, December 12 at 5 p.m.
Entries may be dropped off at the KWED Studios, located at 609 E. Court Street in Seguin. A secure mail slot is available on the station’s front door 24 hours a day.
The winning story will be read live on KWED just days before Christmas and featured in a special holiday edition of the Seguin Daily News. To be eligible, each letter must include the sender’s name, address, and phone number.
Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
Community shares thoughts of giving this holiday season
Comments caught on air during KWED Holiday Food and Toy Drive
(Seguin) – Seguin Radio KWED is still capturing and sharing the magic that listeners heard Friday morning during the station’s 25th annual Holiday Food and Toy Drive.
In just two hours, close to $8,000 was raised for both the Seguin Police Department’s Blue Santa Program and Christian Cupboard. This does not include vehicles filled with food, toys and new this year, coats.
Perhaps one of the most significant notes of the event is the success of its move from outside the radio station to the north side of the Guadalupe County Courthouse on East Court Street.
Those on hand couldn’t help but notice that the move to the courthouse lawn brought wider visibility, expanded space, and a renewed sense of community spirit.
Seguin Mayor Donna Dodgen says the relocation proved to be a great idea for the event’s growing needs.
“Things that work in Seguin – sometimes we just continue them until they work and someone comes up with this cool, better idea and then we just embrace it and move on,” said Dodgen.
Guadalupe County Judge Kyle Kutscher, who quickly approved the move to the courthouse grounds,
Commissioner, continued.
Marion to move the Precinct 4 offices there. The other reason I’m running again is the speed and the growth of houses and population coming into this area. It’s just absolutely astonishing. We will have to have larger roads. We are going to have to have more fire protection. We are going to have to have more law enforcement. Now, at the same token, this will have to be paid through development and not on the backs of
Giving, continued.
Seguin ISD Superintendent Dr. Jack Lee also attended the event for the first time and says he was amazed by the turnout. He says many of the gifts collected will go to students in his classrooms, and he was deeply moved to see the community step up for local children.
“Our community always rallies, our school district rallies, our community rallies – they do what it takes for our kids and that is what is most important. It’s about building those relationships not just with our students, not just with our families but with the whole community and I think that is on display thanks to KWED and the work that ya’ll are doing,’ said Lee.
Several crews of Seguin fire fighters also hit the streets Friday morning. Seguin Fire Chief Dale Skinner says his fire crews look forward to the drive each year, calling it a unique opportunity for holiday camaraderie among first responders.
the existing taxpayers and I just want to continue to be a voice of common sense and vision for all of the county residents. I’m dedicated to my precinct, but I also am dedicated to this county and I think about all residents,” said Germann.
In moving forward with his campaign, Germann says his commitment is not only to his precinct but to those across the county.
The filing deadline for potential candidates was Monday, Dec. 8.
friendships just experiences working in and living around Seguin and we just want to give back,” said Rogers.
Not only did folks show up to volunteer Friday – but some such as Local businessman Forrest Fletcher and his wife Amber showed up extra early to help KWED staff prepare the site and unload vehicles. Representing both themselves as owners of Factory A/C Direct and the Seguin Leads organization, the couple worked side-byside with the radio crew throughout the morning.
“I grew up in this community. I have seen all the great things that have happened in this town, and I want to just do what I can and with our business to support the growth and support the happiness and holiday spirit,” said Fletcher.
The rumble of motorcycle engines that morning also signaled the arrival of the American Legion Riders – the group again showed up riding in with a big check made possible thanks to their own internal fundraising efforts. Representing the group was Raul Aguilar.
says providing more “elbow room” was essential as the event continues to expand. He says he has watched the drive grow over the years and did not hesitate to welcome it onto county property.
“I think this a great setting to get everybody in the Christmas spirit – a continuation of last night’s tree lighting. This is definitely winter weather, but this is Texas winter weather so it’s really not that bad. It’s an exciting morning to come by the center of downtown Seguin and Guadalupe County – the historic courthouse to have that Christmas vibe and feeling,” said Kutscher.
City Manager Steve Parker says bringing the event into the heart of downtown helped highlight just how strongly the community rallies together.
“(It was) the safety factor as well as a better location because you get everybody going north, south, east and west and so forth and the downtown businesses are here if they want to come out. We just had Angel Pest Control who drove about five trucks here bringing in food and toys for the kids. It’s been an amazing morning, and this is what this community is all about – giving giving giving,” said Parker.
Giving, pg. 3
“It’s always great to see all the public safety employees coming together for something good. Whenever we encounter them, it is usually on a scene that is not as pleasant as this so again, we get to fellowship together and just have a good time together and no stress, no pressure is great and it warms my soul,” said Skinner.
Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce President Chester Jenke also rolled up his sleeves during the annual holiday drive. Jenke says he looks forward to the event because of what it represents.
“I say this every year. There is no reason a kid should go Christmasless without something underneath the tree. It’s the ultimate magic for them. Believe it or not, Christmas is one of those things that every kid should be able to experience,” said Jenke.
Guadalupe County Commissioner Pct. 4 Stephen Germann also joined the effort, helping gather donations and greeting residents as they pulled up to give. He says it’s time to wish each other the best.
“The season of taking care of people and love your neighbor – let’s just hope everybody has a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year,” said Germann.
The Seguin Leads group also presented a $500 donation to the drive. Randy Rogers, who delivered the check, says it represents the collective generosity of the group’s business members.
“Everyone of us who is part of this group has gotten a lot out of the community in terms of business support,
“I have to be honest, this year Seguin came out for us when we did our fundraiser last Saturday. I mean the community really came out and donated a good amount of toys – a good amount of money so we really appreciate what Seguin did for us and it means a lot to us and to me because I have been on the other side -- receiving gifts so to be able to turnaround and give it back is fantastic,” said Aguilar.
Texas Lutheran University also showed up strong, with President Dr. Debbie Cottrell, staff members, and TLU football players all hitting the streets to help.
“This is such a great tradition this time of year. As our students are wrapping up the semester. they love to come out and support this, but we see this as one part of what we do to support the community, and we want that to happen all year long,” said Cottrell.
Seguin Radio KWED also thanks the Seguin High school Band, the Navarro Jazz band and the Navarro intermediate school choir who provided holiday music for the event.
Those who missed Friday’s event still have time to contribute. KWED continues to accept food, toys, and monetary donations on behalf of Blue Santa and the Christian Cupboard. Items may be dropped off at the KWED studios at 609 East Court Street. Hours are Mondays through Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
See photos from Friday’s event on page 4.
New Verne Lundquist Student Athletic Center dedicated on TLU campus
(Seguin) -- Texas Lutheran Class of ’62 graduate Verne Lundquist returned to the Texas Lutheran University campus Saturday for the dedication of the new student athletic center bearing his name.
The Verne Lundquist Student Athletic Center, open to all TLU students, features a conditioning and weight room, locker rooms, and a visitor center showcasing Lundquist’s sports memorabilia collection.
Lundquist spoke about the honor of having the new athletic center at TLU named for him.
“It’s overwhelming. I love this school, and to have this tribute paid is just one of the greatest honors of my life,” Lundquist said. “To have this building named in my honor is amazing, just amazing.”
Lundquist started his career at KWED in Seguin, though he wasn’t initially hired the first
After graduating from Texas Lutheran, Lundquist worked at KTBC-TV/Radio in Austin as a weekend sports anchor starting in 1963 before moving to WFAA-TV in Dallas as sports director, a position he held for 16 years. He became the radio voice of the Dallas Cowboys in 1967 and remained with the team until 1984. His national career began with ABC Sports in 1974 before he moved to CBS in 1982. He became one of America’s most beloved sportscasters, calling college football, basketball, golf—including the Masters—and numerous other sports across his legendary six-decade career.
time he applied. The late KWED station manager and later owner Stan McKenzie hired Lundquist when he returned to apply a second time.
“I was heartbroken when I lost the job as a junior, but then Stan McKenzie hired me the second time my senior year, and it all worked out pretty well,” Lundquist said.
While working at KWED, Lundquist earned his bachelor’s degree in sociology from TLU in 1962. He’s a recipient of TLU’s Distinguished Alumnus Award, an emeritus member of the TLU Board of Regents, and has long been a loyal and generous supporter of his alma mater.
The new Verne Lundquist Student Athletic Center is now open on the Texas Lutheran University campus.
VITAL STATISTICS
Moltz
Janine Ann Moltz, age 53, of Geronimo, passed away after a four-year battle with cancer, on December 5, 2025. Janine was born on February 29, 1972, in Seguin, Texas to Charlene J. (Knutson) and Allan Ray Moltz.
Janine was a 1990 graduate of Navarro High School. She taught elementary school at Navarro and obtained her bachelor’s degree from Texas Lutheran University and her master’s in education degree from Texas State University. When she had time Janine enjoyed crafting with family and friends.
Janine is preceded in death by her father, and her grandparents, Rosa Lee and Lyle Knutson, and Testa and William Moltz.
Survivors include her mother Charlene “Sherry” Moltz; brother, Todd Moltz and wife, Veronica; niece and nephew, Alexis Moltz and Hunter Moltz;
Habermann
Linnette Habermann, age 88 of Seguin, passed away on December 6, 2025. Linnette was born on December 10, 1936, in Seguin Texas to Linda Emma (Dietert) and Gilbert Robert Habermann.
She was a lifelong member of Cross Church. Linnette worked for the City of Seguin for over 34 years serving as City Secretary. Upon retirement Linnette loved nothing more than being out in nature tending to her cattle.
Linnette is preceded in death by her parents and her brother Sonny
other loving family members and many friends.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Tres Hewell Mortuary. Funeral services will be held on Friday, December 12, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at Emanuel’s Lutheran Church with the Reverend Marcus Bigott officiating. Interment will follow in Lone Oak Cemetery. A reception will follow at Emanuel’s Lutheran Women’s Ministry Hall.
Serving as pallbearers will be Greg Lehmann, Johnny Rochester, Ellis Wright, Lee Rochester, Emilio Velasquez, and Anthony Head.
Janine had a heart bigger than Texas and will be remembered and missed as a very loving person to all she encountered.
Memorial contributions may be made to Emanuel’s Lutheran Church, 206 N. Travis, Seguin, Texas, 78155 or to Texas Lutheran University, Development Office, 1000 W. 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.
Habermann. Survivors include cousins and friends.
Private graveside services will be held in San Geronimo Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Cross Church, 814 N. Bauer, Seguin, Texas, 78155 or to the Guadalupe County Humane Society, P. O. Box 1593, Seguin, Texas, 78155 or to the charity of one’s choice.
You are invited to sign the guest book at www.treshewell.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155, 830-549-5912.
VITAL STATISTICS
Brietzke
Eugene Edward Brietzke, age 90 of Seguin, passed away on December 2, 2025. Eugene was born in Guadalupe County, Texas, on February 26, 1935, to Annie Marie (Salge) and Eugene Louis Brietzke.
Eugene grew up in Guadalupe County and was a member of the Seguin High School Graduating Class of 1953. He proudly served his country in the United States Army during peacetime for the American Soldier. In 1963 he began working as a welder for City Public Service in San Antonio, retiring after 35 years of service.
He and his family were part of the Founding members of Evangelists’ Lutheran Church in Kingsbury of which they were active members. Eugene had many favorite pastimes, including working cattle, welding, fishing, dancing, and bowling. He was a lifetime member of the Bexar Bowling Alley.
Eugene is preceded in death by his parents, his brothers, LeRoy Brietzke, Marvin Brietzke, and Freddie Lee Brietzke, Sr., and his brothers-in-law, Jerry Baese, and Jack Mayo.
Survivors include his loving wife of 62 years, Edith Materanek Brietzke; children, Donna Kayter and husband Martin, Donald Brietzke and wife
Svatek
Margarett Svatek, age 79 of Seguin, passed away on November 23, 2025.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026, from 2 to 5 p.m. with remarks at 3 p.m.
Michelle, and Raymond Welch and wife Deanna; grandchildren, Travis Caddell and wife Shelbie, Shelby Muller and partner Joshua Steelman, Kaden Head and wife Erica, Victoria Welch and partner Dayne Bellard, Mason Kayter, Michael Brietzke and partner Faith Saylor, Ronnie Peeler and partner Gina Vigliotti, and Douglas Pond; eight great-grandchildren; sisters, Jennie Faye Baese, and Helen Mayo; sisters-in-law, June Brietzke, and Carol Brietzke; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other loving family members and a host of friends.
Visitation will begin on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at 1 p.m. at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel followed by a memorial service at 2 p.m. with the Reverend David Truenow officiating. Interment with military honors will follow in the Kingsbury Cemetery. A reception will follow in the fellowship hall at Evangelists’ Lutheran Church.
Serving as honorary pallbearers will be his nephews, Bryan Baese, Bradley Baese, Mark Brietzke, Kevin Brietzke, Karl Brietzke, Paul Brietzke, Freddie Lee Brietzke Jr., and Gregory Mayo.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Evangelists’ Lutheran Church, 7745 Kingsbury Road, Kingsbury, Texas, 78638. 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.
A more complete obituary will follow when all arrangements are completed. In lieu of flowers the family humbly asks for memorial contributions to be made to the Guadalupe County Humane Society, P. O. Box 1593, 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.
Bothe
Wayne Bothe, age 75 of Seguin, Texas, passed away on November 23, 2025, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. He was born and raised in Seguin and was a proud 1968 graduate of Seguin High School.
He lived his life with grit, humor, and stubborn determination. Those who knew him will forever remember his ever-ready smart-ass comments, sharp wit, and the sound of his laughter echoing through the house - and the garage.
Though officially retired, Wayne could never sit still - unless he received the text, “Football and ‘seegars’ at Skip’s,” or it was time for the Thursday night “Holy Smokes” group. He greatly enjoyed sharing a cigar, swapping stories, catching up on neighborhood news, and talking sports with his tight-knit circle of friends. He worked hard his entire life and took pride in his career as a truck driver. He spent more than 30 years driving everyday to Miller Brewing Company in Fort Worth. At home, he was a talented mechanic, always working on his own projects or helping friends with cars and tractors. Whether on the road or in the garage, his work reflected the same determination, and pride that defined him. No matter how long it took him to complete a project, he made sure it was
always done right.
Despite a life full of hard work, Wayne’s greatest joy came from the people and companions he loved most - his family and the four-legged friends who followed him everywhere. The garage is quieter now, and the house a little too still, but we take comfort knowing he is finally at peace. His voice, his humor, and his generous heart will live on in our memories. We loved him deeply, and we will miss him beyond measure.
Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Martha Ann Bothe. He is survived by the people he cherished most in this world: his wife, Lynn Bothe; his daughter, Alexandrea Bothe, and her husband, Scott Brown; his sons, Colton Bothe and his fiancée, Megan Younker; and Matthew Bothe.
Wayne’s family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to Hope Hospice, and especially to his primary nurse, Karra, whose compassion, humor, and ability to match his quick wit brought him comfort and reassurance during his final weeks. The family is also deeply grateful for the support and kindness shown by friends and neighbors during this time. Every thoughtful gesture has meant more than words can express.
Memorial contributions may be made to Hope Hospice of New Braunfels. Donations can be made at: https://www.hopehospice.net/donate 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.
CDC Changes Hep B Shot Recommendation
(Atlanta, GA) -- The CDC vaccine advisory panel is changing its recommendation that all newborns get the hepatitis B vaccine shot. The move reverses a decades-long federal recommendation. The new recommendation advises mothers who test negative for hepatitis to perhaps get their infants vaccinated after at least two months of age after consulting with doctors. Mothers that tested positive are still recommended to have their infants vaccinated. The issue has split the medical community, with some saying the shot isn’t necessary for mothers testing negative, and others warning the change will lead to more preventable cases of hepatitis B.
Loneliness Rising Among Adults 45 And Older
(Undated) -- More adults over the age of 45 are experiencing feelings of loneliness. A new AARP study found that 40-percent of respondents said they felt lonely, which is up from 2010 and 2018 when 35-percent of respondents reported such feelings. The study found hose who reported experiencing loneliness averaged spending more than seven hours alone per day compared to the overall 45-plus population. Researchers suggest social connections such as reaching out to a friend, being active in your community and starting a conversation can help.
Women Can Self-Test For Cervical Cancer Virus
(Undated) - The American Cancer Society is releasing updated guidance on at-home cervical cancer testing for women. According to the new guidance published in CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians, at-risk women between the ages of 25 and 65 may self-test for human papillomavirus which causes the disease. The FDA approved Teal Health’s at-home vaginal sample collection device in May. One of the report’s co-authors said the update will “improve compliance with screening and reduce the risk of cervical cancer,” however, follow up testing is recommended three years after a negative result.
At Least 7 Deaths Linked To Faulty Glucose Monitors
(Washington, DC) -- At least seven deaths may be linked to malfunctioning glucose monitors. The Food and Drug Administration announced this week that the monitors, manufactured by Abbott Diabetes Care, could be giving inaccurate low glucose readings, resulting in dangerous treatment decisions. The monitors include some FreeStyle Libre 3 and FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus models and the problem could affect some three million devices. The company also said it as gotten reports of more than 700 severe injuries and will replace the faulty monitors.
DECEMBER
We the People Food Drive extended
We the People-Central Texas is hosting a food drive through Dec. 22 to benefit the Christian Cupboard. Donations of non-perishable food and personal hygiene items may be dropped off at 1916 Bar & Bistro, Austin Street Market (Saturdays-only), Agave Coffee, Seguin Schoolyard, The Gathering Place, Keepers Interiors, Moyesway Shooting Sports, Pecantown Books & Brews, Seguin Art League, You’re So Crafty and Wal-Mart. Needed items include canned goods, cereal, pasta, and toiletries. Visit wethepeoplecentraltx.com for details.
KWED Christmas Angel Contest
KWED Radio will be hosting its annual Christmas Angel Contest, accepting letters now through 5 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 12, at the KWED studios at 609 E. Court St., offering families in Guadalupe County the chance to nominate themselves or someone they know to receive $500 cash this Christmas. The contest invites residents to submit a letter explaining why a family could use the assistance, with all entries required to include the nominator’s name, address, and phone number; the winning letter will be read live on air before Christmas and featured along with photos in the Seguin Daily News, and entries may also be submitted anytime through the studio’s front-door drop slot.
Byron Zipp at Silver Center
The Silver Center will be hosting Byron Zipp at 7:30 p.m. on December 12th 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.
Snowflake Class
Seguin Art League will be hosting its Snowflake Class from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at the Seguin Art League Gallery located at 104 S. Austin St. in Seguin. Instructor Ellen Craine will teach participants how to create intricate paper snowflakes using fine paper and advanced cutting techniques. Supplies are included, the class is limited to 10 adults, and an SAL instructor can provide a kid-friendly version at no extra charge with advance notice from a paying attendee. For more information, contact Seguin Art League President Sara Rosales.
32nd Annual Holiday Home Tour
The Seguin Conservation Society will be hosting the 32nd Annual Holiday Home Tour from 1 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, December 13, at eight historic sites across Seguin. The self-guided tour features grand homes from the late 1800s, craftsman bungalows, the Sebastopol House limecrete structure, and the restored Texas Theatre. Tickets are $20 in advance at Gift & Gourmet, Keepers Interiors, and the Seguin Chamber Office, or $25 at each site on the day of the tour. For more information call 830-560-0949.
Third Thursday in Downtown Seguin
The Downtown Business Alliance (DBA) of Seguin invites the community to it for Third Thursday. Enjoy food, music, and shopping during the event, which runs Thursday evening, December 18 in downtown Seguin. Businesses will be open late until 8 p.m. and offering great deals and fun. There will also be several shopping and dining options available that night.
Drive Through Living Nativity
The Faith Lutheran Church will be hosting a Drive Through Living Nativity at 5:30
p.m. on December 20 at 1326 E. Cedar St. The event will feature live music, live animals, and actors portraying scenes depicting the events leading up to the birth of Jesus Christ. This is a free community event open to all.
No Dance at Silver Center Christmas week
The Silver Center will not be hosting a dance on December 26th due to the holiday.
JANUARY
Geronimo Lions Club First Friday Feast\
The Geronimo Lions Club will not host its First Friday Feast in December. The event will return on January 2, 2026, with NAMI (National Alliance for Mental Illness) as the beneficiary and entertainment provided by the Wyatt & Bill Show.
2026 Beef Cattle Short Course
Texas A&M AgriLife will be hosting the 2026 Beef Cattle Short Course at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at Palo Alto College’s Ozuna Library. The program includes 2 CEUs (1 General and 1 Laws & Regulations), concurrent educational sessions, a meal, door prizes, and industry updates. To RSVP, email or call Kennedy Green at kennedy.green@ag.tamu.edu or 210-631-0400.
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.
