SDN: January 6, 2026

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January 6, 2026 Volume 60 l Number 236

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The Voice of Seguin

WEEKEND EDITION

TODAY

Expect a Different Look Along Portions of Walnut Branch Trail

Why Some Grass Will Be Growing Taller Along City’s Popular Hike & Bike Trail Darren Dunn

(Seguin) — If you’ve noticed some of the grass getting taller along the Walnut Branch Hike & Bike Trail, it’s not your imagination. The City of Seguin recently announced that it has been directed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to allow some of that vegetation to grow taller.

City Engineer Melissa Reynolds says Army Corps officials first reached out last summer with concerns that some locations along the creek were being trimmed too short.

“We received a letter back in May of last year, actually, and it was a pretty direct letter giving us direction about the specifics of what they define as maintenance and what isn’t allowed,” said Reynolds.

The city had been trimming those areas as part of its regular maintenance work along the creek. Those areas include projects that were completed by the Corps years ago and later turned over to the city for upkeep.

Trail, pg. 2

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Council to Host First Meeting of 2026 Darren Dunn

(Seguin) — The Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce Leadership Class is looking to make improvements for children who participate in Seguin Little League.

The class is expected to present its community service project during tonight’s meeting of the Seguin City Council.

The proposal calls for updates to the dugouts, a remodel of the restrooms, and potentially additional improvements throughout the Little League Complex. Class members are scheduled to discuss their vision for the project, along with fundraising plans to support the work.

Trail, continued.

“And what’s basically happened along Walnut Branch, in various areas, is Army Corps previously, starting back in the ‘80s, had various projects from channelization to wetland creation to reforestation areas, all done by different branches of the Army Corps. Those areas have all been turned over to the city for maintenance, which was done decades ago. What has not happened quite the way Army Corps would have liked to have seen is the protection of those reforestation areas and wetland areas.

Our parks department has mowed and maintained those like they would most parks. So they’ve used standard mowers and they’ve cut the grass pretty short. But when you’re talking about ecosystems and things with aquatic vegetation, that type of trimming is not conducive to those habitat reforestation areas. And so, that’s caused some bank erosion and it’s caused some damage to the stream,” said Reynolds.

In other business, the council is set to consider approval of three Fix-It Façade Grants for businesses in the downtown area. The reimbursement grants are designed to help spruce up commercial properties.

The council meets at 5:30 p.m. today at Seguin City Hall.

The change means some of the vegetation will be much higher in areas along the creek. Parks Director Jack Jones says people will notice the change, particularly along some busy stretches of the hike and bike trail.

“It won’t be as manicured as it was, but at least there won’t be giant ragweed and milkweed that really just blocks your view of the creek,” said Jones.

Jones says people will also notice changes along the Austin Street bridge and in areas that stretch into the east side of Max Starcke Park. He says it could impact activities like cross-country meets, where routes may need to be adjusted. Jones also says there may be noticeable changes along one portion of the Starcke Park Disc Golf Course.

“There’s a whole bunch of trees there, and we have a disc golf hole — disc golf hole nine — so we may push the basket over here. Now, if a disc goes in there, so be it. It’s like a golf course, right? You get your golf ball. But like a golf course, we’re probably going to have to put up a non-mowing area,” said Jones.

Trail, pg. 3

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Trail, continued.

There is no real reason for alarm, but people should expect things to look different along some stretches of the creek. Reynolds says the changes are all part of an effort to protect those areas.

“Expect it to look a little different. The grass is going to get a little bit taller. We want natural vegetation to grow in these areas. Natural vegetation has really good root systems, and those root systems help stabilize the creek, which is why we’re seeing some of the undermining in some of the areas near the library, for instance, because of damage to some of those aquatic areas and vegetation,” said Reynolds.

The city will soon be putting up signs to help identify reforestation areas and designated grow zones. Reynolds says the goal is to help educate the public about why the changes are being made.

“We want to put in these educational signs so people understand that these are environmental areas. We’re not not maintaining it — we’re just allowing it to be more natural in areas where it’s environmentally sensitive,” said Reynolds.

The vegetation will be taller, but that does not mean

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the city’s maintenance work will stop.

“We will be maintaining the walkways, but only for about a buffer area five feet from the trail to keep some of the nuisance critters — the snakes and things like that — away from areas where we’re going to be seeing a lot more pedestrians and bikers. But outside of that five-foot buffer, we’re supposed to keep it as natural as possible, and you’ll see those signs go in for that,” said Reynolds.

Reynolds says the city worked closely with the Corps to ensure it understands and meets the maintenance requirements for those areas.

“We’ve been maintaining it one way, and when you find out that you’re doing it wrong, you’ve got to fix it. It’s a know-better, do-better kind of situation. And we want the community to be aware of that before we get too far into this and start getting complaints,” said Reynolds.

Copies of the city’s full presentation on the reforestation areas and grow zones can be accessed by clicking this link: https://media-cdn.socastsrm.com/wordpress/wpcontent/blogs.dir/2221/files/2026/01/reforestation-areapresentation-1.pdf The presentation is also available on the Seguin Today website.

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Navarro girls and boys win final game at old high school, will play first games at new school on Tuesday on KWED Chris Austin

(Geronimo) -- The Navarro boys and girls basketball teams won their final games at the old Navarro High School on Friday afternoon.

The Panther boys routed San Antonio Stacey 60-32. The victory was their sixth straight after going 4-0 in the Luling tournament to close out 2025.

Junior guard Bayley Burgess led Navarro with 19 points. Burgess hit three three-pointers in the first half as the Panthers built a 19-point lead after the first 16 minutes.

Panther coach Jarrett Tyler praised Burgess after the win.

“He had a 32-point outing in the (Luling) tournament. He’s shooting the ball well right now,” Tyler said. “It’s all within what we’re supposed to be doing. It’s all within our offense. There are good looks and he’s very capable of knocking them in.”

Weston Shields added 11 points in the victory.

Navarro has won 12 games this season—already one more than it won all of last season.

The Runnin’ Lady Panthers were also victorious in their final game at the old school earlier in the day.

The Lady Panthers defeated Lockhart 50-37.

Senior forward Trinity Loftice poured in 12 points.

Loftice knocked down a pair of three-pointers and was active on the defensive end with multiple blocks.

Lady Panther head coach Nick Israel commented on his senior leader after Friday’s victory.

“Trinity is a super smart kid. She can play all five spots,” Israel said. “She knows where everyone is supposed to be. And she just reads it well. So, it’s no surprise that she was there to make those plays.”

Camden Shields also had 12 points while Elle Hepp added 10.

The Navarro boys and girls will play their first games at the new Navarro High School on Tuesday.

The boys host Canyon Lake while the girls take on Bulverde Gloria Deo Academy. The boys’ game tips off the doubleheader at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday on AM 1580 KWED and streaming online at SeguinToday. com.

(Poth) -- The Marion Lady Bulldogs fell 52-25 at Poth on Friday.

The Lady Bulldogs have one game remaining in non-district play. They’ll travel to New Braunfels Long Creek on Tuesday before opening District 27-3A play Friday at Young Women’s Leadership Academy.

(Blanco) -- The Marion boys basketball team started the new year with a 57-43 victory at Blanco on Friday.

Travis Randle and Jaiden Riley led Marion with 16 and 11 points, respectively. The Bulldogs host Ingram Moore on Tuesday and travel to San Antonio Kennedy on Friday. Marion opens district play next Tuesday at San Antonio Cole.

(Seguin) -- The Seguin girls and boys basketball teams were off Friday. Both return to District 275A action Tuesday.

The Matador boys host San Antonio Edison at 6:30 p.m. at Goldie Harris Gym. The Lady Matadors play at Edison, with tipoff set for 6:30 p.m. in San Antonio.

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Ablin

Judith Carolyn “Judy” Ablin, of Seguin, Texas, was peacefully called home on December 28, 2025, as her daughter held her hand. She was lovingly cared for by family in the days leading up to her homegoing.

Judy was born on March 5, 1939, in Willmar, Minnesota, to David and Sara Nordholm. She was raised in the small town of Elbow Lake, Minnesota, where she enjoyed an idyllic childhood, enriched by a close extended family and a tight-knit community. As the eldest of three daughters, she set an early example of love, compassion, and care for others that she carried throughout her life.

Judy graduated from Elbow Lake High School in 1957 and went on to attend Augustana College in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, where she majored in nursing. It was there, in the late 1950s, that she met her future husband, Ralph Ablin. Their relationship began with a Sadie Hawkins dance—true to Judy’s confident and warm spirit, she was the one who asked Ralph out—and marked the beginning of a lifelong partnership grounded in faith and shared purpose.

They were married in 1961.

Judy and Ralph built a life together centered on family and ministry. Ralph, an ordained pastor, and Judy served side by side through decades of ministry, opening their home and their lives to others wherever they were called. Judy also had a strong passion for health and nutrition and genuinely enjoyed learning about wellness and sharing that knowledge with others, always wanting to help

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people care well for themselves and those they loved.

In 1987, Judy and Ralph endured the heartbreaking loss of their youngest son, Christopher, at the age of six and a half. In later years, following Ralph’s severe and debilitating stroke in 2004, Judy devoted herself fully to his care, walking faithfully beside him with patience, strength, and unwavering love until his passing in 2012.

Her service extended far beyond her own family. Over the years, Judy volunteered as a hospital chaplain, served with Meals on Wheels, and was actively involved in various women’s ministries. She was drawn to those in need of comfort and hope, offering prayer freely, listening deeply, and caring wholeheartedly.

Judy was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph Ablin; her son, Christopher Ablin (1980–1987); her daughter-in-law, Jana Ablin; and her parents, David and Sara Nordholm.

She is survived by her children Charles Ablin of Normandy Park, Washington; David Ablin and his wife, Gaby, of Seguin, Texas; and Heather Engler and her husband, Chet, of New Braunfels, Texas; her sisters Sara Brown and Victoria Lofgren; and her ten grandchildren: Justin, Daniela, Alex, Brianna, Ceanna, Christopher, Josh, and Serena Ablin, and Jake and Sam Engler.

Judy’s life reflected a deep love for the Lord and a sincere love for people. She spoke openly about her faith, offered prayer freely, and cared deeply for those around her. Her compassion, her voice, and her unwavering belief will continue to echo in the lives of those she loved.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Lifegate Church in Seguin, Texas.

Hamilton

Maggie Miller Hamilton died recently at the age of 76. She is survived by her daughter, Lisa Hamilton and sister, Dorothy Alford. She is also survived by several other friends and family members. Memorial Services and viewing will be held Saturday, January 10 at Eunice and Lee Mortuary.

Wesch

Bernadette “Bobbie” Wesch, age 89, passed away on January 2, 2026. She was born to Anton and Annie Faldik on October 16, 1936. She was the eighth child out of nine.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Roger; daughter, Sandra; brothers, Tony, Frankie and Joe; and sisters, Olga, Ann and Edith.

She is survived by her daughter, Suzanne; one sister, Marie; one brother, George; numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

Bobbie graduated from Yoakum High School in 1954 and then moved to Seguin. She continued to live in Seguin until December 2021. She spent her remaining years living it up at the Highlands Springs retirement community in Dallas, Texas. Her foundation in life came from her love for God, country, and family. There was no doubt she was a people person and wanted to help others.

She did so by contributing her time and efforts to various organizations in the Seguin community. She was a member of St. James Catholic Church where she was a founding member of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas chapter, Our Lady of Angels, a Eucharist Minister, and a member of St. Ann’s Circle. Bobbie

was a member of the H.U. Wood Post 245 American Legion Auxiliary for over 40 years and served in numerous officer positions including that of Chaplain.

In addition, she served on numerous committees ALA and in 1992, named Auxiliary Member of the Year. She volunteered at the Seguin Police Department and helped with several of their programs including the DARE program; Cops and Kids; and Blue Santa. She was also a member of the Stern Sons of Hermann Lodge No. 142 and recognized for her humanitarian deeds and outstanding community service.

A visitation will begin Friday, January 9, 2026, at St. James Catholic Church in Seguin at 10:00 a.m. with the recitation of the Holy Rosary at 10:30 a.m. followed by the Mass of Christian burial at 11:00 a.m. with the Reverend Canon Stanislaw Fiuk officiating. Interment will follow in the St. James Catholic Cemetery. A reception will follow at the church Parish Hall.

In lieu of flowers, please consider sending a donation to the hospice care program of the Visiting Nurses Association (VNA) located at 1420 W. Mockingbird Lane, Suite 700, Dallas, TX 75247 https://www.vnatexas.org or to the charity of your choice.

You are invited to sign the guest book at www.treshewell.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155, 830-549-5912.

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Huebner

grade teacher at Jefferson Elementary for most of her career. After retiring from teaching, she helped Franklin run the Seguin Driving School, and they enjoyed taking several trips together.

Velma married Franklin in 1961, and they built a home near Lake Placid.

Velma took great pride in their vegetable garden and pecan orchard. She enjoyed cooking, baking, and especially making pecan pralines. She was a member and delegate to several education meetings and conventions. She belonged to Emanuel’s Lutheran Church where she was a member of the Ladies Aid and enjoyed helping with their annual coffee cakes. She was also a past president of the Seguin Hermann Sons Lodge and the Lake Placid Homeowners Association.

Velma also enjoyed being a member of Delta Kappa Gamma.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. Emanuel’s Lutheran Church. Interment will follow in their columbarium.

A reception will follow in the fellowship hall.

Memorial contributions may be made to Emanuel’s Lutheran Church, 206 N. Travis 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.

Jahns

sister, Lillian Mayer Anderson and husband, Kenneth, her brothers-in-law, James Raymond Guidry and Billy Ray Jahns and sister-in-law, Sandy Mayer.

Survivors include her sister, Catherine Guidry; brother, Jack Mayer and wife Jean; beloved niece Deborah Guidry; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other loving family members and a host of friends.

Funeral service will be held on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at 2 p.m. at First Methodist Church with the Reverend Cathe Evins officiating. Interment will follow in San Geronimo Cemetery. A reception will follow in Hierholzer Hall.

Memorial contributions may be made to the choir or handbell ministry at First Methodist Church, 710 N. Austin 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.

Velma Anne Boecker Huebner entered heaven on December 23, 2025.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Franklin Hugo Huebner, and her parents, Eugene and Ina Boecker.

She is survived by her sister, Alice Magavern, and her brother, Gary Boecker, her son Howard Huebner and daughter Sheri Lyn Gardner and husband Marc Gardner. She leaves four grandchildren: Valerie Gardner, Wendi Huebner (Dustin), Jeremy Huebner, and Michael Gardner, and one great-grandson, Waylin Huebner, as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Velma was born on September 6, 1938, in Seguin, Texas. She grew up in the Leissner community and attended school there for eight years and then graduated from Seguin High School in 1956. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in education from Southwest Texas State University and later added a master’s degree in education and administration. She began her teaching career in Corpus Christi and later taught in San Antonio and Seguin. She was a first-

Joan Mayer Jahns, age 86 of Seguin, passed away on December 25, 2025. Joan was born on September 13, 1939, in Arlington, Texas, to Vera Lillian (Schlueter) and Eugene August Mayer.

Joan and Benny were active members of First United Methodist Church in Seguin where they were long time members of the Paulist Class. She always played the piano to open the class with hymns alongside Charlie Richey who sang. Joan was also active in the Church Choir and played the handbells.

Joan was preceded in death by her loving husband of 55 years, Benny Joe Jahns, her parents, her mother-in-law and father-in-law, Lonie and Oscar Jahns,

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Herbold

matched only by the love he held for his family. As we reflect on Chris’s life, we celebrate not only his adventurous pursuits but also the deep connections he formed with his loved ones.

He is survived by his devoted children, Derick, Kaison, Capri, Marley, and Charlee Herbold, each carrying a piece of his adventurous spirit within them. His mother, Tami Herbold and husband William Newberg, and his father, Alfredo Sanchez and wife Brenda Sanchez, stood proudly in his corner throughout his life. Chris also shared a special bond with his siblings; his sister Kristen Jahns and her husband Clint Jahns, as well as his sister Ciera Sanchez and brother AD Sanchez. He was a cherished uncle to Kendall Hurt and Caiden Jahns, and beloved grandson to Margaret Herbold and her husband Ruben Sanchez along with many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who created countless memories with him.

Though he is mourned by many, Chris is greeted in the beyond by those who passed before him, including his grandfather Texas John Herbold, stepfather Ricky Risinger, uncle Roger Herbold, aunt Wesley Shehane, cousin John Derick Herbold, and great-grandparents Milton and Catherine Krueger.

His legacy of love, laughter, and an insatiable appetite for life will inspire all who knew him to embrace each day with passion and joy. May he rest in peace, his spirit soaring high like the waves crashing along the shores of Kona, Hawaii.

A celebration of life ceremony will be announced at a later date.

Rosenblad

Ethel Rosenblad; and her brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Clyde and Allene Rosenblad.

She is survived by her daughter, Kimberly Kauitzsch, and her son, Ricky Rosenblad (Brenda); her grandchildren, Derick Kauitzsch (Stephanie), Shelby Atchley (Justin), and Brittaney Rosenblad; her great-grandchildren, Tatum, Maliah, Jordan, Landen, Rowan, Callie, and Legend; her brother, Kenneth Jacobson (Nancy); her nephews, Doug Jacobson (Ellyn) and Tommy Rosenblad (Sherry); and her nieces, Diane Shivers (Rob) and Lori Rosenblad.

Visitation will be held from 2-4 p.m. on Sunday, January 4, 2026, at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel. Funeral services will be held on Monday, January 5, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Faith Lutheran Church, 1326 E. Cedar Street, Seguin, Texas, followed by a reception in the Activity Center. Interment and graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m. at Palm Valley Lutheran Church Cemetery, 2500 Palm Valley Boulevard, Round Rock, Texas 78665.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Palm Valley Lutheran Church, Faith Lutheran Church, or 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.

Cowsert

Carnes and wife Mary; grandchildren, Christina Kimberling and husband Lee, J. R. Carnes and wife Jilian, Terry Carnes, Jr., Michael Carnes and wife Amanda, Andrew Carnes and wife Rachel, and James Carnes; eleven great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews, other loving family members and friends.

A memorial service celebrating Virginia’s life will be held on Monday, January 5, 2026, at 10 a.m. at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel with the Reverend Jeremy Roy officiating.

Private interment will follow later in Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church, 1314 E. Cedar 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.

Christopher Brian Herbold, affectionately known to those who loved him as Chris, was born on February 3, 1984, in Seguin, Texas. He left this world on October 9, 2025, in beautiful Kona, Hawaii. Chris’s journey through life can be described as one marked by boundless energy, a thirst for adventure, and a spirit that ignited joy in all who had the privilege of knowing him.

After graduating from Seguin High School, Chris took a courageous step that would shape his future; he moved to Austin, Texas, where he began training to become an MMA fighter. Following this chapter, he spent several fulfilling years in Washington State, where he immersed himself in the great outdoors. Whether he was traversing hiking trails, gliding on a skateboard, conquering snow-covered slopes, cliff diving into refreshing waters, or racing on his BMX bike, his passion for the natural world was evident.

Chris’s zest for life ultimately led him to Kona, Hawaii, where he embraced an adventurous lifestyle surrounded by the beauty of nature and cherished moments spent with family.

Chris’s spirit was infectious, and his smile, contagious. How blessed are we to have someone that makes saying goodbye so hard. His love for adventure was

Marilyn Rosenblad, age 90, of Seguin, Texas, passed away peacefully on January 1, 2026. She was born on January 13, 1935, in Austin, Texas, to Walter and Lillian (Westberg) Jacobson. She graduated from Hutto High School in 1953, where she enjoyed participating in sports.

Marilyn was a lifelong member of Palm Valley Lutheran Church, where she was baptized, confirmed, and married to Thomas Larry Rosenblad on June 24, 1955. They shared 51 wonderful years of marriage until his passing in 2006. Following his death, Marilyn became an associate member of Faith Lutheran Church in Seguin, where she remained active from 2007 until the present.

She worked various jobs in Austin and Georgetown before retiring. After her husband’s passing, Marilyn moved to Seguin to be closer to her daughter.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Thomas Larry Rosenblad; her infant daughter, Sharon; her infant brother, Carroll; her grandparents; her son-in-law, David Kauitzsch; her parents-in-law, Tom and

Virginia Jeanne Cowsert, age 93 of Seguin, passed away on December 17, 2025. Virginia was born on July 13, 1932, in San Antonio, Texas to Alma M. (Sasse) and James M. Young, Sr. Virginia was an active member of First Baptist Church and volunteered for many years at the Christian Cupboard in Seguin.

Virginia is preceded in death by her husband Edward Cowsert, son, Robert Carnes, her parents, her sister, Bernice Kirkpatrick, and her brother, James Young.

Survivors include her sons, Richard Carnes and wife Peggy, and Terry

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Ullrich

Farrell “Spitzie” Ullrich, age 91, of Seguin, Texas, passed away on December 26, 2025. Born on October 14, 1934, in San Antonio, Texas, he was the son of Berthold Adolph Otto and Emma Augusta (Schmid) Ullrich Spitzie was a Charter member of Faith Lutheran Church. He was a barber by trade, a profession he practiced with pride and dedication over the years.

He was known for his steady hands, signature flattops, and the care he took with everyone who sat in his barber chair. Outside of work, he had a lifelong enjoyment of race cars, horses, cattle, and farming.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Gary Ullrich and his twin brother, Jarrell “Dickie” Ullrich; his sister, Shirley Ullrich; and his sister-inlaw, Karen Ullrich.

Spitzie is survived by his wife of 61 years, Jeanine Blackorby Ullrich; his daughter, Paige Cooper and her husband, Kevin; his son, Lance Ullrich and

Lewis

Gary Lynn Lewis died December 13, 2025 at the age of 66. Wake services will be held Friday from 6 to 8 pm from Galatians Church of God in Christ and Funeral services will be held Saturday at 10AM from GALATIANS COGIC.

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his wife, Kathleen; his grandchildren, who affectionately knew him as “Opa,” Hunter Ullrich and his wife, Hannah; Harley Ullrich and his wife, Kenna; Catie Cooper, and Reagan Cooper; great-grandchildren Addison and Olivia Ullrich; his brother, Glenn Ullrich of Spokane, WA; sister-in-law Clarice Ullrich; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Farrell “Spitzie” Ullrich will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and brother—a man who valued hard work, family, and the simple pleasures of life. His memory will be cherished by all who knew and loved him.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Faith Lutheran Church at 2:00p.m. with the Reverend Jeremy Pedersen officiating. A reception to follow in the Activity Center.

Memorial contributions may be made to Faith Lutheran Church, 1326 E. Cedar, Seguin, Texas, 78155, or to Guadalupe Regional Hospice Services, 1215 E. Court Street, 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.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years Delanie Lewis, 3 children, Gary(Rita), Derrick (Stephanie), and Cedrick(Karen); 5 grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends. Services entrusted to the reverent care of Eunice and Lee Mortuary

Bierstedt

(Trent) Tiffany Bierstedt; Patricia Manning Yahya (Aly); Kenny Manning; and great-grandchildren; Kaeleb, Trinity, Rayan and Ayden. Great great-grandchild Sadie.

Additionally, Jane is survived by a sister Caroline Wernli (Ron) and niece Roxanne Wernli Brown (Tim) and two nephews Barrett and Reeve Brown. Jane is also remembered by many other family members and close friends.

A memorial service will be held at the Kingsbury Baptist Church on January 3, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. with the Reverend Manuel Casso officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to Kingsbury Baptist Church, P. O. Box 130, Kingsbury, Texas, 78638 or 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.

Svatek

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.

Jane Bierstedt passed away December 15, 2025, at the age of 90 years old.

Jane was born on January 20, 1935, in Farwell, Texas to Hertha Alva Bode McQuatters and Otis Roy McQuatters.

Jane attended Seguin High School and enjoyed a 30 plus year career employed with Southwestern Bell Telephone and AT&T. She was preceded in death by her parents; her daughter Sheron Ann Manning and her great grandson Klayton Manning.

She is survived and is lovingly remembered by her husband of 61 years, Alton Bierstedt; son Aaron Bierstedt (Kimberly); grandchildren Brittany Wilkinson

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.

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US Sees December Spike In Flu Cases (Atlanta, GA) -- Federal health officials say the U.S. has seen a major spike in the number of flu case in December. The latest data from the CDC shows over 31-hundred people died from the virus in the U.S. in 2025. The agency called this flu season the most severe since 2018.

The agency said the flu was responsible for 279 pediatric deaths. In the U.S. as of December 20th there has been an estimated seven-point-five million flu cases and 81-thousand hospitalizations.

After Setting NY State Flu Records, Tips On How To Stay Flu-Free (New York, NY) -- With New York recently setting single-week record for flu cases and hospitalizations, health officials are offering some tips and reminders for staying flu-free. The worst of flu season is yet to come - cases usually peak in January. Flu shots are still available. Other prevention steps - are holdovers from the pandemic: more hand washing, and don’t touch your mouth or nose without washing. Stay home when sick and use tissues to sneeze and blow your nose.

ACA Subsidies Expire, Premiums To Spike (Washington, DC) -- Over 20-million people in the U.S. are now facing higher health insurance costs after Congress allowed federal tax subsidies to expire at year’s end. The average cost of premiums through the Affordable Care Act is now expected to rise by 26-percent across the U.S., though it could be lower in states that run their own marketplace. Millions of people are expected to drop their health insurance because of the price hikes. The health policy nonprofit KFF predicts that Arkansas will see the biggest premium spike at 69-percent for its benchmark plan.

Nurses at 12 NYC Hospitals Deliver Legally-Required 10-Day Strike Notice (New York, NY) -- Nurses at 12 private hospitals in New York City say they’ll walk off the job on January 12th unless they get a new contract. The New York State Nurses Association, representing about 20-thousand nurses at hospitals including New York-Presbyterian, Montefiore and Mount Sinai, says it would be the largest nurses’ strike in city history. Pay and benefits, staffing levels and protections against workplace violence are said to be the main sticking points. Another one-thousand nurses represented by the same union at three Northwell Health hospitals on Long Island are threatening to strike on that same day over similar issues. The ten-day notice is required by law to give hospitals time to prepare for a possible walkout.

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at 6:15 p.m., with the student-led ceremony beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the auditorium. The event includes performances, remarks, a reception, and guided campus tours.

or $25 at the door. Reservations are required by contacting Glenda Partain at 830-391-3979 or silvercenter@sbcglobal.net

Seguin Little League seeking vendors for Spring 2026 season Seguin Little League is now accepting vendor applications for Opening Day and All Play Saturdays throughout the Spring 2026 season.

Interested vendors are encouraged to apply.

A board member will follow up with additional details. The vendor fee is $25 per event. For questions, send an email to SeguinLLBoard@ yahoo.com Grief Symposium Focuses on Caring for Children and Adolescents A Grief Symposium focused on caring for children and adolescents will be held Thursday, January 8, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

The event is designed for parents, caregivers, educators, and community members seeking insight, understanding, and hope while supporting grieving youth.The symposium will take place in the Seguin ISD Boardroom, located at 1221 E. Kingsbury Street in Seguin. Seating is limited, and advance registration is encouraged.

For more information, call 830-379-5046.

Seguin Art League Fiber Show The 10th Annual Seguin Art League Fiber Show will accept entries January 10, at the gallery from 10 to noon. Entry fee is $5 per artwork with a limit of two. Ribbons will be awarded. For more information call 830-491-0778, come by the gallery at 104 S. Austin to pick up a prospectus, or look at our website seguinartleague. com.

TPWD scoping meeting The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department will host a scoping meeting in Guadalupe County on Jan 12 at 6:30 PM to present proposed changes and receive public input on doe day expansion. The meeting is open to the public and will be held in the Texas A&M Agrilife Extension Building, located at 210 E. Live Oak St. in Seguin.

Navarro ISD High School Dedication Navarro ISD invites the community to the dedication of the new Navarro High School on Monday, January 12 in Geronimo. Doors open

Native Plant Society to Host Tree Care Program The Native Plant Society of Texas Guadalupe Chapter will host a meeting and educational program on Tuesday, January 13, featuring a presentation on tree care and disease management. The program will be led by Travis Franke with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. Social time begins at 6:30 p.m., followed by the program at 7 p.m., with a chapter meeting afterward. The event will be held at First Presbyterian Church of Seguin, 1121 E. Walnut Street, with parking available on North Moss Street behind the church.

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.

Matador Legends Ballpark Sign Reveal Seguin ISD invites the community to “A Legendary Reveal” on Wednesday, January 21 at 5:30 p.m. at Matador Legends Ballpark, located on E. College Street behind Seguin High School.

The event will celebrate the unveiling of the ballpark’s new squirrel and batting cage signs.

Community members are encouraged to attend and be part of the celebration.

Guadalupe County Republican Women to Host Candidate Forum The Guadalupe County Republican Women will host a candidate forum on Thursday, January 22 beginning at 11:30 a.m. at the Silver Center, 510 East Court Street in Seguin. The forum will feature invited candidates in the March 2026 Republican Primary, including local contested races and Congressional District 35. George Rodriguez, known as “El Conservador,” will serve as moderator. The program is free to attend. Lunch is available with an RSVP for $20,

Chess Tournament at the Seguin Public Library The Seguin Public Library will host a small, informal chess tournament open to all ages, on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 10 a.m. The event will feature a Swiss-style format with four rounds and is expected to last about two hours.

The tournament is unrated and beginner-friendly, but participants should be familiar with the basic rules and moves of chess. The library will provide chess boards and clocks, though participants are welcome to bring their own. There will be five-minute breaks between rounds, with snacks provided. Efforts will be made to match players by age group, but some mixing may occur in later rounds depending on attendance.

Special prizes will be awarded, including 3-D printed trophies for first and second place in each age group: Kids (6–11), Teens (12–17), and Adults (18 and up). Registration opens January 1, 2026, and this program is free and open to the public. This is a great opportunity for chess enthusiasts of all skill levels to enjoy a fun, friendly competition with family and community members. This program is free and open to the public. Please call 830-401-2422 or visit library. seguintexas.gov for additional information.

Youth soccer registration underway Spring youth soccer registration is now open for players with birth years 2013–2022. The cost is $90, which includes a jersey, shorts, and socks. Registration closes January 25, with a $10 late fee through February 1, if space allows.

Games begin March 21 at Park West, with Saturday morning schedules. Practices start the week of March 2. Coaches and co-coaches are needed. Register online at system.gotsport. com/programs/A62849677.

To ensure non-profit organization’s meetings and events appear in this calendar, send information to: communitycalendar@kwed1580.com, or drop off the information at the Seguin Daily News/KWED offices located at 609 E. Court St. in Seguin. For best results, submit information at least two weeks prior to the event.

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