SDN: April 23, 2026

Guadalupe County Commissioners APPROVES

CloudBurst Data

Center

(Seguin) – A new data center is on its way to Guadlaupe County. Guadalupe County Commissioners on Tuesday approved a development agreement and tax abatement package for a CloudBurst multi-billion-dollar data center campus in northern Guadalupe County. The decision reverses a course of action taken by the court back in February.

With the item back on the agenda, commissioners spent nearly four hours hearing public comment, listening to a presentation from CloudBurst representatives, and debating the proposal before ultimately approving it in a 3 to 2 vote.

Guadalupe County Judge Kyle Kutscher, Precinct 2 Commissioner Drew Engelke and Precinct 3 Commissioner Jim Wolverton voted in favor of the

project. Precinct 1 Commissioner Jaqueline Ott and Precinct 4 Commissioner Stephen Germann voted against it.

The proposal has sharply divided the community. More than 30 people either appeared in person, participated by phone or joined online to voice concerns about the project. Many who attended Tuesday’s meeting left disappointed after seeing the court approve the project despite what appeared to be overwhelming public opposition.

Before the vote, each commissioner except Wolverton explained his or her position.

Kutscher says the county’s limited land-use authority makes the development agreement and tax abatement a critical enforcement tool. Center, pg. 2

Public turns out to voice their concerns against data center

(Seguin) – Although the county’s newest data center got the green light, it still brought with it plenty of public protest. More than 35 people filled the Guadalupe County Courthouse on Tuesday to protest the proposed CloudBurst data center project and the tax abatement package tied to it.

Concerns, pg. 3

Courtesy Photo Center, continued.

“The development agreement was specifically structured in a way that allows a project like this to build what they’re requesting to build and nothing else. The tax abatement agreement is the leverage and what a county has to be able to hold somebody accountable to say, if you don’t do what you said you’re going to do, now there are millions of dollars of penalty that come back on you at a single time.’ It’s not just that they would start paying their full available tax bill, but they would actually be recaptured to the beginning of the agreement in a single bill. That’s really the leverage. When counties in the state of Texas don’t have that land use authority and don’t have what cities can regulate and don’t do those things, having those abatement agreements -- typically people go, I don’t like abatements. And I understand that. I respect that position. But the other side of that from a governance structure is it is one of the only leverage documents and tools we can use as a county with our limited authority to tell the applicant, you must do what you said you were going to do. Otherwise, you have to pay the citizens of our county and the taxpayers all of these millions of other dollars,” said Kutscher.

According to information presented Tuesday, the proposed campus would include 10 to 12 buildings across roughly 700 acres, representing an estimated $14.5 billion investment.

Kutscher says the county is offering a tax abatement that reduces over a ten-year period. He says the court is not giving away existing tax dollars, instead this will be new tax revenue generated by the improvements made by CloudBurst.

He says the court is not giving away existing tax dollars, instead this will be new tax revenue generated by the improvements made by CloudBurst.

“What is being considered in the tax abatement today is the $500 million of capital expense and investment only on the buildings that are being talked about. And it’s not a 10-year abatement at 100 percent like Caterpillar was years ago because they created a thousand jobs and were a catalyst for a manufacturing environment that everybody saw as a benefit. It is structured at 90, 80, 70, 60, and reduces and then tapers off. Now please remember also that 90 percent is only based on a small portion because they can’t build everything at once. So as their assessed value and development and construction activity start to increase over the first few years, the abatement, again, only on the $500 million of capital building projects reduces,” said Kutscher.

Under the agreement approved Tuesday, beginning in year 11, the project would pay taxes on its full appraised value.

The county’s agreement does not apply to Navarro ISD who is in line to receive $1.6 billion. Now while they won’t see the entire figure, county officials say they will be a “significant amount of that total.”  School districts are generally not allowed to provide those kinds of abatements, meaning Navarro ISD would continue collecting taxes on the project’s full value.

Still, opponents like Ott and Germann raised concerns about the long-term impacts of the project, including water usage, energy demand and what could happen if technology changes make large-scale data centers obsolete.

Ott says here decision to vote no was based on the unknown future of artificial intelligence and data center development.

“Data centers in other cities, states, and countries stand unused due to rapid progress in artificial intelligence, most of which is unknown or unpredictable to those not within the closest circles. Many data centers close prior to the end of the tax abatement period. What then happens to those buildings, internal materials, or land? We cannot say that we have reliable results and solutions reached between communities and these AI owners and giants because it’s too new. As an attorney, this causes me grave concern in both terms of risk and liability. We can make an agreement in the best of faith, and I do believe that the individuals here all are here to do that. But when conditions reach an emergency status, things change because they have to. That, again, gives me serious pause when it comes to both energy and water supply,” said Ott.

While agreeing with Ott, Germann says his decision to vote no was based largely on what he has heard from constituents.

“I don’t sit up here with an opinion. I don’t sit up here and say, I know what’s better for my people, okay? I’m the representative of Precinct 4. And my people could say, well, this is not in my backyard, so what’s the difference? But they’re not. I have had significant numbers of emails, significant numbers of phone calls, I have been going door to door in my election, and I have none that say, you need to vote for this. Facebook is lit up. My Facebook page is lit up. Don’t vote for this. It dooesn’t really matter what my opinion is. It’s the opinion of the people that I represent and the people that are paying my paycheck,” said Germann.

As for Engelke, he says not everyone is against the project.

“Like Commissioner Germann alluded to, I look for precinct constituent input. So, you may have 50 here today that say no, but I’ve got 50 out there that say yes, it’s a no-brainer. What do you, what’s the problem? The benefit to Navarro ISD, the students, the faculty, staff, is going to be very beneficial in the long term. So for me, it’s difficult because it is in my precinct. But I have to weigh all options, and I do that all the time,” said Engelke.

Kutscher also acknowledged the concerns of those who live closest to the proposed site, particularly residents who would be directly impacted by the development.

“There are potential hazards with anything, but residential development and the rate in which it’s happening is hurting our county because we have very little control over it. This is the part where it’s probably not going to be -- these comments are probably not going to be favorable for most --  but I understand why. For the Lindseys, I completely understand why you would not want a project.

Center, pg. 3

Center, continued.

You live across the road. I respect your position. I feel for you. And the last thing we want to do is hurt somebody. It makes perfect sense. If I was you, I’d be doing exactly the same thing you’re doing, period. You’re the most impacted because you live right across the county road. I understand that,” said Kutscher.

Although Wolverton did not offer personal insight into his decision before casting his vote, during the meeting, he did ask the county attorney to address concerns raised by members of the public regarding some of the language included in the development agreement.

Concerns, continued.

The development is planned in northern Guadalupe County near State Highway 123. The project is expected to include multiple AIready data center buildings.

Prior to the meeting, residents were given various options to have their voices heard whether in person, online or via phone. Their concerns covered various areas including water usage, electrical demand, noise, air, topsoil disruption and other long-term environmental impacts. For others, they questioned why the county was willing to offer tax incentives to a company they believe would build in Guadalupe County regardless.

Among those speaking was Jennifer Lindsey. Lindsey questioned why the item returned to court after commissioners two months ago declined to act on it.

“Why is this being brought to the commissioner’s court two months after being denied? Why does CloudBurst have millions of dollars to buy an additional 700 plus acres, but not enough money to meet the tax responsibilities associated with it? If any one of us were to go into a store, put something on the counter, we had enough money for the item, but not the taxes, and then walked around the store and buy five more items and place them on the counter, and say, can you just please give them to me without the taxes? The person will look at you like you’re crazy. No, get out of my store. You have to have enough money for the entirety of it. Why (do) they not have enough money for the entirety

He asked for his take on the document and confirmation that the county “is protected.”

of it?” said Lindsey.

Lindsey also criticized the county for what she described as giving away too much authority over development decisions.

“Why would Guadalupe County relinquish all of its regulatory powers to this private company? A year ago, my sister and I personally met with a commissioner and the judge who were troubled by the fact that the state of Texas was continuing to limit the county’s abilities to regulate development within their jurisdiction. That’s two of you today on this court. And yet today, this proposal before this court seems to have the support of those two individuals --- taking away your power -- what little power you have. It’s strange,” said Lindsey.

Also speaking before a packed courthouse was Melissa Tovar. Tovar urged commissioners to consider whether their vote reflected the wishes of those who elected them.

“It’s up to y’all to determine if you’re going to listen to us, if you’re going to represent us like you say you will. Commissioner Germann, you’re facing a runoff here real soon. You know, are you going to represent us? Commissioner Wolverton, you just won your seat recently. Are you going to tell your constituents that you’re going to represent what you said that they wanted? For the others, Commissioners Ott, Engelke, Judge Kutscher, same for y’all. We elect y’all to represent us and this is what the people are saying they want. Voting in favor of this abatement today and the development agreement is going against all of your constituents

and what they want. And by doing that, you’re telling us that our voice doesn’t matter and what we want doesn’t matter because you know better than us,” said Tovar.

Those chiming in online was Teresa Garcia. Garcia says she believes the proposal benefited technology companies more than local residents.

“The only people that I can see helped, as far as I’ve read in this proposal, is big tech. And last time I checked, Guadalupe County is populated by tech executives. So, who are you trying to help with this? Not us, not your children, not my children, not farmers like me, or citizens who badly need clean water and money to pay our bills. So, by voting for this, you’re voting for big tech, to take us all for the biggest ride of our lives, not for our families, and we will remember you for it,” said Garcia.

The public frustration did not stop with those speaking in person. Several interruptions also came from residents listening online or by phone, with participants repeatedly shouting their opposition during the meeting. County officials warned the callers several times before eventually disconnecting the line because of the outbursts.

Others in attendance questioned the transparency of the process, the integrity of the court and whether the county had done enough to protect itself before approving the deal. Some residents also expressed disappointment that CloudBurst officials had not been more visible or responsive to community engagement.

Navarro Panthers clinch district title with come-from-behind win over San Antonio Kennedy

Chris Austin

(Seguin) -- The Navarro Panthers are district champions.

Navarro wrapped up the District 28-4A title Tuesday with a 3-2 come-from-behind victory over San Antonio Kennedy.

Ryan Davidson started on the mound for the Panthers and worked 6⅔ innings to earn the win. His older brother Austin came on in relief and struck out the final batter with the tying run on second base to end the threat.

The Panthers trailed 2-0 heading into the top of the third inning when Drew Mundine connected on a two-out, two-run homer to tie the game. Austin Davidson — who had singled earlier in the inning — scored on the blast.

Still tied at 2 in the fifth, Mundine drew a walk with one out. The freshman stole second, then advanced to third on a Ryan Davidson sacrifice fly. With two outs, Bayley Burgess singled home Mundine to give Navarro its first lead of the game — and the Davidson brothers made sure it held up.

Navarro finished district play with a 9-1 record. The Panthers advance to the UIL bidistrict round next Thursday.

(San Antonio) -- The Seguin Matadors can clinch a district title today.

The Mats are 12-0 in District 27-5A and have already secured at least a share of the crown. Seguin

is hosting San Antonio Lanier this afternoon in a game that was originally scheduled to be played at Lanier High School. A win by the Mats clinches the district title outright. First pitch is set for 5 o’clock at Matadors Legends Ballpark. Seguin will enter the bi-district round of the playoffs next week.

(Marion) -- The Marion Bulldogs clinched their district title last week.

Marion went 10-0 in District 27-3A to cap an undefeated district season. The Bulldogs will host Schulenburg on Thursday before traveling to Cuero on Friday in a pair of playoff tune-up games. Marion then opens a best-of-three bidistrict series against Crystal City next Thursday.

Networking

Guadalupe

STATISTICS

MENCHACA

www.SEGUINTODAY.com

Michelle T. Menchaca, age 54 of Seguin, passed away on April 21, 2026. Michelle was born in Bedford, England on August 22, 1971, to Pauline (Woollcott) Posch and Jim Woods.

Michelle worked for many years as a Certified Nurses Assistant at Windsor Nursing Home (formerly Care Inn) and later became a Licensed Vocational Nurse and was currently working at Advanced Home Health here in Seguin. Many good times were spent watching the San Antonio Spurs with family and friends.

Michelle is preceded in death by her grandparents, Betty and Peter Woollcott, her uncles, Chris Woollcott and Ian Woollcott, aunt, Jean Dicks, father-in-law, Santos Menchaca, Sr., sister-in-law, Jessica Menchaca, and her fur baby, Toby.

Survivors include her loving husband, Santos Menchaca, Jr.; son, Reymond Acosta; daughters, Brittany Acosta and Alisha Acosta; step-son, Santos “Trey” Menchaca III; mother, Pauline Posch and husband John; father, Jim Woods

SCHIEVELBEIN

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

and wife Elsie; mother-in-law, Janie Menchaca; sister, Christine Woods; brothers, Alan Posch, and Jon Posch; sisters-in-law, Irene Gil and husband Darius, Sonia Menchaca and husband Johnathan, Jennifer Meloccaro and husband Gary; brother-in-law, Steven Menchaca; fur babies, Cash and Tango; three grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews, other loving family members and many friends.

Visitation will be held on Monday, April 27, 2026, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel with the recitation of the Holy Rosary at 6 p.m. Visitation will begin again on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at St. James Catholic Church at 10 a.m. followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. with the Reverend Canon Stanislaw Fiuk officiating. Interment will follow in San Geronimo Cemetery.

Serving as pallbearers will be Reymond Acosta, Ray Tovar, Josh Nieto, Alan Posch, Steven Menchaca, Santos “Trey” Menchaca, III, Nathaniel Menchaca, Jonathan Posch and Gabriel Garcia.

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.

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.

Hegseth Signs Flu Vaccine Reversal

(Washington, DC) -- Secretary of War Pete Hegseth is ending the mandatory flu vaccine requirement for service members. This policy change aligns with the Trump administration’s efforts to reverse COVID-19 vaccine mandates and reinstate service members who were discharged for refusing them. The Pentagon now views the flu shot as a voluntary measure rather than a strictly required annual mandate. Hegseth saidthe War Department is once again restoring freedom to our Joint Force.

Study Shows Prenatal Medicine Results In Higher Autism Risk

(Omaha, NE) -- There’s a new study showing a possible higher risk of autism tied to prenatal medicine. Researchers at the University of Nebraska Medical Center looked at more than six million child health records between 2014 and 2023. They found mothers who were prescribed sterol biosynthesis inhibiting medications during pregnancy were more likely to have a child diagnosed with autism. The more doses prescribed, the more the risk increased. One of the study’s authors says the findings don’t suggest the medicines are unsafe, but rather raise questions about their use during pregnancy, a time when even small biochemical disruptions can impact fetal brain development.

Loneliness Linked To Higher Risk Of Heart Disease

(Dallas, TX) -- Adults who reported feeling lonely have a higher risk of developing degenerative heart valve disease. That’s according to a new study in the Journal of the American Heart Association. The study shows smoking, excessive alcohol drinking and inactivity are big factors linking loneliness to degenerative heart valve disease which researchers say is becoming more common. They say results show addressing loneliness could help delay disease progression and postpone surgical procedures such as valve replacement.

Teen Cannabis Use Linked To Cognitive Delays

(La Jolla, CA) -- Teens using cannabis are showing cognitive delays. That’s according to a study from the University of California San Diego School of Medicine. Researchers published their findings in “Neuropsychopharmacology” on April 20th. The study examined more than eleven-thousand adolescents as part of the largest ever long-term study of brain development in U.S. youth. Lead author and psychiatry professor Dr. Natasha Wade says given how important adolescence is for brain development, delaying cannabis use until later in life may help guard against the types of cognitive delays they’re seeing.

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/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.

All-Inclusive Special Needs Dance Party

Beyond 22, Artable Curiosities, and Seguin Schoolyard 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.