SDN: April 10, 2026

Kiwanis Flapjack Jamboree returns for 68th year in Seguin

(Seguin) – There’s no need to worry about breakfast plans this Saturday. That’s because the Seguin Kiwanis Club, for the 68th year, has it all covered.

The smell of pancakes and sausage returns this weekend as the group hosts its annual Flapjack Jamboree.

Kiwanis Club member Ed Engelhardt, who has been flipping flapjacks at the event since the very beginning, says club members can’t wait to fire up the grills bright and early- cooking each breakfast plate on site.

Flapjacks, pg. 3

WEEKEND EDITION

Moonlight & Roses to move indoors

City invites public for complimentary refreshments, live music

(Seguin) -- This Friday marks the return of the popular Moonlight and Roses event. However, instead of enjoying the night at the Memorial Rose Garden at Walnut Springs Park, organizers have decided to relocate the event due to the chance of rain.

Among those making the decision for a change in location was Blaire Friar, the director of Seguin Main Street and the Seguin Visitors Bureau.

“We have changed the venue due to the possibility of rain and thunderstorms on Friday. So, we will now be holding the event at St. James Catholic Church at their parish hall. It’s at 510 South Camp Street. Very grateful that they were willing to work with us and allow us to use their space. We’ll be moving everything in there and all

will go on as planned,” said Friar.

Despite the change in venue, Friar says attendees can still expect the same fun atmosphere, complete with live music, awards and complimentary refreshments.”

“We will have the traditional Moonlight and Roses entertainment and complimentary desserts and wine from 7 to 9 o’clock on Friday evening. That is when we’ll be presenting the annual Downtown Awards and Community Arts Awards. We have some wonderful local partners we’ll be recognizing. And we have Choo-Cha Booch, a local jazz band coming to perform for us. So, it should be a good time,” said Friar.

Guests who purchased tickets in advance will also be treated to a pre-event dinner from 6 to 7 p.m. featuring a meal by Burnt Bean Co. Roses, pg. 3

Families invited to annual Navarro Kids & Family Expo Pantherpalooza set for this Saturday

(Geronimo) – Folks are invited to shake it like a Polaroid picture during this weekend’s PantherPalooza.

“Vintage Polaroid” is the theme of this year’s third annual event which invites families out for a “day of fun, resources and community connection.”

The free Kids & Family Expo will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at Navarro Intermediate School.

Chelsea Ormond, Navarro ISD director of communications, marketing and public relations, says the event is designed to bring the community together while showcasing valuable resources.

“We’ll have live music by Navarro’s very own DJ Mannie with Stray Cat Productions. We’ll have different tables with resources like summer enrichment and community organizations. There’s ways to get involved like the Guadalupe Valley Young Marines or Young Life will

be there to sign up people. Navarro Education Foundation will be there fundraising for their annual duck adoptions. We’ll have food trucks there so you can eat and grab a bite and there’s activities and door prizes. So, it’s a day filled with a lot of great information and just ways to be connected in our community,” said Ormond.

Ormond says this year’s unique theme, “Vintage Polaroid,” reflects Navarro ISD’s commitment to both nostalgia and community pride.

“The theme this year is Vintage Polaroid, and the reason for that -that is a tribute to our shared journey and keeping our history in focus. As we come together, we always want to continue to honor our past traditions while we’re building out our future. And so, and when we opened our new high school, we have that beautiful display case with all of our vintage photos, memorabilia, history about Jose Antonio Navarro, and so we’re

asking our community to bring more photos, more memorabilia that you want to share or just scan, because we’re going to create similar cases like that in all of our campuses. And our new Navarro South Elementary is going to incorporate murals on the walls of actual Navarro history. So that’s why our theme is Vintage Polaroid. We encourage all decades of Navarro graduates, alumni, friends, family to come and let us scan or borrow or donate kind of fun things that are part of our history,” said Ormond.

In addition to games, shopping and food trucks, attendees can also stop by one of the many vendor booths featuring local services, student organizations and summer opportunities, as well as learn more about district initiatives, including the 2026 Bond.

Pantherpalooza is free and open to the public. Navarro Intermediate School is located at 588 Link Road.

Flapjacks, continued.

“The Flapjack Jamboree, which is this Saturday from 6:30 in the morning till 11:30, and it’s all taking place in the parking lot at First Methodist Church on North Austin and College, and that’s where we invite those of you who enjoy pancakes and sausage to come see us,” said Engelhardt.

Engelhardt says the annual event is more than just breakfast. He says it’s a vital fundraiser that helps the club

continue its mission of giving back.

“This is our annual fundraiser for the Seguin Kiwanis Club. This is our annual effort to make money that we in turn give back into the community in the way of scholarships and sponsorships, mainly for young people,” said Engelhardt.

Plates are $10 each. The drive-thru event will be held in the parking lot of First Methodist Church, located at 710 N. Austin St.

Roses, continued.

Friar says the annual event is made possible thanks to strong community partnerships who continue to support the event year after year.

“We have been working really closely with Crowne Event Rentals. They have donated their time and expertise to make a beautiful space for the evening. We have free desserts from Lolo’s Place. We have complimentary wine from Blue Lotus Winery. We’ll have some beer samples from Seguin Brewing

Company. So, we’ve really put together an event that we think is going to be really fun for the community,” said Friar.

Again, Friar says even though the location has changed, everything that makes the night relaxing and enjoyable will be the same.

“This is something we do for the community. We want to bring people out, give them a nice evening out, a little date, if you will. You can bring a picnic with you if you would like to. There will be seats and tables and places you can make yourself at home. So yeah, we encourage everyone to

come out, enjoy some live music. All of it, this portion is free. The live music, the drinks, the desserts, those are complimentary for the community. So, we really want people to come out and gather and just enjoy a nice evening,” said Friar.

The free event runs from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday at St. James Catholic Church Parish Hall. Dinner for ticket holders gets underway at 6 p.m. Proceeds from Moonlight & Roses help to support downtown revitalization efforts plus beautification and improvement projects throughout the district.

Marion athletes bring home gold at district track meet

(San Antonio) -- Several Marion High School student-athletes brought home gold medals at the District 27-3A track and field meet held at San Antonio Cole High School on Tuesday and Wednesday.

The team of Jack Wells, Jaylen Reese, Kolten Rios and Aaron Salinas won gold in the boys 4x100 relay. Jayce Love took gold in the boys mile run. Brody Fizer claimed gold in the boys pole vault. Emerson Blevins won gold in the boys high jump, with teammate Ellis Turner finishing second to earn silver. Kaitlyn Rackley won gold in the girls pole vault.

Marion track team members move on to the area meet. That meet will take place on Thursday, April 16th in Jourdanton.

The Seguin and Navarro track and field teams continue competition at their respective district meets Thursday. The Matador track team competes at Alamo Stadium, while the Navarro Panthers compete in Cuero.

VITAL STATISTICS

ZUROVEC

Anne “Angie” Jenene Zurovec, age 50, of Seguin, Texas, went to be with the LORD our Savior on Friday, April 3rd at her home in Seguin, Texas. Born on December 9, 1975, she brought great joy and love to all who knew her. She will be greatly missed.

Angie is survived by her husband Joe, daughters Maryanna, Macy, and Maegan Zurovec of Seguin, and daughter Madison and husband David Risner of Tyler, TX; her stepfather, Jon Timmermann of Seguin; her brother Kevin and wife Becky Raymond of McKinney, TX; step-brother, John and wife Laura Timmermann of New Braunfels, TX; step-sister, Dana Timmermann of New Braunfels, TX; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Rosemary and Terry Zurovec of Seguin, TX; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Cathryn and husband Glenn Chiappe of Lago Vista, TX, Sarah and husband Will Haltom of Seguin, TX and Carl and wife Wendy Zurovec of Seguin, TX; several aunts, uncles, numerous cousins, other loving family members and many friends.

TSCHOEPE

Emil “Chuck” Tschoepe, III, age 74 of Marion, passed away on March 20, 2026. Chuck was born on September 12, 1951, in Anderson, Indiana, to Virginia Bertha (Babel) Tschoepe Howard and Emil Tschoepe, Jr.

After graduation from Marion High School in 1969 Chuck attended Texas A&M University where he served in the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets. After graduation with a degree in mechanical engineering, he went to work for Haliburton. He later retired from Southwest Research in San Antonio. He also took courses at Texas State University and Our Lady of the Lake University. He substitute taught at both Marion and Randolph Schools.

Chuck loved the outdoors and his favorite place to be, the farm in Marion! A lover of music, Chuck, played in the Good Ole Boys Band throughout the surrounding area. He was multi-talented, playing both the guitar and fiddle while also serving as lead singer.

She is preceded in death by her son Mark Allen Zurovec, mother, Barbara Jenene Timmermann of Seguin, father, Cecil ‘Buddy’ Raymond of Weed, NM, grandparents Troy and Leona Swanson of Seguin, and grandparents William and Cleo Raymond of Alice, TX.

Serving as pall bearers will be GlennRoss Chiappe, Jordan Odale, Scott Raymond, Chad Swanson, Troy Swanson, Hunter York, and Ajay Zurovec. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel from 5 to 7 p.m. Funeral service will be held on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. at McQueeney Baptist Church with the Reverend Dale Jones officiating. Interment will follow in Guadalupe Valley Memorial Park. A reception will follow.

Memorial contributions may be made to McQueeney Baptist Benevolence Ministry, P. O. Box 44, McQueeney, Texas, 78123 or to the South Texas Pregnancy Care Center, P. O. Box 1962, Seguin, Texas, 78156.

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.

Chuck is preceded in death by his wife, Lynette “Lyn” Weir Tschoepe, his parents, and his sister, Kathryn “Kathy” Reed.

Survivors include his loving wife, Paula Bass Tschoepe; daughter, Sarah E. Mihelich and husband, Robert Cox, Jr.; step-son, Eddie Snow and wife Celeste;, daughter-in-law, Haley Meador; grandchildren, Caleb Lawrence Mihelich, Caroline Lorraine DeUnger, Aryana Meador, Autumn Marie Snow, Summer Lilla Snow, Hayden Meador, Robert Pfeiffer, Dominick Snow, and Dylan Snow; siblings, June Brietzke, Carol Sassman and husband Freddy, and Kelvin Tschoepe and wife Sissy; brother-in-law, William “Bill” Reed; numerous nieces, nephews, other loving family members and a host of friends.

A memorial service celebrating Chuck’s life will be held on Friday, April 10, 2026, at 2 p.m. at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel with the Reverend Tom Jones officiating. A reception will follow at the Geronimo VFW Hall. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St Jude Pl, Memphis, Tn, 38105-9959.

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, 7815, 830-549-5912.

U.S. Research Teams Discover New Ways To Grow Knee Cartilage

(Undated) -- In what’s being hailed as a medical first, research teams at four American universities say they’ve found ways to regrow damaged knee cartilage and bone. Biomedical engineers at Duke University and the University of Colorado-Boulder are using injections and infusions, while researchers at Northwestern say they’ve created a rubbery goo to do the job. Meantime, researchers at Columbia University say they’re using 3-D printed scaffolding containing bone and cartilage cells to regrow an entire knee. So far, all the experiments have been on animals, but human trials are expected to begin within 18-months.

Scientists May

Have New Way To Strengthen Bones

(Germany) -- Scientist may have a new way of trying to prevent bone loss. A recent study from Leipzig University in Germany identifies a receptor that when activated is able strengthen bone density in mice to address bone damage. Authors of the study say this could be a way to rebuild weak bones. Lead author of the study Doctor Juliane Lehmann says it highlights the great potential this receptor holds for medical applications in an aging population.

Hospital System Gives Tips On Allergies

(New York, NY) -- New York Presbyterian Hospital is giving some tips on how to deal with seasonal allergies at this time of year. In a newsletter to patients, the hospital system recommends spending more time inside with air conditioning the first few weeks of spring when pollen counts are high. Dust and wash and change bed sheets regularly. Doctors with New York Presbyterian say allergy seasons are getting longer, and they’re getting worse. Itching, sneezing, watery eyes, runny noses and scratchy throats are all signs of allergies.

April Is Stress Awareness Month (Cleveland, OH) -- April is Stress Awareness Month and one expert is offering tips to lessen stress in the morning which will improve mental health. Beena Persaud is a psychologist at the Cleveland Clinic and says preparation is key. She says that means getting out clothes, making meals and getting other things done the night before. She also recommends avoiding picking up the phone right away in the morning and trying to meditate instead. If mornings feel overwhelming, doctor Persaud says consider reaching out to a mental health professional.

GRMC WELCOMES PRIMARY CARE + OBSTETRICS PHYSICIAN

Caroline Flowers, MD

Caroline Flowers, MD, is a family medicine & obstetrics provider passionate about whole-person care for all stages of life. Originally from Houston, Dr. Flowers earned her undergraduate degree at Carnegie Mellon University and taught high school science through Teach for America before completing her medical degree at UT Southwestern. She trained in family medicine at the University of Arizona and completed a surgical obstetrics fellowship at Full Circle Health in Boise, Idaho. Her clinical interests include maternal-child health, breastfeeding support, women’s reproductive care, adolescent medicine, preventive care, and managing complex chronic conditions. Outside of medicine, she enjoys family time, reading, podcasts, and cheering on the San Antonio Spurs.

VITAL STATISTICS

ETLINGER

Robert “Bob” Etlinger, 72, was surrounded by family when he was called home to God on April 4, 2026.

Bob was born on October 8, 1953, to Germaine (Lambrecht) and Clemens Etlinger in Seguin, Texas. He was baptized, confirmed, and received the Eucharist at St. James Catholic Church and attended its school, then known as St. Joseph’s Catholic School. He attended Seguin High School, graduating in 1972, and went on to graduate from Texas Tech University in 1976 and St. Mary’s University School of Law in 1979. He began a career in law as Assistant District Attorney in Bexar County for four years, receiving honors as a Hidalgo de San Antonio de Bejar from the Commissioners Court for his work, before transitioning into private practice for almost two decades.

Bob was proud of the community he was born and raised in, working not only to pursue justice as the Assistant County Attorney for Guadalupe County for over 22 years, but also serving the community through various organizations like Seguin Main Street Advisory Board, Guadalupe County Republican Party, South Texas Children’s Habilitation Center, and Boy Scouts. As a pro-life advocate, he supported the work of South Texas Pregnancy Care Center.

Dedicated to his faith and Lord, he was a lifelong parishioner of St. James and served his parish community through various ministries, including the youth group, A.C.T.S. Retreats, UNITAS marriage preparation, the annual Fall Festival, and serving as lector. He was also a Third Degree Knight and

Advocate for the Knights of Columbus Msgr. Bruno Hubertus Council #3412. He could frequently be found at the Perpetual Adoration Chapel at St. James reading his Bible and praying.

At his wife’s insistence, Bob finally retired in 2023 and spent his time tinkering around his farm, gardening, serving at the Knights of Columbus, fishing at the coast with his son, and spending all the time he could with his grandchildren.

Bob is preceded by his parents and stepmother, Josephine (Blume) Etlinger. He is survived by his wife of 23 years, Jackie Etlinger; children, Zachary Etlinger and wife Thea, Candace Bryant-Lester and husband Levi, and Jayme Bryant; grandchildren, William Bryant, Jacob Etlinger, Jackson Etlinger, and Abigail Etlinger; siblings, Kay (Etlinger) Bloch and husband Albert Bloch, Jr., and Michael Etlinger; numerous nieces, nephews, other loving family members and many friends.

Visitation will begin on Monday, April 13, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. at St. James Catholic Church, followed by the recitation of the Holy Rosary at 10:30 a.m. and the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. with the Reverend Canon Stanislaw Fiuk officiating. Interment will follow in the St. James Catholic Cemetery. A reception will follow in the Columbus Club Seguin Hall.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. James Catholic School, 510 S. Camp St., Seguin, Texas, 78155 or to the Knights of Columbus, P.O. Box 115, Seguin, Texas, 78156.

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.

&KOE WETZEL TREATY OAK REVIVAL A

Irma Lewis Outdoor Learning Center Open Trails

The Irma Lewis Outdoor Learning Center is now open to the public from 4 to 7 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday. Visitors are invited to enjoy self-guided hiking and biking on the trails, have a picnic, or take part in catchand-release fishing at the pond. The community is encouraged to take advantage of this outdoor space for recreation and relaxation.

GCCAC Golf Tournament to Benefit Children’s Advocacy Center

The Guadalupe County Children’s Advocacy Center will host its annual golf tournament fundraiser on Thursday, April 16 at The Bandit Golf Course. The 4-person scramble begins with registration at 7:30 a.m. and an 8:30 a.m. start. The event will also feature opportunities for prizes, including a hole-in-one contest, along with food, drinks, and activities throughout the day. For more information, visit gccac.net.

Master Gardeners Hosting April Classes and Plant Sales

The Guadalupe County Master Gardeners will host a series of free educational programs and plant sales throughout April across the area. Educational classes include two programs on April 11 — “Native Gardening” from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Schertz Public Library in Schertz, and “Butterflies, Bees and Moths – Oh My!” from noon to 1:30 p.m. at the Seguin Public Library. Plant sales will also be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 11 at the Polley Mansion Heritage Garden in La Vernia, April 18 at the Ron Pedde Memorial Community Garden in Cibolo, and April 25 during the Seguin Earth Day Festival at Central Park in downtown Seguin. All events are free and open to the public, with registration required for select classes.

Seguin Art League Announces April Events, Classes & Deadlines

The Seguin Art League is hosting a series of upcoming events and classes throughout April, along with a deadline for its annual High School Art Show. Art in Action, a community-wide live art event, will take place April 11 to 12, with finished works displayed April 14 to 24. A Needle Felted Landscapes workshop is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. April 18, followed by an Ink and Watercolor Landscapes class from 1 to 4 p.m. on April 29, both at the Seguin Art League Gallery. Entries for the Annual High School Art Show are due from 4 to 6 p.m. April 30 at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church McKeogh Hall, with an awards reception set for May 2. Classes have limited space and require registration. For details, entry forms, and registration information, visit seguinartleague.com or call 830-305-0472.

Pantherpalooza Kids & Family Expo

Navarro ISD will host Pantherpalooza, a Kids and Family Expo, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 11, at

Navarro Intermediate School. The free event will feature family resources, student organizations, local businesses, games, food trucks and information about summer recreation and student job opportunities. For details or vendor information, visit navarroisd.us/pantherpalooza.

Child Abuse Awareness Fundraiser: Fiesta of Heroes and Villains

An 8th annual Child Abuse Awareness fundraiser, “Fiesta of Heroes and Villains,” will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 11 at the Comal County Sheriff’s Posse, 3826 Morningside Drive in New Braunfels. Hosted by Guardians of the Children Hill Country Chapter, the event will include a fun run, bike show, silent auction, raffle drawing, vendor booths, and a free bike giveaway for youth. Attendees are encouraged to dress as their favorite superhero or villain. Proceeds will benefit Guardians of the Children, a nonprofit organization supporting abused children.

TLU Education Career Fai

Texas Lutheran University will host an Education Career Fair from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, April 15 at the Dunne Conference Center in Tschoepe Hall, Room 115. The free event is open to students and community members seeking full- or part-time opportunities in education, with multiple school districts expected to attend. Attendees are encouraged to bring copies of their resume.

Navarro ISD to Host Pre-K and Kindergarten Roundup

Families with young children are invited to learn more about enrolling in Navarro ISD during the district’s upcoming Pre-K and Kindergarten Roundup events at Navarro Elementary School in Geronimo. Pre-K Roundup will be held from 4:45 to 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 16, followed by Kindergarten Roundup from 4:45 to 6:30 p.m. Monday, April 21. Parents will have the opportunity to meet teachers, tour classrooms and speak with district representatives about transportation, child nutrition and special education services while learning about the enrollment process for the 2026-27 school year. Children must be 4 years old for Pre-K and 5 years old for Kindergarten by Sept. 1, 2026. For details and required documents, visit navarroisd.us/roundup.

Master Gardeners Program: Landscape Mysteries

The Guadalupe County Master Gardeners will host their monthly membership meeting and educational program beginning at 5:45 p.m. Thursday, April 16 at 210 East Live Oak Street in Seguin. The evening will include a social at 5:45 p.m., a business meeting at 6:15 p.m., and a 7 p.m. presentation titled “Landscape Mysteries – ID That Plant or Bug,” led by Master Gardener, Master Naturalist, and Master Composter Peter Hernandez. The program is free and open to the public.

CASA of Central Texas will host its “Boogie Down Disco” Dinner and Auction from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. Friday, April 17 at The Chandelier of Gruene. The event, held in recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month, will include a seated dinner, live and silent auctions, and a special guest speaker who was once served by CASA. Proceeds from the evening will support advocacy services for children in foster care. Tickets are available online at givebutter.com/c/casadisco2026. For more information, visit casacentex.org or call 830-837-3026.

Pachanga 2026 to Benefit Teatro de Artes de Juan Seguín

The Center for Mexican American Studies and the Mexican American Student Association at Texas Lutheran University are inviting the community to Pachanga 2026, a free fundraiser supporting Teatro de Artes de Juan Seguín. The event will be held from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, April 17 at the TLU Alumni Plaza. The evening will include a silent auction, dinner, dancing, and live music featuring Llamativa, DJ Navarro, Mariachi AJB, the Seguin Starlettes, and Danza Guadalupana. The event is free and open to all ages.

Wildlife Association annual meeting

The Guadalupe County Wildlife Management Association will hold its annual Spring Meeting on April 17 at the Texas Agriculture Education & Heritage Center (Big Red Barn), 250 Corodova Road in Seguin. The meeting begins with a social hour at 6 p.m., with the dinner meeting set to begin at 7 p.m. Anyone interested in Guadalupe county wildlife management is encouraged to attend. Dinner cost $15. RSVP by sending an email to RSVP:GuadalupeCountyWMA@gmail.com.

Small Business Unite Symposium Coming to Northeast Lakeview College

The Texas Tri-County Chamber of Commerce will host the Small Business Unite Symposium on April 17–18 at Northeast Lakeview College in Paluxy Hall in Universal City. The two-day event is open to entrepreneurs, business owners, students, and community leaders. The symposium will feature business education sessions, networking opportunities, industry panels, and a Lean Six Sigma White Belt Certification included with registration. Registration is now open at busines.txtricountychamber.org.

Field of Honor BBQ fundraiser

Seguin Field of Honor will have a BBQ fundraiser from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 18 at Cash America Pawn, located at 1111 E. Court St. The plates are $12 each and consist of half a chicken, cowboy potatoes, beans and trimmings. Presale tickets are available from committee members, or call Connie at 830-243-2872.

Continued on the next page.

TLU Spring Fling

Texas Lutheran University will host its annual Spring Fling from 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, April 22 on the TLU Library Lawn. The free event will feature a live concert, food trucks, games, and activities for all ages. The community is invited to attend and enjoy the festivities.

SW Prep PTO hosts Bingo Night Fundraiser

The Southwest Preparatory School PTO is hosting a game night fundraiser to help build a new playground for students at the Seguin charter school. The event will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday, April 23 in the Southwest Preparatory School Cafeteria, located at 2400 E. Walnut St. Entry is $10 and includes a game book. Tickets will be available at the door or from any PTO member. Students in 6th grade and up may participate, but must be accompanied by an adult.

Texans Reaching Out 2026

Come one, come y’all to celebrate in true Texas style at St. Andrew’s “Texans Reaching Out” on Friday, April 24 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the church parish hall, 201 E. Nolte. The event features a lip-smackin’ fish fry by Johnny’s BBQ and music by The Magpies! You’ll also enjoy appetizers, drinks, and a handheld dessert bar. Tickets are free of charge, but reservations are required. A collection will be taken to benefit the local and international outreach ministries of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church. Seating is limited so reserve prior to April 17 by calling the church office at 830.372.4330 or emailing secretary@standrewseguin.org.

Seguin ISD Matador Family Bash

A Matador Family Bash will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Friday, April 24 at Matador Stadium in Seguin. Hosted by Seguin ISD, the free event will feature games, concessions, and family activities. A movie showing of “Zootopia 2” will follow from 7 to 9 p.m. Families are encouraged to bring blankets and pillows for the movie.

Geronimo Creek Spring Stream Cleanup

A spring stream cleanup for the Geronimo and Alligator Creeks Watershed Partnership will be held from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday, April 25. Volunteers in the Seguin area will meet at the Seguin ISD Outdoor Learning Center, located at 1865 E. U.S. Highway 90. Participants will help clean local waterways as part of a regional effort to improve water quality. Cleanup supplies will be provided, and a limited number of event T-shirts will be available for those who register. Free breakfast tacos and coffee will also be provided. Volunteers are encouraged to sign up in advance at geronimocreekwatershed.org.

Free Community CPR Training

The Seguin Fire Department will host a free Community CPR Training from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday, April 25 at the Seguin Public Library. Space is limited, and participants are encouraged to sign up in advance. Register online at signupgenius.com/go/40 9044AA4AB22A1F58-63409752-community.

World Tai Chi & Qi Gong Day Celebration

A World Tai Chi and Qi Gong Day celebration will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 25 on the east lawn of Emanuel’s Lutheran Church, 206 N. Travis St. in Seguin. Local practitioners will gather as part of a global event promoting peace, harmony, and wellness, joining others around the world during the same hour. The free event is open to all skill levels, including beginners and those who wish to observe and participate. Participants are encouraged to bring a lawn chair and water.

Denim Day Event Raises Awareness for Sexual Assault Prevention

The Thriving Hearts Crisis Center is inviting the community to take part in Denim Day, a special awareness event focused on supporting survivors of sexual assault. The event will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, April 29 at Seguin Central Park, located at 201 S. Austin St. in Seguin. Community members are encouraged to attend, show support, and help raise awareness with the message that consent matters.

Evening with the Texas Rangers Set

for April 30

The Seguin Heritage Museum is inviting the community to “An Evening with the Texas Rangers,” a special program featuring history and live entertainment. The event will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, April 30 at the Palace Theatre, located at 114 S. Austin St. in Seguin. Entertainment will be provided by Dottsy Dwyer and the Hudiburgs, with concessions available during the evening. Admission is $20. Tickets can be purchased online at seguinheritagemuseum.org or locally at the Seguin Heritage Museum, Parker’s City Pharmacy, and Gift and Gourmet.

Seguin Art League High School Art Show Now Accepting Entries

The Seguin Art League will host its 16th annual High School Art Show, with artwork submissions accepted from 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday, April 30 at St. Andrew’s McKeogh Hall, located at 201 E. Nolte St. in Seguin. The show is open to all students in grades 9 through 12. Cash prizes will be awarded during a reception scheduled from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 2. For more information and a prospectus, visit seguinartleague.com or call 830-491-0778.

Friends of the Library Annual Meeting

The Seguin Friends of the Library will host its annual meeting at 2 p.m. Thursday, April 30 at the Seguin Public Library. Doors open at 1:30 p.m. The program, “Tejiendo (Weaving) Cultura: The Women Who Have, Who Are and Who Will Weave the Legacy of Teatro,” will be presented by Dr. Yvonne De La Rosa, followed by a brief business meeting. Refreshments will be provided.

Free Tax Help at Texas Lutheran University

Texas Lutheran University is offering free tax preparation assistance through its IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs. The clinic will be held Wednesdays from 5 to 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon through April 15 at the Beck Center on the Texas Lutheran University campus, 1020 Beck Drive in Seguin. The service is provided at no cost by accounting students from Texas Lutheran University and is open to individuals and households earning $69,000 or less, as well as seniors, people with disabilities, and limited English-speaking taxpayers.

Energy Assistance Available

The Community Council of South Central Texas is accepting applications for utility bill assistance through the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP). Funding is limited and available in select counties, including Guadalupe County. Apply online at ccsct.org/utility-assistance-apply-for-services/ and schedule an appointment with your county office. An appointment does not guarantee assistance.

Homestead Exemption Audit Process Begins for Property Owners

Property owners in Guadalupe County are being advised of a new requirement involving homestead exemptions. Under a new state law, appraisal districts across the state, including the Guadalupe Appraisal District, will begin conducting audits of homestead exemptions. As part of the process, property owners with an active homestead exemption may receive a notice asking them to reapply for the exemption every five years to verify eligibility. The appraisal district does not calculate taxes based on exemptions. Any tax adjustments will be handled by the Guadalupe County Tax Assessor-Collector’s Office and reflected either in amended bills for previous years or on the current year’s tax bill issued in October. Property owners who receive a notice should follow the instructions provided by the Guadalupe Appraisal District.

To ensure non-profit organization’s meetings and events appear in this calendar, send information to: communitycalendar@kwed1580.com, or drop off the information at the Seguin Daily News/KWED offices located at 609 E. Court St. in Seguin. For best results, submit information at least two weeks prior to the event.

Small steps to extend a car’s life expectancy

Vehicles continue to get more expensive. The automotive experts at Kelley Blue Book indicate the average American car buyer paid $50,080 for a new vehicle in September 2025, which was the first time the average price for a new car ever topped $50,000. More drivers are looking for ways to push their current vehicles past the 200,000-mile mark to save money.

According to S&P Global Mobility, the average age of a vehicle on the road hit a record high of 12.8 years in 2025. Although major mechanical failures concern drivers of older vehicles, it’s actually much smaller things that can affect vehicle longevity. There are small actions anyone can take to significantly extend a car’s life.

• Use caution on cold starts. When a vehicle sits, oil settles at the bottom of the engine. To help combat damage that can occur, drivers can wait about 30 seconds before shifting into gear, as this will allow the oil pump to circulate the lubricant to the upper valve train and help prevent extra wear on the engine. Modern fuelinjected engines warm up faster and more safely

by being driven gently rather than sitting still, so it’s not necessary to idle for a long while with the vehicle in the driveway, says Smart Motors Toyota. In fact, long idles actually can strip away oil.

• Treat fluids wisely. According to EngineeringCivil.org, checking and replacing fluids is cheaper than replacing hardware. Recent data suggests that consistent oil changes can add between 50,000 and 100,000 miles to an engine’s lifespan. It’s important to follow a vehicle’s manual for time-based intervals for fluid replacement, rather than just going by mileage.

• Drive faster on occasion. Oil will never get hot enough to evaporate internal condensation for those who primarily drive short distances under 10 miles. Once every few weeks, it’s important for drivers to drive at least 20 minutes at highway speeds to help get rid of contaminants.

• Drive smoothly on roads. Aggressive driving will not just burn more gas; such driving also creates heat, which can impact longevity. According to Kia, hard braking generates immense heat that can warp rotors and stress

suspension bushings. Likewise, it’s key to ease into acceleration. Rapid acceleration forces the transmission to downshift abruptly, increasing wear. Reports from The Zebra, an insurance shopping company, indicate that mindful driving can reduce mechanical strain by up to 30 percent.

• Fight corrosion. Rust can kill a car before the engine actually fails. People who live in areas where roads are treated with salt in the winter should use a winter car wash that includes an undercarriage spray. Auto Recycling World says road salt can eat through brake lines and fuel lines. In addition, applying a coat of wax twice a year can prevent UV rays and other damage to the clear coat, which protects the metal body from the elements.

• Address engine lights promptly. CarMD says addressing a “check engine” light immediately is 20 percent cheaper than waiting until the vehicle has a driveability issue. For example, ignoring a $150 oxygen sensor can eventually destroy a $1,500 catalytic converter. Small habits can help prolong the longevity of vehicles and help people save money.