Seguin Magazine - May 2025

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

MAY 2025

Saving Lives

IN THE DARK

Blind EMR, Robert Dittman, proves that true vision comes from the heart.

CARRYING THE TORCH Alexander Taddy’s Legacy of Care at Guadalupe Regional Medical Center

FROM ACADEMY TO THE PLAYGROUND

Playing catch and offering guidance, Josiah Luna earns his students’ respect while reshaping what it means to be a police officer in his hometown

GG’s Café is PROUD to serve up the flavors that have earned us your votes!

Thank You for Voting Us as One of the Best Chicken Fried Steak, Dessert and Restaurant!

M-TH 11-8 • FRI 11-9 • SAT. 11-8 • CLOSED SUNDAYS

OPEN DINE IN & DRIVE THRU

830-914-2572

129 W. SAN ANTONIO ST., MARION, TX 78124

HUGE SELECTION OF GENUINE RECLINERS

L

A

$699

Z

B

FROM TO

O

Y

$1199

In Stock & Ready for FAST - FREE DELIVERY

Sun’s Out! Bogg’s Out! YOUR GO-TO BAG FOR BALLGAMES, BEACH DAYS & GROCERY RUNS Easy to clean. Always stands tall.

Ready for every sunny adventure!

www.starckefurniture.com

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

Gift and Gourmet 212 S. AUSTIN ST • PHONE: 830-379-1242 WWW.GIFTANDGOURMETSEGUIN.COM

Mothers Day Sale

THE GIFT SHE’LL NEVER FORGET

UP TO 50% OFF

SELECT FINE JEWELRY Now through Mother’s Day Elegant. Timeless. From the heart.

Necklaces • Bracelets • Rings • Earrings

Where Seguin and New Braunfels Celebrate Mom! 830-625-3203 | www.ernestos.com | New Braunfels Marketplace | 717 N. Business IH 35 Suite 150

10 IN THIS ISSUE MAY 2025

FEATURES 10 CARRYING THE TORCH

Alexander Taddy’s Legacy of Care at Guadalupe Regional Medical Center

16 SAVING LIVES IN THE DARK

Blind EMR, Robert Dittman, proves that true vision comes from the heart

16

22 FROM ACADEMY TO THE PLAYGROUND

Playing catch and offering guidance, Josiah Luna earns his students’ respect while reshaping what it means to be a police officer in his hometown

28 A DYNASTY OF DUTY

Three generations strong: from ranger roots to the firehouse, the Hallmarks’ pledge to protect

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

22

36 SAVE THE DATE See what events are coming up

38 FACES OF SEGUIN Submitted photos from our readers

ON THE COVER Photo Courtesy of Robert Dittman

Robert Dittman and his wife, Kirstiana, pose for a photo in front of a fire truck, decked out in bunker gear. Robert didn’t let vision impairment stop him a life‑ time of public service.

28

now, the real news. eal And news. now, the real n nd it here fi rst. e first. Find it here first WHEREVER YOU GO.

THE LOCAL CHOICE FOR ORTHOPEDIC CARE.

STAY CONNECTED AND GET THE LATEST NEWS AND UPDATES.

IN PRINT AND ONLINE.

Dr. Trent Twitero, MD Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon Practicing Over 25 Years Proud US Army Veteran MINIMIZING DISCOMFORT RESTORING FUNCTION INNOVATIVE CARE

Seguin High School sports team doctor.

Contact Us

Dr. Twitero’s bedside manner is unmatched!

- Mark W.

830.625.0009 osinb.com

SEGUIN GAZETTE GAZETTE www.seguingazette.com THE SEGUIN GAZE .com CALL NOW

bringing life to your doorstep since 1888

ALSO IN CUERO, KENEDY, GONZALES AND NEW BRAUNFELS

• On-site radiology • Sports Medicine • Treating All Orthopedic Injuries • Appointment availability bringing life toOrthopedic your doorstep since 1888 • General care for all Ages • Joint replacement surgery • Injections and other target procedures • Fracture Care

WWW.SEGUINGAZETTE.COM ep since 1888

ngazette

Follow on: instagram.com/seguin.gazette

n.gazette

twitter.com/seguingazette

facebook.com/seguingazette

twitter.com/seguingazette

www.seguingazette.com

Follow on: instagram.com/seguin.gazette 1139 E. Court, Suite 220 - Seguin

Located in the offices above the outpatient rehab at Guadalupe Regional Medical Center.

twit

FROM THE EDITOR

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

E Vol. 11, No. 12 SEGUIN MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED TWELVE TIMES A YEAR BY THE SEGUIN GAZETTE. PUBLISHER

Elizabeth Engelhardt MAGAZINE EDITOR / CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Desiree Gerland

CONTRIBUTORS

Felicia Frazar Victoria Gaytan Alex Lowe Bianca Rawlings Sydney Seidel

ADVERTISING

Gay Lynn Olsovsky Delilah Reyes Laela Reyes

very siren, every steady hand and every call answered speak to a profound dedication that shapes the heartbeat of our community. This issue turns the spotlight on the brave souls who stand ready at a moment’s notice — those who rush toward the unknown so that the rest of us can rest easy.

Their work is woven into the very fabric of daily life; duty and personal life intertwine. Every quiet moment carries the pulse of anticipation, and every celebration or challenge is touched by compassion honed in crisis. This kind of service isn’t just a job, it’s the lens through which they live, love and connect with those around them.

Each feature here stands as a tribute not only to individual courage but to the collective spirit that binds us all. Let’s honor the unseen moments of service and embrace our shared responsibility to uplift and support those whose lives are inseparable from the work they do.

Away from the flashing lights and emergency calls, there’s an invisible bond between first responders and the communities they protect. Consider showing appreciation for our local heroes with simple, impactful actions like dropping off a handwritten thank‑you note at your nearest fire or police station, signing up for a community CPR class or volunteering at the next neighborhood safety fair. Each of these small gestures tells our first responders that their dedication doesn’t go unnoticed.

TO ADVERTISE IN SEGUIN MAGAZINE CALL 830- 463-0766 HAVE STORY IDEAS? LET US KNOW!

seguinmagazine@seguingazette.com

TO VIEW THE DIGITAL VERSION VISIT ISSUU.COM/SEGUINGAZETTE

Desiree Gerland Magazine Editor

desiree.gerland@seguingazette.com SEARCH SEGUIN GAZETTE All material herein c. 2025 Southern Newspapers Inc., dba The Seguin Gazette, 805 E. Court St., Ste. #200, Seguin, Tx, 78155 All rights reserved

Seguin Rocks the Runway

Style Show 2025 Featuring Mayor Donna Dodgen & Lynette Gray

Thursday, June 5 Please join us for this fun evening and wear your HAT !

The Crystal Chandelier Ballroom Doors open 6:00 pm – show starts 7:00 pm heavy hors d’oeuvres - complimentary beverage cash bar available – prize drawings

Event Platinum Sponsor: $2500 Gold Star - $1000 Silver Star - $500 Bronze Star - $300 Sponsors Receive Reserved Tables for 8 and Special Recognition

Individual Tickets $35 Please contact Glenda Partain at 830-303-6612 silvercenter@sbcglobal.net

Tickets available at The Silver Center We are a 501C-3 Organization

Professional Quality Service You Can Trust

wki

WESTERHOLM K O E H L E R INSURANCE

HOME. AUTO. LIFE. COMMERCIAL.

830-379-7352 533 E. Court St. • Seguin www.wkitexas.com

W O N SI A LE G

Post Road, New Braunfels

N

KAYDEN PARK Commercial Industrial Space Available KAYDENPARK.COM Contact: Mary Ann Carter Realty 830.606.5353

Spring Into Clear Vision Cataract & LASIK Surgery Routine Eye Exams – Optical Diabetic Eye Care Glaucoma – Dry Eye

Visit nvisioncenters.com for discounts on LASIK surgery.

In New Braunfels, San Antonio, Seguin, San Marcos, La Vernia, Gonzales, Castroville, and Hondo. Most vision and health insurance accepted.

830-379-EYES (3937) | EyesTx.com 908 E. Court St., Seguin TX 78155

seguin, it’s real

KEEPERS INTERIORS & FURNITURE Find something you love for your home

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

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

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

Southern Charm in Full Bloom Southern Good Boutique has your spring-to-summer looks covered.

Whether you’re dressing up for Mother’s Day, graduation, or just celebrating sunshine — you’ll find your perfect fit here.

Monday - Friday 10AM–6PM Saturday - 10AM–5PM • Sunday - 12–4PM 114 S Austin St.

@SouthernGood

@The-Mercantile-at-SouthernGood

206 S. Austin St.

| FE ATURE |

Carrying

THE

TORCH

ALEXANDER TADDY’S LEGACY OF CARE AT GUADALUPE REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER

STORY BY BIANCA RAWLINGS PHOTOS BY VICTORIA GAYTAN

A

t Guadalupe Regional Medical Center (GRMC) in Seguin, the tradition of care extends across generations. For newly hired registered nurse Alexan‑ der Taddy, joining the staff at GRMC is more than a professional milestone.

It's the continuation of a proud family legacy rooted in medical service. His grandfather, Dr. Andrew Raetzsch, was GRMC’s first chief of medical staff and his uncle, Dr. Thomas Raetzsch, has been practicing family medicine in Seguin for over 30 years.

10 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 11

Now, Taddy is carrying that torch forward in his own way at the patient’s bedside.

“I just graduated this past Decem‑ ber from Abilene Christian University, got my Bachelor of Science in nursing,” said Taddy. “It’s something I always wanted to do since high school.”

Even before college, Taddy began laying the groundwork for a career in healthcare.

“In high school, I got my CMA and my phlebotomy certification,” he said.

“That’s kind of what got me started.”

With early hands-on experience and a growing interest in medicine, Taddy’s path forward became increasingly clear.

Family influence played a big role as well.

“One influence for me wanting to go into nursing was my uncle Thomas Ray,” he said. “He’s a doctor here in Seguin, and every time I was sick as a kid, I knew I could count on him to help.”

That legacy of caring for others is now firmly planted at GRMC, where Taddy has just completed his orienta‑ tion period.

“Right now, I’m on my eighth week of orientation at GRMC. I’ve really enjoyed it,” he said. “Everyone’s been awesome helping me learn and be the best nurse I can be.

In his early days on the hospital floor, Taddy learned quickly just how dynamic and demanding nursing can be — some‑ thing he embraces wholeheartedly.

“Nurses are there 24/7 with the patients,” he said. “You’re taking care of five or six patients for 12 hours, making sure everyone’s okay. You’re always on your toes.”

Taddy has taken to the fast pace and responsibility that come with nurs‑ ing, recognizing how critical strong time management and teamwork are to quality care.

“You have to manage your time and delegate it properly to the patients who need it most,” he said. “That’s part of the heroic aspect of nursing.”

12 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 13

Collaboration is also central to his approach.

“We couldn’t do everything by ourselves — just like doctors can’t,” Taddy said. “The teamwork between doctors, nurses and nurse aides is what gives patients the best care.”

Starting his nursing journey at the same hospital that shaped his family’s legacy has given Taddy a deep appreci‑ ation for the institution’s culture and values. His grandfather’s legacy still echoes through the halls, and working alongside his uncle provides both inspi‑ ration and a sense of continuity.

“I would definitely say my uncle inspired me. He’s very smart, very disci‑ plined and seeing how hard he worked made me want to push myself, too.”

As he looks ahead, Taddy is already thinking about how he can continue growing within the profession.

“I think the hospital setting is where you get the most growth, in my opinion,” he said. “I’m thinking about going back to school to become a CRNA — Certi‑ fied Registered Nurse Anesthetist.”

Though early in his career, Taddy has already developed a strong founda‑ tion built on education, experience and mentorship. GRMC’s nursing staff and leadership have been instrumental in helping him find his footing and build the confidence required for long-term success in the field.

By choosing to launch his career at GRMC, Taddy is not only honoring the family members who came before him, but also forging his own path — one filled with dedication, compassion and a desire to serve. His story reflects the enduring power of legacy, the impor‑ tance of mentorship and the bright future ahead for a new generation of heroic caregivers in Seguin.

14 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

M.E. Plumbing has served clients in Seguin, San Marcos, New Braunfels, San Antonio, Luling, La Vernia, Gonzales and surrounding areas of Texas since 2005.

RMP-37076

24 Hour Commercial and Residential Plumbing Services

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

Installation, Repairs, Inspections, Maintenance Contracts Commercial Commercial & & Residential Residential

(830)303-4065 www.SepticTex.com GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 15

| FE ATURE |

Saving Lives IN THE DARK

BLIND EMR, ROBERT DITTMAN, PROVES THAT TRUE VISION COMES FROM THE HEART

STORY BY ALEX LOWE PHOTOS BY FELICA FRAZAR AND COURTESY OF ROBERT DITTMAN

R

obert Dittman is the chief of the Internal Affairs Division at Texas Public Safety and Investi‑ gations. He has also served as a member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary. He was a former security officer, a practicing attorney, a musician and a high school wrestler. He is a voice actor who can recreate almost any dialect. Recently, he was certified as an EMR (emergency medical responder). That is an impres‑ sive resume for any person. One more thing, Robert Dittman is blind.

Born with a condition referred to as retinopathy of prematurity, Dittman had limited sight at birth. It is the same condition shared by Grammy winner Stevie Wonder. “I was born at 1 lb 8 oz at 25 weeks in 1977, which was kind of a miracle,” said Dittman. “When an individual is that small, you must make a choice. You give the baby 100% oxygen, which the blood vessels in the eyes can only handle about 20% and so the blood vessels burst and it pulls off the retinas.

So, do we withhold 100% oxygen and a likelier chance the child will die or do 16 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

we risk blindness and give him a better chance of living?”

Dittman had limited sight as a child but he could never really see facial expressions at a distance. He could see colors and shapes. As a result, he knew kind of how people looked, Dittman said. He also could watch TV from up close.

But then, Dittman lost his remain‑ ing sight as a teenager.

“In 1993, I had been selected by an organization called Visually Impaired Athletes of Texas and then the United States Association of Blind Athletes to represent the U.S. on the Olympic wres‑ tling team for the ’96 Olympics,” he said.

“But when I was training at the Olym‑ pic training center in 1993, my partner missed a throw and instead of hitting the mat, I hit the floor. That caused a total retinal detachment and, despite efforts to fix it, that was it. So, I've been totally blind without any functional vision since 1998.”

Despite the cost, Dittman has no regrets about his decision to wrestle.

GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 17

“No regrets at all. I decided to join the Civil Air Patrol instead,” he said. “ I was like, fine. If I can't wrestle, I'm gonna join the military. So, then I jumped out airplanes because I got bored.”

En route to his new pastime, Ditt‑ man said he called his girlfriend at the time. Shockingly, he asked her to drive him to a drop zone.

“I told her I was bored and I'm gonna jump out of an airplane,” Ditt‑ man said. “She said I was out of my mind. I told her this is how we roll.”It is a theme that repeated itself for Dittman.

He has always been determined not to let his lack of sight keep him from expe‑ riencing life or from achieving goals.“I'll be honest. There are things that I miss.

Sunsets, blue skies, cumulus clouds, thunderstorms, Christmas lights, a wave on the Gulf of Mexico,” Dittman said.

“You know how it is kind of a shimmery silvery white? I remember that. But I don’t regret anything I've done.

“God doesn't make mistakes. So even though I have a newborn daughter that I will never see and a beautiful wife, if they could see themselves through my eyes, it would blow their ever-lov‑ ing minds.”Since losing his sight, Ditt‑ man continues to “blow minds.” As mentioned, he is a musician, a guitarist to be exact. He also dabbled at a voice acting career, utilizing his talent for imitating dialects.“In the end, in order to really be successful at that, it meant moving either to New York or LA and I wasn’t ready to do that.”Dittman obtained his law degree and worked as a lawyer for some time. But his career wanderlust eventually led him to answer a friend’s challenge to become a security officer in his newly formed company. “He basically said I'm gonna make you a blind guy carrying a badge and a gun,” Dittman said. “I said you're out of your damn mind and he said if anyone can do it, you can.”In the new role, Dittman had to meet shooting proficiency standards.“I had to shoot to qualify just like everybody else,” he said. “I just re-upped my commission, so I have a license to carry as well as a security officer commission. I'm also a 18 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 19

personal protection officer, which is a licensed bodyguard. My mantra is give me a chance. If I don't make it that's fine but at least let me try.”Dittman explains how he manages to fire a gun accu‑ rately without the benefit of eyesight.

“There is a concept called natural point of aim. Everyone's body mechanics are a little different but when you raise the pistol and you present it with your arm making a horizontal straight line to the ground and the arm completely outstretched and the gun parallel to the ground, that's the natural point of aim,” he said. “ If you practice every time you present the firearm, you'll be in the same anatomical position at the same time so that's how you can shoot at the target.”

Dittman didn’t stop there. After leaving his private law practice to take a position at the Texas Public Safety and Investigations as chief of the agen‑ cy’s Internal Affairs Division, he went on to become the first blind person to pass the EMR exam and receive certification as an EMS provider. In December 2023, along with his wife, Kristiana, Robert attained his certi‑ fication. The couple used a software program called Pocket Prep to study for the exam, which allowed them to quiz each other on the basics while making a game of the process. Typical of Ditt‑ man’s all-or-nothing approach to life, he made sure his achievement was not merely symbolic. “When you wear this uniform, you want to be sure you get it more than somebody who’s just looking in from the outside,” he said.

Despite his many career accom‑ plishments, Dittman values certain things above all others in his life.“I think the two greatest titles I've ever achieved are those of husband and father,” he said.

“Feeding a child when you're blind is messy, but it is fun. I can't wait until we have daddy-daughter dances or we get to have tea parties. We're gonna have some fun and it's gonna be great.”As for future career goals, Dittman’s plans are typi‑ cally ambitious.

“I wouldn’t mind doing a podcast,” he said, “maybe trying to inspire people with my story.”

20 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

nEW

Orthopedics in

r e V a L

PROUDLY SERVING OUR PATIENTS FOR 40 YEARS!

High quality care for m disorders and i PROMPT APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

RANKED TOP 2% IN THE NATION FOR JOINT & TOTAL KNEE REPLACEMENT BY HEALTHGRADES

STEVEN W •Sports injuries G.•Trauma CALL 830-379-9492 TODAY! • Sport injuries • Trauma • Fractures •Joint Replacements •Arthritis •H PROVIDING HIGH EMERGENCY: 830-379-2411 • Joint Replacements • Arthritis • Hand/Foot Problems FOR MUSCULO We Accept Most Insurances, Including Worker’s Comp & Medicaid Walnut Springs Family Health DISORDERS & • Seguin, TX 78155 White, MDSports Injuriestre • Hand 309 Silverado St., La Vernia280 S. KingG.StreetSteven

High quality care for musculoskeletal disorders and injuries.Board Certified in Or

WWW.SEGUINORTHOPEDICS.COM

280 S. King St. Seguin, TX

Joint Replacement Ar

• • •

Call for anWalnut appt.

830-379-9492 Springs Family Health 309 Silverado St. LaVernia, TX Also seeing patients in Kenedy and Yoakum Prompt Appointments Available!

Visit us at www.seguinorthopedics.com

CALL FOR AN APPT. 830-379-9492

Alyson Kirchner, MD

Obstetrics & Gynecology

2023 Women’s Choice in Obstetrics - top 6% in the nation.

CUSTOMIZED, COMPREHENSIVE CARE FOR WOMEN OF ALL AGES

Dr. Kirchner is a board certified, skilled surgeon, specializing in minimally invasive surgeries such as: robotic and laparoscopic hysterectomies, pelvic floor reconstruction and incontinence www.kirchnerwomens.com

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

GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 21

| FE ATURE |

FROM ACADEMY TO THE

Playground PLAYING CATCH AND OFFERING GUIDANCE, JOSIAH LUNA EARNS HIS STUDENTS’ RESPECT WHILE RESHAPING WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A POLICE OFFICER IN HIS HOMETOWN

STORY BY SYDNEY SEIDEL PHOTOS COURTESY OF SEGUIN POLICE DEPARTMENT

F

or Josiah Luna, a career in law enforcement was always the goal. Growing up in the same town where he now serves, Luna’s commitment to policing comes from a desire to give back to the community that helped shape him.

After graduating from high school at Seguin ISD in 2021, Luna worked for two years at a Walmart Distribu‑ tion Center before moving to Austin to work for a wholesale company.

These jobs, however, were just a way to pass the time — he was waiting for the day he turned 21 and finally could enroll in the police academy.

22 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 23

Luna joined the academy the week of his birthday. He was one of the youngest students in his class, surrounded by classmates with an average age ranging from 27 to 30.

Despite the age gap, Luna quickly adapted and threw himself into the experience, excelling both academi‑ cally and physically.

Though he knew the physical challenges would be tough, Luna was fully prepared. From grueling exer‑ cises, such as rowing 1,000 meters in under four minutes, to learning complex legal concepts, he found both the physical and academic demands rewarding.

“It wasn’t extremely difficult for me, but that’s because I knew this was what I wanted to do,” Luna said.

“Reading books and learning the law might not always seem exciting, but I actually enjoyed it. I found it very interesting.”

After six months of training, Luna graduated from the academy and spent about a month working in an administrative phase, where he helped out around the department before transitioning to patrolling.

Now, as a police officer since the fall of 2024, Luna’s favorite part of the job is the constant unpredictabil‑ ity. There’s never truly a “typical” day, and that variety keeps him engaged and motivated in his work. Every shift is different, offering new challenges and opportunities to learn whether responding to calls or being involved in something more serious.

Luna says some days can revolve entirely around a single case, keep‑ ing him focused on one investiga‑ tion from start to finish. Other days, though, can be filled with a variety of tasks including writing reports, answering routine calls and handling unexpected situations as they arise.

Outside of his patrol schedule, Luna also works as a school resource officer for multiple campuses within the Seguin Independent School District. In this role, he serves as

24 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 25

campus security and takes reports when needed, but it’s also about more than just safety.

Community Engagement Offi‑ cer Stephanie Larrimore said the job isn’t just about enforcement, but also about being a familiar presence that kids can recognize and feel comfort‑ able around.

“He has his own kids running around at home, too, but he took it on,” Larrimore said. “But that’s all a side job for him and every other offi‑ cer that goes out there.”

Back in high school, Luna consid‑ ered becoming a teacher and even took child development classes before ultimately deciding on policing.

Despite choosing a different career path, he knew he still wanted to work with kids in some capacity. Becoming a school resource officer gave him that opportunity. Now, he enjoys hanging out with the students at the schools he watches over and often plays with them at recess. It’s a role that allows him to serve as a positive role model for children attending the same schools he once did.

He also hopes to give them a positive association with police offi‑ cers. Luna said that, growing up in his community, he wasn’t always given the best representation of law enforce‑ ment. His personal experiences shaped his understanding of just how important that representation can be.

When he’s not at work, Luna considers himself to be a “boring” person and a “homebody.” His favor‑ ite thing to do is stay home and spend time with his family, especially chasing after his three kids. Time away from the job helps him recharge and puts into perspective the kind of officer he wants to be — because making a posi‑ tive impact on others is what truly drives him.

When asked what his favorite part of the job is, Luna put it simply: making a difference.

26 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

Ready to take the next step in your real estate Journey? Whether you’re buying, selling or investing. Here at Anders Pierce we have the knowledge and expertise to help you succeed.

Get started by giving us a call!

WWW. ANDE RSPIE RCE .COM

109 W Court St Seguin

480 S Seguin ave New braunfels

830-372-9466

830-214-6002

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 225 People • Full Service Catering Available

FRIDAY NIGHT Dance Seguin Rocks the Runway Style Show 2025

Wrangler Country Friday, May 16

Featuring Mayor Donna Dodgen & Lynette Gray

THE Gabe Galvan BAND

Friday, May 30

Thursday , June 5 Please join us for this fun evening and don’t forget to wear your hat!

Doors open 6:30 | Music starts at 7:30 Presale tickets $10.00 | at the door $15.00

830-303-6612 • 510 E. Court - Seguin • www.silvercenterseguin.com GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 27

| FE ATURE |

A Dynasty OF DUTY THREE GENERATIONS STRONG: FROM RANGER ROOTS TO THE FIREHOUSE, THE HALLMARKS’ PLEDGE TO PROTECT

STORY BY FELICIA FRAZAR PHOTOS BY FELICIA FRAZAR AND COURTESY OF THE HALLMARK FAMILY

F

or generations, members of KB Hallmark’s family pledged to served their community.

Hallmark is no exception, and his wife and son have joined him in their work as public servants, both in paid and volunteer capacities.

Hallmark is currently the captain of Sand Hills Volunteer Fire Department and works for the city of Olmos Park as a firefighter. His wife Kelly is an art teacher at Briesemeister Middle School and the assistant fire chief at San Hills Volunteer Fire Department and their son, KB Hallmark V is a firefighter for the Seguin Fire Department and serves as the certification coordinator for Sand Hills Volunteer Fire Department, among other tasks his chief or assistant chief ask of him.

Public service was ingrained in KB IV growing up and it was no shock that he sought a career along that path.

“My family was real big on public service,” he said. “My mom was a teacher, my dad was a police officer, both of 28 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

my grandfathers were involved in law enforcement, even had a great grandfa‑ ther who was a Ranger.”

KB IV joined the military and, prior to a deployment to Bosnia, he passed a course and received his EMT Basic certification. While his deployment was canceled, KB IV opted to get a job with a local ambulance service provider and began volunteering with Sand Hills Volunteer Fire Department.

KB IV began volunteering for the department in 1999 after meeting the volunteer fire chief at a wreck.

“I was coming home from drill that weekend and when I stopped to help, that was when I met Don (Hamilton) and he gave me the information about volunteering out here,” he said. “That is basically where everything got started. I did this and worked professionally.”

KB IV has held many roles as a member of Sand Hills including lieu‑ tenant, assistant chief and chief.

Through the years, KB IV has worked for other departments including

Canyon Lake, Converse, Bexar County and most recently at a Toyota plant’s fire department, before joining Olmos Park.

He also served a few years a as police offi‑ cer in Waelder.

“That was when things fell right.

I had always wanted to see how law enforcement was, so I got the chance to go through the academy and got hired on out in Waelder,” he said. “I ended up coming back to fire.”

About four years after KB IV joined the department, Kelly joined as a way to spend more time with her husband.

“I was talking with him and said, ‘do you have to go every time?’” she recalled.

“He said, ‘There’s not very many of us and when we have a call. Someone has to stay outside and monitor the engine, run the engine, do that kind of thing.’ I said, ‘I can do that.’”

So she learned how to run the truck and monitor things on the outside. But, eventually, Kelly said she was persuaded to start training to more effectively do that job. That eventually turned into something more for her.

“They said it was important for me to know what it was like inside a fire so I would understand why it was so import‑ ant for me to make sure that truck continued to pump water,” she said. “I was really afraid. I didn’t want to go near fire; it was not the thing for me. When I got in the burn house with the gear on and realized you could do this safely, if you knew what you were doing, it was actually kind of cool. Pretty much after that, you couldn’t get me back on moni‑ toring the truck.”

Kelly admitted there was some discussion and worry about her during talks about her joining the department.

“First off, he told me I shouldn’t do it because he was doing it and someone could get hurt and if one of us got hurt, who was going to look after the kid.

Outside of that, there was a little friction with being given orders,” Kelly said. “It’s not his fault; it’s my fault. I’m not good at taking orders. I’m not good at being told to do something. There was some work around, some learning on how and why you do what you’re told to do in the 30 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 31

moment. I think there was a little bit of a learning curve on KB’s part with how to give orders to someone who initially is going to bristle.”

KB IV agreed, adding that in 20 years, the roles have now reversed and she gets it double when both KBs are on a scene.

“It’s always fun when she is in command and me and him are out in the field,” KB IV said. “We tend to be a little bit of a terror to her.”

However, that doesn’t stop them from respecting the chain of command, and they’ve placed boundaries from their home life and life in the fire service, Kelly said.

“When it’s fire related, we talk to each other and refer to our titles,” Kelly said. “That sets the boundary of talking as your assistant chief, not your mom or your wife.”

While she knows both her husband and son are capable of taking care of themselves, she said there are times where concern can take precedent. But that goes for her entire crew not just her family, Kelly said.

“I think when we’ve been there, I don’t think it is as nerve-wracking because we’re there,” she said. “There has been some instances where mama bear has come out a couple of times. It turns out that mama bear doesn’t just come out for my kid; she comes out for any of my guys.”

The same goes for KB IV, mostly because he knows they’ve trained extensively.

“At this point, I have a lower level of apprehension of working on fires with them there because I know them, I know what their thought processes are and it’s not unknown to me, versus someone who I only occasionally see,” he said.

Being around the fire service his entire life helped shape the direction KB V decided to go even before high school.

“I was running around the scene since I was 5. In 2010, the junior program came about and I actually started there and worked my way through doing maintenance, doing any hands-on training here that we could 32 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

do,” the youngest Hallmark said. “In 2018, I was brought on as an actual line firefighter. I went to the fire academy and got my certification. I graduated with my EMT in November 2018, which I got through the Early College High School program at Seguin High School.”

Hallmark worked as an EMT Basic in Gonzales while earning his bachelor’s degree. Seguin Fire Department hired him in 2021 and he began working as a full-time firefighter for the city, while still volunteering for Sand Hills Volun‑ teer Fire Department.

While Kelly may have tried to entice KB V to seek a different career path when he was younger, she saw the passion for the fire service in him and helped nurture his choice.

“I took him around to universities when he was 10, trying to convince him to get into the sciences,” she said. “But he was pretty much set for fire. I let go of trying to push him toward other things

because his passion for firefighting really would probably make him one of the better firefighters out there. He knows all of the ins and outs like his dad.”

KB V met his wife Cheyanne in high school and he credits her support for helping him push through and earn his certifications and degree.

“She dragged me through kicking and screaming,” he said.

Cheyanne is also a member of the Sand Hills Volunteer Fire Department and helps run medical calls and with training when she’s available, Kelly said.

“It really is a family affair,” she said.

Both Kelly and KB IV are proud of their son and the work he’s doing to serve his community.

“Like any parent, I’m proud of him,” KB IV said. “I’m glad he is working for Seguin. It’s a good department to work for. I know that department is going to take care of him. I’m happy he choose this field.”

NOW HIRING! COME JOIN OUR TEAM!

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 8 3 0 - 4 6 3 - 0 7 6 0 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 . C O M

Your Comfort is Our Business For The Past 30 Years

19 Years in a row!

94. our customers since 19 Providing comfort to

830.303.86| 2ww4w.TriCountyAC.com

155 St., Seguin, Tx 78 510 North Austin ING IR CONDITION H E AT I N G & A

License#TACLA0

10612C

GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 33

CHOOSE LOCAL AND INDEPENDENT FOR ALL YOUR SHOPPING NEEDS! THANK YOU FOR CONTINUING TO SUPPORT OUR COMMUNITY.

Gourmet Brownies Homemade Haven - $6

Enjoy our fresh‑baked s’mores brownies with gooey marshmallows, rich walnut brownies loaded with toasted nuts, and classic chocolate chip cookies packed with melty chunks — all made fresh.

225 N. Saunders St., Suite 6 | (210)286-0906 Find Us on Facebook - Homemade Haven

Custom Spray Tan 24 Karat Kissed - $50

Experience flawless, sun‑kissed radiance with our professional spray tan service—perfect for everything from weddings and weekend getaways to everyday confidence boosts. Our precision airbrush technique delivers a streak‑free, natural‑looking glow that smooths and evens skin tone, minimizing imperfections while enhancing your unique beauty. Memberships available.

314 N. Austin St., Suite101 | (830) 251-2976 www.24karatkissed.com 34 SEGUIN ~ GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING

Howdy Boot Seguin - Mauve Heather Shirt Gift & Gourmet - $36

Saddle up your style with our “Howdy Seguin” tee—a soft, breathable shirt that proudly puts your hometown on display. Show off your Seguin spirit with every “Howdy” you throw out!

212 S Austin St. | 830-379-1242 www.giftandgourmetseguin.com

Advertising in Seguin Magazine is like a cat brushing its teeth AT T E N T I O N -G

RABBING ,

Let your skin Blossom!

All Skincare 20% Off Expert care in a safe and relaxing environment.

Reveal brighter, smoother skin for that Spring Glow!

515 N. King St., Ste. 103 • Seguin, TX 78155 • 830-372-5200 www.SeguinFamilyMedicine.com

Memorable, and

surprisingly effective!

Not just oil, Pennzoil

SEGUIN

NEW BRAUNFELS

128 Hwy. 46 S at Court St. (830) 379-6659

SCHERTZ

1190 Borgfeld Rd. at FM 3009 (830) 566-1077

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

SAN MARCOS

STAY IN YOUR CAR

MON - FRI 8AM - 6PM

•

482 Hwy. 46 S Next to Kohl’s (830) 626-3280 992 Business IH35 S 830-214-0622

1044 Hwy. 123 (512) 396-3493

OIL CHANGE

988 Mission Dr. at Landa St. (830) 625-0401

S AT 8 A M - 5 P M

PODIATRIST SEEING PATIENTS in

Seguin

Specializing in Care of the Foot & Ankle

Charles White DPM, FACFAS

RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY

830-463-0766 G u a d a l u p e C o u n t y l i v i n g

M

A

G

A

Z

I

N

E

• Diabetic Foot Care • Wound Care • Sports Medicine • Limb Preservation • Foot & Ankle Reconstruction • Dual Board Certified

Call now for an appointment!

830-491-9211 - Prompt appointments available - Also seeing patients in Kenedy, LaVernia, Nixon & San Marcos - Most insurances accepted

932 South State Hwy. 123 Bypass • Seguin, TX 78155 www.southtxpodiatry.com

| SAVE THE DATE |

EVENT

C A L E N D A R MARGARITA MADNESS AT THIRD THURSDAY: FIFTEENTH – 4 - 8 PM Grab your friends and head to Central Park, where you can purchase a commemorative cup and grab your Map and Wristband. Visit more than 20 stops and vote for your favorite margarita.

And enjoy a little shopping and dining along they way! DBA-member restaurants will be open and serving food and there will be food trucks on North and South Austin Streets. Live Music by Gacho Sol and other activities in Central Park. * Please be advised the Margarita Maniacs (those serving margaritas) are NOT providing disposable cups in an effort to make this an eco-friendly event. The Seguin Downtown Business Alliance is a group of volunteer business owners and individuals who are working to promote and protect Beautiful Downtown Seguin. This year's fund-raising purpose is a large lighted tree in Central Park for the holiday events.

Visit www.DowntownSeguin.com to learn more.

Location: Central Park, 201 S. Austin St.

MARKET AT THE FARM: SIXTEENTH & SEVENTEENTH – 4 - 7 PM

Gather the family and rally your friends for a flower farm agruculture experiene that's truly one of a kind. Live music, farm park, hayrides, live trades, kiddie park, flower u-pick and more!

Location: Sunny Hill Flower Farm, 399 Pasture Rd., Luling

YOUR BEST LIFE FESTIVAL: SEVENTEENTH – 10 AM - 2 PM Find health & wellness information and resources from a variety of local agencies businesses and organizations. Learn about community resources, insurance, mental health, nutrition, physical fitness, safety and more. Bring the kids for free fun activities, including a bounce house and face painting. Enjoy food trucks, fitness demos, giveaways and prizes. Admission is free.

Location: Seguin Events Complex, 950 S. Austin St.

BADGES, BIKES & TYKES: SEVENTEENTH – 11 AM - 2 PM The Seguin Police Department, in partnership with the Seguin Fire Department, is hosting its Annual Badges, Bikes and Tykes Picnic. The event features a free lunch, lots of games and prizes, and a chance for children ages 16 and under to win a free bike or skateboard. The Badges, Bikes, and Tykes Picnic is an opportunity for the kids of Seguin to meet Seguin police officers and fire‑ fighters, and to get to know them as regular people rather than just first responders. For more information, please contact Officer Larrimore at 830-865-6409.

Location: Max Starcke Park East-Patricia K. Irvine-King Pavilion, 1412 River Drive E.

MCQUEENEY VFD CRAWFISH BOIL FUNDRAISER: TWENTY-FOURTH – 1 PM Come out and join us for our 2nd Annual Crawfish Boil Fundraiser! We will have food, music and activities for both kids and adults. All proceeds are to benefit the McQueeney VFD to assist us in purchasing gear and Fire/EMS courses.

Location: Off The Clock NB, 4409 FM-725, New Braunfels

SEND EVENT DETAILS TO SEGUINMAGAZINE@SEGUINGAZETTE.COM TO HAVE YOUR EVENT ADDED TO THIS CALENDAR

SEGUIN'S PREMIER

DIGITAL MARKETING AGENCY Boost your online presence with targeted and engaging content and Harness the power of analytics for informed marketing decisions.

WHY YOU SHOULD CHOOSE US? SEO Excellence

PPC Precision

Data-Driven Insights

Brand Amplification

SCHEDULE YOUR FREE CONSULTATION TODAY!

830.463.0766 | ADVERTISING@SEGUINGAZETTE.COM GUADALUPE COUNTY LIVING ~ SEGUIN 37

FACES OF SEGUIN EMAIL YOUR PHOTOS TO SEGUINMAGAZINE@SEGUINGAZETTE.COM

Emergency care.

That’s always there.

grmedcenter.com • 830.379.2411