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Volume 61 l Number 171
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The Voice of Seguin
Guadalupe County fair kickoff weekend moves forward, rain or shine
WEEKEND EDITION
TODAY
BBQ contest, mutton bustin, cornhole plus team roping among the events Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
(Seguin) -- The countdown to the Guadalupe County Fair is officially underway with its annual pre-fair events. The Guadalupe County Fair Association’s kickoff weekend is set for Friday through Sunday at the fairgrounds. Again, taking center stage is the 2026 State Championship BBQ Cookoff, Tom Fox, a member of the barbecue committee, points out that the barbecue will continue regardless of the weather. He says organizers of all events this weekend have prepared for wet conditions, including parking options and access to electricity for campers and cookers. Fox says this marks the 23rd year for the event with proceeds benefiting the fair association’s scholarship fund. Although the weekend has arrived, Fox says there is still time for barbecue enthusiasts to sign up.
Photo courtesy GCFair.org
A history worth CELEBRATING Here’s a look back at First Presbyterian Church of Seguin, which traces its roots to 1851. The church this Saturday is inviting the community to an anniversary celebration. The congregation has worshipped in several locations throughout its 175-year history including here near Central Park before building its current church at 1121 E. Walnut St. in 1953. Courtesy photos. See story on page2.
Seguin Marching Festival returns this Saturday “We’re still taking registration forms, so they can go on our website, gcfair.org, and look under fair events, and down there under fair events, (you will)find the barbecue cookoff page,” said Fox. “We’ve got plenty of space out here on the grounds.” This year’s cookoff also comes with an added incentive. Fair, pg. 3
Thirteen bands on the full day schedule Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
(Seguin) – The sound of marching bands will again fill Matador Stadium Saturday as Seguin High School hosts its ninth annual Seguin Marching Festival. The event each year brings hundreds of student musicians and their supporters to town for a full day of competition. Marching, pg. 3
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175 years of faith: First Presbyterian Church invites community to celebrate Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
(Seguin) -- Way before the city even had many of today’s churches, buildings and landmarks, a small group of Presbyterians was already gathering to worship here in Seguin. This weekend, First Presbyterian Church of Seguin will celebrate 175 years of history during its communitywide anniversary festival. Officials say the church was officially organized on Aug. 27, 1851, making its beginnings part of Seguin's early history and placing its formation before the Civil War. The congregation, however, didn’t immediately have a church building of its own. Early services were held in the Methodist church, the county courthouse, academies and eventually a meeting hall of the Sons of Temperance. It wasn't until 1876 that First Presbyterian had its own church building downtown, one block from the square. The congregation later moved to its current home at 1121 E. Walnut St., where it has been since 1953. Travis Anderson, outreach committee co-chair, says the 175-year milestone is a chance to not only celebrate history but also open the church's doors to the broader community. "On hundred seventy-five years is quite a long time,
and we were formed before the Civil War, if you think about that -- that's to give you perspective," said Anderson. The free festival is set for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 3, at the church and will feature activities for families, including a water slide, bounce house, outdoor games, cornhole and local food trucks. “Everyone in the community is welcome to come. Bring your family, bring your friends, and have a great day with us," said Anderson. "We're hoping to get as many people as we can to come and help us celebrate our 175th anniversary." The celebration will continue after the festival with a free family movie at 4 p.m. at the Palace Theatre located at 314 S. Austin St. The Palace Theatre will be sponsoring the movie. Complimentary popcorn and drinks will be provided. Today, the congregation is led by interim pastor Rev. Caryn Thurman as the church searches for a new pastor. The anniversary celebration will also include a special commemorative worship service at 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 18, led by Bobby Musengwa, transitional general presbyter of Mission Presbytery. The service will be followed by refreshments and fellowship. First Presbyterian Church is located at 1121 E. Walnut St.
Guadalupe County residents reminded of Monday’s voter registration deadline Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
(Seguin) -- Those needing to register to vote only have a few more days in which to make sure they are officially added to the Guadalupe County voter rolls. Guadalupe County Clerk Teresa Kiel, who is overseeing the Guadalupe County Elections Office, is reminding residents that Monday, Oct. 5 is the deadline to register to vote or make changes to their voter registration. Kiel says registrations and changes must be postmarked by Oct. 5 in order to be processed for the November election. Kiel says even if folks are unsure
of whether or not they are registered, they are always encouraged to check with the elections office. “We are open. We’re usually here at 7, but we’re open from 8 to 5 weekly daily. We’re even up here on Saturdays some days, and you can call and we’ll answer the phone,” said Kiel. Voters are also reminded that they can access sample ballots through the Guadalupe County elections website. Kiel says residents can request a sample ballot online or a limited amount can be picked up at the Elections Office. Again, Kiel encourages residents
who have not yet registered to do so before the deadline. “I just want to encourage everybody to register to vote and be sure and make your voice heard,” said Kiel. Residents who are unsure whether their registration information is current can check online or contact the Guadalupe County Elections Office for assistance. The Elections Office, located at 3251 State Highway 123 North, is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The office can also be reached by calling 830-303-6363.
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Fair, continued. Fox says the fair board has committed to a $10,000 guaranteed payout in prize money. “We’re going to pay $10,000 in prize money, no matter how much we bring in,” said Fox. “So. we’re going to pay the bill and hopefully this is going to help grow our cookoff, and we’ll have more cookers coming back next year.” Friday evening includes the cooks’ choice and dessert categories, followed by Saturday’s schedule which includes jackpot beans, chicken, pork ribs, pork and brisket. Fox says the competition offers categories for experienced barbecue cooks as well as for those just looking for a fun weekend with family and friends. “If you’re one of those people that like to cook and that’s what most of these people are, it’s families that come out here and cook,” said Fox. “It’s not a high-pressure event. Like I said, we have some good prize money this year, but some of these guys are just doing it for the fun and for getting their families out here to go have a good time for the weekend.” The Future of Barbecue competition will also be held for youth and is a CBA-sanctioned event featuring
boneless pork chops, with entries costing $25. Awards are scheduled for 5:15 p.m. Saturday. The weekend, however, will feature more than just barbecue. Saturday’s schedule also includes a Wild West Rodeo Kids Day, featuring activities such as box car races, cornhole, sack races, a funny farm race, stick horse stampede and pig wrangling. The activities begin with check-in at 10:30 a.m. and continue throughout the afternoon. A cornhole tournament hosted by Backyard Jokerz, benefiting the fair’s scholarship fund, begins with checkin by noon. Cost is $25 per player. DJ Noel will also provide music from noon to 7 p.m. The day also includes the Mutton Bustin’ Bonanza, with check-in at 3:30 p.m. and competition at 5 p.m. On Sunday, Oct. 4, the fairgrounds will host the Guadalupe County Scholarship Roping Fiesta, with team roping beginning at 9 a.m. and breakaway roping beginning after 1 p.m. Books for the event open at 8 a.m. The Guadalupe County Fair and PRC Rodeo will follow Oct. 8-11. Again, registration information and online entries are available at gcfair.org.
Marching, continued. The festival is scheduled to go on as planned despite the possibility of rain. Organizers say they are hopeful the weather will move through before the competition begins. Heather Brown, Seguin ISD color guard director and Impact Performing Arts Center coordinator, says the festival has become an important annual event for both the band program and the community. “So. this is our ninth marching festival that we've hosted at Seguin High School. It is our largest fundraiser for the Seguin band program. We host bands all the way up into the Austin area -- all the way down, across the greater San Antonio area,” said Brown. This year's competition will feature 13 visiting bands representing Class 3A, 4A and 6A schools. Brown sasy bands will compete within their individual classifications during preliminaries before coming together for finals, where they will compete for the festival's grand champion trophy. Participating schools this weekend will include Ingram Tom Moore High School, Natalia High School, Odem High School, Luling High School, Hondo High School, Travis High School, Navarro High
School, Del Rio High School, Canyon High School, San Marcos High School, Holmes High School, Steele High School and Wagner High School. Brown says the festival also gives visiting students and families an opportunity to spend time in Seguin, whether they're grabbing a drink between performances or stopping for a meal. “They love Arlans, believe it or not, they love being able to go and steps away from where they park their buses to go and get, you know, a quick Gatorade, and then they'll go and feed their kids, you know, now we have options of Chick-fil-A, and there's other restaurants in town. With all these events that we have now, it's just helping our community grow,” said Brown. The bands visiting will compete throughout the day, with the Seguin Matador Band scheduled to perform in exhibition at 8:45 p.m.
Brown says Saturday night's performance will offer a chance to see the 2026 show in its entirety. She says because of this year's weather, the band has had only one opportunity to perform its show at home so far. “So, please come out and see our own Matador band at 8:45 on Saturday night. It's going to be the first time we do the entire show. We still have one more sneaky surprise that's going to come out later next week,” said Brown. The festival will be held Saturday, Oct. 3, at Seguin High School's Matador Stadium. Admission is $15 for adults and $8 for students. There is no charge for children 5 and younger. Tickets can be purchased with cash or card at the gate. Local residents are also reminded that Cedar Street will be closed temporarily on Saturday to allow the visiting bands to move safely from their warm-up area to the stadium.
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7 VITAL STATISTICS
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BAITZ
Survivors include his loving wife of 41 years, Beth Baitz; niece, Harlie Blauw and husband Jesse; great-niece, Adeline Blauw; great-nephew, Sterling Blauw; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Janice and Ken Grenier; sister-inlaw, Rebecca Grenier; brother-in-law, Kenneth “Buzz” Grenier, II and wife Karen; Big Fur Baby, Tina; other loving family and many friends. A memorial service celebrating Tim’s life will be held on Sunday, October 11, 2026, at 2 p.m. at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel with the Reverend Robert K. Odom officiating. A reception will follow at the Lifegate Fellowship Hall. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Lifegate Christian School, 395 Lifegate Lane, 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.
REININGER
proudest projects was the restoration of a 1966 Mustang. And while Ray always seemed to have something he was working on, he was just as likely to have a story to tell or a conversation to strike up- and once he got started, he could talk your ear off. Over the years, his interests included collecting and selling sports cards and comic books. Later in life, he turned his attention to growing produce and raising chickens, selling his goods at area farmers markets. He was an avid sports fan, had a deep interest in researching family genealogy, and could happily pass the time playing computer solitaire. Ray was preceded in death by his son, Timothy Christopher Reininger; his parents, Velma and Elmond Otto Reininger; and his brother, Delmar Wayne Reininger. Survivors include his loving wife, Deborah “Debbie” Reininger; daughter, Rayanne DuChane and husband Greg; sons, Eric Reininger and wife Erin, Michael Reininger, Joseph Reininger, and Thomas Reininger and wife Robbin; grandchildren, Kelsey, Shelby and fiancé Tristan, Garrett and partner Mia, Alissa, Connor, Sydney, Liam, Harper, and Blakely; great-grandson, Christopher; step-daughters, Jackie Lopez and husband Reyes, Jessica Arcega and husband Cain, and Jennifer Baerwald; stepgrandchildren, Brooklyn, Bruno, Gruene, Zara, Kaden, JJ, and Christian; as well as numerous other loving family members and a host of friends. Graveside services and interment with military honors will be held on Friday, October 9, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at San Geronimo Cemetery, with the Reverend Jeremy Roy officiating. Immediately following the graveside service, family and friends are invited to gather for a reception at one of Ray’s favorite local stops, BS Brewing, 1408 Old Lehmann Rd., Seguin, where he could often be found on Friday Evenings enjoying a burger, a cold beer, and good company. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made 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.
GAITAN
Perez III, of Seguin, Jose Barron Jr., Maria Barron, Pedro Barron, and Gloria Barron, all of Greeley, Colorado; six great-grandchildren Pedro Barron Jr., Abel Jimenez, Nayomi Cano, Daniel Barron, Roman Barron, and Aisack Leija, all of Greeley, Colorado. Mary enjoyed going to Market Square, the movies, out to eat, and enjoyed making Big Red cake. She enjoyed spending time with her grandkids and great-greandkids. Funeral service will be held on Wednesday Sept. 30, 2026 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church starting with viewing from 9 to 9:30a.m., followed by the rosary at 9:30a.m., and mass beginning at 10a.m.
Timothy Ray “Tim” Baitz, age 60 of Seguin, passed away on September 23, 2026. Tim was born on October 5, 1965, in Abilene, Texas to Patricia (Summers) and Joe Ray Baitz. Tim owned and operated the Seguin Laser Wash for the past 22 years. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle in his spare time, throughout the countryside. He was proficient in all things, computers and tech and always made time for that. Cooking, especially barbequing was a favorite pastime, and his briskets were always requested by family and friends. As of late, he had fun with pinball machines. Tim is preceded in death by his parents, and his sister Pamela Baitz.
Elmond “Ray” Reininger, age 79 of Seguin, passed away on September 17, 2026. Ray was born on April 5, 1947, in Seguin, Texas, to Velma (Schroeder) and Elmond Otto Reininger. A lifelong Seguin native, Ray graduated from Seguin High School in 1965. He joined the United States Navy during the Vietnam era, serving his country as an electronics technician. Following his military service, Ray returned home to Seguin and began what would become a long career in law enforcement, first serving as a patrolman with the Seguin Police Department. He later attended Southwest Texas State University in San Marcos, earning his degree in law enforcement while supporting himself as an electronics technician for Motorola. After graduation, Ray attended the U.S. Border Patrol Academy and served as a Border Patrol agent for three years. In 1978, he began the longest chapter of his law enforcement career with the former U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS). He devoted nearly two decades to federal law enforcement before retiring in 1997 as a Special Agent. During these years, Ray and his former wife, Cynthia Medlin, raised their six children in Seguin. Service remained an important part of Ray’s life long after his retirement. He was active in veterans and federal retiree organizations, including the American Legion and the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association (NARFE), where he served his local chapter. His passion for genealogy also led to many years of service with the Comal County Genealogy Society. He served as vice president for six years before becoming president in 2022 and later serving as treasurer and past president. In 2015, Ray married Deborah “Debbie” Reininger who remained with him until his death. Ray’s interests were as varied as the chapters of his life. A self taught builder and craftsman, he built two of his own homes and was rarely afraid to take on a project himself. He also had a lifelong love of cars. One of his Mary Villarreal Gaitan of Seguin, Texas passed away at the age of 81 on Sep.24, 2026. She was born on Nov. 18, 1944 in Seguin, Texas. She is proceeding in death with her late husband Roman Gaitan. She is survived by her son Rudy Gaitan of Seguin, her daughter Donna Barron and son-in-law Joe Barron both of Greeley, Colorado; five grandkids Domingo Anthony
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BRUNS
The Reverend Thomas Charles Bruns, age 88 of Seguin, passed away on September 24, 2026. Tom was born on July 15, 1938, in El Paso, Texas to Florence Julia “Nina” (Wilson) and Joseph Louis Bruns. Tom was a graduate of the University of Texas and Virginia Theological Seminary. He was ordained at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Seguin. Always a Texas Longhorn fan, he took great delight in following the teams, regardless of
where he lived. He served as an Episcopal priest in Llano, Eagle Pass, Pleasanton, and Lockhart. He retired when stationed in Poplar Bluff, Missouri. After retirement, he and Martha moved to Seguin, where they enjoyed country living on acreage east of Seguin. They later moved to Mexico where he and Martha enjoyed retirement living in San Miguel De Allende. After a few years, they returned to Seguin and lived in the residential area established on land once owned by Tom’s grandparents. He was always proud of that fact and never failed to tell that to someone he had just met. He was an active Rotarian in all the communities in which they lived,
VYORAL
David Louis Vyoral, 74, of Seguin and Rockport, passed away on September 24, 2026. He was born on December 10, 1951, in Liberty, Texas, to Ruby Marguerite (Damek) and Eddie Louis Vyoral. David grew up with a natural talent for building, fixing, and imagining what things could become. From tinkering with cars and working on the farm alongside his father, David’s hands were always creating, restoring, and improving. David was a dreamer and a doer. At the age of 17, he drove his rebuilt Austin Healy cross country by himself. The year before he turned 30, he rebuilt a wellworn 25’ sailboat and singlehanded it across the Gulf of Mexico. He was eventually joined by his wife Ann, and together they explored the Florida Keys and Bahamas, as they began a life filled with travel, creation, friends, and cats. David was a proud graduate of the University of Texas, with a BS in Mechanical Engineering. His career took him from National Supply in Houston, Texas, to the Georgetown County Water and Sewer District in South Carolina, and back to Texas for his job as the Aransas County Road and Bridge Engineer in Rockport, each move offering new opportunities
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having been a club president more than once. While in Pleasanton, he was an active volunteer in the fire department and held the City of Pleasanton position of Fire Marshall. Tom is preceded in death by his son, John Burgwin Bruns and his parents. Survivors include his loving wife, Martha Bruns; son, Thomas Meade Bruns of San Antonio; daughters, Melany Head of Austin, and Maria Miller and husband Jonathan of Leander; proud grandpa to Alan Miller and Dillon J. Head; twin brother, Joe Bruns and wife Sue Ellen “Sudy”; sister, Dorothy Bauer and husband Sydney; numerous nieces, nephews, other loving family members and a host of friends. A memorial service celebrating Tom’s life will be held on Thursday, October 8th, 2026, at 10 a.m. at St. Andrews Episcopal Church with The Rt. Rev. Bishop Angela Cortiñas and the Reverends Stephen Shortess and Karen Morris officiating. A reception will follow. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 201 E. Nolte St., 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.
to restore homes (and one big commercial building). He traveled when he could—always drawn to the water wherever he went. David and Ann retired in Seguin, where he embraced his final dream of transforming an old house overlooking the Guadalupe River into a home with a garage big enough for all of his tools and room to play pool with his friends. He poured the same care into their retreat on Salt Lake in Rockport, where they went to watch the sun rise whenever they could. David never stopped building, fixing, helping, or telling people how they should do things. David is survived by his wife, Ann (Holzschuher), his sister, Jeanette Calhoun, nephews, Brian (Lisa) Calhoun and Bradley (Angie) Calhoun, and niece, Ashley (Carlos) Seckler, along with honorary nieces Thea Setterbo and Katie ( Jeffrey) Goodall. He also leaves behind his “harem” - a group of strong women who lent unending support to David and his wife. In lieu of flowers, David would want you to donate to NPR or a charity of your choice, root for the Texas Longhorns, or vote for Eric Norman (Guadalupe County) and James Talarico (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.
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QUINTANILLA
(Rick), Mary Ann Trevino, Lucy Lerma ( Jesse), Janie Villareal (Rudy), and Frank Quintanilla (Mary); sisters-in-law, Diane Quintanilla, and Diane Serna (Ramon); brothers-in-law, Daniel Trevino, and Rudy Garcia (Mary); numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other loving family members and many friends. Visitation will begin on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Stockdale followed by the recitation of the Holy Rosary at 9:30 a.m. and the Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. with the Reverend Pius Ezeigbo officiating. Interment will follow in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery. A reception will be announced. The family extends a special thank you to his Hope Hospice team, and immense gratitude to his team of caregivers; Sofi Rodriguez, Mona Pantoja, Lucy Lerma, Rosie Henderson, Lori Castilleja, Gloria Castellon, and Rachel de la Garza. 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.
GRIFFITH
cities of Vinita, Bartlesville, Muskogee, and Okmulgee. In 1964 they moved their young family to Texas, living in the cities of Abilene, Dallas, Temple, Waco, Palestine, Marshall, Denton, Alice, Portland, and New Braunfels. After their youngest graduated High School, they moved to Seguin, where they lived their last 26 years together. Along the way they made many lifelong friends and were deeply invested in the life and leadership of the local Churches of Christ. Jean was a faithful follower of Jesus and lived her life accordingly. She initially was a stay-at-home mom, but later began to work as an aide in nursing homes. Jean then began working for Walmart, a career that stretched 35+ years. She loved her time at Walmart and made many dear friends while working there. Jean was also quite the collector! Her greatest love of collecting were her teapots, glass chickens and roosters. She was known by many as the “chicken lady” and was gifted hundreds of glass chickens and roosters. She also loved collecting decorative items depicting bluebonnets and cardinals. Other collections of hers included glass heart dishes and Cinderella memorabilia. Jean loved a good hamburger, especially from Kirby’s in Seguin. Her other “joys” in life included corn nuggets, the color yellow, cryptogram and crossword puzzles, Hallmark movies, romance novels, Lindor chocolate and Diet Coke. She will be dearly missed by friends and family and will always be remembered as a strong, vibrant lady who loved her Lord and family fervently. May she rest in peace with those who preceded her to their heavenly home.
Lorenzo Rivas Quintanilla, age 91 of Seguin, formerly of Stockdale, passed away on September 28, 2026. Lorenzo was born on November 6, 1934, in Denhawken, Texas to Inez (Rivas) and Fernando Vasquez Quintanilla. Lorenzo is preceded in death by his parents, his son-in-law, Frank Lopez, his sisters, Ella Trevino and Frances Guerra and husband, Alfred, and brothers, Fernando, Samuel, Florentino, Daniel, Rudy and Rene Quintanilla. Survivors include his loving wife of 67 years, Dolores Garcia Quintanilla; children, Nelda Lopez, Lori Quintanilla and husband Raymond Zepeda, Jr. and Roland Quintanilla and husband Ken Mohundro; grandchildren, Patrick Lopez and wife Liz, Bryanna Gleason and husband Marshal, Jalietza Zepeda and Jamila Zepeda; great-grandchildren, Ethan, Mason, Liam, Madison, and Austin Lopez; siblings, Clara Rangel, Sylvia Quintanilla
Emma Jean Griffith, born November 7, 1938 in Carselowey, OK peacefully gained her heavenly wings on September 17, 2026. She is preceded in death by her husband of 61 years Stephen Roger Griffith, her parents Emma Martin & Isaac Merit Waldrop, brothers Isaac “Bob”, Harold and Melvin Waldrop, and daughter Vickie Jean Duncan. Emma is survived by her sister Mary White, sons Stephen “Mark” (Teresia), Kevin (Michele), Kyle ( Jennifer), and 11 grandchildren, their spouses and 7 great grandchildren. Jean was born on a farm in the rural farming community of Carselowey in northeast Oklahoma. While still in grade school her family moved to the city of Vinita, OK. Shortly before Jean graduated from Vinita High (Class of ‘56) she married her high school sweet-heart, Steve (Class of ‘54). Steve and Jean were married on April 29, 1956 - a marriage that lasted for 61 years before Steve’s death in 2017. One year after they were married they welcomed their first child Vickie Jean in June of 1957, and then Stephen Mark in January 1959. Their third child, Kevin Bruce, was born in November of 1963, and their 4th child, Kyle Edward was added to the family in May of 1972. In their 61 years of marriage Steve and Jean lived in the Oklahoma
10 VITAL STATISTICS BRUNS
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Sue Ellen “Sudy” Bruns, age 83 of Seguin, Texas, passed away on September 28, 2026. Sudy was born on December 21, 1942, in Rawlins, Wyoming, to Sue and Oliver McClellan. Before her second birthday, Sudy moved with her family to Maracaibo, Venezuela. In Venezuela she picked up an extensive Spanish vocabulary that remained with her for life. Sudy’s family returned to the United States in 1950, settling in San Antonio. She was proud to be a Lasso at Thomas Jefferson High School where she graduated in 1960. After high school, Sudy studied history at the University of Texas. While at UT, she joined Alpha Chi Omega serving as football team captain and president her senior year. During summer months, Sudy worked at Camp Capers where she met her future husband, Joe Bruns. Sudy graduated from UT in 1964 and was married later that year in San Antonio. Joe and Sudy moved to Seguin, and she began teaching history at Seguin High School in 1966. The high school needed a tennis coach, so Sudy volunteered. In 1972, Sudy completed a master’s degree in American history from Southwest Texas State University in San Marcos. Joe and Sudy’s first son, Winston, was born in 1975. For many years, Sudy taught history at Texas Lutheran College. With Preston Reeves as her doubles partner, she won several TLC intramural tennis championships. In 1982, Joe and Sudy’s second son, Morgan, was born. Sudy joined the Seguin Study Club in 1966 and remained active for most of her life including serving as president. In 1980, she became a member of the Shakespeare Club, which also met in the Women’s Federated Club
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Rooms. The clubhouse became a passion for Sudy, and she was regularly involved in maintenance and restoration efforts. In 2012, Sudy helped to start the “Saints Alive” Riverside Cemetery tour to raise funds for the clubhouse. Sudy was a lifelong Episcopalian and faithful member of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church. As an avid reader and lover of learning, she was a strong supporter of the Friends of the Library. For many years, Wednesday evenings were spent playing bridge with her close friends. She was involved in many tennis leagues, and later in life took up distance running. Reluctantly, she began competing in the Capitol 10,000 in Austin in which she was the top finisher in her age group two years in a row. Sudy is preceded in death by her parents, her sister, Gigi McClellan, her brother-in-law, Thomas Bruns, and her nephew, John Bruns. Survivors include her loving husband of 62 years, Joe H. Bruns; her two sons, Winston Bruns and wife Sara, and Morgan Bruns and wife Marissa; grandchildren, Ryker, Soleil, Micah, Oliver, and Charlie Bruns; siblings, Nancy Koenig, Celeste McClellan, and Barr McClellan; sisters-in-law, Dorothy Bauer and husband Syd, and Martha Bruns; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other loving family members and many friends. A memorial service celebrating Sudy’s life will be held on Monday, October 5, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church with the Reverend Stephen Shortess officiating. A reception will follow in the family home. Memorial contributions may be made in Sudy’s honor to Friends of the Library at 313 West Nolte St. Seguin, Tx 78155 or St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church 201 E. Nolte St. Seguin, Tx 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.
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New Flu Vaccine Offers More Protection (Seattle, WA) -- A new flu vaccine offers more protection for people older than 50. It uses the same technology that created the vaccines for COVID-19. Doctors at University of Washington Medicine say it’s 30 percent more effective than the standard vaccine. That’s especially important for people older than 50, because their bodies don’t create as many antibodies. The new vaccine is called mFLUSIVA. It’s carried at most CVS and Walgreens pharmacies. Blood Pressure Medication Recalled (Washington, DC) -- More than 25-thousand bottles of a blood pressure medication have been recalled because the tablets may not dissolve properly. The FDA says Inventia Healthcare Limited recalled 25-milligram chlorthalidone tablets after they failed dissolution tests, which could affect how the medication is absorbed. The two recalls involve more than eleven thousand bottles recalled in June and another 13-thousand-five-hundred bottles recalled in September. The FDA classified both recalls as Class Two, meaning the products could cause temporary or medically reversible health problems. Patients taking the recalled medication should contact their doctor or pharmacist before making any changes. Study: Lower Cognitive Test Scores Linked To Increased Stroke Risk (Dallas, TX) -- New research is showing lower cognitive test scores could mean an increased risk of stroke for older adults. The study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association shows lower overall thinking ability tied to an 86 percent higher chance of a stroke. Lower memory scores were linked to a 68 percent higher risk of stroke. The study looked at the risk of first-time stroke in thousands of people ages 60 and older and compared cognitive test scores with later stroke incidents. New Weight Loss Drug (Undated) -- There’s a possible breakthrough in the obesity drug race. Data released this week from a blockbuster Phase Three trial reveals Eli Lilly’s experimental drug retatrutide [[ reh-tuh-TROO-tyde ]] helped patients lose up to 25-percent of their body weight. Dubbed a “triple agonist,” the treatment outperforms traditional GLP-1s by targeting three separate metabolic hormones simultaneously.
Expert Gastro (GI) Care. Right Here in Seguin. ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS
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Watch Dr. Gonzales’ YouTube Video
Expert Care For: • Colon Cancer Screening & Colonoscopy • Heartburn & Acid Reflux • Crohn’s Disease & Ulcerative Colitis • Liver Disease
CALL 830-420-6770 TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT 1339 E. Court St., Suite 230, Seguin, TX 78155
• Abdominal Pain • Digestive Disorders • Preventive GI Care
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20 COMMUNITY
ion Hill Baptist Church celebrates 141st Church Anniversary & Homecoming Zion Hill Baptist Church will celebrate its 141st Church Anniversary and Homecoming on Sunday, Oct. 4. Morning worship begins at 11 a.m. with guest speaker Rev. Roderick Thomas of Alief Baptist Church in Katy. A community musical honoring Pastor Emeritus Rev. W.C. McIntyre for his years of ministry will begin at 2:30 p.m. The church is located at 1952 Zion Hill Road. For more information, call Gloria Richardson at 713-553-5578. Seguin Noon Lions Fall Fling The Seguin Noon Lions Club will host its Fall Fling Thursday, Oct. 1, at the Seguin Silver Center, 510 E. Court St. The event will feature drive-thru pork steak dinners prepared by Next Door Catering. Tickets purchased by Sept. 24 are $15 and will be $20 at the door, if available. Tickets are available from Noon Lions members, Starcke Furniture, Tri County Air and the Silver Center. Proceeds benefit local youth and sight projects. TLU Krost Symposium Texas Lutheran University will host its annual Krost Symposium Sept. 30 through Oct. 2 on the TLU campus. This year’s theme is “The Science of Learning” and will feature keynote speaker Dr. Arturo Hernandez, professor of psychology and author of Mastery. Most symposium events are free and open to the public. La Vernia Happy Soles Square Dance Open House The La Vernia Happy Soles will host a free Square Dance Open House Friday, October 2, from 6 to 9 p.m. at 9585 Highway 87 West in La Vernia. Light refreshments will be served, and newcomers are invited to come give square dancing a try. Beginning square dance lessons start Friday, October 9, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Lessons are $5 per person and will be led by caller Billy Grimsley. For more information, call Billy at 830-305-9114. First Presbyterian Church 175th Anniversary Festival First Presbyterian Church will celebrate its 175th anniversary with a free community festival from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 3, on the church grounds. The event will feature water slides, bounce houses, food trucks and activities for all ages. The celebration continues at 4 p.m. with a free family movie at the Palace Theatre. The festival and movie are free and open to the public. Annual Pumpkin Patch 2026 First Methodist Church of Seguin will begin Pumpkin Patch 2026 on Saturday, October 3rd at 710 N. Austin St. The Pumpkin Patch is open daily from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm Monday through Saturday and noon to 7:00 pm Sundays in October. A second load of pumpkins will arrive on October 17. For more information call 830-379-4112 or go to www. SeguinMethodist.org. Praise in the Pumpkin Patch On Sunday evenings during the month of October there will be a short worship service with live music in the Storytelling area of the Pumpkin Patch at First Methodist Church from 6:30 pm – 7:00 pm. All are welcome. For more information call 830-379-4112. Fall Stream Cleanup Scheduled for October 3 Help protect local waterways by volunteering at the 7th Annual Geronimo and Alligator Creeks Fall Stream Cleanup on Saturday, October 3. Volunteers will meet from 9 a.m. to noon at either the Seguin ISD Irma Lewis Outdoor Learning Center, 1865 E. U.S. Highway 90 in Seguin, or the Oak Creek Estates Pool parking lot, 250 Escarpment Road in New Braunfels. The event is free and open to individuals, families, businesses, schools, churches and community groups. Volunteers will receive breakfast tacos, coffee, an event T-shirt and cleanup
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supplies. Free pre-registration is requested to ensure enough supplies are available. Register online at www.geronimocreekwatershed.org.
Rize Above Dance Studio, an aerialist, vendor market, food trucks, children’s games and prizes, a chili contest and raffles. Proceeds will support campus improvements and classroom supplies at the nonprofit private school.
Guadalupe County Farm Bureau Annual Convention & Dinner The 2026 Guadalupe County Farm Bureau Annual County Convention & Dinner will be held Sunday, Oct. 4, at the Texas Agricultural Education & Heritage Center’s Red Barn. Social hour begins at 5 p.m., followed by dinner at 6 and the meeting at 7 p.m. RSVP to Blake at 830-379-4456 or bbrand@ txfb-ins.com by Sept. 27. Guests are also invited to bring a favorite dessert to share. Guadalupe County Jury Pool Cancelled The Guadalupe County Jury Pool scheduled for Monday, Oct. 5, at 8:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. has been cancelled. Jurors summoned for either of those times do not need to report. After-Hours Networking Event The Guadalupe County Fair Association will sponsor a Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce After-Hours Networking Event from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8, at the Guadalupe County Fair, 728 Midway in Seguin. The community is invited to attend the evening networking event. Living with Alzheimer’s Symposium A Living with Alzheimer’s Symposium will be held from 9 a.m. to noon Thursday, Oct. 8, at the Seguin Public Library, 313 W. Nolte St. Dr. Neela Patel of UT Health San Antonio will discuss the latest advancements in Alzheimer’s disease, including early detection, treatment options and local resources. The event is designed for caregivers, families and members of the healthcare community. On-site respite care will be available for loved ones so caregivers can participate in the symposium. Registration is required and space is limited. For more information, call 830-379-5046. Saddle Up for Second Chances Playday Benefit A Saddle Up for Second Chances Playday Benefit for Happened by Chance Horses will be held Saturday, Oct. 17, at the Seguin Rodeo Complex, 950 S. Austin St. Exhibitions begin at 9 a.m., with opening ceremonies at 10 a.m. Participants are encouraged to register early, with special raffle prizes available for early entries, including a $100 SmartPak Equine gift card and a veterinary horse care package. Proceeds will benefit Happened by Chance Horses. Land + Water Symposium The Land + Water Symposium will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 21, at the Luling Foundation. The event will connect Texas landowners with experts in soil, water, livestock and wildlife management. Topics include water quality, rainwater harvesting, feral hog management, grazing management and Natural Resource Conservation Service programs. Two TDA IPM continuing education units are available. Pre-registration is $30 through Oct. 14, with registration at the door costing $40. The fee includes lunch and a certificate of completion. For more information or to register, visit the Caldwell-Travis Soil & Water Conservation District website. Big Red Barn Pecan Fest The Texas Agricultural Education & Heritage Center will host its Big Red Barn Pecan Fest on Saturday, October 24, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 250 Cordova Road in Seguin. Activities include a visit to the world’s largest pecan, tours of the heritage village, hayrides, an antique tractor pull and the annual pecan baking contest. Admission and parking are free, with a free trolley available to downtown Pecan Fest activities. Calvary Baptist Academy Fall Festival Fundraiser Calvary Baptist Academy will host its Fall Festival Fundraiser from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, Oct. 23 in New Braunfels. The family-friendly event will feature musical performances by School of Rock and other local musicians, dance performances by
World Polio Day Walk for Polio The Seguin Rotary Club and Suburban Running & Recreation will host a free two-mile community walk on Saturday, Oct. 24, in recognition of World Polio Day. Check-in begins at 7:30 a.m., with a group photo and walk starting at 8 a.m. at Suburban Running & Recreation at the Seguin Schoolyard, 225 N. Saunders St. The event is free and open to all ages. Donations will also be accepted for Rotary International’s PolioPlus program. To sign up, visit the Seguin Rotary Club website and look for the World Polio Walk flyer, or contact Dr. Julie Leos at drjuliealeos@gmail.com or the Seguin Rotary Club at rotaryclubseguin@gmail.com. First Methodist Church Blood Drive First Methodist Church of Seguin will host a South Texas Blood & Tissue blood drive from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24, at the church, 710 N. Austin St. The bloodmobile will be on site, and donors will receive a free T-shirt. Appointments can be scheduled by scanning the QR code on the event flyer. Grace & Glory Women’s Conference Ministry Spoken will host its 2026 Grace & Glory Women’s Conference on Saturday, October 24, from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The theme is based on Second Corinthians 12:9, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Tickets are $30. For more information, call 512937-2608. Puppies & Pumpkins in the Pumpkin Patch On Saturday, October 24th from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon, First Methodist Church will have the Blessing of the Animals in the Prayer Garden and the Seguin Animal Control will sponsor Puppies in the Patch with puppies for adoption until 2:00 pm. The Patch is open daily from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm Monday through Saturday and noon to 7:00 pm Sundays in October. For more information call 830-379-4112 or go to www.SeguinMethodist.org. Gather & Give: A Women’s Community Social The Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce Women’s Council will host its Gather & Give community social from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 28, at the Seguin Schoolyard, 225 N. Saunders St. The event will feature local nonprofits sharing information about their missions and work in the community, along with networking and refreshments. Guests are encouraged to bring a nonperishable food item and/or hygiene product to benefit the Christian Cupboard. The event is free and open to everyone, including non-Chamber members, but registration is required. Seguin Rotary Club Hosts “Rock the Fright” Event The Seguin Rotary Club will host Rock the Fright: A Rotary Halloween Bash Thursday, Oct. 29 at The School Yard, 225 N. Saunders St. in Seguin. The event includes a cornhole tournament beginning at 5 p.m., a VIP dinner at 6 p.m. and a concert featuring Mischief Soul at 7 p.m. There will also be a costume contest and 50/50 raffle. Proceeds benefit Rotary’s polio eradication efforts, education initiatives and community projects.
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.
21 VITAL STATISTICS
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Q: I am really tired of my vincas (periwinkles) and am ready for fall annuals. When can I plant and what annuals do well in the fall? A: You can plant those annuals now if you can find them in the nursery. Cool season annuals include alyssum, calendula, dianthus, Johnny-jump-up, pansy, snapdragon, stock, sweet pea, and flowering kale and cabbage. These will bloom now and, even if we have a freeze, should come back and bloom in the spring. The only time in the past that I’ve had to replant the library planters with new snapdragons is the year we had snowmageddon. Q: What is that tall grass that is blooming in the ditches alongside Stockdale Highway right now? A: That is the giant reed or Arundo donax. This invasive grass grows up to 20 feet in height and flowers from August to September. The Texas State University System website, tsusinvasives.org, considers the plant an ecological threat because it out competes native vegetation by absorbing available water sources. The plant (native to India) was probably introduced in the United States in the 1800s because it has practical uses, such as the making of woodwind instruments. It also can be used in basket making and fishing rods. The plant is very hard to eradicate. The website suggests that the best method is to wait until October when the plant has finished flowering,
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then burn it, and then apply an herbicide treatment. Q: What is your favorite ornamental grass? I want one that is “friendly” and not too tall. A: Of the many grasses listed in Doug Welsh’s Texas Garden Almanac, my favorite is Muhlenbergia capillaris or Gulf Muhly. This is a short grass that grows from one to two feet tall and blooms in the fall with pink, fuzzy seed heads. Wildflower.org says this native perennial uses low water and likes sandy soils, as well as clayey and rocky soils. It has high deer resistance. When you drive around Seguin in October and November, you will see many examples of Gulf Muhly (such as East Mountain Street near downtown). The plant is absolutely gorgeous with the light shining through it. Q: When do I put out my fall fertilizer? A: Welsh suggests waiting until your warm-season lawn stops growing (in other words, when you have not had to mow for two weeks). FYI: Our fall in Seguin has its own beauty including the color of the bald cypress, the cedar elm, the sycamore, and the red oak. We have the berries on the American beautyberry, the possum haw, and the yaupon. And if you remember to look and not touch, the poison ivy plant also turns a lovely red.
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