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The Voice of Seguin
WEEKEND EDITION
TODAY
Navarro ISD to Host High School Dedication Ceremony Darren Dunn
Seguin Competing for America’s Favorite Small Town Title Darren Dunn
(Seguin) -- The City of Seguin wants to share with the rest of the world that it is a special place to live, work, and play. Blaire Friar, director of Main Street & Destination Management, says the city is calling on residents and fans of Seguin to help it earn recognition as one of the best small towns in the country. Seguin is officially in the running for the title of America’s Favorite Small Town.
“Seguin is in the running to be named one of America’s Favorite Small Towns. This is a program run through Parademagazine. It is part of a celebration of America’s 250th birthday coming up this year. They sent out a call for nominations, and we submitted Seguin. We have made it into the Top 20, so we’re really excited. Title, pg. 3
(Seguin) -- Navarro ISD is inviting the entire community to come out tonight and check out the brand new Navarro High School campus. The district is hosting a special dedication ceremony. Navarro ISD Communications Director Chelsea Ormond says district leaders are eager to showcase the new campus, which officially opened to students last week. “We are so excited to have our community out for this historic occasion. The new Navarro High School will be dedicated, and we invite all of our community to come out and join us. We’ll have a student-led presentation, special guests and dignitaries, and then refreshments and tours so our community can see all of our amazing spaces,” said Ormond. The voter-approved project features state-of-theart facilities and upgraded learning spaces for students at Navarro High School. Ormond says the dedication is exciting for both students and the community, which is why district leaders want all stakeholders to see the new building in person. “We believe once a Panther, always a Panther, and everyone in our Panther family has been a part of making this happen. We have a wonderful historical legacy that dates back to the 1800s, and we’re very proud of our roots, traditions, and heritage here in Navarro. Navarro, pg. 2
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Seguin Announces Full Schedule for 2026 MLK Celebration Darren Dunn
(Seguin) -- Community leaders in Seguin are preparing for a five-day celebration honoring the life, legacy, and vision of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., one of the largest and most extensive MLK observances in the state of Texas. The annual Martin Luther King Jr. celebration will take place Thursday, January 15, through Monday, January 19, and is organized by the Seguin–Guadalupe County MLK Day Planning Committee. The week-long observance features worship services, music, fellowship, and community events designed to bring together residents from across Seguin and Guadalupe County in the spirit of unity and service. Scheduled events include the Baptist Ministers Union Church Service on Thursday at Second Baptist Church, a student choir showcase on Friday at the Seguin High School Performing Arts Center, the MLK Banquet and Dinner Theater on Saturday at the Seguin Coliseum, a Gospel Fest on Sunday at New St. James Baptist Church, and the symbolic MLK March. The march will be held on Monday, stepping off from Texas Lutheran University and concluding at Central Park in downtown Seguin. All events are free and open to the public, with the exception of Saturday’s MLK Banquet. Tickets for the banquet are $50 each and include a dinner theater experience. Tickets may be purchased from any MLK Planning Committee member or online through Eventbrite. Organizers say the celebration reflects Seguin’s longstanding commitment to honoring Dr. King’s message of justice, love, and service to others.
Navarro, continued. All of our alumni helped make this very special, along with our current students. We want everyone to know they’re welcome to be a part of it. This is everyone’s school.
This is our community’s school, and we want everyone to come out and celebrate with us,” said Ormond. The doors will open at 6:15 p.m. today, with a student-led ceremony beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the auditorium. Guided tours
will follow the dedication. District officials encourage residents to take advantage of the opportunity to see the new high school in person and celebrate this milestone for Navarro ISD. The campus is located on State Highway 123 in the city of Seguin.
3 NEWS
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Title, continued. We’re sitting at number 16 right now, competing against cities across the nation,” said Friar. Friar says Seguin is already moving up the leaderboard, but the city needs everyone’s help to climb higher. She says every vote brings Seguin closer to the top of the list. Votes can be cast at https:// americasfavoritesmalltowns.parade.com. “What we are needing from the community is to go online. It’s super easy. Just go online and vote. You can vote every day and really support the city of Seguin,” said Friar. Friar says Seguin hopes to claim the top spot in Texas, but would also like to win the coveted national title. She says Seguin is competing well against other communities across the country and now just needs people to go online and vote. “They will name both state winners and one national winner. We’d be happy to end up as the favorite small town in Texas, but of course, being the national winner would be even better. Voting is open until January 21. That will be the last day. Vote today. Vote every day,” said Friar. The city has released a video promoting some of the people and places that make Seguin such a special place to call home. Friar says she hopes the video will motivate more people to cast a vote each day for Seguin. “We’re just excited to really promote our wonderful
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town. We have so much to offer here. We have great cultural arts programs. We have great events. We have a beautiful downtown. We have wonderful small businesses. Seguin is a gem here in Texas, and we’re really proud to share it with everyone around the United States,” said Friar. There is a little more than a week left for people to vote in the contest. Friar says winning the national title would bring significant recognition and celebration to Seguin. The top town will be honored as America’s Favorite Small Town and receive national exposure through Parade magazine, including a feature in Parade’s Favorite Small Towns in Americanewsstand issue. In addition, the winning community will host a July 4 celebration for America’s 250th anniversary, complete with a Parade x Steller activation that may include celebrity involvement, sponsor giveaways, and national media coverage. “Seguin is proud of its history, its people, and its strong sense of community,” said Friar. “This opportunity allows us to showcase what locals already know — Seguin is special. It’s real.” Each vote also serves as an entry for individuals to win $1,500 cash toward their next trip or vacation. Participants may vote once per day, increasing their chances to win while supporting Seguin’s bid for the title. Community members are encouraged to vote daily and share the link with friends and family. Votes can be cast at https://americasfavoritesmalltowns.parade.com.
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8 VITAL STATISTICS
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MON. January 12, 2026
Schmidt
Anthony “Tony” Schmidt, and his wife, Tasha Schmidt; her cherished grandsons, Jackson Schmidt and Anderson Schmidt; and her brothers, Darry Ranft and John Ranft. She will also be remembered fondly by numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. Graveside services and interment will be held on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 11 a.m. at the Kingsbury Cemetery with the Reverend Jeremy Roy officiating. 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.
Reed
their toes. He will be forever treasured and profoundly missed. He was preceded in death by his parents, M.C. and Leola Reed. He leaves to cherish his memory four children, Keith Reed, M.C. Reed, Willie Reed, and Monecia Reed; two stepdaughters, Aereale Sykes and Ashley Wallace; thirteen beloved grandchildren; four siblings, Larry Reed, Charlitte Reed, Jeanette Reed, and Linda Davis-Reed; along with a host of extended family members and dear friends. A memorial service will be held Friday, January 16, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Tres Hewell Mortuary with Pastor Kenneth Green officiating. A private inturnment. 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.
Susan Gail Ranft Schmidt, age 76 of Seguin, passed away on January 8, 2026. Susan was born on December 8, 1949, in Seguin, Texas, to Adelaide (Beutnagel) and Marvin Ranft. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Herman Anderson “Andy” Schmidt; her mother, Adelaide Phillips; her father, Marvin Ranft; her brother, Scott Ranft; and her sister, Karen Ranft. Susan is survived by her loving son, Herman
M.C. Reed Jr., age 59, passed away on December 15, 2025. He was born in Seguin, Texas to Leola (Anderson) and M.C. Reed. M.C. Reed was and will forever be known as a kind yet wild-spirited man—intelligent, passionate, witty, and gifted with a smooth command of words. Early in life, he was praised for his athletic abilities and accomplishments, which carried him through high school. He later served in the military and explored several industries, and skill sets throughout his life. A man of many talents, he was a devoted father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and son. Known for his jokes, wisdom, and unexpected quirks, he kept everyone laughing and on
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MON. January 12, 2026
DeKunder
Electric Cooperative. Tom was a passionate volunteer and meet director for the UIL Region IV 1A/3A Track and Field Meet for 30 years. Some of his greatest joys came from coaching numerous district track and field championship teams at Marion, including a state champion athlete. He also proudly led Marion ISD’s first district football championship team in 1977. Coach DeKunder loved reminiscing about his coaching era and celebrating those athletes. Everyone who knew Tom knew he loved traveling to West Texas. No small town could be passed through without driving by its football stadium. He also had a great love for nature and animals. Over the years, he adopted a miniature donkey named JD and kept a small animal farm behind his office, which included a pair of mallard ducks named Bernard and Bernadette and a rabbit named Spanky. In retirement, he took pride in his butterfly garden and once nursed an injured monarch butterfly back to health over the course of a month, naming it Lady Spirit. He was an exceptional storyteller. Tom will forever be remembered for his playfulness, humor, guidance, and wisdom. He found humor in everything and never missed a chance to share a pun. During the final two years of his life, Tom bravely battled cancer and, while in remission, passed away due to complications from pneumonia. One of his favorite songs was “Happy Trails” by Roy Rogers, a fitting farewell. Tom is survived by his wife, Mary Ann; his children, David DeKunder (Odilia) and Sidonie Dickson (Nicholas); his grandchildren, Milena Dickson, Tori Mai (Zac), Nicholas Dickson, and Elizabeth Dickson; and a greatgrandchild Lilith Mai. He is also survived by his brothers, Joe DeKunder (Edna) and Alan DeKunder (Jean), as well as numerous brother-in-laws and sisters-inlaws, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Barbara Jean DeKunder Olsen. Services will be held at Schertz Funeral Home, 2217 FM 3009, Schertz, Texas on Thursday, January 15th. Visitation beginning at 10:00am, followed by a service at 11:00 am. A reception lunch will immediately follow at the VFW Hall at 1000 FM 78, Schertz, Texas. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Tom’s memory to one of the following organizations: Marion Education Foundation (please designate for teacher grants), the San Antonio Autism Treatment Center, or South Texas Blood and Tissue Center Foundation.
Chabolla
grandchildren, Jolyce, Noah, Angelina, A.J., and Xavier; siblings, Alfredo E. Martinez, Armando Martinez and wife Carmen, Agedita Taylor and Anita Chandler; numerous nieces, nephews, other loving family members and friends. Visitation will begin on Monday, January 12, 2026, at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel from 5 to 7 p.m. with the recitation of the Holy Rosary at 6 p.m. with Deacon Nick Carrillo officiating. The Mass of Christian Burial will be on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. All will meet at church. Interment will follow with a procession to Santo Tomas Cemetery. 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.
Harold Thomas “Tom” DeKunder June 15, 1945 – January 3, 2026 Harold Thomas “Tom” DeKunder was born in San Antonio, Texas, in 1945 to Henry Julius DeKunder and Bessie Sonley DeKunder. He was raised on the South Side of San Antonio and graduated from Highlands High School in 1963. He attended Southwest Texas State University in San Marcos, earning a Bachelor of Science in Education in 1968 and a Master of Education in 1974. In 1993, he proudly earned his Doctorate of Education from Texas A&M University in College Station. Tom met the love of his life, Mary Ann Zemanek, at a friend’s wedding in 1968. They recently celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary. Tom was a devoted father to his children, David and Sidonie, throughout their lives. Tom often shared fond memories of his grandparents’ farm in northeast San Antonio. He was a proud descendant of the Coker family, whose roots date back to the Battle of San Jacinto. He was an active member of the Coker Cemetery Association, and he will be laid to rest in this historic family cemetery. Tom dedicated his life to public education. He began his career in 1968 at O’Henry Junior High in Schertz, then joined Marion ISD in 1970 as a teacher and coach. Over the years, he served in various administrative roles before becoming Superintendent of Marion ISD in 1997. After retiring in 2000, he became an education professor at St. Mary’s University in San Antonio. Throughout his career, he also taught education courses at Southwest Texas State University, Our Lady of the Lake University, and UTSA. He made a lasting impact on every community he served as a teacher, coach, and administrator. An active community member, Tom served on the Guadalupe County Historical Commission, the Marion Lions Club, and the Coker Cemetery Association. Tom devoted time to preserving historical cemeteries throughout Guadalupe County, a reflection of his lifelong passion for history. He was instrumental in founding the Marion Education Foundation and the Marion Community Library. He served on the Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISD Board of Trustees and was on the Board of Directors for the Guadalupe Valley
Adelfa Martinez Chabolla, age 79 of New Braunfels, passed away on January 4, 2026. Adelfa was born on April 4, 1946, in Seguin, Texas, to Petra (Espinoza) and Espiridion Martinez. Adelfa is preceded in death by her sons, Rudy Moreno and Paul Anthony Chabolla, her parents, and her brother, Alejandro Martinez. Survivors include her daughter, Georgina Perez and husband Albert; grandchildren, Andreana Ruiz, Angelica Perez, and Tabitha Perez and partner Anthony Bosquez; great-
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Svatek
friends along with the staff and volunteers at the humane society. Margarett also loved taking trips with her extended family to enjoy snow skiing and waterskiing. Margarett is survived by her husband Tom, siblings, Francis Steubing and wife Kathy, Thomas Steubing and wife Nita, and Julie Chiles, in-laws Charlotte and King Freeland, Donna and Johnny Poteet, as well as many nieces and nephews. Margarett is preceded in death by her mother Edna Martha Knetsch and father Aubrey Steubing, brother Aubrey Ervin Steubing, sister Pearl Esther Steubing, sister Nancy Gallagher and husband Carl, sister Caroline Cloud, and sister Dalie Magee, brother-in-law Gary Chiles. “The degree of people’s civilization is reflected in its attitude toward animals.” - John Galsworthy A memorial and dinner gathering will be held on January 17, 2026, at The Silver Center, 510 E. Court Street, Seguin, Texas 78155 from 2pm to 5pm with remarks at 3pm. In lieu of flowers, we humbly ask that donations be made to Guadalupe County Humane Society, GCHS, P. O. Box, 1593, Seguin, Texas, 78155-1593. 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,
Rains
performing his other duties. During his lifetime, Jeral enjoyed golfing, hunting and fishing. He also enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and summer trips to Port Aransas. He is preceded in death by his mother, father and brother, James “Rusty” Rains. He is survived by his loving wife of 46 years Karen (Rieger) Rains, daughter Monica (Rains) and husband Melvin Pipes, and son Travis and wife Crystal Engelke. He has three grandchildren – Presley Engelke and fiancé Kyle Kolbe, Jaden Pipes and Ashlyn Pipes as well as sister-in-law, Kathy (Dittmar) Rains and niece, Kelly (Rains) and husband Randy Fluker and other family members and many friends. Graveside services and interment will be held on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at 1 p.m. at Guadalupe Valley Memorial Park. A Celebration of Life Service will follow at the Elks Lodge in Seguin at 2 p.m. with remarks at 3 p.m. “When someone you love becomes a memory, their memory lives forever in your heart” Memorial contributions may be made to the Guadalupe County Humane Society, P. O. Box 1593, Seguin, Texas, 78155. 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.
Margarett Etta Svatek was born on December 11, 1945, in Falfurrias Texas to Aubrey Steubing and Edna Martha Knetsch. She passed away on November 23, 2025. Margarett moved to Seguin to finish her senior year of high school, where she met Tom Svatek at a football game. They were married about a year later June 18, 1965. Margarett’s love for animals blossomed when she and Tom got their first dog Caesar, a Schnauzer mix, whom they adopted as a puppy. She began rescuing animals out of her home in Seguin in the early 80’s. She started a non-profit in 1989, holding fundraisers to build a facility that would serve as a no-kill animal shelter for Guadalupe and surrounding counties. The Humane Society opened its doors in June 1997, and Margarett served as the volunteer director, a true labor of love for over 25 years. She worked at Southwestern Bell in Seguin for 18 years as an operator. Margarett loved to garden; she had a beautiful yard full of flowers and plants as well as a sparkling pool where she hosted family gatherings and water volleyball games. She liked cooking meals, not only for her husband, Tom, but also for many
It is with great sadness Jimmy Jeral Rains, aka “Poppi,” of New Braunfels passed away peacefully on December 19, 2025, at the age of 82. Jeral was born on February 6, 1943, in Parsons, Tennessee, to Iris Geraldine (Kennedy) and James Lavern Rains. Jeral’s family moved to Pasadena, Texas, where he spent most of his younger life before moving to Seguin to attend Texas Lutheran College in 1961 to play football. He also joined the Army National Guard and spent his training days in Tacoma, Washington. He began his long career at SMI – Texas in 1964 and was part of the company’s semi-pro baseball team, the SMI Steelers. At SMI – Texas he found his calling in rolling mill operations and gained a reputation as one of the finest rolling mill professionals in the world. Throughout his 50 years with the company, Jeral also worked at SMI Steel - South Carolina as Vice President/Works Manager and SMI Steel - Alabama as EVP Operations/Works Manager. He was asked to return to Texas in 2005 as Rolling Mill Technical Advisor for the CMC Steel Group where he assisted other mills including SMI Steel - Arkansas and CMC – HZ Poland while
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Ablin
people care well for themselves and those they loved. In 1987, Judy and Ralph endured the heartbreaking loss of their youngest son, Christopher, at the age of six and a half. In later years, following Ralph’s severe and debilitating stroke in 2004, Judy devoted herself fully to his care, walking faithfully beside him with patience, strength, and unwavering love until his passing in 2012. Her service extended far beyond her own family. Over the years, Judy volunteered as a hospital chaplain, served with Meals on Wheels, and was actively involved in various women’s ministries. She was drawn to those in need of comfort and hope, offering prayer freely, listening deeply, and caring wholeheartedly. Judy was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph Ablin; her son, Christopher Ablin (1980–1987); her daughter-in-law, Jana Ablin; and her parents, David and Sara Nordholm. She is survived by her children Charles Ablin of Normandy Park, Washington; David Ablin and his wife, Gaby, of Seguin, Texas; and Heather Engler and her husband, Chet, of New Braunfels, Texas; her sisters Sara Brown and Victoria Lofgren; and her ten grandchildren: Justin, Daniela, Alex, Brianna, Ceanna, Christopher, Josh, and Serena Ablin, and Jake and Sam Engler. Judy’s life reflected a deep love for the Lord and a sincere love for people. She spoke openly about her faith, offered prayer freely, and cared deeply for those around her. Her compassion, her voice, and her unwavering belief will continue to echo in the lives of those she loved. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Lifegate Church in Seguin, Texas.
Herbold
matched only by the love he held for his family. As we reflect on Chris’s life, we celebrate not only his adventurous pursuits but also the deep connections he formed with his loved ones. He is survived by his devoted children, Derick, Kaison, Capri, Marley, and Charlee Herbold, each carrying a piece of his adventurous spirit within them. His mother, Tami Herbold and husband William Newberg, and his father, Alfredo Sanchez and wife Brenda Sanchez, stood proudly in his corner throughout his life. Chris also shared a special bond with his siblings; his sister Kristen Jahns and her husband Clint Jahns, as well as his sister Ciera Sanchez and brother AD Sanchez. He was a cherished uncle to Kendall Hurt and Caiden Jahns, and beloved grandson to Margaret Herbold and her husband Ruben Sanchez along with many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who created countless memories with him. Though he is mourned by many, Chris is greeted in the beyond by those who passed before him, including his grandfather Texas John Herbold, stepfather Ricky Risinger, uncle Roger Herbold, aunt Wesley Shehane, cousin John Derick Herbold, and great-grandparents Milton and Catherine Krueger. His legacy of love, laughter, and an insatiable appetite for life will inspire all who knew him to embrace each day with passion and joy. May he rest in peace, his spirit soaring high like the waves crashing along the shores of Kona, Hawaii. A celebration of life ceremony will be announced at a later date.
Judith Carolyn “Judy” Ablin, of Seguin, Texas, was peacefully called home on December 28, 2025, as her daughter held her hand. She was lovingly cared for by family in the days leading up to her homegoing. Judy was born on March 5, 1939, in Willmar, Minnesota, to David and Sara Nordholm. She was raised in the small town of Elbow Lake, Minnesota, where she enjoyed an idyllic childhood, enriched by a close extended family and a tight-knit community. As the eldest of three daughters, she set an early example of love, compassion, and care for others that she carried throughout her life. Judy graduated from Elbow Lake High School in 1957 and went on to attend Augustana College in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, where she majored in nursing. It was there, in the late 1950s, that she met her future husband, Ralph Ablin. Their relationship began with a Sadie Hawkins dance—true to Judy’s confident and warm spirit, she was the one who asked Ralph out—and marked the beginning of a lifelong partnership grounded in faith and shared purpose. They were married in 1961. Judy and Ralph built a life together centered on family and ministry. Ralph, an ordained pastor, and Judy served side by side through decades of ministry, opening their home and their lives to others wherever they were called. Judy also had a strong passion for health and nutrition and genuinely enjoyed learning about wellness and sharing that knowledge with others, always wanting to help
Christopher Brian Herbold, affectionately known to those who loved him as Chris, was born on February 3, 1984, in Seguin, Texas. He left this world on October 9, 2025, in beautiful Kona, Hawaii. Chris’s journey through life can be described as one marked by boundless energy, a thirst for adventure, and a spirit that ignited joy in all who had the privilege of knowing him. After graduating from Seguin High School, Chris took a courageous step that would shape his future; he moved to Austin, Texas, where he began training to become an MMA fighter. Following this chapter, he spent several fulfilling years in Washington State, where he immersed himself in the great outdoors. Whether he was traversing hiking trails, gliding on a skateboard, conquering snow-covered slopes, cliff diving into refreshing waters, or racing on his BMX bike, his passion for the natural world was evident. Chris’s zest for life ultimately led him to Kona, Hawaii, where he embraced an adventurous lifestyle surrounded by the beauty of nature and cherished moments spent with family. Chris’s spirit was infectious, and his smile, contagious. How blessed are we to have someone that makes saying goodbye so hard. His love for adventure was
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House Passes Extension Of ObamaCare Subsidies (Washington, DC) -- The House is passing legislation to extend expired ObamaCare tax credits. The bipartisan vote passed 230 to 196, with 17 Republicans crossing the aisle to join every voting Democrat in support. The move, which would extend the COVID-enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies, will now head to the Senate. It is a blow to Speaker Mike Johnson, who has argued for weeks that the majority of House Republicans were opposed. NYC Records Two Straight Weeks Of Declining Flu Activity (New York, NY) -- There’s been very high flu activity in New York City for weeks but now health officials are reporting some good news. Acting City Health Commissioner Michelle Morse says cases have declined over the past two weeks. Just 12-thousand flu cases were reported for the week ending January 3rd, down from 32-thousand for the week ending December 20th. But Dr. Morse says, “we’re not out of the woods yet” because flu seasons are unpredictable and the flu virus is still circulating at very high levels. Dr. Morse also says more than 128-thousand New Yorkers have tested positive since flu season began in October and notes that 54-percent have been children. She’s urging parents to get their kids vaccinated despite the federal government no longer recommending that every child get a flu shot. Dietician Spells Out Benefits To Giving Up Alcohol (New York, NY) -- A health expert is spelling out the benefits to giving up alcohol on what’s a traditional health challenge this month known as dry January. Registered dietitian Tracee Brenner says while everyone’s body is different, regular drinkers who stop should notice less grogginess in the morning, a deeper sleep, fewer body aches and better moods after just two weeks. Folks will also get better nutrient absorption, and the liver will function better. Brenner says instead of giving up alcohol as a ritual, replace it with a healthier drink like, sparkling water, chart cherry juice or herbal tea. Experts Weigh In On New Pyramid Of Dietary Guidelines (Stanford, CA) -- The federal food pyramid is being turned upside down. Dr. Christopher Gardner, professor of medicine at Stanford, says flipping the pyramid is the Trump Administration’s effort to make it radical. but he notes that a lot of the recommendations carry over from previous times, including more fruits and vegetables, eating whole grains rather than refined grains and to quit eating highly processed foods and adding extra sugar and salt to your food. But Dr. Gardner’s not enthusiastic about putting meat and dairy products at the top of the food pyramid, along with fruits and vegetables, because of the extra saturated fat.
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January
day, January 13, 2026, at Palo Alto College’s Ozuna Library. The program includes 2 CEUs (1 General and 1 Laws & Regulations), concurrent educational sessions, a meal, door prizes, and industry updates. To RSVP, email or call Kennedy Green at kennedy.green@ag.tamu. edu or 210-631-0400.
Play Like a Girl Football Camp Local girls are invited to the Play Like a Girl football camp hosted by members of the Austin Outlaws on Sunday, January 11, from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. at Farias-Spitzer Elementary School in New Braunfels. The camp is open to girls in grades K–12 (children under 5 may participate with a parent) and offers a fun, positive introduction to football and teamwork. TPWD scoping meeting The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department will host a scoping meeting in Guadalupe County on Jan 12 at 6:30 PM to present proposed changes and receive public input on doe day expansion. The meeting is open to the public and will be held in the Texas A&M Agrilife Extension Building, located at 210 E. Live Oak St. in Seguin. Navarro ISD High School Dedication Navarro ISD invites the community to the dedication of the new Navarro High School on Monday, January 12 in Geronimo. Doors open at 6:15 p.m., with the student-led ceremony beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the auditorium. The event includes performances, remarks, a reception, and guided campus tours. Native Plant Society to Host Tree Care Program The Native Plant Society of Texas Guadalupe Chapter will host a meeting and educational program on Tuesday, January 13, featuring a presentation on tree care and disease management. The program will be led by Travis Franke with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. Social time begins at 6:30 p.m., followed by the program at 7 p.m., with a chapter meeting afterward. The event will be held at First Presbyterian Church of Seguin, 1121 E. Walnut Street, with parking available on North Moss Street behind the church. 2026 Beef Cattle Short Course Texas A&M AgriLife will be hosting the 2026 Beef Cattle Short Course at 10 a.m. on Tues-
2026 MLK Week Community Celebration Seguin will honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a five-day community celebration from January 15–19, 2026, featuring worship services, music, fellowship, and a symbolic march. Events include the Baptist Ministers Union Service, Choir Showcase, MLK Banquet, Gospel Fest, and the symbolic MLK March on Monday, January 19, stepping off from Texas Lutheran University and continuing into downtown Seguin. All events are open to the public and invite the community to come together in the spirit of unity, service, and remembrance. Matador Legends Ballpark Sign Reveal Seguin ISD invites the community to “A Legendary Reveal” on Wednesday, January 21 at 5:30 p.m. at Matador Legends Ballpark, located on E. College Street behind Seguin High School. The event will celebrate the unveiling of the ballpark’s new squirrel and batting cage signs. Community members are encouraged to attend and be part of the celebration. Guadalupe County Republican Women to Host Candidate Forum The Guadalupe County Republican Women will host a candidate forum on Thursday, January 22 beginning at 11:30 a.m. at the Silver Center, 510 East Court Street in Seguin. The forum will feature invited candidates in the March 2026 Republican Primary, including local contested races and Congressional District 35. George Rodriguez, known as “El Conservador,” will serve as moderator. The program is free to attend. Lunch is available with an RSVP for $20, or $25 at the door. Reservations are required by contacting Glenda Partain at 830391-3979 or silvercenter@sbcglobal.net
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Chess Tournament at the Seguin Public Library The Seguin Public Library will host a small, informal chess tournament open to all ages, on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 10 a.m. The event will feature a Swiss-style format with four rounds and is expected to last about two hours. The tournament is unrated and beginner-friendly, but participants should be familiar with the basic rules and moves of chess. The library will provide chess boards and clocks, though participants are welcome to bring their own. There will be five-minute breaks between rounds, with snacks provided. Efforts will be made to match players by age group, but some mixing may occur in later rounds depending on attendance. Special prizes will be awarded, including 3-D printed trophies for first and second place in each age group: Kids (6–11), Teens (12–17), and Adults (18 and up). Registration opens January 1, 2026, and this program is free and open to the public. This is a great opportunity for chess enthusiasts of all skill levels to enjoy a fun, friendly competition with family and community members. This program is free and open to the public. Please call 830-401-2422 or visit library.seguintexas.gov for additional information. Youth soccer registration underway Spring youth soccer registration is now open for players with birth years 2013–2022. The cost is $90, which includes a jersey, shorts, and socks. Registration closes January 25, with a $10 late fee through February 1, if space allows. Games begin March 21 at Park West, with Saturday morning schedules. Practices start the week of March 2. Coaches and co-coaches are needed. Register online at system.gotsport.com/programs/A62849677. 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.
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