SDN: April 20, 2026

April 20, 2026

Early voting begins for May 2 Uniform Election

(Seguin) -- Early voting begins today in Guadalupe County for the May 2 Uniform Election. Among the items on the ballot are the $65 million bond election in Navarro ISD, ballot propositions for the city of New Braunfels and a $295 million bond election in SchertzCibolo Universal City ISD.

Guadalupe County’s new Elections Administrator, Cristian “Cris” Pérez García, says voters are encouraged to check their sample ballot on the Guadalupe County elections website before heading to the polls because not every voter will have a race or proposition on their ballot.

Perez Garcia says depending on where they live, some voters may only see a handful of races or propositions while others could have school board races, city council contests or bond elections.

“For May 2nd, it’s usually local political entities that are having

elections, so it just depends on where you live,” said Perez Garcia.

Perez Garcia says for this election, there will be five locations available during early voting.

“So, for early voting, we have four locations. We have Redemptive Grace Ministries, the Schertz Annex on Elbel Road, and the Selma City Hall and Marion ISD, in addition to our main early voting location that’s going to be the Elections Administration Office here in Seguin,” said Perez Garcia.

Voters are reminded of that new Guadalupe County Elections Office located at 3251 N. Highway 123.

Early voting will continue through April 28.

Perez Garcia says voters, however, should take note that early voting will pause this Tuesday because of a state holiday.

Election, pg. 3

Navarro ISD voters to weigh in on $65 million bond issue

Early voting begins today

(Geronimo) -- Navarro ISD voters today will have their first opportunity to weigh in on a proposed $65 million bond package.

The single-proposition bond election is aimed at addressing enrollment growth and facility needs across the district. Navarro ISD officials say the proposal would be completed with no increase to the district’s current tax rate.

According to Navarro ISD Superintendent Dr. Mandy Epley, the bond package focuses on several areas across the district.

“It is for facilities reinvestment. That’s a roof and HVAC system at

the current Navarro Elementary, as well as the current annex building. All of that will become the future early childhood center. It’s also got a junior high expansion. It’s additional classrooms and a cafetorium, as well as some refresh to the secondary gym, some drainage fencing, and renovation of the current cafetorium and kitchen. And then our transportation, which would be the last part of the proposition, which includes buses and secured parking expansion for the district fleet. And that is a total of $65 million, which is at a no tax rate increase,” said Epley.

Bond, pg. 3

Guadalupe County animal services staff recognized for work behind the scenes

(Seguin) -- The often-overlooked work of Guadalupe County’s animal services officers is taking center stage this week in observance of National Animal Care and Control Appreciation Week (April 12-18).

Backed by a county proclamation before their peers, officials say the recognition highlights a unit that responded to 2,780 calls in 2025, impounded 751 animals, and helped achieve a 75 percent redemption and adoption rate — numbers that according to Guadalupe County Sheriff Joshua Ray -- only begin to tell the story of a job “that blends enforcement, compassion, and public scrutiny.”

Despite the public pressure and criticism, the department has faced in recent months, Ray says his team continues to show up, even when the job gets difficult.

“It says a lot about their character, that they have withstood a lot of the criticism and they still come to work every day and do

the best that they can. So, I’ve really gotten to know them and their daily operations. a lot more during my tenure as sheriff than I did before as chief deputy. And I can truthfully say that they have been mischaracterized time and time again. And I think they try really hard to do the best job they can and sometimes in very, very difficult situations. So, they’re not always appreciated, but I definitely appreciate them,” said Ray.

Ray says the challenges facing animal services today are “rooted in limited resources.”

“Historically, not a lot of funding and resources have been put into animal services. It used to be called Animal Control. I renamed it Animal Services. But the shelter and pretty much our entire budget that we have right now, I would say it’s pretty much a shoestring budget, but almost the entire budget goes towards the animal services officers, their salaries, benefits, and

the equipment they need in their truck. Very little is used to run that shelter. And it’s just not adequate for today’s expectations from our citizens. But like I’ve said before, there’s different perspectives from Guadalupe County constituents on what kind of services we should be providing and the taxpayer funding, the amount of taxpayer funding that should be used in providing those services,” said Ray.

Ray says even with the challenges, their efforts are often misunderstood by the public.

“I mean, they are doing exactly what they can. I think their hearts are in the right place. I think they’ve been mischaracterized by some animal advocacy groups. They’re trying hard with the resources they have available,” said Ray.

In recognition of this week, county officials say it’s also a good time for the public to learn more about the shelter and about helping animals find their forever home.

Election, continued.

“One thing to note and is something unique during this early voting period -- the state will not operate early voting tomorrow, (Tuesday) April 21st, due to it being a state holiday, San Jacinto Day. So early voting

Bond, continued.

will start today, pause tomorrow, and continue Wednesday, April 22nd through April 24th. So that’s something certainly to note,” said Perez Garcia.

Meanwhile, hours this week are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. today, Wednesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, April 25, and 7 a.m. to 7

The proposal is divided out with $5.4 million for facility reinvestment, $57.5 million for junior high expansion and growth-related projects, and $1.9 million for transportation.

Although Navarro ISD leaders say the proposal would not increase the district’s tax rate, Texas law still requires the ballot to include the phrase “THIS IS A PROPERTY TAX INCREASE” on all school bond elections. District officials say that language is required even when no tax rate increase is anticipated.

Navarro ISD officials say the district is expecting to add between 250 and 350 students each year over the next decade, making additional classroom space and facility upgrades necessary.

p.m. April 27 and 28.

Voters can view sample ballots and election information through Guadalupe County’s elections website at Guadalupe County Elections Information. Those with questions can also call the elections office at 830-303-4188.

Election Day is Saturday, May 2.

Epley says district leaders want voters to make their decision based on accurate information.

“Go to our website, it has a series of frequently asked questions where you can see if your question is there. And if it’s not, please feel free to reach out to us. We’re encouraging anyone that has a question that is not on the website to go ahead and reach out to us. We will not only answer it, but we’ll add that to our website so that we know the taxpayers have factual information. We don’t tell people how to vote. We just ask that you do vote and we want you to have information so that you feel like you are an informed taxpayer and you’re executing that right to vote,” said Epley.

Early voting begins today and runs through April 28, with Election Day set for May 2. There will not be early voting on Tuesday, April 21st due San Jacinto Day, a state holiday.

New Braunfels location provides educational opportunities for residents of Comal & Guadalupe Counties: • Accounting, Biology, Chemistry, Economics, English, Math, Fine Arts, Philosophy, Psychology • Day & evening options • IT - Cyber Defense and Networking • Associate Degree with a Business pre-major

(8 week) format

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.

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.

Scientists Working On Stopping Epstein Virus

(Seattle, WA) -- Scientists may be in the process of finding a way to stop the Epstein Bar virus. Researchers at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center conducted an experiment where they created new antibodies aimed at blocking the virus from entering human cells. The findings published in the Cell Reports Medicine show that one of these antibodies was able to prevent infection in mice. Those who conducted the study say in the past it’s been difficult to block what’s one of the most common viruses. Epstein Bar virus is an infection that spreads through saliva and body fluids and impacts most of the world’s population.

”Looksmaxing’ Draws Scrutiny From Health Experts (UNDATED) -- Online communities are driving new attention to a trend known as looksmaxing and experts are drawing a sharp line between healthy and harmful behavior. Health professionals say the healthy version of looksmaxing involves routine care like adequate sleep and regular exercise but health experts are concerned about another version which involves obsessive focus on perceived flaws, constant comparison to others and crash dieting. Mental health experts say these behaviors can contribute to anxiety and depression.

Trauma Injuries Increasing From E Bike And E

Scooter Crashes

(New York, NY) -- A new study shows there’s an increase in trauma injuries connected to e-bike and e-scooter crashes. The study published in the journal Neurosurgery shows more than half of bike and scooter trauma cases at Bellevue Hospital in New York City involved e-bikes or e-scooters in 2023. That is a huge increase from the eight percent back in 2018. Doctor Hannah Weiss who helped lead the study says in a busy urban setting, there are more and more of these injuries. Only 31 percent of the injured at Bellevue between 2018 and 2023 were wearing helmets.

Dietician Recommends A Healthier Mocktail

(Cleveland OH) -- April is Alcohol Awareness Month and one health expert is highlighting the fact that mocktails could be a good replacement for those looking to cut back on alcohol consumption. Registered dietician Kristin Kirkpatrick says a mocktail is a non-alcoholic version of cocktails that have similar flavor and consistency but is a healthier option. However, she says it is important to pay attention to the ingredients as mocktails can still include additives like caffeine, sugar and artificial sweeteners. She says if it has syrup it could be replaced with actual fresh juice.

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.

Master Gardeners Hosting Plant Sales

The Guadalupe County Master Gardeners will host a series of free educational programs and plant sales throughout April across the area. Plant sales will also be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 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. 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.

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 Boogie Down Disco Dinner & Auction

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.

TLU 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.

Friedens Church Geronimo Fish Fry

Friedens Church in Geronimo will host its monthly Fish Fry beginning at 5 p.m. Friday, April 17 and continuing until sold out. Plates are $15 and include fish, fries, coleslaw, hush puppies, and tea. Hot dog plates will also be available for $5, along with $2 desserts. The community is invited to come out and enjoy a great meal.

TLU Presents “The Best of The Carol Burnett Show”

Texas Lutheran University’s TheatreXpress program will present The Best of The Carol Burnett Show April 17 to 19 at the Studio Theatre, located inside the Weston Center for the Performing Arts on the TLU campus. The student-led production brings classic comedy sketches to life for a new generation. For showtimes and tickets, visit ticketsource.com/tlu-dramatic-media-texas-lutheran-university.

Seguin-Guadalupe County Black History Bus Tour

The Seguin-Guadalupe County Black History Bus Tour will be held Saturday, April 18, with tours running from 10 a.m. to noon and from 2 to 4 p.m. The narrated tour departs from the Davila’s BBQ parking lot at 418 West Kingsbury Street in Seguin. Participants will explore local Black history aboard a chartered bus and receive a commemorative booklet and snack bag. Tickets are $30 per person.

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 to 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.

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.

Community Blood Drive

Green Valley Special Utility District, in partnership with South Texas Blood & Tissue, will host a community blood drive from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, April 24 at 605 FM 465 in Marion. Residents are encouraged to roll up a sleeve and help save lives. To schedule a donation time, scan the QR code on the flyer at gvsud.org. For questions, call South Texas Blood & Tissue at 210-731-5590.

Continued on the next page.

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 /409044AA4AB22A1F58-63409752-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.

All-Inclusive Special Needs Dance Party

Beyond 22, Artable Curiosities, and Seguin School-

yard will host the 2nd Annual All-Inclusive Special Needs Dance Party from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, April 26 at 225 North Saunders Street in Seguin. The free, family-friendly event will feature sensory-friendly activities, face painting, games, arts and crafts, a photo booth, and prizes. Individuals of all ages are invited to attend and celebrate Autism Awareness Month.

Student

Life “Elevate”

Night Coming to Matador Stadium

Students are invited to a night of worship, food, and an encouraging message at “Elevate,” happening April 29 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Matador Stadium. The event will feature guest speaker Isaac Eisner and is open to everyone. Organizers say the evening is designed to bring students together for connection, community, and inspiration. Admission is free, and all students are welcome to attend.

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.