SDN: April 16, 2026

April 16, 2026

SH 123 widening plan moves from blueprint to reality in Seguin

(Seguin) -- It’s been four years since the plans to widen State Highway 123 were first brought to the community for public input. Now, the longawaited project is finally coming to fruition.

The Texas Department of Transportation is preparing to begin work on widening SH 123 between Cordova Road and Interstate 10, a corridor that officials say has seen aggressive residential and commercial growth in recent years.

The project was first introduced to the public during input meetings back in March 2022.

Tanya Brown, public information officer for TxDOT’s San Antonio District, says the plan is to widen the roadway to better handle increasing traffic volumes and future development.

Blueprint, pg. 4

Seguin ISD student earns top elementary honor in Fiesta medal contest

(McQueeney) -- The spirit of Fiesta San Antonio is making its way into local classrooms. Thanks to a McQueeney Elementary student’s artwork, Seguin-area students and their families are being connected to one of San Antonio’s most recognizable traditions.

Workforce Solutions Alamo which serves 13 counties throughout the Alamo region, hosted its Fiesta Medal Design Contest, inviting K-12 students to create artwork based on the theme “Creating Careers, Connecting Communities.” Students were encouraged to illustrate how jobs and careers help bring people together and strengthen their communities.

Bailey Bock, a student at McQueeney Elementary School, earned the top honor in the elementary school category for her colorful drawing featuring the Alamo and several different career

paths, including a baker or chef, artist, construction worker and doctor.

Adrian Lopez, Workforce Solutions Alamo CEO says the contest is an expansion of the organization’s new Fiesta tradition.

“Last year we had our inaugural Fiesta Medal, and so, but then this year, and that was designed internally, this year we decided to go ahead and push that out to the public, given that we cover 13 counties, and thought it would be a good idea to put it out to the K through 12 space. So we had three different categories, whether we were going to recognize the elementary school, middle school, and someone from high school, and then have an overall winner,” said Lopez.

Lopez says Bailey’s design stood out because it captured both the contest theme and the importance of helping students begin thinking

about their futures.

“First off, it’s always cool to see, what kids can produce. This year’s theme was creating careers and connecting communities. So, Bailey’s design after it was about, her design was the Alamo with a bunch of people in there. So, it’s always great to have children at a young age to start thinking about their careers and how that fits into communities. And so, the panel that reviewed the submissions thought that hers was super inspirational. A lot of it is just about putting people front and center to really highlight and celebrate people. So, her design really fit into the overall theme that we had for this year,” said Lopez.

Beyond the contest, Lopez says the organization uses programs like the Fiesta medal competition to help connect students and families with career opportunities throughout the region.

Fiesta, pg. 4

Spring brings a flurry of concerts to TLU

(Seguin) -- Music lovers, rejoice, because spring means concert season at Texas Lutheran University. On offer this month we have TLU percussion, student conductors, jazz band, orchestra, mariachi, and band concerts, plus performances by the students of the Community Music Academy!

The fun continues today with a Student Conductors Concert from 4 to 5:30 p.m., followed by another performance this evening by the TLU Jazz Band at 7 p.m. Both of those concerts are in Jackson Auditorium.

On Sunday, April 19, the TLU Orchestra will perform at 4 p.m. in Jackson Auditorium. That concert will feature music inspired by the cinema, and features soloist Senior Dylan Caldwell on viola, a newly written composition by TLU junior Elijah Browning, and side-by-side pieces with the TLU Community Music Academy Chamber Orchestra and Performers Orchestra.

Then on April 20 at 7 p.m., all are invited to an evening of festive music with Noche de Mariachi con Mariachi Oro y Negro in Wupperman Little Theatre, located in the Schuech Fine Arts Center.

Top off the month with the annual PRISM Concert—a collaborative highlight of the spring School of Music season. This “collage-style” concert, which takes place April 24 at 7 p.m. in Jackson Auditorium, features a wide variety of ensembles, including the Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Winds, along with the Jazz Band, TLU Choirs, and small chamber groups positioned throughout Jackson

by Tracy Donley, TLu director of communications & content

Auditorium. Like the spectrum of colors refracted through a prism, the diversity of performances and ensemble sizes showcases the breadth of talent among the School of Music’s students and faculty.

This year’s PRISM concert is themed Miniatures and Monuments, featuring music for both small and large ensembles, including several landmark works from the jazz band and wind ensemble repertoire. The performance makes use of multiple locations throughout Jackson Auditorium, allowing the audience’s focus to shift dynamically as the music unfolds around the hall. Monumental works on the program include Ernesto Lecuona’s powerful Malagueña, as arranged by renowned big band leader Stan Kenton; the first movement of Paul Hindemith’s seminal Symphony

in B-flat; From the Shores of the Mighty Pacific, featuring Professor Keith Robinson, tuba; and the incredibly important 20th century work for band, William Schuman’s Chester Overture.

Next up on your April/ May concert calendar is the TLU Community Music Academy. CMA is a nonprofit community music school providing music education to students of all ages and levels of ability. Every spring, the students of CMA present concerts which all are invited to attend. On April 30, the CMA Choir will present its concert at 7 p.m. in the Chapel of the Abiding Presence on TLU’s campus, and on May 5 at 7 p.m. in Jackson Auditorium, the CMA Orchestra will perform.

All of these concerts are free and open to the public.

Blueprint, continued.

“TxDOT is planning to widen State Highway 123 in Seguin. The project will expand the roadway from two lanes to four lanes. So, the planned improvements will take place on State Highway 123 between Cordova Road and I-10, commonly referred to State Highway 123 Bypass North,” said Brown.

Brown says the work which will include two 12-foot-wide lanes in each direction is aimed at addressing both current congestion and future growth along one of Seguin’s busiest routes.

“The project is needed to improve safety and mobility along the corridor. Traffic volumes in the area continue to increase, and the widening will help accommodate that growth. In addition to adding lanes, the project is going to also include raised medians and turn lanes, which are designed to reduce conflicts, improve traffic flow, and better support continued development in the area,” said Brown.

Brown says residents should expect construction to begin in the next few months.

“The timeline construction could begin as early as late summer or early fall. The overall timeline will depend on final preparation and construction phasing,” said Brown.

While TxDOT has not yet announced where crews will begin along the corridor, Brown expects that information to be shared as soon as possible.

“At this time, we haven’t announced a specific direction on where

construction will begin, but that information will be shared once construction phasing is finalized,” said Brown.

The project includes a price tag of $51.3 million. Although additional right-of-way will be needed, TxDOT says no homes or businesses are expected to be displaced.

Fiesta, continued.

He says Workforce Solutions Alamo serves families from early childhood through career training and employment, helping provide child care subsidies, workforce development programs and career education opportunities. Lopez says the organization also works with schools through teacher externship programs, where educators “learn how classroom instruction connects to industries such as manufacturing, healthcare and construction.”

“Fiesta is always fun and sometimes you do have to have your messaging out there with something that’s a lot funnier than talking about sort of things like programs. But we obviously work in this region. We have those 16 career centers, but also, we have our workforce one bus. So that was kind of going along with us last couple of weeks as we recognize those kids that were part of the winners for the Fiesta medal,” said Lopez.

Bailey was recently surprised with the award during the school’s morning assembly, where

Workforce Solutions Alamo recognized her achievement and presented her with a $250 gift card for winning the top elementary school honor. The overall winning student artist for the contest received a $500 award and was recognized as the official designer of the 2026 Workforce Solutions Alamo Fiesta Medal. In addition to Bailey’s elementary category win, top middle school submissions also received a $250 gift card.

Sharing in the early morning surprise were Bailey’s friends and family.

Marion baseball and Seguin softball claim district titles on Tuesday

SEGUIN, Texas -- For the fourth time this season, Katelyn Howard (Waller/Hempstead) was named Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference (SCAC) Pitcher of the Week, the conference announced on Monday.

The award marks the most of any SCAC pitcher this season and is the most in a single-season since former Bulldog, Ashlyn Strother, earned five weekly honors during the 2023 season.

Howard started the bo (Marion) -- The Marion Bulldogs clinched the District 27-3A championship Tuesday night, defeating Jourdanton 9-2 at Marion High School.

Huck Schoenvogel started and earned the win on the mound, going six innings and allowing two runs while striking out eight. Eli Parker worked a scoreless seventh, fanning two — including the final batter — to seal the title.

Marion broke the game open with a five-run third inning. Jack Wells started the scoring with a two-RBI double, and Kyson McBride and Brody Byler also drove in runs as the Bulldogs sent nine batters to the plate in the frame. Parker collected hits in the fourth and fifth innings and scored in both. Mateo Zuniga reached base three times and scored a run.

The Bulldogs improved to 9-0 in district play, dethroning defending champion Jourdanton, which fell to 7-2. The two teams close out district play Friday in Jourdanton.

(San Antonio) -- The Navarro Panthers remained tied for first place in District 28-4A on Tuesday, run-ruling San Antonio Memorial 24-2 Tuesday for their second such win over the Minutemen in a week.

Drew Mundine got the offense started with a bases-clearing double in the first inning as the Panthers sent 10 men to the plate and scored seven runs before cruising to the final margin. Ryan Davidson started and pitched three innings, allowing two runs. Xavier Calderon and Noah Rosas each threw scoreless innings in relief.

Navarro and Cuero are tied for first at 7-1 in district. The Panthers host San Antonio Kennedy on Friday for Senior Night at the new Navarro High School.

(Seguin) -- The Seguin Matadors were idle Tuesday. The Mats, 10-0 in District 27-5A, take on San Antonio Highlands on Thursday — a game

originally scheduled for Wednesday — with first pitch at 6 p.m. at the SAISD complex.

Seguin then hosts Sam Houston on Friday. First pitch is at 7 p.m. at Matador Legends Ballpark. The game will be broadcast on KWED.

(San Antonio) -- The Seguin Lady Matadors clinched a share of the District 27-5A softball title Tuesday, rallying for an 8-6 victory at San Antonio Highlands.

Seguin fell behind 5-0 after the first inning but answered with three runs in each of the next two innings. Marissa Torrence delivered a twoRBI double in the second and finished with three RBI. She also worked 5⅓ innings in the circle, striking out seven, to earn the win.

The Lady Mats close out district with an 11-1 record. Seguin hosts Buda Johnson on Friday in a playoff tuneup, with first pitch at 6 p.m. at Legends Ballpark.

(Cuero) -- The Navarro Lady Panthers nearly erased a nine-run deficit Tuesday night but fell to Cuero 14-13.

The Lady Gobblers led 11-2 through three innings before Navarro began its comeback. Shelbi Stevens doubled home three runs in a four-run fourth inning, and the Lady Panthers tied the game in the fifth with five runs — Aly Rauschuber doubled home a run, Cadee Zimmer drove in two with a double and Stevens added a two-RBI single.

Down 14-11 in the seventh, Audrina Pacheco singled with two outs on a two-strike count to score two runs and pull Navarro within one, but Cuero retired the next batter with the bases loaded to end the game.

Navarro finished fourth in District 28-4A. The Lady Panthers will open UIL bi-district play next week.

(San Antonio) -- The Marion Lady Bulldogs run-ruled San Antonio Cole 15-0 in three innings Tuesday night.

Ellie Parker went 3-for-3 with three RBI and Madison Peavler also drove in three runs. Alyzayah Della Ragione allowed just one hit and struck out five to earn the win in the circle.

Marion has clinched a playoff berth and closes out district play Friday at Poteet.

VITAL STATISTICS

SCHIEVELBEIN

www.SEGUINTODAY.com

Margaret Lucille Jung Schievelbein, age 101 of McQueeney, passed away on April 15, 2026. Margaret was born in Sisterdale, Texas, on July 11, 1924, to Bertha (Seay) and William Henry Jung.

She was a very loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great grandmother.

She was the light of the family. She enjoyed gardening, reading, painting, and singing with different quartets throughout the years. But most of all, she loved the Lord and her family.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Kurt Schievelbein, parents, brothers Merlin Jung and C.J. Jung, sister Arlene Lenz (Val), and son-in-law, Jerry R. MyCue.

She is survived by her sons, Fernon J. Schievelbein (Julia) and Kurt

Schievelbein (Debbie), and daughter, Carol MyCue; grandchildren, Brent MyCue, Kyle Schievelbein and Erin Schievelbein; great-grandchildren Darren MyCue, Mason MyCue (Kylie), and Jaxon MyCue, great-great-grandchildren Louise Faye MyCue and Lucian Karr MyCue; numerous nieces, nephews, other loving family members and friends.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, April 24, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel with the Reverend Rudy Salazar, Jr. officiating. Interment will follow in San Geronimo Cemetery.

Serving as pallbearers will be Randy Lenz, Brent MyCue, Mason MyCue, Kevin Lenz, Wesley Hart, Kyle Schievelbein, and Mark Jung.

Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of choice.

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

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Guadalupe

VITAL STATISTICS

MUELLER

www.SEGUINTODAY.com

Ralph Wayne Mueller, age 80 of Seguin, passed away on April 9, 2026. Ralph was born on September 23, 1945, in Cuero Texas to Inez (Kruse) and Walter John Mueller.

Ralph proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. He served his entire career in Civil Service as a firefighter.

Ralph is preceded in death by his parents, and his brothers, Donald J. Mueller and wife Darla, and Gene F. Mueller.

Survivors include his wife of 60 years, Elaine Mitchell Mueller; daughter, Tracy Bittner and husband Roger; granddaughters, Savannah Clark and husband Stewart, and Ariel Rennspies and husband Derek; great-

BAKER

Sherry Causey Baker, 76, of Seguin, Texas, passed away on April 12, 2026. She was born on July 23, 1949, at Nix Hospital in San Antonio, Texas, to Roland Knox “Shad” Causey and Joyce Marie Alley Causey. She was their only child. She is predeceased by her father, who died on August 15, 1966, and her mother, who died on January 22, 2014.

Sherry grew up in Sabinal, Texas, where she was an active and engaged student. She participated in student council, cheerleading, basketball, softball, track, and band. After graduating from high school, she moved to San Marcos, Texas, and earned her Education Degree from Southwest Texas State University with a major in math and a minor in business. During college, she worked for the State Department of Agriculture, traveling the state promoting agriculture heritage.

She married Steve Baker on June 26, 1971, and together they built a loving home and family. Sherry was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother whose greatest joy was nurturing and celebrating the young lives around her.

Sherry was deeply devoted to children. She began her teaching career in Gonzales, Texas. She later served for many years as a dedicated substitute teacher at Navarro, where she was known for her generosity and reliability— she could never say “no” to a request to substitute for “one more day.” Her passion extended far beyond the classroom. Sherry remained actively involved in the lives of her own two sons and, later, her six grandchildren. She attended every sports event, dance recital, award ceremony, and school function for her children and grandchildren—Holden, Bailey, Piper, Quinton, Ava, and Lila— and generously supported many other children who were not even related to

grandchildren, Hadley Rennspies and Blaine Rennspies; nieces, nephews, cousins, other loving family members and many friends.

Visitation will begin on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel followed by funeral service at 10:30 a.m. with Pastor Jeremy Pedersen officiating. Interment with military honors will follow in Lone Oak Cemetery.

Serving as pallbearers will be Walter Mueller, Wade Mueller, Joe Mueller, Brian Settle, James Coker, and Carl Coker. Honorary pallbearers will be Carlton “Coker”, Jim Hotchkiss, George Rehfeld, and Steve Bruington.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice. You are invited to sign the guest book at www.treshewell.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155, 830-549-5912.

her. Her love for her immediate and extended family was amazing and such an incredible example to us all.

Faith was central to Sherry’s life from an early age. She was an active member of the Sabinal First Methodist Church during her youth and, after marrying and moving to the Kingsbury/Seguin area, became a steadfast and devoted member of the First Methodist Church of Seguin. She cherished every aspect of her church community and particularly enjoyed serving each Halloween in the church’s Pumpkin Patch.

To friends, as well as family, Sherry will be remembered as someone who never had a bad day. She looked upon life with a smile and a chuckle.

She is survived by Steve Baker; her two sons and their families:

Shad Baker and his wife Staci, along with their children Holden, Bailey, and Piper; Brandon Baker and Jamie Hawkins, along with their children Quinton, Ava, and Lila.

Visitation will begin on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at 5 p.m. at First Methodist Church, Seguin, followed by funeral service at 6 p.m. with the Reverend Cathe Evins officiating. A reception will follow.

Graveside services and interment will follow on Friday, April 17, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at the Sabinal Cemetery, Hwy 90 , Sabinal, Texas, 78881. A reception will follow.

Serving as pallbearers will be Shad Baker, Brandon Baker, Holden Baker, Quinton Baker, Jase Hawkins, and Rocky Bickley.

In lieu of flowers or donations, the family kindly requests that you simply say a prayer for Sherry and for those who loved her.

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.

Albertsons To Pay $773M For Role In Public Health Crisis

(San Diego, CA) -- California’s attorney general says a major grocery/pharmacy chain has agreed in principal to pay millions in its role in the national opioid epidemic. Rob Bonta says an agreement has been reached that will require Albertsons to pay 773 million dollars. The Albertsons chain, which includes Vons and Pavillions, is accused of failing to act to protect against the overdispensing of addictive painkiller prescriptions. The deal was reached after multistate negotiations led by California, Colorado, Illinois and Oregon. The money is expected to be used for educational purposes to address the opioid epidemic.

Study Shows Fluoride Has No Negative Impact On Brain

(Washington, DC ) -- A long term study shows that fluoride in drinking water has no negative health impact on the brain or IQ. Researchers followed thousands of Americans from when they graduated high school in the late 1950’s until they were elderly and compared cognitive ability between people exposed to fluoride in water verse those were not exposed. The findings, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, come at a time where there is debate on whether fluoride is harmful. Some states have banned it in drinking water or are in the process of doing so.

Ultraprocessed Foods May Hurt Muscle Health

(Undated) - A new study finds that eating too much ultraprocessed food could take a toll on muscle health. It was published Tuesday in the journal Radiology and found that people who ate diets that were high in ultraprocessed foods like salty snacks, sugary drinks and fast food had more fat streaked through their muscles. Researchers studied data from more than six-hundred people with an average age of 60. They analyzed their body mass index, their diets and MRI scans of their thighs which showed how much fat each person’s muscles stored. But they say more research is needed to establish whether eating a lot of ultraprocessed foods leads to more intramuscular fat.

Novo Nordisk To Partner With OpenAI

(Bagsvaerd, Denmark) - Novo Nordisk is partnering with OpenAI in its efforts to keep pace with rapid expansion in the weight loss drug race. The pharmaceutical company announced the partnership in a statement on Tuesday and shared it would use AI to analyze complex datasets, identify promising drug candidates and reduce the time between research and patient application. The move comes as pharmaceutical companies are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence to speed up and simplify clinical development. The CEO’s of both companies welcomed the partnership and potential for accelerated scientific discovery.

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.

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.