Seguin Magazine - August 2022

Page 1

G u a d a l u p e C o u n t y l i v i n g

August 2022

Fashion for Success

professional development

Investing in the future of the employees of today

Styles that offer more than just looking good; education, career and beyond

Mariachi serenade

Pursuing musical passion leads to great opportunities



HUGE SELECTION OF GENUINE RECLINERS

L

A

Z

499

$

B

F RO M TO

$

O

Y

1899

In Stock & Ready for FAST - FREE DELIVERY

From a Name you Trust with a 110 Year Tradition

www.starckefurniture.com

300 S. Austin St. • 379-4622 La-Z-Boy Recliners | Broyhill Furniture

Expires August 31st, 2022 Some exclusions apply

Bring your broken jewelry to our expert jewelers for in-house repairs. 830-625-3203 | www.ernestos.com | New Braunfels Marketplace | 717 N. Business IH 35 Suite 150


in this issue August 2022

FEATURES 10 EMBRACE LIFELONG LEARNING

Employers within the community invest in the future with programs designed to help people grow

10

14

14 SERENADE FOR SUCCESS

Seguin High School mariachi director helps opens doors and new opportunities for students

FASHION 18 YOUR FUTURE IS LOOKING GOOD

Goodwill offers more than just a perfect outfit for that important job interview

18

GOOD ADVICE 28 BELIEVE, THEN PUT IN THE WORK

Life coach Jay Johnson encourages the pursuit of a life filled with vigor and a drive to inspire others

ON THE SCENE 32 SHARING THE LANGUAGE OF MUSIC

Music lessons help students succeed in multiple aspects of their lives

AROUND TOWN 34 FAVORITE FINDS Unique items from small, local businesses

36 SAVE THE DATE See what events are coming up

38 FACES OF SEGUIN Submitted photos from our readers

on the cover Photo by Victoria Gaytan

Goodwill team members model clothes that can help you create your own style for school or nail down the perfect outfit for a job interview.



FROM THE

G u a d a l u p e C o u n t y l i v i n g

Vol. 9, No. 3 Seguin magazine is published twelve times a year by the Seguin Gazette. Publisher

Elizabeth Engelhardt creative director / magazine Editor

Desiree Gerland Graphic Designer

Rebecca Harrison Writers

Dalondo Moultrie Felicia Frazar Sarah Maskal photographer

Victoria Gaytan CONTRIBUTORs

Jay Johnson Janet Ward ADVERTISING

Delilah Reyes Gay Lynn Olsovsky

H

Editor

aving a passion for learning is something that has always come easy for me. From as far back as I can remember, there was a natural curiosity to learn about the world around me. But, as I got older it became overwhelming when trying to figure out how to implement the things I was most passionate about into a career that would be fulfilling and rewarding. What I finally realized was that being open to change and growth is just as rewarding as the stability of a focused career path. More importantly, was that finding passion in anything you do, can make every experience worth the time spent doing it. Otherwise the risk of burnout and feeling dissatisfied with life is imminent. Recently, I was blessed to find myself surrounded by people that encourage growth and ambition, and exhibit a passion for life that is truly inspiring. Which has made me more aware of some aspects of my own life that could benefit from opening a few doors. Whether its learning a new instrument, developing professional skills, or attending schooling, it’s never too late let your passion bloom into something absolutely amazing. Who knows, maybe you’ll find yourself learning a new language or scuba diving in the Caribbean as a side effect from being open to the possibilities. Stay fierce, Seguin.

TO ADVERTISE IN SEGUIN Magazine call 830-463-0770 have Story Ideas? let us know!

seguinmagazine@seguingazette.com

To view the digital version visit issuu.com/seguingazette

Desiree Gerland SEARCH SEGUIN GAZETTE All material herein c. 2022 Southern Newspapers Inc., dba The Seguin Gazette, 805 E. Court St., Ste. #200, Seguin, Tx, 78155 All rights reserved

6

SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

Desiree Gerland

Creative Director / Magazine Editor desiree.gerland@seguingazette.com


all

Summer

All the latest news,

long

Two Locations SAME HOMEMADE TASTE

2022

SG H

THE SEGUIN GAZETTE

BEST OF THE BEST

Open Dine in & Drive thru

Mon-THu 11am-8pm Fri & sat 11am-9pm Seguin Location: 830-433-4201 921 S. HWY 123 BYP, Seguin, TX 78155 Marion Location: 830-914-2572 129 W San Antonio St.. Marion, Tx 78124 GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN

7


P M P U M U DD ON TIOIN T A T S A STCOMININ GG M ! COSOONN ! O O S

BOAT, RV AND SELF STORAGE FACILITY 885 FM78 EAST, MARION, TX 78124 • 830-743-5311 CALL (830) 743-5311 • 885 FM78 EAST, MARION, TX 78124 CONVENIENCE STORE ON-SITE PROPANE FILLING ON-SITE INSULATED ROOFS 24-HOUR ACCESS EXTRA SECURITY LIGHTING STATE-OF-THE-ART CAMERAS AIR AND WATER ONLINE RENTALS AND BILL PAY

AVAILABLE UNIT TYPES: • Self Storage (10 x 10, 10 x 15, 10 x 20) • Covered Boat & RV Storage (35’, 40’, 45’) • Open Air Storage (Multiple Size) • Climate Control (10x10 and 10x15)

backyardstorages.com


Keepers

seguin, it’s real

Interiors & Furniture Find something you love for your home

Furniture • Art • Lamps Beatriz Ball • Home Accessories Lampe Berger • Gifts Chalk Paint ® by Annie Sloan Paint & Workshops Custom Upholstery • Furniture Repair Interior Design Consultation Custom Window Treatments

830-379-9995 keepersinteriors.com 615 N Austin S t, S eguin, T X 78155

real nice to meet you visitseguin.com 830-401-5000

SCHEDULE YOUR

BACK TO SCHOOL EXAMS NOW

25% off a complete pair of glasses OR 50% off a complete pair of glasses with the purchase of contact lenses. No other discounts or insurance applies. Expires September 30, 2022.

908 E. Court St., Seguin TX 78155 830-379-EYES (3937) EyesTx.com Also in San Antonio, New Braunfels, La Vernia, Luling, Lockhart, Gonzales, Hondo, Castroville & San Marcos.


{ feature }

Embrace

Lifelong learning Finding Professional development journeys within the community Story by Dalondo Moultrie

E

very year, Seguin and the high schools in and around the city churn out exceptional talent to be unleashed onto the world. Those graduates have a world in front of them and choices to make. It behooves manufacturing companies, other businesses and community leaders to try to cultivate that talent and keep it local, said Chester Jenke, president of the Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce. “One of the things I got from the late Phil Seidenberger, a great mentor of mine always said, ‘What if we train them and they leave?’” he said. “He always used to answer that with, ‘What if we don’t train them and they stay’. A lot of those manufacturers, that’s their thought process today.” Jenke sees employers in and around Seguin taking steps to make the community better. They look to hire locally. From there, they invest in employees and provide opportunities to grow, Jenke said, partic10 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

ularly in the manufacturing sector. “I think there are two ways to look at this,” he said. “One is that those business partners we have out there in the manufacturing world can grow their own. That culture is something they’re used to already.” Already, some companies hire young folks right out of high school that have some of what he calls soft skills. They show up for work on time, are good workers, remain reliable and are courteous to clients. Employers are wise to take those people and use them to help grow their businesses while also helping the employees grow. He loves to hear of companies taking five- or 10-year employees, putting them through classes and helping them move up the corporate ladder, the chamber president said. CMC Steel has a model where the company recruits high school students, pays them good wages and then helps



them prosper, Jenke said. “CMC does tons of training,” said Jason Dinscore, CMC area manager for quality systems. “We do a lot of in-house training. Most of everything we do is in-house.” The on-the-job training consists of anything from technical skill improvement to leadership training to developing employees for next-level positions, he said. CMC isn’t alone, said Mike Stoller, head of communications at Vitesco Technologies North America. “We’re doing a lot to try to hire folks in the area and be a good corporate citizen to attract folks to the area,” he said. Vitesco Technologies’ Seguin plant in the coming months will celebrate 50 years in operation, said Eric Garza-Colvin, head of human relations at the plant. That longevity shows a clear commitment to the community, he said. Focusing on providing employees careers opposed to just jobs locally is another hallmark of the tier-one automotive supplier’s quest. All employees have access to what the company calls its Total Productive Maintenance Program, Garza-Colvin said. “We require every single employee to go through the foundations of this training so they start using their brains with their hands. They’re able to work on equipment, work on what’s going on in a plant so then they’re more effective employees of the company,” he said. “We have steps to this where they get more advancement opportunities. Those who reach the top level can go through a two-year associates program through Alamo Community Colleges.” Vitesco offers other initiatives and programs to help current employees excel, Garza-Colvin said. The company and the local plant try to create a pipeline for local talent to funnel into the organization. Partnering with other local entities is one way to help ensure everyone has access to talent and locals have access to upwardly-mobile employment opportunities, Garza-Colvin said. Others are working to help in the 12 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

fight as well, said Ashlynn Tovar, business retention specialist at the Seguin Economic Development Corporation. Local and area entities are working to bring Texas Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (TX FAME) to town, she said. TX FAME is a partnership of regional manufacturers whose purpose is to implement dual-track, apprenticeship-style training to create a pipeline of highly skilled workers, Tovar said. “The purpose of TX FAME is to be the catalyst for developing world-class technical talent for manufacturing,” she said. “TX FAME strives to be a conduit between industry and training providers with a primary focus on meeting the needs of manufacturers.” The Seguin EDC and economic development and manufacturing stakeholders from Guadalupe and Comal counties are working on the project to develop at Lone Star Chapter, Tovar said. Before it’s all over, the chapter will allow people to earn an associate of applied science in advanced manufacturing technology degree through a technical college while working for one

of the partnering companies. “In this two-year, Department of Labor-registered apprenticeship, individuals attend class two days a week and spend the remaining three at their sponsoring company,” Tovar said. “Individuals must both apply and be accepted to the supporting education partner and a TX FAME Lone Star Chapter company for a duration of the program.” Participating companies will be able to either send current employees through the program or bring on external candidates, she said. Each individual benefits by learning while simultaneously advancing their education and building their resume. It’s a win-win situation for the companies and the people they employ, Dinscore said. Giving back to the community and developing the people are important to CMC, he said. “We wouldn’t have the business we have without good people,” Dinscore said. “It’s all built on people. Without good people, we wouldn’t be as successful as we are. “We want to invest in the people and do the best for them.”


CABINET SALE Shop & Donate By shopping and donating to our Guadalupe Valley Habitat ReStore you are not only reducing your footprint on the environment, but you can purchase new and reusable items knowing that the proceeds are funding HFHGV’s home building program!

Visit us: 256 W. Court St. Learn more: habitatgv.org Tue-Sat 10 AM-5:30 PM

114 S AUSTIN ST (830)-463-5170 WOMEN’S & CHILDREN’S APPAREL • HOME DECOR ACCESSORIES • & SO MUCH MORE!

Mon - Fri 10am - 6pm Sat - 10am - 5pm Sun - 11 - 4

Coming SOON! 206 S. Austin St. Seguin, TX 78155 Follow us on social media for more info

@SouthernGood


{ feature }

Serenade for success

High school mariachi delivers a message of culture and achievement

Story by Felicia Frazar

T

he lessons learned from music education goes beyond the notes written on a staff. Whether its choir, band or a combination of both, like mariachi, there’s more than honing the sounds music creates. Music students tend to build better language skills, find more discipline in their studies, exhibit improved social skills, have a stronger sense of self worth, and show critical thinking and creativity, said Rafael Alarcon Jr., Seguin ISD mariachi director and mariachi instructor for Teatro de Artes de Juan Seguin. “Music is very involved with multiple interdicisiplinary studies,” he said. “Music, or the arts in general, helps to combine everything in different aspects. It helps students combine all of the different things that they learned in their other classes to create something and I think that is very difficult to have the kids understand they are doing that, because they don’t care. They just want to play the music.” Alarcon helps his students’ extend 14 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

their passion for music by learning more. “There is a history component that at the end of the year I have them do a presentation on artists or a composer or a particular group throughout history,” he said. “They get to see how music is developed throughout time and not just right now in the present. The way I guide my program is modeled after the band programs that I grew up with — discipline and patience, fundamentals, teamwork, confidence.” Learning to read music, replicate the notes and create new sounds all involves critical thinking skills, Alarcon said. “There are TED talks and studies that show how much it encompasses all of the brain activity all at once like you have to sightread and express in the music and play in tune, be in time,” he said. Alarcon was drawn to music at an early age, and despite financial hardships his family faced growing up, his parents ensured that he was able to pursue his passion.


GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 15


“I pretty much begged my mom to let me join band in sixth grade and I became a trumpet player,” he said. “She sacrificed to give me an instrument because they weren’t provided by the district. That was a huge thing for me growing up and I wanted to make sure that I honored that.” Through the urging of his parents, Alacron began studying mariachi, not realizing at the time how much it would influence his life. “I’m so fortunate to have found mariachi,” he said. “I know it was a part of my life growing up. My parents listened to the music. I was lost because of the language barrier, I didn’t understand what was being said. But finding the music, letting it speak to me, letting it connect with me on my terms really grew in my heart.” Wanting to know more about the music he’d come to love, Alarcon began researching lyrics to learn the language. Eventually, it transformed his musical education. “That is how I started and now it is my whole world,” he said. “The music 16 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

is so powerful and meaningful, and not just on the cultural side. It is the human side of the music. The passion, the compassion, the love, the family that you connect with and once you get past the language barrier, you understand that beautiful music is beautiful music and there is nothing that can deny that.” Alacron uses those connections that he learned to help his students bridge generational and cultural gaps. “We have the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the music, to learn about it, to perform it, to experience it,” he said. “That is a huge thing. It is beautiful.” Learning about music, the history and culture behind it also gives instructors like Alacron a chance to show how music opens doors and new opportunities. Knowing what it’s like to not get the chance to experience a lot of things growing up, Alacron works to change that for his students. “I came from a poor family and the fact that my family struggled to get me to be able to participate in band and let alone travel to Washington, D.C. to perform at the steps of the capital,”

he said. “That was profound for me growing up. So I try to give my kids the same type of profound experiences that unlock their potential.” Trips to a contest a short distance from the coast ends with a trip to the beach, or a hike in a state park, Alacro said. “The things I try to help transcend to my kids are to set goals, be disciplined, to imagine, to be creative, to achieve your goals in a step-by-step process, to work on a team,” he said. Alacron’s group Matador Mariachi shows off its talents at community events, fundraisers, concerts and contests — together or as solo acts. One of his students is a second-place national champion, while another has self-produced a Tejano music album. “If you push within reason, with motivation and encouragement, they rise to it and they’ll surprise you,” he said. “When they create, that is one of the highest forms of education as a teacher that we can give to our students. Once they are creating, making things, inventing things, then we’re done and we’ve passed them on to the next level.”



{ FASHION }

Your Future is

Looking Good Goodwill Intentionally creating opportunities for those seeking them

Story by Janet Ward, director of marketing at goodwill San Antonio Photos by Victoria GaytÁn

U

pon graduating high school, your world is filled with possibilities. Some friends are college-bound, while others may choose to enroll in a vocational or trade school join the military, or immediately enter the workforce. Whichever path you take, Goodwill is here to assist you along your journey. You may know Goodwill as a store, a place filled with unique things, graciously donated by the community. Whether you are moving into a dorm, an apartment, or want to spruce up your bedroom, you will find pillows, comforters, blankets, kitchen essentials, and home décor at affordable prices. Of course, there are racks upon racks of clothes to browse to create your own style for school or find the perfect outfits for job interviews. Interested in a vintage look, what’s on trend, or name-brand clothes at a discount? You can find them all at your Seguin Goodwill store.

18 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING


GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 19


When creating or expanding your wardrobe, always look for pieces that provide versatility. A pair of black pants are appropriate for any occasion. Dress them up with a long-sleeve black and white polka dot blouse for an interview or go casual with a plain t-shirt and sneakers. For guys, a long-sleeve cotton shirt with slacks is a comfortable yet professional look for interviews. Roll up the sleeve and wear the shirt untucked for a laid-back afternoon with friends. Living here, we know wearing layers is a must. While it is still hot outside, classrooms can be quite cool. A classic look — boyfriend cardigan over a plain fitted t-shirt paired with jeans will keep every student comfortable. As you walk between buildings, drape the cardigan over your bag for easy access when you enter a classroom. It is also a great casual look for hanging with friends. Guys can sport a short-sleeve cotton button down shirt with coordinating shorts and sneakers as they go to class. Complete the look with a grey backpack for easy access to your laptop and other supplies. Of course, you can always show your school pride by wearing your college gear. When you shop at Goodwill, you not only look good, you will feel good knowing your purchases are making a difference in our community. In addition to supporting sustainability efforts and helping divert items from landfills, your store purchases help support our mission of helping to change lives through the power of work. Exploring a vocational program, instead of college? Our Good Careers Academy is available to anyone who is interested in going into the medical or transportation fields. Our programs include medical assistant, nurse’s aide, pharmacy technician, and commercial driver license training. With small class sizes, hands-on learning, student success coaching, and job placement assistance, our team is committed to your success. Upon completion, you will have little to no debt associated with your training. Plus, you will be prepared to sit for the national certification exam and be ready to launch your career in less than a year. Continued on page 24 20 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING


The Crystal Chandelier Event Center

WEDDING VENUE, BANQUET HALL, MEETING ROOMS AVAILABLE Perfect for Weddings, Birthdays, Dances, Service Club Meetings and Fundraising holds up to 300 people

FULL SERVICE CATERING AVAILABLE

Yellow Rose Room Holds up to 70 people

Fourth Friday Dance

Tickets Available Now!

$10 in Advance $15 at the door. Music starts at 7:00 pm

Friday, August 26

AS

IN

G

830-303-6612 • 510 E. Count - Seguin • www.silvercenterseguin.com

NO W

LE

KAYDEN PARK I KAYDEN PARK III 1913 Post Road

KAYDEN PARK III 1913 Post Road KAYDEN PARK III 72,000 sq ft OFFICE/WAREHO KAYDEN PARK III 1913 Post Road Now Pre-Leasing in 2,000 sf incr

Post Road 19131913 Post Road, New Braunfels 72,000 sq ft OFFICE/WAREHOUSE Build Out to Suit 1913 Post Road 72,000 sq ft OFFICE/WAREHOUSE Now Pre-Leasing in 2,000 sf increments 72,000 sq ftin OFFICE/WAREHOUSE Now Pre-Leasing 2,000 sfAnn increments Contact: Mary Carter Realty • 830.606.5 72,000 sq ft OFFICE/WAREHOUSE Build Out to Suit Now Pre-Leasing in 2,000 sf increments Build Out to Suit Now Pre-Leasing in 2,000 Build Out to Suitsf increments Build OutRealty to Suit Contact: Mary Ann Carter Realty • 830.606.5353 Contact: Mary Ann Carter • 830.606.5353 Contact: Mary Ann Carter Realty • 830.606.5353 Contact: Mary Ann Carter Realty •COUNTY 830.606.5353 GUADALUPE LIVING ~ SEGUIN

21


22 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING


GRMC HOSPICE BRINGS

PEACE ON EARTH GRMC’s accredited Hospice Service provides medical and spiritual care to loved ones by focusing on comfort and quality of life. We’re passionate about supporting those who are in the final act of living with the love and dignity they deserve.

1346 E. Walnut St. • Seguin, TX 78155 • 830.401.7561 • grmedcenter.com Serving Guadalupe, Comal, Hays, Caldwell, Gonzales & Wilson Counties GRMC-1413 Hospice Print Ad-Seguin Magazine-4_71x4_94-Peace-BestofBest2022.indd 1

10:43 AM GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~6/29/22 SEGUIN 23


If immediate employment is your goal, stop by one of our Good Careers Center locations for assistance. Our team of career specialists can assist you with: • Determining your career interests • Developing your resume • Conducting online job searches • Preparing for job interviews All services are free. Plus, if you elect to join the military, the Good Careers Center staff can assist you in transitioning into the civilian workforce upon separating. We can translate your military training and skills to align with the requirements and experience employers seek. While there are endless employment possibilities, if you are looking to give back or wanting to help make a difference, explore Goodwill. We are one of the largest nonprofit organizations in San Antonio, employing nearly 1,600 team members. Our Business Services operations employ more than 700 team members of whom nearly 450 have a documented disability. There are opportunities to work on government and commercial contracts at our contact/call center or document management and administrative service facilities. If you enjoy the outdoors, consider joining our grounds maintenance team. They maintain several local military bases and commercial properties. There are also opportunities to work in our stores or at our Donated Goods & Retail Operations facility. You will learn the retail operations associated with running more than 20 retail stores and online platforms while gaining an understanding of our reuse and repurposing efforts. The intentionality we give to providing second chances to gently used donated items, is the same intentionality we place on creating opportunities for those facing barriers to employment. Additional opportunities are available within our Workforce Development and Support Services units. Discover your purpose by working at Goodwill. Explore our opportunities at WorkForGood.org. Whichever path you take — own it, embrace it, live it! 24 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING


KIRCHNER WOMEN’S CLINIC, PLLC Obstetrics & Gynecology

CUSTOMIZED, COMPREHENSIVE CARE FOR WOMEN OF ALL AGES

Annual check-ups & routine pap tests Management of abnormal pap tests Abnormal uterine bleeding Fibroids, pelvic pain High risk obstetrics Prenatal counseling In-office sonography Postpartum depression Contraception & teenage counseling Menopausal symptoms Hormone replacement Sexual dysfunction Infertility Office Procedures - Hysteroscopy Genetic screening for hereditary cancers Dr. Kirchner is a board certified, skilled surgeon, specializing in minimally invasive surgeries such as: robotic and laparoscopic hysterectomies, pelvic floor reconstruction and incontinence

Same location, new practice

1339 E. Court, Ste. 210 / Seguin, Texas 78155 • 830.379.1500 Or visit us at our clinics in Cuero, and Gonzales

At First Sight - Phenomenal, Precious, Perfect! 1024 E. Court St. Seguin, Tx 78155 • 830-372-1944 Fabiosjewelry@gmail.com • FabiosJewelry.com Follow us on Social Media! GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 25


Goodwill Team Member Models Priscilla Arteaga - Production Central Processing Associate, Jacques Rogers - Outreach & Recruitment Specialist for NXT Level, Jacob Belmares – Production Associate, Nicole Hernandez – Digital Marketing Coordinator.

26 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING


Battle of the Bands Saturday, Sept. 17th

AFTER A YEAR WITHOUT A FAIR, THE COMAL COUNTY FAIR, RODEO, BBQ COOKOFF AND MORE CAME BACK BIGGER AND BETTER THAN EVER LAST YEAR. PLANS ARE UNDERWAY FOR AN EVEN MORE FUN AND EXCITING EVENT THIS SEPTEMBER. NEW To The 2021 Fair WAS A BATTLE OF THE BANDS. This Event brought GROUPS together to COMPETe TO EARN A SPOT IN THE FAIR’S MUSICAL LINE UP. THE GROUPS WHO COMPETED AT THE INAUGURAL BATTLE INCLUDED those like - RANDY LEVENSAILOR, RIPSNORTER WITH TASMAN SHARP, AND TERRY TANNER AND OLD REMEDY.

RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL

TERRY AND HIS BAND WON THE COMPETITION, a cash prize, AND PERFORMED AS THE OPENING ACT IN THE CORRAL ON FRIDAY NIGHT!

Providing Comfort To Our Customers Since 1994

PLANS ARE currently UNDERWAY TO HAVE A SECOND BATTLE OF THE BANDS THIS YEAR. Opening up THIS OPPORTUNITY FOR UP AND COMING COUNTRY BANDS TO SHOWCASE THEIR TALENT for the county. HAVE A GROUP WHO WOULD LIKE TO PERFORM THIS YEAR? YOU CAN CONTACT MARCY NOYCE, BATTLE OF THE BANDS CHAIRMAN, AT MNTEXASGIRL@GMAIL.COM. OR CALL HER AT 830-237-4145 FOR DETAILS.

Your comfort is our Business

Voted Best Heating/AC company in Seguin 16 years in a row!

Change your life with

ENTRY DEADLINE IS AUGUST 10TH.

(830) 303-8624

TACLA010612C

WIFI T-STAT

510 N. Austin • Seguin www.TriCountyAC.com


{ GOODADVICE }

Believe, Then Put in the Work Story by Jay Johnson Success Coach and owner of J2 Servant Leadership, LLC

T

he night I graduated high school is crystallized in my mind. As I strolled out of the school, heading to the parking lot, a friend walking alongside me asked: “What now?” I looked at him and replied, “I honestly don’t know, but I can tell you two things I’ll never do in life. I’ll never join the military, and I’ll never step back in another classroom.” It wasn’t that I had anything against military service; I was just undisciplined and couldn’t imagine subjecting myself to a barrage of it. Regarding school, I simply didn’t enjoy sitting in a classroom or how lessons were structured and taught. In truth, I didn’t think of myself as a very good student, and I did just enough to get by. I was 17 years old when I graduated high school and at the time, I was making better than average money as a department manager in a grocery chain. Fast forward a year, and I found myself living in a two-bedroom apartment with a few friends when I began to 28 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

do a little soul-searching. I questioned whether there was more to life than what I had experienced in the town I was growing up in. I don’t know exactly why, but from my inner reflection, I decided to go down to the local military recruiting offices for some information. Although I told myself it didn’t matter which branch of service, the first door I came to was the United States Air Force recruiter. Fast forward another year, and I found myself a United States Air Force member stationed in San Antonio. Not only was I working with some amazing men and women, but I had even discovered the discipline and structure I had dreaded was what I needed most. One person I worked with early on in San Antonio, a guy about six years older than me, profoundly and positively changed my life forever. He did so with one simple question. He asked if I had ever taken any college courses. I replied, “Nope, and I’m not really interested in doing so.” What I appreciated most about my

“Be it, until you become it”


colleague and friend was that he didn’t take my ‘no’ as the end of the conversation. He continued to discuss it with me and encouraged me to simply enroll in one course that remotely interested me. After a few months of persistence, I finally decided to give it a go and I enrolled in a psychology class. For the first time in my life, I applied myself and at the end of the semester, I earned the grade of “A.” What I really earned was something far more than a passing grade. What I really earned was a new belief system. I discovered I wasn’t a bad student; I just hadn’t ever (fully) applied myself. In fact, I discovered I actually liked learning. Our beliefs (belief systems) drive our behavior, and our behaviors form habits. Perhaps you’ve heard the old saying, “fake it until you make it?” I have a question for you. Do you like things that are fake? I don’t. I came up with my own saying, “Be it, until you become it.” Many years later, as I was retiring from the military, I finally realized the importance of beliefs. Thanks to a willingness to push through fears and borrow from the belief(s) of someone else in my life, I found I was capable of more than I had ever dreamed. Because I was willing to put in the work and embrace the discomfort that often comes from growth, I had transformed my life. Today, I possess an associate’s, a bachelor’s, and a master’s degree. I have traveled the world and seen things with my own eyes that most people will only read about in books. I’ve developed a deep appreciation for other cultures and a deeper appreciation for my own country. What do I hope you, the reader, will take from this? First, I hope you will stay open-minded and be willing to consider new opportunities. I hope you will challenge limiting beliefs and not accept something as true without soul-searching and testing. Finally, I hope you reconnect with your dream(s), set goals and then pursue life with a vigor that will leave others inspired to do the same. It is one thing to have a dream and it is another thing to put in the work to bring it to reality.

We approach each home search with a focus on the unique needs of your client and their family. Let us help you find a home that fists your lifestyle.

109 E Court St - Seguin 830-372-9466

Father Christmas Shop 480 S Seguin Segui n ave - New braunfels braunfels 101 South River Street 830-214-6002 WWW.ANDERSPIERCE.COM WWW.ANDERSPIERCE.COM 830-243-1430 Locally Owned and Operated

Father Christmas Shop 101 South River Street • Seguin, Texas 78155 • 830-243-1430

SALE Price

$59.99

LImited Stock height 12”

Gorgeous Angel Nativity Lighted Water Globe Sale Valid through 8/31/2022

FREE Decorating Christmas Tree Classes starting in September. Put your email address downAngel under newsletter at fatherchristmasshop.com Gorgeous Nativity Lighted Water Globe

SALE Price $59.99. Limited Stock. Sale Valid through 8/30/2022 GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 29


{ ontheSCENE }

Sharing the language of

usic M

Seguin music shed offers the ability to grow without restraint Story by Sarah Maskal

T

he drab and unassuming exterior of the Seguin Music Shed offers no clues as to the wonder that lies within. Upon entering the building, you’re instantly transported to a nostalgic garage band-style setting. The owner and founder of the company, Johnny Villarreal, has a kind, down-toearth attitude that draws you in and a passion for music that makes you want to be a part of it all. Villarreal doesn’t come from a particularly musical family, but can remember being drawn to it as far back as age 5 or 6 when he started out in dance classes. When he was in second grade, his older sister got into band in school and he found himself interested in playing the drums. “We talked to the band director and he said if you play piano, if you take piano lessons, you can pretty much pick whatever instrument you want when that time comes in sixth grade when they pass out instruments and kind of 30 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

photos by victoria gaytÁn

test proficiency,” he said. Villarreal took his advice and studied piano for a couple of years to advance his musical proficiency, but he always knew that his real passion lay in drumming. As a sophomore in high school, he got his own drum set and his dream started to take shape. He quickly got a band together and the endless hours spent playing as a group laid the initial groundwork for his desire to establish a different, more cohesive approach to music lessons. Villarreal studied audio engineering in Phoenix, Arizona, at the Conservatory of Recording Arts and Sciences. But perhaps his greatest musical influence was when he was afforded the opportunity to work with some of the pros at the top of the drumming scene. Traveling around playing in bands opened the door that led him to receive one-on-one training from musicians such as Ernie Durawa from the Texas Tornados, the innovative Scott


GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 31


Pellegrom, and legendary Austin drummer Barry “Frosty” Smith. The experience of learning from the masters was musical education at its finest. He then began teaching percussion for Griffin School, a college preparatory high school in Austin. This gave him his first taste of teaching and the joy it brings to encourage and nurture that love of music in students. Eventually, he started playing in an Austin-based band called Plush, but 32 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

when the pandemic hit, they stopped getting gigs and he had to find another way to pay the bills. Villarreal decided to pack up and head back to his hometown of Seguin where he began giving music lessons out of his home. He was disappointed to find that after more than 20 years away, the available music classes had not grown or changed at all. There was no outlet for students to get together and jam as a group in a learning environment.

He recognized a growing disconnect between younger generations and the ability to freely create and express themselves through music. Villarreal knows many people who have played an instrument for years, but when asked to play something, they don’t know what to play. “They want you to put a piece of music in front of them and that is a very important part of music but it’s a language, and it’s meant to be


shared and created with each other and expressed with each other.” RECOGNIZING It’s a huge divide that he believes is G U A D ALUPE COUNTY’S getting wider with the current state of MOST PROMISING musical education. His hope is to instill Y O U NG PROFESSIONALS not only the skills but the confidence needed to bridge that gap. The Seguin Music Shed is not the place for your traditional music lessons. Though his specialty was drums, his musical background made OF GUADALUPE COUNTY him proficient enough to teach piano, guitar and more. NOVEMBER 3, 2022 So when Villarreal moved his lessons to the studio space that he has 6 PM - 9 PM now, he set it up to be more of an extension of music class. A space for his COLUMBUS CLUB HALL 1015 S. Austin St., Seguin students to come in and actively particiWESTERHOLM K O E H L E R pate in learning music as the social activI NSURANCE ity that it really is and is meant to be. HOME. AUTO. LIFE. COMMERCIAL. “I’m trying to break down that mysticism around the instruments and try to make it as casual as I can, like, we played this one today, we play that one tomorrow” Villarreal said. 533 E. Court St. • Seguin If a student is feeling stuck on the www.wkitexas.com guitar and would rather come in and sit at a keyboard for the day, or try their hand at drums, he encourages that. He 280 S. King St. Seguin, TX musculos High quality care for wants students to realize that if you • • • just put in the time and effort, no task disorders injuries. Walnut Springs Familyand Health is insurmountable. Playing one instru•SportsSt. injuries •Trauma 309 Silverado LaVernia, TX •Fractures ment can easily lead to playing multiple Patients Seen Thursday Mornings •JointLaVernia Replacements •Arthritis •Hand/Foot P instruments and getting comfortable Walnut Springs High Family qualityHealth care for musculoskeletal enough to be able to just pick something Steven White, MD trent J. twit 309 Silverado St.,disorders La Vernia andG.injuries. up and play. If you take things step by •Sports injuries •Trauma •Fractures step and allow yourself to just sound bad Call •Arthritis for an•Hand/Foot appt. 830-379-9492 •Joint Replacements Problems and accept that you will have to be bad Family Health Walnut Springs before getting to a point309 where you canSt., La Vernia G. Steven White, MD trent J. twitero, MDA Prompt Silverado ppoint me be great, then you can really grow and Availab nts le! Call for an appt. 830-379-9492 flourish. And these are lessons that will not only help Villarreal’s students to succeed in their musical aspirations, but that can translate across multiple aspects of their lives as well. As for Villarreal, his ambitions for the Music Shed are bigger than he can currently fulfill on his own. He is hiring another piano teacher and guitar ances Most insur accepted, teacher in August and hopes to expand ing lud inc mp Worker’s Co and offer many more opportunities for & Medicaid his students in the future, including more availability for group jam sessions. Music is meant to be shared, after all.

Our Business is to Protect Yours

wki

830-379-7352

ernia V a L Orthopedics Office a i n r e V a L Orthopedics in in

r e V a L

High quality care for m disorders and i

Walnut Springs Family Health 309 Silverado St., La Vernia

•Sports injuries •Traum •Joint Replacements •Arthritis •H

G. Steven White, MD

CALL FOR AN APPT. 830-379-9492

tre

Call for an appt. 830-379-9492 GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 33


Choose local and independent for all your shopping needs! Thank you for continuing to support our community.

Phone Home Socks Culture - $19.99

Stand out with these trendy, vibrant and colorful vivid print socks. 114 E. Court St. | (830) 401-3352 www.culture8thirty.com

Wilma Classic Tote Sisters Boutique - $288

Charming swing has a message, “What a wonderful world,” carved into the wooden seat. Metal handles provide loops for easy hanging.

Standing the test of time, this silhouette has been a Consuela Classic since the beginning. The Classic Tote holds its shape as it takes on the journey with you, carrying the essentials and bringing the energy too. Consuela cloth exterior, green leopard print, pink metallic quilted side panels, natural untreated leather accents, comfortable multicolor striped webbing handles, open top, inside zipper pocket, inside slide pocket, included butterfly charm.

110 W. Nolte St. | (830)303-1522 www.designassociatestx.com

918 10th St., Floresville | (830) 393-7993 www.sistersrocks.com

Wonderful World Swing Design Associates - $119.95

34 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING


BUY. SELL. TRADE.

notnot justjust oil, oil, not not just just oil, oil, pennzoil pennzoil

pennzoil pennzoil

SEGUIn SEGUIn

SEGUIn SEGUIn

128 Hwy. 46 128 46 SSS 128 128Hwy. Hwy. Hwy. 46 at Court46 St.S

atat St. atCourt Court Court St. St. (830) 379-6659 not just oil, pennzoil

at Court St.

123 S. King St. (830) 379-6654

nEW BraUnfElS

not just oil, pennzoil

San MarCoS

(830) 566-1077

(830) 626-3280 992 Business IH35 S 830-214-0622

1044 Hwy. 123 (512) 396-3439

123 S. King St.

opEn: Mon - fri 8aM-6pM • Sat 8aM-5pM

123 S.S. (830) 379-6654 123 123 S.King King KingSt. St. St. (830) 379-6654 (830) (830) 379-6654 379-6654

SCHErtZ

nEW BraUnfElS

123 S. King St. (830) 379-6654

1190 Borgfeld Rd.

(830) 625-0401 482 Hwy. 46 S Next to Kohl’s

at Landa St.

at at Landa Landa St. St. (830) 625-0401

(830) 625-0401 (830) (830) 625-0401 625-0401 482 Hwy. 46 S 482 Hwy. 46SSS Next to Kohl’s 482 482 Hwy. Hwy. 46 46

128 Hwy. 46 S

(830) 379-6659

988 Mission Dr. at Landa St.

SEGUIn

SCHErtZ

at FM 3009

(830) (830) (830)379-6659 379-6659 379-6659

SEGUIn

128 Hwy. 46 S

(830) 379-6659

SCHErtZ nEW BraUnfElS BraUnfElS SCHErtZ nEW SCHErtZ SCHErtZ nEW nEW BraUnfElS BraUnfElS 1190 Borgfeld Rd. Rd. 988 Mission Dr. 1190 Borgfeld 988 Mission Dr. 1190 Borgfeld Rd. Rd. Landa St. Dr. 988 988 at Mission Mission Dr. 1190 at Borgfeld FM 3009 988 Mission Dr.

1190 Borgfeld Rd.

(830) 625-0401 482 Hwy. 46 S

(830) 566-1077

(830) 626-3280 992 Business IH35 S 830-214-0622

1044 Hwy. 123 (512) 396-3439

at FM 3009

at Landa St.

at Court St.

Next to Kohl’s

San MarCoS

opEn: Mon - fri 8aM-6pM • Sat 8aM-5pM

Next626-3280 to Kohl’s (830) Next Next to to Kohl’s Kohl’s (830) 626-3280 (830) (830) 626-3280 626-3280 992 Business IH35 S 992 Business IH35SSS 830-214-0622 992 992 Business BusinessIH35 IH35 not just oil, pennzoil

SEGUIn

128 Hwy. 46 S at Court St.

(830) 379-6659 123 S. King St. (830) 379-6654

SCHErtZ

nEW BraUnfElS

FM 3009 at atat FM FM 3009 3009 (830) 566-1077

(830)566-1077 566-1077 (830) (830) 566-1077

San MarCoS

San MarCoS San San MarCoS MarCoS 1044 Hwy. 123 1044 Hwy. 123 (512) 1044 1044396-3439 Hwy. Hwy. 123 123 not just oil, pennzoil

SEGUIn

988 Mission Dr.

1190 Borgfeld Rd.

128 Hwy. 46 S

(830) 625-0401 482 Hwy. 46 S

(830) 566-1077

(830) 379-6659

San MarCoS

(830) 626-3280 992 Business IH35 S 830-214-0622

1044 Hwy. 123 (512) 396-3439

123 S. King St. (830) 379-6654

at FM 3009

at Landa St.

Next to Kohl’s

opEn: Mon - fri 8aM-6pM • Sat 8aM-5pM

at Court St.

nEW BraUnfElS 988 Mission Dr. at Landa St.

SCHErtZ

1190 Borgfeld Rd. at FM 3009

(830) 625-0401 482 Hwy. 46 S

(830) 566-1077

(830) 626-3280 992 Business IH35 S 830-214-0622

1044 Hwy. 123 (512) 396-3439

(512)396-3439 396-3439 (512) (512) 396-3439 Next to Kohl’s

San MarCoS

opEn: Mon - fri 8aM-6pM • Sat 8aM-5pM

830-214-0622 830-214-0622 opEn: Mon - 830-214-0622 fri 8aM-6pM • Sat 8aM-5pM not just oil, pennzoil

SEGUIn

128 Hwy. 46 S

nEW BraUnfElS

SCHErtZ

988 Mission Dr.

1190 Borgfeld Rd.

(830) 625-0401 482 Hwy. 46 S

(830) 566-1077

(830) 626-3280 992 Business IH35 S 830-214-0622

1044 Hwy. 123 (512) 396-3439

opEn: 8aM-6pM Sat8aM-5pM 8aM-5pM opEn: opEn:Mon Mon Mon --- fri fri fri 8aM-6pM 8aM-6pM •••Sat Sat 8aM-5pM at Court St.

(830) 379-6659 123 S. King St. (830) 379-6654

at Landa St.

Next to Kohl’s

at FM 3009

San MarCoS

opEn: Mon - fri 8aM-6pM • Sat 8aM-5pM

At Work, At Home or On the Go! WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED

THE SEGUIN GAZETTE bringing life to your doorstep since 1888

C A L L 830 - 46 3 - 0760 O R G O O N L I N E W W W. S E G U I N G A Z E T T E. CO M

Spend your ambitions Wisely.

Living a life of love and impact is a journey of small steps. And First United Bank is here to inspire and empower you along the way. We invite you to call or stop by today to learn more.

1504 AQUARENA SPRINGS DR IN SAN MARCOS @UPTOWNSANMARCOSTX

Seguin-East • 1539 E. Court St. • 830-401-1170 Seguin-Main • 200 N. Austin St. • 830-401-1100 Seguin-West • 901 N. State Hwy 46 • 830-401-1175 Member FDIC.

Equal Housing Lender. NMLS# 400025.

FirstUnitedBank.com

GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 35


{ savethedate }

EVENT C A L E N D A R -AugustSeguin’s 184th Birthday: twelfth – 5:30- 8 PM Barbecue dinner and refreshments are available for purchase. *Homemade Ice Cream Contest* Bring your homemade ice cream for judging by 5 p.m. Contact Edith Lange at 830-660-1732. Proclamation arrival by Guadalupe Co. Sheriff ’s Posse at 6:15 and annual SCS membership meeting , election of new board members and ice cream winners announced at 7 p.m.

L o c at i on: First Church/Campbell-Hoermann Log Cabin Complex, 200 E. Live Oak St.

Third Thursday - back to school fun: eighteenth – 4 - 8 PM Come out to see what Downtown Seguin has to offer! Late-night shopping, food trucks and live music. Locat ion: Central Park, 201 S. Austin St.

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAY: nineteenth – 11 AM - 2 PM Join Guadalupe County and the Seguin Main Street Program every third Friday behind the Justice Center for delicious eats. Location: S. Camp and W. Donnegan.

Women of influence gala: twenty-fifth – 5 - 8 PM This two-day event will help showcase some amazing women from Texas and our surrounding area. It begins with a fun and inspiring gala night on Thursday, Aug.25 and finish with a day of empowering speakers at our conference on Friday, Aug. 26. At the gala night, we will honor our first Guadalupe Area Women of Influence. “Hats off to Her” - *Decorate a hat to wear for the Gala Night (Thursday). We will have a contest for the best decorated!

Location: Seguin Coliseum, 950 N. Austin St.

back to school at the pool: twenty-ninth –12 - 2 PM Get ready for school at this FREE event! Backpacks and school supplies will be given away. There will be free haircuts from local barbers, snowcones and chips. To donate to this event, email communityengagement@seguintexas.gov Location: Seguin Wave Pool, 1 Wave Pool Dr.

Send event details to seguinmagazine@seguingazette.com to have your event added to this calendar


G u a d a l u p e C o u n t y l i v i n g

Seguin’sPremiere Premiere Medispa Seguin’s Medispa Seguin’s Premiere Medispa Premiere Medispa NEVER MISS Seguin’s Seguin’s Premiere Medispa Seguin’s Premiere Medispa Family Medicine Seguin’s Premiere Medispa Seguin’s Premiere Medispa Family Medicine AN EDITION! Seguin’s Seguin’s Premiere Medispa Weight Loss • Hormone Therapy Premiere Medispa Family Medicine Family Medicine Seguin’s Premiere Medispa Weight Loss • Hormone Therapy Seguin’s Premiere Medispa Aesthetics Women’s Health ENJOY 12 ISSUES OF Weight Loss Therapy Weight Loss• ••Hormone Hormone Therapy Family Medicine M

A

G

A

Z

I

N

E

• Family Medicine • Weight Loss Family Medicine • Hormone Therapy Weight Loss Family Medicine • Family Medicine • Aesthetics Hormone Weight Loss • Weight Therapy Loss •• Family Medicine Botox & Fillers Aesthetics Hormone Therapy • Hormone Therapy Weight Loss •• Family Ultherapy Botox &Medicine Fillers Aesthetics • Aesthetics Hormone •• Weight Loss Eyelash Extensions Ultherapy Botox & • Botox Fillers &Therapy Fillers Aesthetics •• Hormone Therapy Micro-needling Eyelash Extensions Ultherapy • Ultherapy Botox & Extensions Fillers •• Aesthetics Microblading Micro-needling Eyelash • Eyelash Extensions Ultherapy •• Botox & Fillers Medi Facials Microblading Micro-needling • Micro-needling Eyelash Extensions •• Ultherapy Women’s Health Medi Facials Microblading • Microblading Laser Hair Removal Micro-needling •• Eyelash Extensions Women’s Health Medi Facials • Medi Facials IPL Photofacials •• Microblading Micro-needling Women’s Health • Women’s Health Medi Facials • Microblading •• Medi Seguin, TX 78155 Women’s Health Facials •• Women’s Seguin, TX 78155 Health

Aesthetics • Family Women’s Health Medicine Aesthetics Health Aesthetics •Women’s Women’s Health Weight Loss • •Hormone Therapy www.SeguinFamilyMedicine.com GUADALUPE Weight Loss • •Hormone Therapy www.SeguinFamilyMedicine.com Aesthetics Women’s Health COUNTY LIVING www.SeguinFamilyMedicine.com www.SeguinFamilyMedicine.com • Women’s Health 515 N. King St., Ste. 103 •Aesthetics Seguin, TX 78155

830-372-5200 830-372-5200 830-372-5200 830-372-5200 515 N. King St., Ste.www.SeguinFamilyMedicine.com 103 • Seguin, TX 78155 SEGUIN 830-372-5200 515 N.N.King 103 TX 515 KingSt., St.,Ste. Ste. 103••Seguin, Seguin, TX78155 78155 830-372-5200 830-372-5200 www.SeguinFamilyMedicine.com MAGAZINE 830-372-5200 Call us for BackCall to School us forSpecials BackCall to School us forSpecials for

5 Physiq Body 515 N. King St.,515Ste. 103St.,$1,000 •Ste.103 Seguin, TX 78155 N.Treatments King 830-372-5200 830-372-5200 515 N. King St., Ste.King 103St.,•Ste.103 Seguin, TX 78155 DELIVERED TO 515 N.www.SeguinFamilyMedicine.com Back to School Specialsials Call us for BackCall to School us forSpecials Back to School Specials

830-372-5200 515 N.N. King St., Ste.103 • Seguin, 515 King St., Ste.103 • Seguin,TX TX78155 78155 www.SeguinFamilyMedicine.com 830-372-5200 YOUR MAILBOX www.SeguinFamilyMedicine.com 515 N.www.SeguinFamilyMedicine.com King St., Ste.103 • Seguin, TX 78155 AT THE 515 N. King St., Ste.103 • Seguin, TX 78155 www.SeguinFamilyMedicine.com BEGINNING OF www.SeguinFamilyMedicine.com M.E. Plumbing has served clients in EVERY MONTH Seguin, San Marcos, New Braunfels, FOR ONLY San Antonio, Luling, La Vernia, Gonzales and surrounding areas of Texas since 2005.

$39.95! 2022 THE OF

BES T

ST BE

SG H

THE SEGUIN GAZETTE

BEST OF THE 2 BEST

021

ORDER NOW

830-463-0760

24 Hour Commercial and Residential Plumbing Services

RMP37076

830-303-5534 Seguin 925 S. Austin St., Seguin, TX 78155


Faces of seguin email YOUR PHOTOS to SEGUINMAGAZINE@SEGUINGAZETTE.COM



CHOOSE

FIRST-CLASS

urgent care. grmedcenter.com/choose

SCHEDULE ONLINE OR WALK-IN

7AM–7PM 7 DAYS A WEEK

OPEN HOLIDAYS & WEEKENDS

PATIENTS OF ALL AGES


Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.