New director to lead Thriving Hearts Crisis Center
(Seguin) -- Thriving Hearts Crisis Center has selected a new leader to help guide the organization in its support of survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking.
Jana Evans is the newly named executive director and CEO for the crisis center formally known as the Guadalupe Valley Family Violence Shelter. The shelter works to provide services across Guadalupe, Gonzales, Karnes and Wilson counties.
With more than 13 years of experience in public service and nonprofit programs, Evans will oversee both Thriving Hearts Crisis Center and its thrift store, The Cranny.
Evans says her commitment to service began early in her career in neighboring Comal County.
“My passion for non-profits started in Comal County while I worked for the Senior Citizen Foundation doing like the Meals on Wheels Program and working with the senior citizens and so that’s kind of where it all sparked my passion for serving my community,” said Evans.
Evans says she later moved into child advocacy work, gaining hands-on experience helping families navigate some of their most difficult moments -- skills
she now plans to bring directly to families seeking help at Thriving Hearts.
“I went from the Senior Center over to work with the Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC). I was working with them and being able to do forensic interviewing and family advocacy so I have experience from there that I will be able to bring to support with this crisis center,” said Evans.
For many residents, Evans is already a familiar face. Her years working with students and families in Seguin has provided her firsthand knowledge of the challenges families face in this area.
“I went and started working with Communities in Schools with the Seguin (ISD). So, I was able to help those children that had barriers to success as well as their families that were needing that additional help so I was able to be there at Seguin ISD and help those families be connected with resources and community partners that could help them. And then from there, I went with Seguin ISD when they started their ACE program. I grew up in La Vernia as well, so I grew up in Wilson County so I’m definitely familiar with the area,” said Evans.
Thriving Hearts Crisis Center leaders say that local knowledge, combined with her trauma-informed and collaborative leadership style, makes Evans a strong fit for the organization’s mission. Board President Sarah Ferguson says the entire community stands to benefit from Evans’ energy and commitment to service.
Evans says she now hopes to build on the organization’s long-standing reputation
Director, pg. 3
Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
Jana Evans
Seguin businesses invited to participate in a window decorating contest honoring Texas history
(Seguin) -- Downtown Seguin businesses are invited to showcase their creativity and Texas pride by participating in the “Paint the Town Texas” Window Decorating Contest, celebrating The Republic of Texas and its independence from Mexico. This event honors the rich history and heritage that shaped our great state.
Participants are encouraged to design window art that reflects Texas history, culture, and the spirit of independence. This is a fantastic opportunity to engage the community, attract visitors, and show off your artistic flair while commemorating a pivotal moment in Texas history.
Important Dates:
Window Decorating Deadline: March 1, 2026
Winner Announcement: March 7, 2026, during Toast to Texas in Central Park
The winning design will be recognized during the Toast
to Texas celebration, a beloved annual event that brings together locals and visitors to honor Texas Independence Day. How to Participate: Register your business by contacting Seguin Main Street. Forms are available on the Seguin Main Street website: https://www. seguintexas.gov/892/Main-StreetForms
Completed applications may be mailed to the Main Street Program, P.O. Box 591, Seguin, TX 78156; dropped off at the Visitor’s Center; or emailed to ekiser@seguintexas.
Navarro ISD crowns Panther
Shake District Champion
(Geronimo) -- Navarro Independent School District (NISD) hosted its second annual Panther Shake Finals today, a unique competition designed to equip elementary and intermediate students with essential life skills, professional etiquette, and the art of the perfect handshake. The championship featured six finalists from Navarro Elementary and Intermediate who advanced from a rigorous semi-final round of twenty competitors held in December. The competition challenges students to master social skills— Panther, pg. 3
gov. Applications must be received no later than February 20, 2026. Complete your window painting by March 1.
Judging will take place prior to the Toast to Texas event.
Let’s make downtown Seguin shine with Texas pride! Join us in celebrating our history and independence in a creative and memorable way. “Paint the Town Texas” Celebrate Our Independence One Window at a Time
More photos can be found here: https://www.navarroisd. us/11845?articleID=48110
Special by Lindsay Hajek, assistant director of Seguin Main Street and CVB
Special by Chelsea Ormond, Navarro ISD director of communications
Director, continued.
while widening its reach and strengthening partnerships throughout the region.
She says the ultimate goal is to ensure more survivors know help is available.
“My hope is to be able to make a bigger impact. We are well known in the Seguin and Guadalupe County area. I want to be able to expand our community partners and pull them in from all the different communities and be able to reach more of those that are in need because there are so many more that possibly don’t know about it. With this being such a sensitive topic for people, it’s harder for people – the fear factor of things and it’s a hard conversation to have with people and sometimes, I think it hurts sometimes for us to be able to get the word out and for those that need the support to know that we are here,” said Evans. “I want to be able to work on the relationships that are already here but also expand into (having) even more community partners.”
Panther, continued.
Evans comes on board replacing former executive director Manijeh “MJ” Huereca. She says even during the transition and up until her appointment, Thriving Hearts and The Cranny did not lose a beat in their operation thanks to the strong staff members who remain committed to operating the program 24/7
Now that she has taken over the reins, Evans says she looks forward to working closely with her team and those in the community.
“I’m very very grateful for the opportunity and the trust that the board is putting into me. I’m excited to be able to work with the community so I’m welcoming anyone
such as maintaining eye contact, offering a firm handshake, and engaging in sophisticated conversation with adults—that are vital for future success.
During the finals, students participated in a “speednetworking” format, sitting across from a panel of distinguished community leaders. Each competitor had two minutes to build rapport and impress the judges before moving to the next table. Students were evaluated on five key categories:
Greeting and Handshake
Confidence
Voice and Volume
Conversational Skills
Overall Success
The judging panel included local dignitaries who rely on these professional skills daily, including City of Seguin Mayor Donna Dodgen, Guadalupe County Judge Kyle Kutscher, Guadalupe County Sheriff Joshua Ray, Seguin HEB Operations Manager JR Pena, and Navarro ISD Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources and School Leadership Dr. David Kauffman, and Superintendent Dr. Mandy Epley.
“The Panther Shake is about more than just a greeting; it’s about teaching our students how to navigate the world and stand out with confidence,” said Chelsea Ormond, Navarro ISD Director of Communications.
“These young leaders have worked hard after school and
to reach out to me. I would love to hear more about ways that they can collaborate together in order to support the organization and those that we serve. I’m excited to lead the team not only at Thriving Hearts Crisis Center but also The Cranny, the thrift store that we have. So, it’s very important for us to support the thrift store as well because those proceeds go here to help us with our services,” said Evans.
The family crisis center has provided free services to area survivors since 1983. Those needing help from abuse and violence are encouraged to call 830-372-2780. They can also go online to safeseguin.org.
at home to develop a presence that will serve them for the rest of their lives.”
Dr. Epley emphasized the importance of community involvement in student growth, “Watching our students engage so confidently with our community leaders is a testament to their hard work and the support of our dedicated staff. This competition bridges the gap between the classroom and the real world, ensuring our Panthers are prepared to lead with a firm handshake and a brilliant smile. We are incredibly proud of every finalist who stepped up to the table today.”
Paris “Coco” Kay, a 4th-grade student, was named the Navarro ISD District Champion. All finalists were recognized as “Panther Shake Ambassadors” for their respective campuses and were treated to celebratory Whataburger milk“shakes” following the ceremony.
The 2026 Panther Shake Finalists:
Paris “Coco” Kay (4th Grade) – District Champion
Olivia Perkins (2nd Grade)
Marcelo Chapa (5th Grade)
Cooper Clardy (2nd Grade)
Isaiah Avalos (2nd Grade)
Bella Sandersen (4th Grade)
Navarro ISD would like to extend a special thank you to the campus leaders—Coach Pullin, Coach Spanton, Mrs. Dahl, and Mrs. Gregersen—for their mentorship, and to the parents for their continued support of these rising Panthers.
Seguin, Navarro and Marion learn 20262028 district foes with UIL realignment
Chris Austin
(Austin) -- Area high schools now know their district foes in football, basketball and volleyball for the next two years following UIL realignment announcements this morning.
Seguin, Navarro and Marion are staying in their current classes and divisions. Seguin competes in 5A Division-I for football. Navarro is 4A Division-II, and Marion is 3A Division-I. Districts are realigned every two years based on updated school enrollments. The realignments will take effect starting with the Fall 2026 semester.
Here are the new districts for area schools in football:
Region 4 District 13-5A
Austin Anderson
Austin McCallum
Bastrop Cedar Creek
Boerne Champion
Comal Smithson Valley
Kyle Lehman
Lockhart
Manor
Seguin
Region 4 District 15-4A
Bandera
Cuero
Geronimo Navarro
Gonzales
Pearsall
San Antonio Memorial
Region 4 District 13-3A
Hallettsville
Luling
Marion
San Antonio Cole
Smithville
Universal City Randolph
Yoakum
Here are the new districts in basketball and volleyball for Seguin and Navarro:
Region 4 District 25-5A
Comal Smithson Valley
Kyle Lehman
Lockhart
New Braunfels
New Braunfels Long Creek
SA Veterans Memorial
San Antonio MacArthur
Seguin
Region 4 District 29-4A
Cuero
Floresville
Geronimo Navarro
Gonzales
La Vernia
SA Great Hearts Northern Oaks
Here are the new districts in basketball and volleyball for Marion:
Region 4 District 27-3A – VOLLEYBALL
Jourdanton
Marion
Poteet
Poth
San Antonio Cole
Universal City Randolph
Region 4 District 27-3A – BASKETBALL
Jourdanton
Marion
Poteet
Poth
SA Young Men’s Leadership Academy
San Antonio Cole
Stockdale
Universal City Randolph
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.
Trump Announces Initiative To Fight Drug Addiction
(Washington, DC) -- President Trump is announcing a new initiative to fight drug addiction. Trump signed an executive order Thursday to coordinate a federal response to drug addiction and substance abuse. It will create a “White House Great American Recovery Initiative” that will be chaired by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Kathryn Burgum, the wife of Interior Secretary Doug Burgum. Trump has made addressing drug issues a focal point of his second term, conducting strikes on alleged drug boats in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific.
ACA Enrollment Drops By Over 1 Million People
(Washington, DC) -- Enrollment for the Affordable Care Act is dropping as monthly insurance premiums skyrocket. According to data from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, 23 million people signed up for open enrollment by January 15th which marks a drop-off from the 24-point-two million people who enrolled for insurance during the same period in 2025. Findings come after enhanced subsidies, which kept health insurance costs lower for struggling Americans, expired last year. The House passed a bill allowing for a three-year extension of the subsidies but the measure has stalled in the Senate.
Eli Lilly Building Billion Dollar Plant In PA
(Lehigh Valley, PA) -- Eli Lilly is planning to build a multi-billion-dollar manufacturing plant in Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania. It will be the fourth facility in a string of new planned U.S. investments by the Indiana-based pharmaceutical giant over the last year. According to Eli Lilly, the plant will help make its next-generation obesity drugs, including a drug that has shown the highest weight loss of any treatment seen to date in a late-stage trial. Construction of the Pennsylvania plant is set to start this year and the site is expected to be operational in 2031.
Doing Chores Is Good For Health But Doesn’t Count As Exercise
(Cleveland OH) -- Experts say doing chores is beneficial for your health. Cardiologist Grant Reed with the Cleveland Clinic says vacuuming, mopping and carrying laundry are examples of chores that are good for the body. However, he says unless you are getting your heart rate up, chores do not replace regular exercise. The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise every week. That includes running, biking, swimming and strength training.
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.
Community Blood Drive
Give the gift of life at a community blood drive from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday, February 3 outside the Seguin Coliseum. The bloodmobile will be set up in the Coliseum parking
lot, located at 950 S. Austin St. Donors are encouraged to schedule an appointment in advance and will receive a free long-sleeve T-shirt while supplies last. For more information, contact Jennifer Gauna at jgauna@ seguintexas.gov.
FAMEous Chili Cook-off Open House
The TX FAME Lone Star Chapter will host a FAMEous Chili Cook-off Open House from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, February 5 at Texas State Technical College in New Braunfels. The event is open to students, parents, educators, and community members interested in learning more about the Advanced Manufacturing Technology (AMT) program. Attendees can meet industry partners, learn about the earn-whileyou-learn model, apply on-site, and enjoy a chili cook-off competition featuring local employer teams. Registration and more information are available at https://events.tstc.edu/event/tstc. events.1222883.
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 oneday 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.
Geronimo Lions Club First Friday Feast
The Geronimo Lions Club will host its First Friday Feast from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Friday, February 6 at the Big Red Barn on Cordova Road. Guests can enjoy a choice of ribeye steak or fried fish. Proceeds will benefit the Our Lady of Guadalupe Food Pantry, and live music will be provided by Deuces Wild. The community is invited to come out for great food, music, and a good cause.
Zorn Cemetery Association Business Meeting
The Zorn Cemetery Association will hold a scheduled business meeting at 11 a.m. Saturday, February 7 at Los Cucos Mexican Restaurant, located at 920 IH-10 in Seguin. For more information, call 830-832-1703.
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-job-seeker-info-page.
Continued on the next 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
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. Twen-
ty-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.
The Savannah Sipping Society Comes to the Texas Theatre
The Texas Theatre presents “The Savannah Sipping Society,” a Jones-HopeWooten 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) 3799033.
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 will 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.
