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The Voice of Seguin
WEEKEND EDITION
TODAY
Elections office shares post-election details Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
(Seguin) -- Guadalupe County Election officials are taking a look back at voter participation following the March 3 Joint Republican and Democratic Primary Election. The look back comes after the county formally canvassed the results on Thursday. According to Interim Elections Administrator Michelle Shields, the county’s Elections Office, turnout figures show how many residents took advantage of both early voting and Election Day opportunities to cast their ballots in the primary contests — contests that help determine party nominees for upcoming races. Shields also compared this year’s turnout to previous primary elections. She says voter participation in the March 3 election for the most part stacked up against past contests. “For the primary election, the voter turnout was about
23.56 percent. So, in the last election for 2024, it was 124,250 voters. And then this year, we had 134,178 registered voters. So, it’s a little higher than the 2024 primary. So, you know, that was a good thing. We saw the voters coming out to vote this round and we appreciate everyone who took the time to come out and vote also,” said Shields. In addition to turnout numbers, Shields reported that the election process itself went smoothly. Details, pg. 2
Pets run the world!
This month’s Seguin Today is out now, and with it comes two stories about animal companions you won’t want to miss. Along with that we’ve got a special feature on pets available at Seguin Animal Services. All that and more in this month’s magazine available online and in print.
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Trio of reasons for voters to head back to polls this spring Elections office preparing for next round of voting Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
(Seguin) -- With the March 3 joint primary election now complete, local election officials say their focus is already shifting to the next series of elections scheduled across Guadalupe County. The Guadalupe County Elections Office is reminding residents that while the primary is over, voters will soon have multiple opportunities to head back to the polls — including a special city, a uniform election and a primary runoff in Guadalupe County. Michelle Shields, the county’s interim elections administrator, says the work for election staff is far from finished. “So, we have the city of shirts special election, which early voting starts next Wednesday, March 18th. And that election day is on April 4th. And then we have the cities and schools, which is on May 2nd. And so that one will also start April 20th for early voting and end on the 28th,” said Shields. Looking closer, voters in Schertz will be the first to return to the polls for a special election to fill the unexpired term for the City Council Place 6 seat. Candidates appearing on the ballot include Sarah Dietz, Luz Ares, Tiffany Gibson and Raquel Gutierrez. That
election is scheduled for April 4. After that, voters across the county will participate in the May 2 uniform election, which will include city council and school board races for various communities and districts. This includes a $65 million bond election in the Navarro ISD plus ballot items for the city of New Braunfels and a $295 million bond election in the Schertz-Cibolo Universal City ISD. In addition to those elections, Guadalupe County will also host a Republican primary runoff on May 26th for the Precinct 4 county commissioner race. Facing off will be incumbent Stephen Germann and Joel Hicks. Shields says with these elections approaching quickly, her office wants to ensure voters know when and where they can participate. Shields says one of the most important things voters can do ahead of upcoming elections is
Details, continued. She credits poll workers and election staff for helping ensure a successful voting period across the county’s polling locations. “It went well. It went well. I mean, of course, it could have been, there’s always little things like the lines were too long, maybe went a little too slow. People forget it’s (also) because the ballots were a little longer and people want to take their time to read those, you know, propositions
to review the sample ballots that are posted on the elections office website. Shields says voters should remember that participation in the runoff depends on which party’s ballot they selected during the March primary. “May 26th, if it’s Republican and Democratic, if it’s both runoffs, then if you voted Republican, you’re going to vote Republican in the runoff. If you voted Democratic in the primary, you’re going to vote Democratic in the runoff. If you did not vote in the primary at all, then you’re able to come and vote in the runoff on either of the parties. You just have to choose one,” said Shields. Shields explains who is eligible to vote in the Republican runoff, including how a voter’s ballot choice during the primary determines whether they can participate. Election officials say anyone with questions about upcoming elections, voter eligibility, or polling locations should reach out for assistance. Shields encourages residents to contact the elections office directly or visit the county’s elections website if they need more information about the upcoming elections.
and all that. So, we give those people the time and not rush them. So that’s what really took the longest is the line -- nothing else --of course, electronic poll books, but, you know, we’re kind of at the mercy of technology on those things. But other than that, everything went pretty smoothly,” said Shields. The last official step in the process for the Primary election took place Thursday afternoon. The Notice of Canvass for Guadalupe County indicates the local canvass of ballots — the formal review and certification of the election.
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A Celebration of Music: TLU’s Inaugural Young Artist Piano Competition a melodious success Special by Tracy Donley, TLU director of communications and content
(Seguin) -- On February 7, some forty young pianists from all over the region, the nation, and the world, came together at Texas Lutheran University. They traveled to Seguin to participate in a Celebration Recital for the university’s inaugural Young Artist Piano Competition. The journey to get to that point had started some time earlier, with the preliminary phase of the competition, when students were invited to submit solo piano performance pieces via video. The submissions were required to be uninterrupted with clear audio, and to demonstrate both technical preparation and musical development. “This format allowed students from near and far to participate,” said TLU School of Music Assistant Professor Dr. SungEun Park. “Judges evaluated technique, tone quality, rhythmic stability, musical phrasing, stylistic understanding, and overall artistic communication.” The competition was open to precollege pianists in grades 1–12, and students were grouped by division. Almost sixty students submitted entries. “For a first-year competition, the level of musicianship was truly impressive,” said Park. Students who made it past this first phase were invited to TLU to compete in person and take part in the recital, which was a true celebration of the joy of music. They came from around the state, and as far off as Missouri, South Korea, and Indonesia, “The diversity of backgrounds, combined with such a high level of preparation, made this inaugural year especially meaningful and reflected TLU’s commitment to both artistic excellence and community engagement,” said Park, adding that the recital allowed students to gain valuable experience
performing before an audience. “It truly felt like a celebration of artistry and hard work.” Diana Copper, piano instructor at Smithson Valley High School, agrees. “Students thoroughly enjoyed hearing other pianists perform, and they enjoyed the experience of performing themselves.” The competition was adjudicated by three members of the piano faculty at Texas Lutheran University: Dr. Park; Dr. Eric Daub, Associate Professor Emeritus of the TLU School of Music; and Dr. Martin Kesuma, piano faculty. “Having both current and emeritus faculty involved added depth, continuity, and a shared dedication to maintaining high artistic standards while supporting young musicians,” said Park. Jason Adam, director of fine arts and head band director for Navarro ISD, was also in attendance at the event with students. “It was an inspiring evening to see the level of achievement from these kids!” he said. “Thank you for creating this opportunity to celebrate talent while also offering them meaningful feedback.” Top winners were selected in each division, recognizing outstanding achievement at their level. Park said that in addition to division awards,
all participants received certificates and detailed written adjudication comments. “From the very beginning, my goal was to ensure that every single performer felt seen, valued, and encouraged.” “This initiative has strengthened TLU’s connection with the broader piano community while giving young musicians a meaningful artistic goal,” she added. “It reinforces the university’s commitment to mentorship, excellence, and outreach. For students, it provides affirmation, motivation, and a sense of belonging within a vibrant musical community.” For aspiring pianists who would like to take part in next year’s competition—and for community members who would like to attend the recital—there’s good news: The inaugural event was such a success that it will be back in 2027! “We look forward to welcoming even more students and continuing to refine the educational and adjudication experience,” said Park. “Teachers and families are encouraged to stay connected for upcoming announcements and participation details.” To learn more about the TLU School of Music, click here: https:// www.tlu.edu/programs/music-babm
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GRATEFUL FOR OUR SPONSORS Because of you, Bras For a Cause 2026 made a meaningful impact for patients supported by GRMC’s Cancer Assistance Fund. 5J Plumbing • Designer Custom Leather • Documation Debbie Marshall in memory of Fireman Tyler Macha • Hexcel Elaine Bennett in honor of Randy Bennett • Quality Urgent Care Kristy Kirkland-Edward Jones • Masters Electrical Services, LTD. Robins & Morton • Seguin Gazette • Sheri Williams The Meservey Group PLLC • The Texas 1031 Exchange Company Caterpillar • Schertz Bank & Trust • First United Bank Heather McMinn Law • Janice & Cindy Lee • ME Plumbing GVEC • Avir • Blue Bird Kids Academy • Derek & Sheena Clark Dr. Michael & Mrs. Megan Wenzel • Felicia Frazar • GRMC GRMC Hospitalists • Liz McCown • Mickey Cavin • Mills Sisters Patricia Mozley • RBFCU • Rebecca Castro, MD • Sassy Sunflower River Bend Healthcare • Seguin Family Medicine & Medispa Sheer Beauty Salon & Dry Bar • Springs Hill SUD State Farm- Austen Hill • Sweet Treats & Victoria's Nail Room Tequila Mockingbirds • Texas 467 Tavern • Tres Hewell Mortuary
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9 VITAL STATISTICS
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ROBBINS
Rhonda Lynn Robbins, age 67 of Seguin, passed away on March 7, 2026. Rhonda was born on October 3, 1958, in McKinney, Texas to Glenda Wynell (Reese) and Wilburn Lewis Robbins. She fought a long battle with diabetes and kidney failure, along with other health issues. Rhonda graduated from Lewisville High School Class of 1977and was a proud member of the LHS Fighting Farmers Band. She attended East Texas State University and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education, a Master’s degree in Elementary Education and a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education, along with her favorite degree, a Master of Divinity with a specialization in chaplaincy at Baylor University, George W. Truett Theological Seminary. She taught in several different school districts, in roles as diverse as band director, choir director, elementary music teacher, and pre-kindergarten teacher. She later worked as a chaplain for the Guadalupe Regional Medical Center and for a hospice company located in New Braunfels. She started a grief therapy class when she lost her mother in 2013 and continued to direct the class for many years, forming friendships that continued long after she finally stopped leading the group. Chaplaincy was Rhonda's true calling. She had a gift for speaking calmly and diplomatically with people in all stages of grief, and she knew God's word and His heart on a deep level that enabled her to find the right words, the best advice, and the
MCCURRY
Hayden Warren McCurry, age 26 of Seguin, passed away on February 28, 2026. Hayden was born on August 10, 1999, in New Braunfels, Texas to Reanna Springs McCurry and Jamey McCurry. Hayden was a 2018 graduate of Navarro High School where he made many friends. He participated in sports, lettered in band, and enjoyed the company of those around him. After graduating, he worked at Caterpillar in Seguin and soon felt a growing need to serve his country. He enlisted in the United States Air Force with the desire to become a TACP Tactical Air Control Party Specialist in the Special Warfare Program. He completed basic training and then graduated from the TAC-P School House on April 26, 2024. Afterwards he received his JTAC certification and was stationed at Fort Stewart in June of 2025. There as a Senior Airman he trained with his unit. Early in life Hayden quickly built an identity of his own and became well known for his sense of humor and compassion towards others. He was an animal lover, cats and dogs alike. His close companion while growing up was Roxy the Beagle. He played baseball, football, and developed many friendships both on and off the field. In High School he played the drumline in band. Hayden enjoyed cars, particularly Mustangs, and liked to spend time with friends and their cars at a local meet or in the driveway turning wrenches.
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most comforting scriptures for every situation. Although she never married or had children of her own, Rhonda was a foster parent to several children, including a newborn baby and later a set of sibling toddlers. She did this while working full-time as a teacher in Waco, and I was so impressed with her willingness to take on such a huge commitment, becoming a single working parent. She loved every minute of it and did a great job loving and caring for those children. Rhonda is preceded in death by her parents. Survivors include her brother Rick Robbins (Lisa); nieces, Dana Davis (Stuart), and Lindsay Robbins (Sarah Kaspar); great nieces, Henrietta Davis, Evangeline Davis and Ava Galbo; uncle, Larry Reese (Shelley); numerous cousins, many friends, co-workers, and patients who were like family to her. Visitation will begin on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at 10 a.m. at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel in Seguin, Texas followed by funeral service at 11 a.m. with the Reverend Dr. Brice Mandaville, the Reverend Jeremy Roy and the Reverend Tom Jones officiating, who were all special friends of Rhonda. Visitation will be held on Friday, March 13, 2026, at 12 noon p.m. at Turrentine Jackson Morrow Funeral Home, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas, 75013, followed by graveside services and interment at 2 p.m. at the Big Springs Cemetery, 6538 N. Jupiter Road, Garland, Texas with the Reverend Dr. Ben Smith officiating. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Pathway Bible Church (First Baptist Church, Seguin), 1314 E. Cedar, Seguin, Texas, 78155 or to the charity of one’s choice. We remember a life well lived. Well done, good and faithful servant! 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 spent many a late-night online gaming with his buddies and listening to music. He appreciated the outdoors, loved shooting, and hunted on occasion. He also enjoyed cooking and trying new food along with an occasional Old Fashion. Hayden will truly be missed by many. He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Debbie Springs Froboese and Delroy Froboese, Grandmother Debbie Barnes Fessler, and grandfather, John W. Alvis. Survivors include his mother, Reanna Springs McCurry; father, Jamey McCurry and wife Dawn; brothers, Ashton McCurry and wife Elizabeth and Zachurie Leadford; sister, Brooke Leadford; nephew, Walker McCurry; grandparents, Judy Alvis, Wayne McCurry and wife Janice, Jerry Springs, and Kenneth and Elizabeth Miller; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and many friends. Visitation will begin on Monday, March 16th, 2026, at Friedens Church at 1:00pm followed by funeral service at 2:00pm with the Reverend Sonja Phillips and the Reverend Dave Phillips officiating. Military honors will follow as will a reception in the Friedens Church Fellowship Hall. Serving as pallbearers will be Ashton McCurry, Zachurie Leadford, Tyler Landford, Jacob Hargett, Gavin Guerrero, Devon Rust, and Jase Rust. Honorary pallbearers, Jordan Benes, Kyle Miller, Lance Green, and Michael Stankard. Private interment will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the TACP foundation, https:// tacpfoundation.org/. 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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Blood Test Could Predict Dementia In Women (San Diego, CA) -- A blood test could predict a woman’s chances of dementia as early as 25 years before symptoms appear. Scientists with the University of California San Diego found that higher levels of one particular protein, one linked to Alzheimer’s disease, were linked with future cognitive impairment and dementia compared to those who had no issues at the start of the study. The study was published in JAMA Network Open. Male Fertility Rates Declining But Experts Aren’t Sure Why (New York, NY) -- Male fertility rates have been declining for decades but experts aren’t sure why. Dr. Alex Robles of New York’s Columbia University Fertility Centers says male factors, such as low sperm count, contribute to infertility in a third of the couples he treats. A human reproduction update published in Oxford Journals in 2023 confirms that sperm counts in Western countries, not just in America, have plummeted almost 60-percent since 1973. Dr. Robles says obesity, smoking, poor diet, environmental issues and delayed parenthood are contributing factors as well as heavy drinking and marijuana use. Scientists May Have Found Pill To Treat Sleep Apnea (Gothenburg) -- Scientists may have discovered a pill to treat sleep apnea. A European clinical trial found that the drug sulthiame was remarkably effective in reducing breathing interruptions in people with moderate to severe sleep apnea. Researchers at the University of Gothenburg in Germany say patients taking higher doses had up to 47-percent improved oxygen levels and fewer pauses in breathing during sleep. They think their findings could pave the way for a medication-based alternative to CPAP machines. Report: Nearly 40% of California Produce Contains PFAS (Sacramento, CA) -- A new report says nearly 40 percent of California’s produce contains PFAS residues. That includes 90 percent of peaches and nectarines. State regulators came to the conclusion after testing conventionally grown fruits and vegetables. PFAS are also known as “forever chemicals” and have been linked to cancer, immune suppression and reproductive harm. They are used in many agricultural pesticides.
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12 COMMUNITY
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Household Hazardous Waste Collection Service Begins in Seguin Seguin residents now have a safe and convenient way to dispose of household hazardous waste as the City of Seguin launches a new at-your-door collection service beginning Monday, March 1. The service is available to residents who receive City garbage collection, with scheduled pickups taking place every Monday between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. at participating homes in Seguin. The program allows residents to properly dispose of items such as automotive fluids, paints, chemicals, household cleaners, and small electronics while helping protect public health and the environment. Residents must schedule a pickup in advance. For scheduling details or additional information, visit hhwsolutions.com or call 888-694-4978.
Texas Lutheran University is offering free tax preparation assistance through its IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs. The clinic will be held Wednesdays from 5 to 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon through April 15 at the Beck Center on the Texas Lutheran University campus, 1020 Beck Drive in Seguin. The service is provided at no cost by accounting students from Texas Lutheran University and is open to individuals and households earning $69,000 or less, as well as seniors, people with disabilities, and limited English-speaking taxpayers.
Attendees are asked to RSVP by Friday, March 13.
Women’s History Month Events at TLU Texas Lutheran University will celebrate Women’s History Month throughout March with a series of free events open to the community. Events begin at 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 4 with a screening of Sally! in Wupperman Little Theatre inside the Schuech Fine Arts Center, followed by a discussion about the life and legacy of former TLU professor Dr. Sally Gearhart. A Lunch and Learn Authors Panel will be held at noon Tuesday, March 18 in the Dunne Conference Center at Tschoepe Hall. Those planning to eat lunch are asked to RSVP by March 13. The celebration concludes with the “Her Vision, Her Voice” Women’s History Month Recital at 7 p.m. Monday, March 30 in Ayers Recital Hall at the Schuech Fine Arts Center. All events are free and open to the public. SHS students offer free tax help Seguin ISD students are offering free tax preparation assistance through the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. The service is available from 4:10 to 5:10 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays through March 31 at the Seguin High School Library. The program is provided by IRS-certified students in the Seguin Independent School District Career and Technical Education business pathway and is open to individuals and families earning about $67,000 or less, persons with disabilities, and limited English-speaking taxpayers. Appointments are encouraged. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Helen Stamper at hstamper@seguin.k12. tx.us Free Tax Help at Texas Lutheran University
Energy Assistance Available The Community Council of South Central Texas is accepting applications for utility bill assistance through the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP). Funding is limited and available in select counties, including Guadalupe County. Apply online at ccsct.org/utility-assistance-apply-for-services/ and schedule an appointment with your county office. An appointment does not guarantee assistance. Geronimo VFW Dance Schedule Dance the night away at the Geronimo VFW Post 8456, located at 6808 Hwy 123 N. All dances are open to the public with $10 admission/donation at the door. Sunday Dances: Doors open 1:30 p.m. | Dance 3–6:30 p.m. Tuesday & Friday Dances: Doors open 6 p.m. | Dance 7–10:30 p.m. For reservations, call or text 830-305-8829. Upcoming Dance Schedule: Mar. 1 – Alibis (Burgers); Mar. 3 – Round Up 4 Charity feat. Meyer Anderson Band (7–10 p.m., Burgers); Mar. 8 – Dave Jorgenson; Mar. 15 – Lone Star Pickerz; Mar. 20 – Round Up 4 Charity feat. Randy Carson Band (7–10 p.m., Burgers); Mar. 22 – Nathan Colt Young; and Mar. 29 – Ken Simpson & Bentley Boys. Guada-Coma ICA Chapter to Hold Producer Meeting The Guada-Coma Chapter of the Independent Cattlemen’s Association of Texas will hold a chapter meeting at 6:30 p.m. Monday, March 16 at Seguin Cattle Company, located at 2424 TX-46 in Seguin. All producers are welcome to attend. The program will feature Dr. Caroline Alsop of Southern Winds Veterinary Clinic speaking on herd and bull selection. A beef meal will be provided, and door prizes will be awarded.
National Ag Day celebration The Guadalupe County Farm Bureau will host a National Ag Day event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 17 at its office, located at 325 S SH 46 in Seguin. The community is invited to come out and find out what agriculture is all about. Several vendors will be on hand, and free hot dogs will be given away from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. C.A.S.T. for Kids at Irma Lewis Outdoor Learning Center The C.A.S.T. for Kids Foundation will be hosting a morning of fishing and celebration for children with special needs at 9:00 AM on March 21, 2026, at the Irma Lewis Outdoor Learning Center in Seguin, TX. The event enriches the lives of children with special needs, supports their families, and strengthens the community through fishing. For event details, contact coordinator April Bustamante at (830) 446-0110 or email irmalewis@castforkids.org. More information is available at https://castforkids.org/event/ irmalewis. TLU to Host Disability Awareness Month Events Featuring Parasport Race and Panel Discussion Texas Lutheran University is inviting the community to take part in its Disability Awareness Month celebration in March, highlighting education, inclusion, and advocacy. A wheelchair exhibition race featuring Texas Parasport athletes will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 21 at Bulldog Stadium during the university’s D3 Challenge track meet. The event marks the third anniversary of the exhibition and is now recognized as a World Para Athletics certified competition. In addition, a Self-Advocacy in Medicine panel discussion will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 26 via Zoom. 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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