SDN: September 11, 2025 by Seguin Today

Chick-fil-A on its way up, KFC stalls

Cindy Aguirre-Herrera

(Seguin) -- It’s been a full year since the city of Seguin and the Seguin Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) announced one of the community’s most anticipated projects -- the arrival and construction of Chick-fil-A.

Today, the long-awaited restaurant is taking shape along the I-10 frontage road, right next door to Bill Miller Bar-B-Q.

For years, residents have been vocal about landing a Chick-fil-A in Seguin. Now, with construction visibly underway, that dream is inching closer to reality.

That’s according to SEDC Executive Director Josh Schneuker who says the project remains on track and continues to move through “its development timeline.”

“We knew that once they started construction and that construction started I believe kind of early to middle part of May -- that they’d be able to get that restaurant up pretty quickly here so the building itself –Chick-fil-A, pg. 3

TLU’s history comes alive: Steve Anderson’s Forward in Faith receives award

Special by Tracy Donley, TLU

(Seguin) -- Stephen Anderson knew it was time for a new, complete history of TLU. As the university’s volunteer archivist—not to mention an alum and past longtime employee, he was the right person to tell the story, a tale spanning more than 130 years, encompassing the university’s founding in 1891, through its evolution from academy, to junior college, to full-fledged university. Forward in Faith: A history of Texas Lutheran University is that story, and in the year since its publication, it has garnered many fans.

It’s also recently drawn attention from the Concordia Historical Institute, which, for more than fifty years, has spotlighted and honored the best in publications that have moved Lutheran history in North America forward in significant ways. Anderson received word this summer that Forward in Faith was selected by the CHI Awards Committee and the CHI Board of Governors to receive

an Award of Commendation in the Institutional History category.

“I am grateful and honored to receive this recognition of Forward in Faith by Concordia Historical Institute, and hope that the award will make even more people aware of Texas Lutheran University and its fascinating history,” said Anderson. “I’m also grateful to The Rev. Luther Oelke, TLU’s director of college and church relations emeritus, who informed me of the institute and submitted the book to them for this year’s awards competition.”

Forward in Faith will be formally recognized, along with Anderson, during an awards banquet at Concordia Seminary in Saint Louis this November.

Get your copy of Forward in Faith at the TLU Bookstore, Pecantown Books and Brews, or by clicking here. Net proceeds benefit TLU’s Endowed Scholarship Fund, and sales have already generated $2,200!

Seguin earns World Atlas’ attention

(Seguin) -- The city of Seguin and the city of Gonzales have both landed on World Atlas’ list of the 10 most breathtaking towns in Texas.

According to the website which contains not only maps but informative stories about destinations worldwide describe Seguin and its neighbor as standing alongside some of the state’s most popular small-town destinations.

Seguin earned praise for the Sebastopol House Historic Site, a restored 1856 lime-crete mansion.

World Atlas wrote, “Tour this rare structure to discover the lost art that perfectly blends chemistry and construction.” The site also noted the town’s “World’s Largest Pecan” at the Guadalupe County Courthouse and though it mentioned the recent closure of ZDT’s Amusement Park, it touted it for giving “families and solo travelers alike an adrenaline rush.”

Gonzales was celebrated for its proximity to Palmetto State Park, called “a botanical wonderland” and “the soul of this charming town.” World Atlas added, “These grounds are alive with plants, wildlife, and rushing rivers and creeks.” The Gonzales Memorial Museum and the historic County Jail Museum also stood out as attractions. Other Texas towns on the list included Fredericksburg, Wimberley, Marfa, Jefferson, Clifton, Ennis, and Waxahachie.

Chick-fil-A, continued.

if you drive out there right now, you can see the shape that it is starting to take there and it is looking like we are going to be able to get that restaurant opened up here later this fall,” said Schneuker.

Meanwhile, plans for another chicken chain in Seguin have hit a roadblock.

The SEDC confirmed that Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) has decided not to move forward with its Seguin location along Highway 46.

“The KFC deal actually fell

apart. So, there are sometimes where property owner – in this case – property owner was a developer. They start working on negotiations with a retailer and user and they can be pretty deep in the weeds on the project and it can appear that it is going to get over the finish line but sometimes things come up last minute that kind of impacted the deal that are outside the city’s and EDC’s control and that was one of the deals that wasn’t able to get over the finish line. It doesn’t mean that KFC will never be in the Seguin area. I’m sure that they are looking at the

other opportunities just like a lot of the other retailers that aren’t’ in our market right now. But there are just things that come up as these deals are being put together that again, sometimes they just fall apart. They will eventually come back to life but right now, it’s going to be a Chickfil-A show once they get up and running over there,” said Schneuker.

Although the news is disappointing, SEDC officials say they are confident that the city will be announcing new plans for fastfood and restaurant chains in the very near future.

Lady Mats swept by Class 4A 10th-ranked La Vernia; Marion sweeps Class 5A Wagner

Chris Austin

(Seguin) -- The Seguin Lady Matadors fought hard but ultimately fell to one of the top 4A teams in the state at Goldie Harris Gym on Tuesday night.

The 10th-ranked La Vernia Lady Bears took down the Lady Mats, 2513, 25-20, 25-17. The Lady Bears won their 25th match of the season while the Lady Mats stayed stuck on 19 wins.

Seguin junior Elli Anderson led the Lady Mats with 12 kills on the night. Freshman Cassidy Dailey added six kills. Senior setter Gisele Morales dished out 28 assists. Backline defenders senior Mia Hernandez and junior Danica Rushlow combined for six digs on the evening.

Lady Matador head coach Ashley Farris talked about Hernandez and Rushlow following the match.

“Those two compete so much against each other in the practice gym. They’re also best friends off the court,” Farris said. “It’s so good for them to have one another. I love that they have each other to compete with; it’s great.”

The Lady Matadors are 4-0 in District 27-5A matches this season. They’ll return to district play at San Antonio Edison on Friday.

(Marion) -- The Class 3A Marion Lady Bulldogs swept past Class 5A Wagner on Tuesday night.

The Lady Bulldogs won the match, 25-12, 25-17, 25-10. Marion will next host New Braunfels Long Creek on Friday.

The Navarro Lady Panthers were off Tuesday night. Many members of the Navarro volleyball team were in Seguin, scouting La Vernia on Tuesday night. The Lady Bears and Lady Panthers will meet in District 28-4A play later this month. Navarro will host Davenport on Friday.

And the Lifegate Lady Falcons return to action when they host First Baptist Academy on Thursday.

VITAL STATISTICS

Zunker

Dorothy Elaine Ford Zunker, age 96 of Cibolo, formerly of Seguin, passed away on September 7, 2025. Dorothy was born in Bexar County on July 15, 1929 to Gilda (Sengenberger) and Cleamont C. Ford, Sr.

She graduated as Salutatorian from Fox Tech High School in San Antonio with a cosmetology certification. On July 21, 1948 Dorothy married Vernon Zunker. Dorothy was a member of Redeemer Church in Zuehl.

Dorothy is preceded in death by her loving husband of 64 years, Vernon Zunker, her parents, her sisters, Jacqueline Ford Stanford, and Ethel Ford Pahmiyer, and her brothers, C. C. Ford, Jr., Raymond Ford, and Arthur Ford.

Survivors include her daughters, Brenda Zunker Boyko and husband Nick, and Lois Zunker McDougall and husband Ronnie; son, Darryl Zunker and wife

Lana; grandchildren, Diane Little, Terri Boyko George and husband Aaron, Kaci Zunker Gibbons and husband Ben, Kade Zunker and wife Amanda, Kelsey Boyko, Kendyl Zunker Bridges and husband Tyler; great-grandchildren, Jakob, Blain, and Harper Gibbons, Lucas and Lane Zunker, and Halen George; numerous nieces, nephews, other loving family members and a host of friends.

Visitation will begin on Saturday, September 13, 2025 at 9:30 a.m. at Redeemer Church in Zuehl followed by a memorial service celebrating Dorothy’s life at 10:30 a.m. with the Reverend Jennifer Gold officiating.

Private interment will be held prior in the Redeemer Church Cemetery in Zuehl.

The family would like to thank the entire staff of the Brooks of Cibolo for their compassionate and loving care of Dorothy.

Memorial contributions may be made to Redeemer Church in Zuehl, 7415 Gin Road, Marion, Texas, 78124. 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.

VITAL STATISTICS

Gargis

Thomas Edward Gargis of Seguin, Texas … husband, father, brother and friend … left us on August 25, 2025, at the age of 80. “Tom” or “Tommy,” as he was called by those close to him, lived a beautiful life full of adventure, optimism and, above all things, love.

Tom is survived by his devoted wife, Judy Dykes Gargis, his cherished daughters Jennifer Marie Meyer and son-in-law Doug Meyer of Cedar Park, and Jana Lynn Albright and son-in-law Eric Albright of Seal Beach, California. Tom is also survived by Jennifer’s mother, Debra “Debbie” Burgess Kay and her husband, JL Kay of Crowley and Tom’s grandchildren, who were his pride and joy: Luke Meyer, Eli Meyer, Connor Albright and Kaybree Albright. Tom is the brother of Ronald “Ronnie” Steven Gargis and his wife, Debbie Gargis, of Fort Worth, Texas and Karen Jane Johnson and her husband, Brent Johnson, of Duncan, Oklahoma. Tom is also survived by his sister-in-law, Lindey Stoddard, and her husband, Robin Stoddard, of Corpus Christi, Texas.

Tom is uncle to his nephews, Marc Gargis (and wife Melanie), Brad Gargis, Robbie Stoddard (and wife Christy), niece Erin Alizadeh (and husband Robin) and numerous great nieces, nephews, cousins and countless friends across many states.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Olin Thomas Gargis and Mildred Jane Gargis of Fort Worth, Texas and his niece, Melissa Vincent and nephew, Jeff Johnson.

Tom and Judy had a wonderful marriage and were true partners in all they did. They became grandparents together and enjoyed everything from dancing, camping, fishing, gardening, and just sitting on the back porch, appreciating the grandeur of nature and the design of their home. Tom was so proud of Jennifer, as he watched her grow, performing in numerous dance recitals, graduating from Texas Tech University and pursuing a long, successful career in the technology industry. Jana graduated from Texas A&M University, served as a lifelong teacher and enjoyed spending time with Tom on multiple trips, sharing a love of the outdoors and nature. Tom’s grandchildren were truly the light of his life. He always talked about Luke’s congeniality and ‘natural’ fishing ability, Eli’s strength and sturdy character, Connor’s big heart and free spirit, and Kaybree’s undeniable resilience and devotion.

Tom never met a stranger and was always ready to seize any opportunity. He

Lawson

Alice Muehl Lawson, age 100 of Seguin, passed away on September 3, 2025. Alice was born on July 9, 1925 in Guadalupe County, Texas to Lydia (Schumann) and Edgar Muehl.

Alice is preceded in death by her husband, James Malcolm Lawson, her parents, her sisters, Lucille Dyess and Doreen Sylvester, and her brother, Robert Lee Muehl.

She is survived by several nieces, nephews,

graduated from Polytechnic High School in Fort Worth, during which time he worked at the Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company (A&P). He went on to serve in the United States Military Reserves, then later as a Staff Sergeant in the Air Force, primarily in Japan and Guam from 1966 to 1970. Tom later worked for the gas company and then became a Master Electrician. He could also be called a Master Fisherman, Master Gardener, Master Designer and Master Cook. Tom never did anything halfway, always deeply researching whatever captured his attention. He was exacting, particular and thorough. From bird dogs and butterflies to birds and blooms, he could tell you all about their origin and how they thrived. If you were lucky enough, he’d do all of this over some Buck Owens and a cold beer … but only Miller Lite. He loved sharing his garden’s harvest and charismatic stories with neighbors and friends. Tom always had a (devilish) twinkle in his eye and a (guilty) grin on his face … just enough to make you feel at home and welcome. He was a friend to everybody.

Although diagnosed with cancer in August of 2024, Tom never lost his positive outlook on life. He was determined to fight and insisted on showing relentless appreciation for the VA and all of his nurses and doctors for their care and attention. He found joy in visits from his family, his friends and of course the companionship of his sweetheart, Judy.

Tom enjoyed his life to the fullest. His personality infected those privileged enough to meet him, and he made everyone feel welcome and valued. He was surrounded by love when he left us. Although there is now a hole in our hearts that nothing will ever ease, we take comfort in knowing that angels guided him to his everlasting garden in heaven, where he can sow love for eternity.

Visitation will begin on Thursday, September 11, 2025 at Tres Hewell Mortuary from 5 to 7 p.m. Funeral service will be on Friday, September 12, 2025 at 2 p.m. at Christ Lutheran of Elm Creek Church with the Reverend David Tinker officiating. Interment with military honors will follow in the Christ Lutheran of Elm Creek Cemetery. A reception will follow in the fellowship hall.

Tom’s pallbearers will be his grandchildren Luke, Eli, Connor and Kaybree, his sons-in-law Doug Meyer and Eric Albright, his nephew Marc Gargis and his brother-in-law Robin Stoddard.

Memorial contributions may be made to Christ Lutheran Church of Elm Creek, 3305 Church Road, Seguin, Texas, 78155 or to the Disabled American Veterans organization at the following link: https://www.dav.org/ways-to-give/ You are invited to sign the guestbook at www.treshewell.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155, 830-549-5912.

cousins and friends.

Visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, September 10, 2025 at Tres Hewell Mortuary. Graveside services and interment will follow at 11 a.m. at San Geronimo Cemetery with the Reverend Jim Price officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Cross Church, 814 N. Bauer, Seguin, Texas, 78155 or to Guadalupe Regional Medical Foundation for Hospice Services, 1215 E. Court St., Seguin, Texas, 78155.

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

RFK Jr. Releases Report On Children’s Health

(Washington, DC) -- Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is releasing a report on the health of the country’s children. The “Make Our Children Healthy Again” report outlines a strategy for improving kids’ health, focusing specifically on chronic disease. It calls for improvements to nutrition and exercise, and a review of the impacts of drugs and vaccines. The report follows the original “Make America Healthy Again” report released earlier this year.

CDC Warns Of Deadly ‘Kissing Bug’ Disease

(Atlanta, GA) - The CDC is raising awareness about the deadly “kissing bug” disease. The disease, also known as Chagas, comes from blood sucking insects that transmit the illness. Chagas disease can cause severe fatigue in early stages in addition to heart and digestive problems in the chronic stage. Illnesses have been reported in 32 states including California, Arizona, Tennessee, Louisiana, Missouri and more.

New Federal Guidelines For Vaccines Cause Confusion

(Washington, DC) -- With changing federal guidelines for the COVID vaccine, some states are taking vaccine decisions into their own hands. One of those states is Florida, where the state’s surgeon general is looking to eliminate all vaccine mandates. Meanwhile, in West Virginia and a number of other states, people 65 and older can still get a COVID shot upon request, but younger people without underlying health conditions will need a prescription. In Maryland, the governor has signed a law ensuring that residents can continue to receive vaccines at provider offices and pharmacies across the state.

Study: Face Masks Contribute To Pollution

(Coventry, England) -- The use of face masks exploded during the COVID-19 pandemic, but most are thrown away as waste. Now, a new study out of England finds that the masks can release microplastics and chemicals, causing problems for the environment and human health. The materials, like polyethylene, polyester, nylon and PVC, don’t break down easily and can accumulate over time. The study was published in the journal Environmental Pollution.

September

Guada-Coma ICA Chapter Meeting

The Independent Cattlemen’s Association of Texas will be hosting the Guada-Coma ICA Chapter Meeting at 6:30 PM on September 15th at Seguin Cattle Company, 2424 TX46, Seguin, TX 78155. All producers are welcome. A beef meal will be provided, and the evening program will feature Bobby Nix with Merck Animal Health discussing fall cattle needs. Door prizes will be available.

Financial Peace University Classes at Faith Lutheran Church

The Faith Lutheran Church will be hosting Financial Peace University classes at 4:00 p.m. on September 7 at 1326 E. Cedar, Seguin. The course, developed by financial expert Dave Ramsey, offers tools and strategies for effective money management. Special discounted pricing is available for the first 20 participants who register and pay. Childcare will be provided. For more information, call 830-379-7036.

Finding Perspective in Beginning Watercolors Class at Seguin Art League

The Seguin Art League will be hosting How to Find Perspective in your Beginning Watercolors at 1 p.m. on September 10 at the Seguin Art League. The class runs until 4 p.m. and will focus on creating a barn landscape while exploring perspective techniques and the use of resist. It is limited to five students, ages 18 and older, and costs $50 with supplies included. For more information, call 830-305-0472 or visit 104 S. Austin Street in Seguin

Unwind

Your Drawing Skills: Two-Point Perspective

The Seguin Art League will be hosting Unwind Your Drawing Skills: Two-Point Perspective at 5:30 p.m. on September 12 at 104 S. Austin. This class will guide participants through the fundamentals of two-point linear perspective, concluding with the creation of a cityscape drawing. The session is limited to ten participants aged 18 and older, and the cost is $20 with basic supplies included. For more information, call 830-305-0472 or visit seguinartleague.com.

Bimbo

The Silver Center will be hosting Bimbo at 7:30 p.m. on September 12th at the Crystal Chandelier Ballroom. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Presale tickets are $10 by calling 830303-6612. Tickets are $15 at the door.

Judah First Volume 3: Community Musical Celebration

The Greater Refuge Choir will be hosting Judah First Volume 3 at 3 p.m. on September 13 at Greater Refuge Church, 410 North Guadalupe Street in Seguin. This free community event will feature an afternoon of fellowship and worship, welcoming participants from Seguin and the surrounding area. Attendees are encouraged to dress casually and represent their church by wearing a church t-shirt. Parking will be available behind the church, across from the Seguin Police Station.

Guada-Coma ICA Chapter Meeting

The Independent Cattlemen’s Association of Texas will be hosting the Guada-Coma ICA Chapter Meeting at 6:30 p.m. on September 15 at Seguin Cattle Company, 2424 TX46, Seguin. The evening program will feature Bobby Nix with Merck Animal Health discussing fall cattle needs. A beef meal will be

provided, and all producers are welcome to attend. Door prizes will also be available. For more information or to RSVP, contact Allan Bode at 830-305-1325 or ica.guadacoma@ gmail.com.

Beginning Crochet Class

The Seguin Art League will be hosting Beginning Crochet Class at 1 p.m. on September 20 at 104 S. Austin, Seguin. The class will cover the basics of crochet including making a chain, joining, and other fundamental stitches, giving participants the skills to create their own crochet projects. Open to ages 10 and up, limited to 10 participants. Cost is $35 with supplies included. For more information call 830-305-0472 or visit seguinartleague.com.

Abstract Floral in Beginning Watercolor Class at Seguin Art League

The Seguin Art League will be hosting an Abstract Floral in Beginning Watercolor class at 1 p.m. on September 24 at the Seguin Art League. The class runs until 4 p.m. and will guide students in creating an abstract floral using fine watercolor and sable brushes. Techniques covered include high saturation painting, bleeding, hard and soft edge control, and the use of salt, alcohol, and bleed-proof white. Open to all ages, the class is limited to five students and costs $50 with supplies included. For more information, call 830-3050472 or visit 104 S. Austin Street in Seguin.

To ensure non-profit organization’s meetings and events a ppear 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.