February 11, 2026
City of Seguin completes major water service expansion north of I-10
Darren Dunn
(Seguin) -- The City of Seguin has officially completed its takeover of a large water service territory previously served by Springs Hill Water.
City Manager Steve Parker says the expansion brings city water service to customers north of Interstate 10, an area experiencing rapid growth.
Parker says the city moved forward with the takeover after concerns that Springs Hill Water lacked the capacity to meet future demand in the area.
“We took over almost 9,500 acres of Springs Hill territory a couple years ago in an agreement, because water resources were very tight and we’ve had significant growth. We knew it was a big endeavor to take out that amount of area and transfer that total area. We didn’t want donut holes, right? So, really everything north of I-10 between highways 46 and 123 up
to Link Road was going to come into the city of Seguin utilities. There’s a lot of advantages to that when you think about it from an economies of scale point. That’ll have longlasting benefits to our community, because now we’ll be able to double our customer base, (and) actually be able to share the cost of the utility. The average cost of water should be able to be really monitored and hopefully minimize any rate increases in the future. It will not eliminate rate increases, but it will have an ability to do that,” said Parker.
Parker says the expansion benefits not only new City of Seguin water customers, but existing customers as well.
The project was completed last week, marking the end of a lengthy and complex process.
Water, pg. 3
Time for a NEW LIFE!
The former Seguin Activity Center, later home to the Boys and Girls Club on Zorn Street, has sat vacant for several years but is now set for renovation after the City of Seguin secured $2.3 million in federal funding to restore the facility for future youth programs. See story on page 2.
Seguin Secures $2.3 Million in Federal funding to revitalize former Youth Center
Darren Dunn
(Seguin) -- The City of Seguin has secured millions of dollars in federal funding that will help bring new life to a long-dormant youth facility.
Mayor Donna Dodgen announced last week that Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz confirmed the city has been awarded $2.3 million for improvements to the former Boys & Girls Club building.
The property, located on Zorn Street next to the Sebastopol House, was also previously known as the Activity Center.
Dodgen says the city worked closely with De La Cruz for an extended period to secure the funding.
Center, pg. 3
Region-wide collaboration brings first Job Fair of 2026 to job seekers
(Seguin) -- A multi-city partnership aimed at strengthening the local workforce will bring dozens of employers and hundreds of opportunities together today as four regional organizations host the first Regional Job Fair of 2026.
The Seguin Economic Development Corporation, Greater New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce, Cibolo Economic Development Corporation, and Schertz Economic Development Corporation have teamed up to present the event on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Seguin Coliseum. More than 50 employers from Cibolo, New Braunfels, Schertz and Seguin are expected to participate.
Organizers say the job fair is designed to connect area residents directly with companies that are actively hiring, helping streamline the path from job searching to employment.
“This regional job fair is designed with job seekers in mind—whether you’re looking for your first job, a career change, or a better opportunity closer to home. By connecting local talent directly with employers who are actively hiring, we’re helping people move from
searching to securing meaningful employment right here in our region,” said Jessica Dersen, workforce development manager with the Seguin Economic Development Corporation.
The event also highlights the growing collaboration among neighboring communities to address workforce needs and support continued economic growth across the region.
Job, pg. 3
Water, continued.
“They transferred the entire area almost 60 days ahead of schedule. We did it in three different phases. The third phase went (last week) with no hiccups. We did have a hiccup on the second phase, but that was due to some really aged infrastructure. But our team worked around the clock to get that knocked out as quickly as possible. But this last transfer went beautifully,” said Parker.
He says the expanded service area will support continued growth and have a long-lasting impact on the entire community.
Parker credited city staff for completing the project efficiently and helping move it to the finish line as quickly as possible.
“This was everybody. This was a strong lift from IT. It was a strong lift from our GIS Department, as well as even Fleet. If you can imagine that, the Fleet (Department) got really involved in this project. We needed some boosts
Center, continued.
“It was a total $13 million package, and we were the $2.3 million of that. So, I am so excited. We’ve been working really hard on this for a year and a half, if not longer,” said Dodgen.
Dodgen says the money represents an important first step, but additional funding will be needed to fully renovate the building. The city also plans to pursue more federal dollars for other community projects.
“We have a little bit of money to add to that. If you remember a few years back, we didn’t lower our taxes by two cents. We lowered them by one cent, so that we could then start banking that money into an account to add to this $ 2.3 million that we need for refurbishing the Boys and Girls Club,” said Dodgen.
Dodgen says these efforts are critical to Seguin’s long-term future.
“We will be requesting more. I’m just here to tell you. We’ll also be requesting some other things. I know
Job, continued.
in bandwidth in our vehicles to be able to pick up these signals. And they jumped right on it. And so, when you talk about the I-in-team, there isn’t one. This team really does go above and beyond,” said Parker.
Parker says this will continue to bring growth to the area. He says it will have a long-lasting impact on the entire community.
“I just can’t say enough about this project and how this will have really (big impact). I mean, when you look at the average cost of a water bill, those people in that area will save about $15 a month on average on 5,000 gallons. So, it’s a really, really great project. It’s great for our community. But this was a big haul. A lot of infrastructure went into this, a lot of planning (with) tight timelines, (and) a lot of coordination with Springs Hill. We do thank them as well to make those things happen,” said Parker.
The expansion includes all areas north of Interstate 10 between Highway 46 and Highway 123, extending north to Link Road.
there are some other groups within our city that want some things. We want some things for Texas State Technical College, which really fits into these line items of these grants and things. So, I just want to say thank you,” said Dodgen.
“We’re excited to host this regional job fair, bringing together talented job seekers and dynamic employers to strengthen our local economy. This event is a testament to our commitment to fostering economic growth and creating opportunities for our communities,” said Clancy Hardin, economic development manager with the Cibolo Economic Development Corporation.
Attendees are encouraged to dress in business attire and bring multiple copies of an updated résumé. Many
The former Boys & Girls Club has been unused for several years and requires significant repairs before it can again host youth-related programs.
The funding award was formally announced during last week’s meeting of the Seguin City Council.
employers will conduct on-site interviews and may extend job offers during the event.
Opportunities will range from entry-level to advanced positions across several industries, including manufacturing, government, nonprofit administration, technology, entertainment and public education.
Organizers say the Winter Regional Job Fair reflects the collaborative spirit that continues to drive economic progress throughout the area.
The Seguin Coliseum is located at 950 S. Austin St. in Seguin.
Small’s 7-Hit, 7-RBI Showing in Sweep Leads to SCAC Hitter of the Week Honors
Bryce Hayes - TLU Sports Information
SEGUIN, Texas -- After a weekend in which he hit safely and scored a run in all three games while racking up seven hits and seven RBI, Texas Lutheran Baseball’s Caleb Small (Round Rock/ Gateway College Preparatory) garnered the first Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference (SCAC) Hitter of the Week honor of the 2026 season.
In the Bulldogs’ three-game sweep of Howard Payne, Small was a constant as a starting outfielder.
Small finished the weekend 6-for-13 (.462/.462/1.077) with three doubles, a triple, a home run, seven RBI and seven runs scored. He was one of two Bulldogs to hit safely and score a run in every game of the Opening Weekend series.
Small drove in runs in two of his first three
at-bats of the 2026 season with an RBI single in the first and a two-RBI double in the fifth inning of the season opener. In game two of the series on Saturday, Small had at least one run scored in every at-bat starting with an RBI ground out in the second inning before adding a two-run homer and an RBI triple, which he would come around and score on, later in the game. Small finished the weekend 4-for-11 with runners in scoring position.
Small drove in seven of the Bulldogs 38 runs and was responsible for 14 of them. It is the second time in three seasons under head coach Kyle Palmer ‘09 the Bulldogs have received the first SCAC Hitter of the Week of the season.
the only nonprofit mental health treatment hospital for kids ages 3 to 17 in South Texas. When a child is in crisis, we work with families to get much needed treatment regardless of their ability to pay.
Crisis Services is a 24/7 walk-in clinic for children and teens experiencing a psychiatric emergency.
Outpatient services offer diverse treatment interventions, such as individual, family, and group therapy.
Southside High School is home to a new Clarity location, allowing all students enrolled in a Southside ISD school access to mental healthcare.
Inpatient hospitalization stabilizes kids in crisis who need immediate care and continuous supervision.
First Step is a one-time consultation for families that know their child is struggling but aren't sure what help they need or where to get it.
Multisystemic therapy is a community-based program, focused on empowering caregivers by providing skills to keep kids in their homes.
Partial hospitalization provides intensive mental healthcare during the day and then works with families to practice skills in the evening. The Next Step Center connects families to services that support their child’s continued path to mental wellness.
Claritycon is an annual conference on children’s mental health. Attendees work in education, social work, nursing, psychiatry, psychology, etc.
VITAL STATISTICS
Mendoza
Genaro Mendoza, age 76 of Seguin, passed away on February 7, 2026. Genaro was born on May 6, 1949, in Zacatecas, Mexico to Soledad (Fernandez) and Juan Mendoza.
Genaro owned and operated Mendoza Upholstery for nearly 60 years, where his work was reliable and trusted by his many customers throughout Guadalupe County and surrounding areas. A strong family man, he will be remembered for his tireless work ethic (seven days a week) and never-ending devotion to his family. He will be missed by many.
He is preceded in death by his parents and sister, Josefina Mendoza.
Survivors include his loving wife of 43 years, Blanca Mendoza; children, Victor Mendoza and wife Terri, Venisa Rodriguez and husband Raymond, George Mendoza and wife Melissa, Genaro Mendoza, Jr., Bianca Rodriguez and husband Victor, and Teresa Mendoza; grandchildren, Alyxes and husband Noah,
Raphael, Andrew, Kaleb and wife Chassity, Kamila, Karla, Carlos, Jonathan, and Angel; great-grandchildren, Ezra, and Charlotte; siblings, Miguel Mendoza and wife Juanita, Jorge Mendoza and wife Cristina, Juan Mendoza, Jose Mendoza and wife Marta, Ruben Mendoza, Laura Mendoza, Mario Mendoza and wife Nina, and Martin Mendoza; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other loving family members and many friends.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, February 15, 2026, at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel from 4 to 6 p.m. with the recitation of the Holy Rosary at 5 p.m. A procession will depart Tres Hewell Mortuary on Monday, February 16, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. for the Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. Interment will follow in Guadalupe Valley Memorial Park. A reception will follow.
Serving as pallbearers will be Luis Mendoza, Herbey Maldonado, Jonathan Mendoza, Raphael Gaitan, Andrew Gaitan and Kaleb Mendoza.
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.
Study: Menopause Linked To Brain And Sleep Health
(Cambridge, England) -- A new study says menopause is tied to changes in brain structure, mental health and sleep. The University of Cambridge study also shows menopause could cause higher levels of anxiety and depression. Researchers found reduced gray matter in several areas of the brain in women who had gone through menopause. The study also found that post-menopausal women are more likely to report insomnia, reduced sleep and ongoing tiredness.
Healthy Diet Change Could Support Adolescent Mental Health
(Swansea, U.K.) -- A study led by researchers at Swansea University in the U.K. suggest that diet changes could help youth mental health. The study found that healthier overall diet changes were often linked to fewer depressive symptoms, while poorer diets were tied to greater psychological distress. The authors noted that young age represents a critical time for brain development and mental health.
Researchers Identify 2 Emerging Animal Viruses As Potential Global Health Threats
(Undated) -- Infectious disease experts are warning that two viruses in animals have the potential to cause the next major health crises. Researchers warn that influenza D and canine coronavirus are increasingly jumping from animals to humans. Researchers warn in the January issue of Emerging Infectious Disease that surveillance for these viruses is lagging. They say this creates a dangerous blind spot, as both viruses are showing signs they could adapt for wider spread among humans. The research comes from collaboration from the universities of Texas, Florida, Kentucky and Ohio State University.
Speed Training Brain Game Lowers Risk Of Alzheimer’s
(Undated) -- New research shows a certain brain game will reduce the chances of getting Alzheimer’s disease. The long term study published in the journal Alzheimer’s And Dementia involved an experiment with three different groups. The groups were speed training, memory training and one with no training at all. The study found those who took part in speed training over three years had a 25 percent lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia over a two decade follow-up period. Speed training had people identify objects on a screen quickly and then make decisions about the objects.
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February
TLU Celebrates Black History Month
Throughout February, Texas Lutheran University will celebrate Black History Month with a series of free events for the community, centered on this year’s theme, The Stories, Songs, and SPIRIT of the Black Experience. The full schedule can be found at tlu.edu/ black-history-month. All events are free and open to the public.
Geronimo VFW Dance Schedule (Feb–Mar 2026)
Dance the night away at the Geronimo VFW Post 8456, located at 6808 Hwy 123 N. All dances are open to the public with $10 admission/donation at the door. Sunday Dances: Doors open 1:30 p.m. | Dance 3–6:30 p.m. Tuesday & Friday Dances: Doors open 6 p.m. | Dance 7–10:30 p.m. For reservations, call or text 830-305-8829. Upcoming Dance Schedule: Feb. 1 – Bob Appel (Burgers); Feb. 3 – Round Up 4 Charity feat. Rick Rice Band (7–10 p.m., Burgers); Feb. 8 – Paul Sanchez; Feb. 15 – Brandon Rosage; Feb. 20 –Round Up 4 Charity feat. Cactus Country Band (7–10 p.m., Burgers); Feb. 22 – Czechaholics; Mar. 1 – Alibis (Burgers); Mar. 3 – Round Up 4 Charity feat. Meyer Anderson Band (7–10 p.m., Burgers); Mar. 8 – Dave Jorgenson; Mar. 15 – Lone Star Pickerz; Mar. 20 – Round Up 4 Charity feat. Randy Carson Band (7–10 p.m., Burgers); Mar. 22 – Nathan
Colt Young; and Mar. 29 – Ken Simpson & Bentley Boys.
Seguin Job Shadow Program Invites Local Businesses to Participate
The Seguin Economic Development Corporation and the Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce are inviting local companies to take part in the Seguin Job Shadow Program, offering businesses the chance to host high school juniors and seniors for a one-day job shadow experience. Participating students will come from Seguin High School, Mercer Blumberg Learning Center, Navarro High School, and Marion High School. Employers may choose one or more available dates and host different students each day. Available Job Shadow Dates (9:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.):
• Wednesday, February 4
• Thursday, February 26
• Tuesday, March 31
Email Jessica Dersen at jdersen@seguintexas.gov to sign up.
Regional Job Fair
The Seguin Economic Development Corporation, Greater New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce, Cibolo Economic Development Corporation, and Schertz Economic Development Corporation are teaming up to host the first Regional Job Fair of 2026 on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Seguin Coliseum, 950 S. Austin Street. More than 50 employers from Seguin, New Braunfels, Cibolo, and Schertz will be on hand
with job opportunities in a variety of industries. Job seekers are encouraged to dress in business attire and bring multiple copies of their résumé. For details, visit https://info.seguinedc.com/regional-job-fair-winter-2026-jobseeker-info-page.
Guadalupe Native Plant Society Monthly Meeting
The Guadalupe Chapter of the Native Plant Society of Texas will hold its monthly meeting on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at St. John Lutheran Church (FM 465) in Marion. A plant and seed exchange begins at 6:30 p.m., followed by the program at 7. Conservation Biologist and Plant-Centric Ecologist Andy Blair will present, “Beyond Bluebonnets: An Introduction to Local Wildflower Diversity.” Meetings are free and open to the public. For details and directions, visit https://npsot. org/chapters/guadalupe/
Birch Please Class
Create an original composition of Birch trees utilizing primarily one type of brushstroke for the majority of the painting! Students will use various techniques that call back to pointillism and Impressionism and will be given background on Color Theory with focus on values of individual colors and complementary colors. Book your spot by calling the gallery during open hours Tuesday – Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Or stop by! We accept cash, credit card and check. 830-305-0472
Continued on the next page.
SEF Mardi Gras 2026 Fundraiser
Enjoy an evening of great food, games, and giving at Mardi Gras 2026 on Thursday, February 12, 2026, starting at 6 p.m. in the Seguin Coliseum, located at 950 South Austin Street. The event features food from Burnt Bean Co., interactive games, prize opportunities, and fundraising in support of a Fund-a-Need recipient to be announced soon. Tickets and sponsorships are limited and selling fast. Purchase tickents online at https:// seguineducationfoundation.betterworld.org/events/seguin-education-foundation-mard-3#tickets-form.
Annual Fiber Art Show Now through Feb. 13
The Seguin Art League Annual Fiber Show is open during Gallery Hours Tuesday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Twenty-five works of art by 15 artists include quilts, crochet, weaving, felt, embroidery, baskets and more. Stop by the Gallery and see what our talented area fiber artists have been creating. All pieces are available for sale.
Texas Farm Bureau Food Connection Day
Texas Farm Bureau will host Food Connection Day on Friday, February 13, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Guadalupe County Farm Bureau office, located at 325 South State Highway 46. Local farmers will visit with the community about how food gets from the field to your fork, and hamburgers will be available for just $1 each.
Comes to the Texas Theatre
The Texas Theatre presents “The Savannah Sipping Society,” a Jones-Hope-Wooten comedy filled with laughter and Southern charm. Opening Night is Thursday, February 13, at 6:30 p.m., with additional performances February 14, 20, and 21 at 7:30 p.m., and February 15 and 22 at 2:30 p.m. The production will be staged at The Stephen & Mary Birch Texas Theatre, 425 N. Austin St., Seguin. Audiences are invited to enjoy this heartfelt and humorous story brought to life by an all-star cast. Tickets are available online at https://thetexas.ludus.com/index. php?show_id=200511473.
Laubach Bowling Club Chili Cook-Off
The Laubach Bowling Club will host a Chili Cook-Off on Saturday, February 28, from 1 to 7 p.m. at Laubach Bowling Club, located at 1986 Laubach Road in Seguin. Teams will compete in categories, including People’s Choice, Spiciest Chili, and Best Overall. Bowling will also be available during the event. The entry fee is $30 per team, with registration due by February 18. Proceeds benefit Laubach Hall repairs. For more information, contact Jodi Watts at (830) 822-0608 or the Laubach Bowling Club at (830) 379-9033.
Call For Entries into Elementary and Middle School Art Show
All students in elementary and middle school (grades 1-8 are invited to participate in the Seguin Art League’s annual student art show. All entered works will be judged and eligible for cash prizes and
ribbons. Deadline to Enter: February 19, 2026. Get the entry form on seguinartleague.com or call the gallery during open hours Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. for additional information.
Singo Bingo Fundraiser to Benefit Local Charities
The Seguin Sunrise Lions Club will host a Singo Bingo Fundraiser on Friday, February 21, starting at 4 p.m. The event will be held at the Silver Center, located at 510 E. Court Street in Seguin. Tickets are $20 and include five rounds of Singo. Proceeds will benefit local charities and Lions Club service projects.
Annual “Taste of Soul”
The Guadalupe County MLK Commission invites the community to attend the Annual Taste of Soul, a celebration of culture, community, and cuisine. The event w=ill be held Saturday, February 28 at the Seguin Youth Services building, located at 919 N. Guadalupe St. in Seguin. Doors open at 11 a.m., and admission is $15. This annual gathering features a variety of soul food dishes and offers an opportunity for fellowship while honoring history and uplifting the future of the community. For more information, email guadalupecountymlkcommittee@gmail.com.
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.
The Savannah Sipping Society
