July 28, 2026
Former Guadalupe County Sheriff honored with Texas Peacemaker Award
(Seguin) -- Former Guadalupe County Sheriff
Arnold Zwicke has been retired for more than a year, but that hasn’t stopped him from picking up another special award.
Zwicke has recently added another statewide honor to his law enforcement career.
He was named the 2026 recipient of the Tieman H. Dippel Texas Peacemaker Award, one of Texas’ highest recognitions for a lifetime of exceptional public service.
The award was presented during the Sheriffs’ Association of Texas Annual Conference in Fort Worth.
The honor recognizes law enforcement leaders, who have demonstrated extraordinary dedication to justice, community service, mentoring future officers and strengthening the communities they serve.
When notified that he had been nominated, Zwicke says he never imagined the recognition would come after his retirement.
“I’m honored. It’s truly an honor. I’m still at a loss for words to believe this even happened,” said Zwicke.
The former sheriff retired about a year and a half ago after more than 32 years with the Guadalupe County Sheriff’s Office.
He served six elected terms as sheriff.
The nomination was submitted by current Guadalupe County Sheriff’s Office Reserve Deputy Steven Myers, who worked under Zwicke’s leadership for approximately 20 years.
Myers says the decision to nominate his former boss was an easy, because of the lasting impact Zwicke had on both the agency and the community. Award, pg. 3
Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
Courtesy Photo
Escaped Hays County inmate captured in Guadalupe County
(Seguin) -- After nearly a week on the run, a Hays County Jail inmate who escaped custody by allegedly impersonating another prisoner has been captured here in Guadalupe County.
The Hays County Sheriff’s Office announced that Xavier Isiah Gutierrez, 21, of Pearland, is now back in custody following his arrest in Guadalupe County on Wednesday. Authorities credited the Sheriff’s Special Services Division (SSD) Unit, the U.S. Marshals Service Lone Star Fugitive Task Force, and multiple assisting law enforcement agencies for locating and apprehending Gutierrez.
According to the Hays County Sheriff’s Office, Gutierrez escaped from the Hays County Jail on July
18, 2026, after allegedly posing as another inmate who shared the same first name and had been scheduled for release. Officials say the mistake allowed Gutierrez to leave the jail despite not being eligible for release. At the time of his escape,
Gutierrez was being held on a Motion to Adjudicate Guilt related to a felony theft case filed by the Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office. He was also being held on an Evading Arrest warrant issued by the Pearland Police Department.
Following the escape, the Hays County Sheriff’s Office obtained a warrant charging Gutierrez with Escape, a third-degree felony.
The sheriff’s office said an internal investigation remains underway to determine exactly how Gutierrez was able to leave the jail while impersonating another inmate. Officials are reviewing jail procedures and safeguards to identify any changes needed to prevent a similar incident in the future.
Seguin artists invited to showcase talents
Multiple community opportunities now scheduled
(Seguin) -- Here’s a message for the artist in your life. Artists of all skill levels are being encouraged to put their creativity on display as several organizations across downtown Seguin open applications for upcoming exhibits, public art projects and community events.
Blaire Friar, director of Destination Seguin, says the variety of opportunities reflects a shared effort to celebrate local talent while continuing to strengthen downtown.
“All of these are related to downtown, either downtown businesses or our physical buildings downtown. We love being able to provide opportunities for our local artists here. We have so many talented people in our community,” said Friar.
Among the opportunities is the 2026 Art & Wine Walk, hosted by the Seguin Commission on the
Arts. Selected artists will be paired with participating downtown wine stops during the Nov. 14 event, where they can display artwork, demonstrate their creative process, perform or offer interactive experiences for attendees.
The Downtown Business Alliance and Seguin Main Street also are accepting original artwork for the official 2026 Sip N’ Stroll commemorative mug. This year’s theme features Heritage Village properties. The selected artist will receive a $100 stipend, have their design featured on more than 800 commemorative mugs and be recognized during the mug launch at Pecan Fest. Artwork must be submitted to You’re So Crafty, 208 S. Austin St., by Friday, July 31. Artists, pg. 3
Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
Xavier Isiah Gutierrez
Award, continued.
“He was always very accessible. Anything you needed from him, all you had to do was knock on his door. He’d sit down and talk to you. He’s a very personal guy, and all of the things he’s has done for the county just needed to be recognized,” said Myers.
Zwicke says the recognition “reflects far more than his own efforts.”
He credits the employees of the sheriff’s office and the partnerships built throughout the county.
“We cared about the community, and the partnership that we had at the Sheriff’s Office—we were a team. We wanted to express to the community
Artists, continued.
Destination Seguin is also seeking proposals from artists interested in creating a new mural at the Seguin Visitor Center. Design concepts and proposals are due by 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7.
Friar says artists “shouldn’t let a lack of experience keep them from applying,” noting that community participation is “just as important as professional credentials.”
“It’s so important for everybody to join in. For one of the ones that comes to the top of my mind is the Sip N’ Stroll mug. We see all kinds of different artists submitting for that. It does not matter if you are a seasoned artist or somebody just kind of starting out. Some families do it as a family project and everyone in the family submits something. It’s just a really fun way to do something together, do something with the community
that we cared about them as much as they cared about us,” said Zwicke.
A fifth-generation Guadalupe County native, Zwicke was also known for his community involvement beyond law enforcement, supporting programs such as Santa Sheriff, Blue Santa, Toys for Tots and other local advocacy organizations.
He also remained active in numerous civic groups throughout the area.
The Texas Peacemaker Award now stands alongside one of his other distinguished awards presented by the Sheriff’s Association.
Zwicke in 2009 was recognized with the statewide organization’s Tom Tellepsen Award.
and maybe get an opportunity to be featured,” said Friar.
In fact, she says previous Sip N’ Stroll mug winners have represented artists with a wide range of experience.
“We’ve had artwork selected for the Sip N’ Stroll mugs from artists of all levels, so there’s no reason you should hold yourself back,” said Friar.
Additional art opportunities are also available through the Seguin Art League, including the “Goodbye
Summer” All Media Show, Yulefest vendor applications, Jury Day for prospective exhibiting members and the organization’s annual membersonly exhibit.
Friar says there really is an art possibly for all.
“We would love to see everyone submit for all of these opportunities. Some are simply opportunities to come enjoy our events and showcase your art, while others are larger projects, like a mural on a building. We’re really interested to hear from local people about what kind of art they could bring into our community so that we can continue to support the arts in Seguin.”
Applications, submission requirements and additional information for the various artist opportunities are available through Destination Seguin, the Seguin Main Street Program and each of the participating organizations.
Courtesy Photo
Bulldogs Announce 2026 XC Schedule
(Seguin) -- The Texas Lutheran cross country team has announced its schedule for the upcoming season. The Bulldogs will spend a majority of the regular season within the San Antonio city limits.
The Bulldogs will open the 2026 campaign Sept. 1 at the UIW Twilight in San Antonio before returning to San Antonio for the UIW XC Invitational on Sept. 12.
After a few weeks off, the Bulldogs race in San Antonio one last time on Oct. 3 in the OLLU Invitational before wrapping up the regular season by returning to Clinton, Mississippi for the Watson Collegiate Classic. Last season, Mackenzie Combs (New Braunfels/Canyon) and Jonas Martinez
(Edinburg/Homeschool), who both return for the 2026 season, broke the TLU 6K and 8K records respectively at the meet. The Bulldogs will then head west for the SCAC Championships in Colorado Springs on Oct. 30.
Postseason play continues with a return to Spokane, Washington for the first time since 2022 for the NCAA West Regional Championship meet. The NCAA DIII Cross Country Championships will be held at Bill Huyck Championship Course in Northfield, Minnesota on Nov. 21.
For all updates on Texas Lutheran Cross Country, follow @tluxctf on Instagram as well as all official TLU Athletics accounts.
VITAL STATISTICS
SCHNEIDER
Shirley Schultze Schneider, age 90, of New Braunfels, Texas, passed away peacefully on July 13, 2026. Shirley was born on June 10, 1936, in San Antonio, Texas, to Erwin and Viola (Wieters) Schultze.
As a Licensed Vocational Nurse at Eden Home in New Braunfels, Shirley found her true calling caring for the elderly. She served her residents with unwavering compassion, treating each person with the love, dignity, and respect they deserved.
Shirley found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved gardening, feeding the deer and other wildlife that wandered into her yard, and spending time with her beloved cats. Many peaceful afternoons were spent on her back porch, quietly admiring the beauty of nature.
Above all, Shirley cherished her family. Her greatest joy was simply showing up for the people she loved. She treasured every opportunity to be with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and was immensely proud of each of them. Whether it was a softball or volleyball game, a band concert, an award ceremony, or a musical performance, she could almost always be found in the audience, beaming with pride and cheering them on. Her love was constant, her support unwavering, and her presence a gift that
SCHRIEWER
Dorothy Janell Schriewer, age 92 of Seguin, passed away on July 20, 2026. Dorothy was born on September 16, 1933, in Seguin, Texas, to Dora (Mordhorst) and Val Schriewer.
Dorothy was a 1952 graduate of Seguin High School where she enjoyed being a member of the Matador Band. 8 days after her high school graduation, she married the love of her life, Carl Schriewer. She was a lifelong member of Cross Church where she was the Junior Choir Director.
She was always involved in her kids and grandkids’ activities. While she really enjoyed watching them, each event she attended was an opportunity for her other favorite past time of “people-watching.” Dorothy loved to travel, especially to towns with good seafood and you could also find her shopping QVC daily.
Dorothy is preceded in death by her loving husband of 51 years, Carl Schriewer, her son, Todd Steven Schriewer and her parents.
Survivors include son, Jeff Schriewer; daughter, Camile Salyer and husband Ron; daughter-in-law, Cheryl Schriewer; grandchildren who knew
CONEJO
Adela Conejo of Seguin, TX passed away on July 16, 2026. She was born on December 1, 1933, to Francisco Conejo and Enriqueta Rodriguez Conejo. Adela is preceded in death by both her parents and sister, Frances Conejo McHaney of Seguin, TX. She is survived by her sister, Natalia Conejo Lozano; brothers, Joe Conejo of Tyler, TX and Robert Conejo of Seguin, TX.
her family will forever treasure.
She is survived by her children, Pamela Froboese (Larry), Dale Schneider (Sharon), and Cheryl Arredondo (Anthony); her grandchildren, Amy Luna, Stevie Neuman (Matt), Philip Luna (Whitney Niemann), and Tori Klovenski (Pete); her great-grandchildren, Madison Morgan (Anthony Overpeck), Emmeline and Maxwell Neuman, and Jace and Caitlin Klovenski; and her great-great-granddaughter, Adelyn Overpeck.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Anthony Carroll Schneider.
The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff of Grand Brook Memory Care and Hope Hospice, both of New Braunfels, for the exceptional care, kindness, and support they provided to Shirley and her family.
Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, July 31, 2026, at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m., officiated by the Reverend Jim Price. A reception will follow at El Ranchito.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hope Hospice of New Braunfels or the New Braunfels Humane Society in Shirley’s memory.
Shirley will be deeply missed, forever loved, and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
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.
and loved her as “Gram”, Cole Salyer and wife Whitney, Carlie Tucker and husband Josh, and Cameron Schriewer; great-grandchildren, Connor Tucker, Lily Tucker and Cooper Salyer; other loving family members and a host of friends.
Visitation will begin on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Cross Church followed by a memorial service celebrating her life at 11:00 a.m. with the Reverend Jim Price officiating. A reception will follow in the fellowship hall.
Private interment will be held at a later date at Guadalupe Valley Memorial Park.
The family would like to thank: Sara, Mckenzie, Ruth, Stephanie, Abigail, Cat, Cindi, Carmen, Emanuel, Ruby and Erika, as well as the nurses and staff at GVNC for their exceptional care of Dorothy through the end of her life.
For those who desire the services may be livestreamed on the Cross Church Facebook page.
Memorial contributions may be made to Cross Church, 814 N. Bauer, Seguin, Texas, 78155 or to Boysville, Inc., P. O. Box 369, Converse Texas, 78109-0369.
You are invited to sign the guest book at www.treshewell.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155, 830-549-5912.
Services honoring Adela will be held on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at St. James Catholic Church. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. with the Holy Rosary recited at 10:30 a.m. and the Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Cemetery.
Arrangements are under the direction of Goetz Funeral Home, Seguin, Texas.
VITAL STATISTICS
ENGLER
www.SEGUINTODAY.com
It is with deep sorrow and much love that we announce the passing of Kathleen “Kathy” Engler, age 83 of Seguin, Texas, who left us peacefully on July 20, 2026. Kathy was a bright light in the lives of everyone who knew her. Born on September 6, 1942, in Seguin, Texas to Sylvia (Moltz) and George Engler, she grew up with a kind heart, and a generous soul that could light up any room.
Kathy spent her life dedicated to the things she loved most: her family, her friends, and her passions. A graduate of Navarro High School, she immersed herself in her favorite hobbies like working in the yard, traveling - making impromptu weekend trips to the coast, embroidery, stained glass along with other types of crafting, and keeping up with all of her friends and the activities of those around her. She did so with unmatched enthusiasm and grace.
She will be remembered most for her boundless kindness, her infectious laughter, and her ability to make anyone feel welcome and cherished. Kathy had a unique way of listening with her whole heart, offering wisdom and comfort whenever it was needed.
MARKGRAF
Kimberly Ann Markgraf Born in Wichita, Kansas on May 15, 1962, to parents Jack Mayfield and Donna Mayfield (Ester) entered her eternal rest on July 20, 2026, at the age of 64.
Kimberly is survived by her brother Jason
Kathy’s legacy lives on through the family and community she adored.
She is survived by: her son, Michael Bohannan, sister-in-law Debbie Lowe, niece Jennifer Crawford (Steve), nephew Timothy Engler, and niece Brooke Lingerfelt (Donald), great nieces and nephews Jenna Crawford, Sydney Crawford, Trevor Lingerfelt, and Dylan Lingerfelt. A large circle of extended family and many dear friends, including her cherished First United Bank and Bartoskewitz Farm families.
She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Sylvia (Moltz) and George Engler, as well as her brother Kenneth Engler.
A memorial service celebrating Kathy’s beautiful life will be held on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Friedens Church with the Reverend Brett Becker officiating. Following the service, family and friends are invited to gather for a reception in the Activity Center at Friedens Church.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Kathy’s memory to Friedens Church, 2555 Friedens Church Road, Seguin, Texas, 78155, the Texas Agricultural Education and Heritage Center, “Big Red Barn”, (a cause that was dear to her heart), 250 Cordova Road, 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
Mayfield; good friend Robert Martinez; and beloved pet Rascal.
The Visitation will be held at Heritage Oaks Mortuary Chapel on Friday, July 31, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The Funeral Service will be Saturday, August 1, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Heritage Oaks Mortuary Chapel. All services will conclude Saturday.
Eggs Recalled For Possible Salmonella
(North Manchester, IN) -- More than a million-and-a-half cartons of eggs are being recalled because of possible salmonella contamination. The FDA says the voluntary recall was put out by Midwest Poultry Services for brown and white shell eggs. The eggs were sold under several brands in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico and Mississippi with labeling including Kroger, Brookshire’s, Country Morning, Simple Truth, and Sunups, along with a number of bulk Grade A and Grade AA egg cartons. No illnesses have been reported.
WAPO: Four More States Linked To Cyclospora Outbreak
(Washington, DC) -- Four more states are being linked to the cyclospora outbreak. The “Washington Post” says the CDC is now connecting cases from Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma and Pennsylvania to the nationwide outbreak caused by the cyclospora parasite. Cyclosporiasis [[ cy-kloh-spore-eye-ah-sis ]] causes nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and other symptoms, and has already been traced to scores of illnesses in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia. The report claims federal investigators are linking the outbreak to shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell restaurants in those states, which has been traced back to a single supplier in Mexico.
Trump Threatens Major Tariff On Mexico Because Of Lettuce
(Washington, DC) -- President Trump, when asked Friday about the lettuce-linked cyclosporiasis outbreak threatened to impose a major tariff on Mexico “because of the lettuce.” Thousands of people have been sickened in the U.S. and he FDA says it was sourced in Central Mexico, a claim Mexico’s health minister denies. Meantime, Taylor Farms has closed its processing facility there. It was sold to a number of distributors including Taco Bell.
Surgeon General Encourages Alternatives To Drugs For Youth Mental Health
(Orlando, FL) -- Florida’s surgeon general is issuing guidance to doctors, not to use medication as a first resort for conditions such as anxiety, depression, and attention-deficit disorders that are affecting minors. Dr. Joseph Ladapo says drugs should never be used as a substitute for therapy and other options. New guidance from the Florida Department of Health encourages doctors to give parents clear information about benefits, risks and alternatives to psychotropic drugs.
Introducing Aquablation® Therapy at GRMC
Men with an enlarged prostate now have a minimally invasive treatment option that provides lasting symptom relief and helps restore normal prostate function.
The Right Care. Right Here.
All Kids Invited to SHS Football Camp
Seguin High School Football Camp will be held July 27-30 at Matador Stadium. The camp offers young athletes the opportunity to learn football fundamentals and techniques from Seguin High School coaches and players in a fun, positive environment. Sessions for incoming kindergarten through sixth-grade students are scheduled from 8 to 10 a.m., while incoming seventh through ninth-grade students will participate from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. each day. The cost is $30 per participant. Register online to reserve your spot.
Master Naturalist Training Class Accepting Applications
Interested in learning more about Texas’ plants, wildlife and natural areas? The Guadalupe Chapter of the Texas Master Naturalists is accepting applications for its 2026 certification training class. The program runs from August 4 through November 14, with classes held every other Tuesday from 5:45 to 9:15 p.m. at the Schertz Senior Center, 608 Schertz Parkway in Schertz. The cost is $175. For applications and class information, visit txmn.org/guadalupe and select the Certification Training tab, or email belindarossiter@gmail.com. The program trains volunteers to educate the public and help conserve Texas’ natural resources.
Candidate Filing Opens for Guadalupe Appraisal District Board
Anyone interested in serving on the Guadalupe Appraisal District Board of Directors can begin filing now. Three at-large positions — Places 1, 2 and 3 — will be on the November 3 General Election ballot. Candidates
have until 5 p.m. on Monday, August 17, to file with either the Guadalupe County Clerk or the Guadalupe County Elections Administrator. Filing information and eligibility requirements are available through the Guadalupe Appraisal District’s website guadalupead. org.
Comal Country Music Show
Enjoy an evening of live country music during the Comal Country Music Show on Tuesday, July 21, at the Columbus Club Hall, located at 111 Landa Street in New Braunfels. Doors open at 6 p.m., with the show from 7:30 to 10 p.m. Featured performers include Denise Steele and Conrad Gonzales. Admission is $10, with proceeds benefiting charity. Sandwiches, coffee, candy and soft drinks will be available for purchase.
New World Screwworm Seminar
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension is inviting livestock owners, pet owners and anyone interested in learning more about the New World Screwworm to attend a free seminar and webinar on Wednesday, July 22. The program will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Bexar County Greenies Urban Farm, located at 1615 Sherman Street in San Antonio, with a virtual attendance option also available. The seminar is open to the public, but registration is required for both in-person and online participation. RSVP at NWSBexarcounty. eventbrite.com.
New Braunfels Food Bank Job Fair
Job seekers are invited to meet with multiple local employers during a Job Fair hosted by the New Braunfels Food Bank and Workforce Solutions Alamo on Wednesday,
July 22. The event will be held from 9 a.m. to noon upstairs at the New Braunfels Food Bank, located at 1620 S. Seguin Ave. in New Braunfels. Attendees are encouraged to bring copies of their resume and dress professionally for the opportunity to connect with area employers who are hiring.
CASA of Central Texas Foster Care Simulation
CASA of Central Texas will host a free Foster Care Simulation from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, July 22, at Gruene United Methodist Church, 2629 E. Common St. in New Braunfels. Participants will experience the challenges and realities of the foster care system through an interactive simulation. Registration is required. For more information, visit casacentex.org.
Call for Artists for 2026 Sip ‘n Stroll Mug
Local artists are invited to submit original artwork for the 2026 Sip ‘n Stroll commemorative mug. This year’s theme features Seguin’s Heritage Village properties, and all artistic mediums are welcome. Entries must be submitted by Friday, July 31, to You’re So Crafty, located at 208 South Austin Street in downtown Seguin. The selected artist will receive a $100 stipend, and the winning design will appear on more than 800 commemorative mugs. For more information, call 830-379-0730.
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.
