October 21, 2025



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October 21, 2025



Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
(Seguin) --- For years, Seguin residents have shared one collective fast-food wish: “When are we getting a Chick-fil-A?” This popular question, for years, has floated around in everyday conversations including social media comment sections and community forums. However, this Thursday, that longtime wish becomes reality as Chickfil-A Seguin officially opens its doors, ushering in not just a new restaurant, but a moment of celebration for a community that has never stopped asking.
Leading the launch is franchise owner and operator Weillen Garduno-Hernandez, who says the timing, location and community aligned perfectly — not just for Seguin, but for her own career journey, which began when she first joined Chick-fil-A as a 16-year-old team member.
“I am actually originally from Georgia – moved to Texas when I was 21. I moved to El Paso so that was just kind of my introduction to Texas and fell in love with Texas, but I did Chickfil-A’s leadership development program and in that time, they put me in West Texas. I learned that West Texas was not for me.
I also really didn’t care for East Texas as much and I spent some time in Central Texas and that is when I was like okay, I love Central Texas. You have the suburbs, and you also have like the city, and you have the best of both worlds which is kind of like the world that I was raised in Georgia but then I knew that Texas is where I want to stay forever. So once this opportunity came up, it was just perfect,” said Garduno-Hernandez.
Chick, pg. 3







Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
(Seguin) -- The reality of domestic violence is not being lost in the shadows here in Guadalupe County.
The Guadalupe County Commissioners Court last week unanimously approved a proclamation formally designating October 2025 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The proclamation calls on residents to support survivors, recognize the signs of abuse, and stand with organizations working to provide safety and resources to those affected.
Staff from Thriving Hearts Crisis Center, formerly known as the Guadalupe Valley Family Violence Shelter, were among those in attendance for the presentation. During the meeting, Brandon Rossett, awareness and education coordinator for the center, shared a somber reminder how Seguin nor any place across the world are immune to this issue.
Rossett also extended an invitation to the public for Thriving Hearts’ annual candlelight vigil in downtown Seguin.
“Here in Seguin with Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we have had this past year, two victims of domestic violence. Wednesday, 6 p.m. down here at the gazebo, we will be having our annual vigil, and we will be naming off

all the names of the people that have passed away from domestic violence. We invite anybody that wants to attend,” said Rossett.
The vigil will be titled “Thriving Hearts Illuminates Seguin: Their Names Will Not Be Forgotten.” Rossett says attendees will gather to honor the lives lost to domestic violence in Texas, with names read aloud in remembrance as candles are lit in their memory.
During the meeting, Pct. 4 Commissioner Stephen Germann read from the county’s official proclamation. Vigil, pg. 3
(Seguin) -- South-Central Texas landowners looking to improve their deer management skills will have a new opportunity this week. The Texas Wildlife Association (TWA), in partnership with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, is hosting a comprehensive white-tailed deer workshop this Friday here in Seguin.
The full-day event, running from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Seguin Irma Lewis Outdoor Learning Center, will cover everything from deer ecology and nutritional needs to habitat improvement practices. Attendees will also learn about feral hog and

predator control, as well as the impact of New World screwworms on local wildlife.
The workshop is tailored to both small and large acreage properties, offering practical strategies for managing white-tailed deer in
south-central Texas. Participants will receive lunch and refreshments, and continuing education units (CEUs) are available for those seeking professional development credits. The event is supported by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Plateau Land & Wildlife Management, and Capital Farm Credit.
Landowners and property managers can pre-register or find more information at the Texas Wildlife Association’s website available at www.texas-wildlife.org/events/ landowner-workshop-seguin/.
Vigil, continued.
He affirmed the county’s commitment to working alongside local agencies and community members to break the cycle of violence.
He shared, “Here in this community, Thriving Hearts Crisis Center (formerly Guadalupe Valley Family Violence Shelter) answered 1182 crisis calls and provided 6897 services to survivors from September 2024 to August 2025; and Whereas, women are not the only targets; men, young children and the elderly also are victims, and sadly, emotional scars are often permanent, and domestic violence costs United States’ companies at least $3.5 billion in lost
Chick, continued.
As opening day approaches, she says the welcome that she has received thus far only reaffirms her decision.
“I am so excited. My time in Seguin has been incredible, just like going into town and visiting all the coffee shops and eating in the restaurants, it has been really nice to connect with the community. I know there are some areas in Texas that are not excited for growth, but Seguin is so excited, and everyone has been so welcoming and even being a part of the chamber, everyone has been so kind and so I’m really excited. I’m excited to see all the familiar faces. I’m excited to just connect with the community and do events and get involved,” said GardunoHernandez.
Located along Interstate 10 at 1610 CH Matthies Jr., Garduno-Hernandez says folks will find a uniqueness behind the layout and amenities. She says that’s because this location was intentionally designed with families and community events in mind.
“Our big outdoor patio, we have around eight tables out there. Normally, you get around six or less than that and then we just have so much more room to do events out there and host people. We have a playground. A lot of Chick-fil-A’s don’t have playgrounds right now. So, we have that for the community and then our drive-thru, it’s pretty big and then we are also going to have the Mobile Thru so for guests who don’t want to wait in the drive-thru line, then can order through our app and go through our drive-thru. So, we have that also. We just want to provide as much as we can for our community. I think we have a really unique restaurant, and we can serve everyone coming off of the highway
work time, increased health care costs, higher turnover, and lower productivity.”
Germann further explained how domestic violence affects individuals regardless of race, age, gender, or income level.
“The problems of domestic violence are not confined to any group or groups of people, but cut across all economic, racial and societal barriers, and are supported by societal indifferences,” read Germann.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please contact the 24/7 crisis hotline at 800-8342033. Free services and resources are avaible. Individuals are also asked to learn more by visiting safeseguin.org.

but also the community inside,” said Garduno-Hernandez.
When it comes to customer service, she says her approach will build on Chick-fil-A’s reputation for “creating a remarkable restaurant experience,” while also including her own personal vision for how the Seguin team will serve its guests.
“Our restaurant vision is to serve high quality food with care and purpose bringing the Seguin community together through every meal. So that is really important – one the community piece but also serving fresh high quality food for the community and also the piece where you bring everyone together and then our team motto which you will probably hear because we made a video on it, and that we will post on social media is ‘We Come to EAT.’ So, E.A.T. stands for Excel with purpose, Act with humility and Thrive relentlessly so that is going to be our team motto as we think through how we are serving guests, how we are serving each other, how we are serving the community. That’s the lens that I want our team to look at things through,” said Garduno-Hernandez.
And although Chick-fil-A is already known for its service, GardunoHernandez says she hopes to instill something extra here in Seguin and that’s a genuine hospitality culture inspired by
her own upbringing.
“I’m very excited. If there is anything that’s important to the way that I was raised in my culture is hospitality so I’m excited to just take the hospitality that I was given – the best experience that I had in hospitality was going to my mom’s house every time I went to Georgia so I’m excited to replicate that here at the restaurant and hopefully, I have been doing that through my time working with Chick-fil-A and then also serve really great food. I’m excited for that. I love our food and so, I’m just excited to get to meet the community as well because hopefully, I will be here a longtime,” said Garduno-Hernandez.
Helping to roll out the new franchise operation will be nearly 90 fully trained employees.
She says opening day will be packed with fun including a chance for guests to snag some free food.
“Dining room will be open. Drive thru will be open. We are also doing a Cows Eat Free event. So, if you wear cow prints, you do get a free entrée and it’s like a sandwich, fries, nuggets – it’s listed on our website. We are just hoping to connect with the community really well. We understand that we might have hiccups. But we just want to make a good impression on the community and just also connect with the community long term as well because that is our goal — to start with serving you guys in the restaurant and bring more events here -- eventually do kids nights and bingo -- so we are looking forward to it,” said Garduno-Hernandez.
Seguin’s new Chick-fil-A restaurant will be open Mondays through Saturdays from 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Again, doors officially open at 6:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 23.


















Our beloved Benito Castro Jr., age 82, of Seguin, Texas, was called home by our Heavenly Father on Friday, October 17, 2025. Benito was born on October 25, 1942 to Petra (Cruz) and Benito Castro Sr.
Benito was preceded in death by his loving wife, Amparo Castro; parents; sister, Juanita Mercado and brother, Miguel Castro Sr.
He is survived by his sister, Guadalupe Mayes and her husband, Max.
Benito is also lovingly remembered by numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends — especially his niece, Esther Tiemann, who took such

Alvin Lee Petty, age 86 of Seguin, passed away on October 14, 2025. Alvin was born in San Antonio, Texas on December 4, 1938 to Mary S. (Roberts) and Alcyone Lee Petty.
Alvin is preceded in death by his loving wife of 56 years, Nadine Martha Saathoff Petty, his daughter, Deanna Lee Petty, his parents, and his brother-in-law, Michael Saathoff.
Survivors include his daughter, Lana Zunker and husband Darryl; son, Alvin L. Petty, Jr. and wife Lori; grandchildren, Kaci Gibbons and husband Ben, Kade Zunker and wife Amanda, Kendyl Bridges and husband Tyler, Alvin Lee Petty, III and wife Gina, and Taylor Petty; great-grandchildren, Jakob, Blaine and Harper Gibbons, and Lucas and Lane
wonderful care of him during these last several years.
Benito will be deeply missed and forever cherished in our hearts.
Benito was employed at Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority for over 20 years and retired his career there. He will be remembered for his hard work and dedication.
Visitation will be held Thursday, October 23, 2025 at 9:30 a.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. A Holy Rosary will be recited at 10:00 a.m. follow by a Funeral Mass 10:30 a.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. Burial will follow at 2:00 p.m. at San Juan Cemetery in Prairie Lea, Texas.
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.
Zunker; brother, James Petty and wife Mary; sister, Mary Margaret Fisk; sisterin-law, Karen Saathoff; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other loving family members and many friends.
Visitation will begin on Monday, October 20, 2025 at 1 p.m. at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel followed by funeral services at 2 p.m. with the Reverend Jeremy Roy officiating. Interment will follow in the Elm Creek Community Cemetery.
Serving as pallbearers will be Jason Petty, Mikey Saathoff, Jacob Gibbons, Blaine Gibbons, Mark Williams and Brian Lightell.
Memorial contributions may be made to any children’s health charity of 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.





(Undated) -- Some health experts have come up with a new definition of obesity and it would mean nearly 70 percent of people taking part in a study would be obese. Under the new definition, a person is classified as obese if they have a high Body Mass Index and an elevated reading from one of the newer measures of body fat. A person can also be considered obese if they have a normal BMI but at least two elevated results from the newer measures. These measures include waist circumference, waist-to-height ratio and waist-to-hip ratio which some say more accurately assess people’s body fat. Dozens of organizations including the American Heart Association are endorsing the new definition.
(London) -- Thousands of people in the United Kingdom have filed a joint legal claim estimated at over one-billion-dollars against Johnson & Johnson. The lawsuit claims the New Jersey-based pharmaceutical giant sold baby powder it knew was contaminated with cancer causing asbestos. The claim involves over three-thousand people who developed various forms of cancer and other diseases. The suit is based on internal Johnson & Johnson memos and scientific reports. The company has long fought thousands of similar cases n the U.S. Despite winning some appeals, it agreed last year to pay 700-million-dollars in a national settlement to resolve claims that it misled customers.
California
(Sacramento, CA) -- California will be the first state in the US to require restaurants with 20 or more locations to list major food allergens on their menus starting in 2026. This includes ingredients like milk, eggs, shellfish, and tree nuts, if present in a menu item. The California Restaurant Association has raised concerns that the law could be costly for businesses and may lead to lawsuits. The nonprofit group Food Allergy Research and Education believes the law, while not perfect, is a significant step toward protecting people with food allergies.
(Undated) -- Health experts are emphasizing the importance of washing hands to prevent illnesses from being spread as we enter cold and flu season. The CDC says regularly washing your hands can help reduce the spread of germs, including respiratory illnesses by up to 21 percent. Doctor Allan Capin, an urgent care physician at the Cleveland Clinic says that means after a cough, sneeze, bathroom use, handling food, taking out the garbage and being out in public. Capin says hand washing should go on for at least 20 seconds.


























NPower is accepting applications for its no-cost Spring 2026 Tech Fundamentals Program, which provides a pathway to in-demand IT careers. The program is tuition-free for eligible applicants, including military veterans, military spouses, and young adults (18-26) in Seguin and the surrounding Central Texas communities. The program includes 16–20 weeks of virtual training, leading to industry certifications such as CompTIA A+ and Google IT Support, along with professional mentoring and job placement services. Interested applicants must live within 100 miles of San Antonio. To apply, visit npower.org/apply/tech-fundamentals.
The Seguin Art League invites the community to its Annual Fall Show, running from October 10 through November 7, 2025. This exhibition will showcase the diverse talent of local artists in various media. The show is open for viewing at the Seguin Art League Gallery, 104 S. Austin St., Seguin. The gallery hours are Monday through Friday, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
The City of Seguin is now accepting applications for its Business Improvement Grant (BIG) Program. This reimbursement-based grant is aimed at the development and expansion of business enterprises within the city. Applicants may be eligible to receive up to a 75% matching grant, with a maximum award of $10,000. Eligible improvements include façade and sign improvements, site improvements, and the addition of new equipment and machinery. Applications are considered on a first-come, first-served basis. Program guidelines and applications can be found on the Seguin Economic Development Corporation’s website at www.SeguinEDC.com.
Sip ‘n Stroll Mug Sale and Artist Meet-and-Greet
The annual sale of the Sip ‘n Stroll mug will begin at Pecan Fest, where the Fall Trade Days are held in Central Park. The 2025 mug features a colorful rendition of the Juan Seguin Statue created by artist Diana Bravo Gonzalez. You can meet the artist herself at Pecan Fest for a chance to get your mug signed. Following Pecan Fest, the mugs will be available for sale at Gift & Gourmet and Keeper’s Interiors, as well as other downtown Seguin locations, until sold out.
Buck Fever 40th Anniversary
The 40th Anniversary Buck fever event will be held beginning at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, October 22nd and Thursday October 23rd. Tickets are $10 for
adults and kids 18 and under are free. For a complete listing of events and activities, visit buckfever. org.
Geronimo VFW halloween party
The Geronimo VFW will have a Children’s Halloween Party from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thrusday, October 23rd. There will be free hot dogs, games and prizes.
American Legion Post #245
American legion post #245 will host a Trunk or Treat from 5 to 7pm on Friday, October 24th at 618 E. Kingsbury St. in Seguin.
Emanuel’s Lutheran Day School Trunk or Treat. There will be an Emanuel’s Lutheran Day School Community Trunk or Treat Event from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m .on Saturday, Oct. 25th at 1121 S. Austin St. in Seguin.
Seguin Little League Trunk or Treat
The Seguin Little League will have its Trunk or Treat from 5:30-7:30p.m. on Saturday, Oct 25th at 1121 S Austin St. in Seguin.
Gabe Galvan Band
The Silver Center will be hosting the Gabe Galvan Band at 7:30 p.m. on October 24th 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.
Faith Lutheran Church Trunk or Treat
The Faith Lutheran Church will ahve its Trunk or Treat from 4-5:30 p.m. on Sunday, October 26th.
Redeemer United Church Harvest Festival
Redeemer United Church will be hosting its annual Harvest Festival on Sunday, October 26, 2025, at the Bexar Social Hall, 15681 Bexar Bowling Rd. in Marion. Worship begins at 10:30 a.m. celebrating Redeemer’s 125 years, featuring German music by the Beethoven Maennerchor. Turkey dinner plates are $15 with drive-thru service starting at 11:00 a.m. and dine-in at 11:30 a.m. The event also includes live and silent auctions, a raffle, bake sale, country store, and children’s activities. For more information, contact Redeemer Church at 830-914-2168 or visit www.RedeemerZuehl.org.
Representatives of the Seguin Women’s Clubs will be hosting the Riverside Cemetery Tour on Saturday, October 26. This year’s tour highlights the stories of women who lived and worked alongside the men who established the Seguin community. Guests will meet historical figures among the shady Live Oaks
at their gravesites and hear firsthand accounts of life along the Guadalupe River, from early days to recent history. Ticket proceeds benefit the Delphians, Seguin Study, and Shakespeare clubs, supporting the upkeep of their historic meeting house built in 1903.
There will be a Boo Bash from 6-8p.m. Tuesday, October 28th in the parking lot near Tschoepe Hall on the campus of Texas Lutheran University
15th Annual Downtown Trick-or-Treat
The Seguin Main Street Program will host its 15th Annual Downtown Trick-or-Treat on Thursday, October 30, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.. This free, family-friendly event invites children of all ages to visit over 50 participating businesses in downtown Seguin for candy and treats. For more information, you can contact the Main Street Program at (830) 401-2475.
Seguin FD Trick or Treat Night
The Seguin Fire Department will have an Open House and Trick or Treat Night from 5-8 p.m. on Friday, October 31st at 110 Elm Street in Seguin.
There will be a Trunk or Treat night from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, October 31st at 603 E. Kingsbury St. in Seguin.
Seguin Elks Lodge Halloween Event
The SEguin Elks Lodge will have a halloween Event at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, October 31st at 1331 C.H. Mathies Drieve.
First Methodist Church Trunk or Treat
The First Methodist Church will have a Trunk or Treat at 6 p.m. Friday Oct. 31st at 710. N. Austin St. in Seguin.
First Presbyterian Church Trunk or Treat.
The First Presbyterian Church will host a Trunk or Treat from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Friday, October 31st at 1121 E. Walnut St. in Seguin.
The Kingsbury Trunk or Treat Kids Cany Festival
The kingsbury Trunk or Treat Kinds Candy Festival will be held from 5-8:30 p.m. on Friday Oct. 31st in Downtown Kingsbury.
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.




Pumpkin Patch First Methodist Church 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and Noon to 7 p.m. Sundays – Saturday, Now through Friday, Oct. 31.
Marion ISD Family Fall Festival 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17 in Marion HS parking lot.
Seguin Fall Festival 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18 in downtown Seguin. Music, car show, pumpkin patch, pet costume contest.
Geronimo VFW Children’s Halloween Party 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 23. Free hot dogs, games, prizes.
American Legion Post #245 will host a Trunk or Treat 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 24 at 618 E. Kingsbury St.
Trunk or Treat plus bake sale and raffle at AVIR (formerly Nesbit Living and Recovery) Friday, Oct. 24 from 6 to 8 p.m. at 1215 Ashby St.
Emanuel’s Lutheran Day School Community Trunk or Treat 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24 at 310 N. Travis St.
Seguin Little League Trunk or Treat 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25 at 1121 S. Austin St.
Windmill Farm Winer’s 4th Annual Halloween Festival 3 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25 at 9111 Huber Rd.
Halloween Party at Olmos Icehouse 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25 at 9071 FM 467. Free costume contest, candy and pumpkin carving contest.
Gruene Harley Davidson Trunk or Treat 7 to 8:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25 at 1288 Loop 337 New Braunfels.
Faith Lutheran Church Trunk or Treat, 4 to 5:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 26. (New) Attendees asked to bring canned goods for pumpkin judging contest.
Pecan Fest at Big Red Barn 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 25 at 390 Cordova Rd.
Pecan Fest in Central Park 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25.
Spooktacular Fall Fest & Health Fair 3 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25 at Beyond Coffee, Rapid Urgent Car, and Seguin Wellness & MedSpa at 920 W. Court St. Pumpkin patch photo, candy, cookie and pumpkin decorating plus health screenings.
BS Brewing Trunk or Treat 5 to 7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 26 at 1408 Old Lehmann Rd.
Trunk or Treat 5 to 6:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 27 at 1210 Eastwood Drive hosted by GVNC and Windsor Nursing.
Texas Lutheran University Boo Bash 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 28. in parking lot near Tschoepe Hall.
Trunk or Treat at River City (Schertz) 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 29 at 16765 Lookout Rd in Schertz.
La Vernia Halloween Movie Night (Hocus Pocus) 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 29. Trick or treat, costume contest, games.
Seguin Main Street 15th annual Downtown Trick or Treat 4 to 6 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 30. Fifty participating businesses will have candy.
Seguin PD’s Halloween on College Street, 4:30 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31. Officers will be stationed at various posts along the street.
Seguin Fire Department Open House and Trick or Treat Night 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31 at 110 Elm St.
Seguin Elks Lodge 5:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31. at 1331 C.H. Matthies Dr.
First Methodist Church Trunk or Treat 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31. At 710 N. Austin St.
Trunk or Treat hosted by Unity Lifestyle Car Club 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31 in Seguin’s Central Park. Food trucks and live music.
Trunk or Treat Beck & Beck Buick GMC 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31 at 603 E. Kingsbury St.
Trunk or Treat First Presbyterian Church 6 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31 at 1121 E. Walnut St.
Trick or Treating at Seguin Argent Court Assisted Living on Friday, Oct. 31 at 953 SH 123 Bypass.
Kingsbury Trunk or Treat Kids Candy Festival 5 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31. in downtown Kingsbury.
Not-so-Spooky Story Time (Ages 5 & under) 6 to 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31 at Marion Community Library.
Old Town Cibolo Trick or Treat Block Park 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31 at 302 N. Main St. Cibolo.
Schertz Halloween Festival 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31 at Schertz United Methodist Church at 3460 Roy Richard Dr. in Schertz.









Notice is hereby given that original Letters of Testamentary for the Estate of Jerome J. Hansmann, Deceased, were issued on October 16, 2025, in Cause No. 2025-PC-0336, pending in the County Court of Guadalupe County, Texas, to: Dolores Mariann Hansmann aka Dolores Martin Hansmann. All persons having claims against this Estate which is currently being administered are required to present them to the undersigned within the time and in the manner prescribed by law. c/o: Frank B. Suhr Attorney at Law, 473 S. Seguin Ave, Ste. 100, New Braunfels, Texas 78130 - DATED the 16th day of October, 2025









