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January 13, 2026 Volume 60 l Number 241
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The Voice of Seguin
WEEKEND EDITION
TODAY
Tickets Still Available for Saturday’s MLK Dinner Theater Darren Dunn
Marion Community Remembers Contributions of Dr. Tom DeKunder Darren Dunn
(Marion) — If there’s a project or job that was done in the Marion ISD over the last five decades, there’s a good chance Dr. Tom DeKunder played a part in it. Dr. DeKunder, a former superintendent of schools in Marion ISD, died recently at the age of 80. Community members, friends, and co-workers are remembering the many
contributions he made to the school district and to other parts of the community. He served in a number of roles in Marion ISD. Former Superintendent Dennis Dreyer took over the district’s top job after DeKunder’s retirement. He says Dr. DeKunder made a difference in his life both personally and professionally. DeKunder pg. 3
(Seguin) — Tickets are still available for what’s being described as the crown jewel of this week’s five-day celebration of the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The Guadalupe County MLK Committee is hosting its Dinner Theater/Banquet on Saturday evening at the Seguin Coliseum. The dinner show is the only paid event during this year’s salute to the slain civil rights leader. Committee member Herman Lampkin Jr. says they’re bringing another original production to Seguin. “The play we have coming is from a buddy of mine, Que Samuels, from the Bryan–College Station area. Number one, he’s a regular comedian — I must say, he’s funny. Just talking with him during the conversations and setting this thing up, it’s been a joy,” said Lampkin. Lampkin says Samuels will entertain the crowd with his latest production. While it isn’t focused on laughs this year, he says it will make audiences think as Samuels’ work explores the history of the struggle for equal rights in America. “He’s bringing a play that’s a little more serious for him. It’s ‘The Dream That Got Us Here.’ It’s going to give you snapshots of Black history, from slavery up to where we are today. He’s excited about coming this way. We’ve had him a couple of years in the past with some dynamic plays, and he’s glad to be coming back,” said Lampkin. MLK, pg. 2
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MLK, continued. The dinner show marks a return to a longstanding tradition for the committee. Committee member Joe Patterson Sr. says a late member of the group first came up with the idea many years ago. It was designed to be a special night out for the community. “That was an idea Mr. Little — Clarence Little — came up with. He was big on presentation, right down to the way the napkins were folded. He had gone to an event where he was really impressed by the dinner and the play, and he said we’ve got to do something like that. We worked on it for a couple of years, and that’s how the dinner playhouse originated,” said Patterson. This year’s event will start earlier than in the past. Patterson says the earlier start time will allow guests to get home sooner. “The event will start at 4 p.m. this year. Doors open at 4, the meal starts at 5 p.m., and hopefully we’ll be out
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of there by 8 or 8:30 p.m.,” said Patterson. Committee member Derric Bogany says tickets are $50 each and can be purchased from any MLK Committee member or by calling 210-857-6037. He says tickets are also available online, though a convenience fee applies. “You can also go to Eventbrite to get tickets. That adds $5.20 to each ticket. If you find a committee member, it’s just $50,” said Bogany. A link to purchase tickets can be found on the group’s Facebook page or on our website, seguintoday.com. In addition to Saturday’s Dinner Theater/Banquet, MLK Week events include a church service Thursday night at Second Baptist Church, a student choir showcase Friday at the Seguin High School Performing Arts Center, a Gospel Fest on Sunday at New St. James Baptist Church, and the MLK Symbolic March on Monday morning, starting at Texas Lutheran University and ending in Central Park.
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DeKunder, continued. “He was my social studies teacher. He was my basketball coach. He was my football coach, my track coach. And then I left, and he went into administration. When I got back here as a teacher, he started as an elementary principal. Then I became middle school principal, and we worked really closely together on all the transitions between those grades. I moved to the high school, and he moved into the assistant superintendent’s position. Then he moved to the superintendent’s position, and I moved into the assistant superintendent’s position. And finally, when he decided to retire, it was through his recommendation that I became superintendent. So again, I owe him for every one of those changes. He was very, very important,” said Dreyer. Dreyer says DeKunder always had a vision for the district and its students. He says that even as superintendent, DeKunder often took time to work with students who needed the most support. “He was always there, as an administrator, for the student. He would pick up some of the kids who were having trouble and were downtrodden. Whether they were disciplinary issues or family issues or whatever, he was always frontline involved and always went the extra mile to take care of all kids — but specifically those who were having personal problems, whether they were academic, learning disabilities, or family problems. He was there for them,” said Dreyer. Dreyer says he’s thankful for the many lessons he learned from DeKunder over the years — lessons that went well beyond the walls of the school. “I just have nothing other than the highest praise for the man and for the vision that he had. I was always on the outside looking in and saying, ‘I never thought of that.’ And his footsteps were fun to follow,” said Dreyer. Phil Karrer knew Dr. DeKunder for more than 50 years. He says he saw firsthand how much work DeKunder did for the community.
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“He and I have just been really good friends. He was my coach and teacher his first couple of years here, and he hired me back in ’77. We’ve been friends ever since. I know he’s just been a great guy to know, and he’s been special to me and special to a lot of other people around here. He dedicated his life to this little town,” said Karrer. Karrer says DeKunder’s dedication wasn’t limited to Marion ISD. He says DeKunder also knew the broader Marion community better than most. Even though he didn’t grow up in Marion, Dr. DeKunder showed his love for the community every chance he got. He conducted historical research that eventually led to a book, and he worked hard to ensure lasting projects were completed — including the creation of the Community Library and the founding of the Marion Education Foundation. Karrer says DeKunder gave back to Marion in every way he could. “Well, it was his love. Every little part of this town, he made sure he kept up with and knew what was going on. Like Veterans Park — he’s the one who kind of got it all going. And it has turned out to be a really nice little place,” said Karrer. DeKunder was not a large man, but those who knew him say his presence loomed large over everything he touched. “He was always trying to get involved in something, and he would get other people involved. He was just a gogetter. And when he finished one project, he had to find something else to pursue,” said Karrer. In addition to his time in Marion ISD, DeKunder also served on the school board in the Schertz-CiboloUniversal City ISD. He was also a longtime member of the Guadalupe County Historical Commission and took on a major project helping to identify dozens of longforgotten cemeteries across the county. Funeral services for Dr. DeKunder begin at 11 a.m. Thursday at Schertz Funeral Home, located at 2217 FM 3009 in Schertz.
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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.
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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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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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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,
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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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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.
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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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J&J Reaches Tariff Deal With Trump Administration (New Brunswick, NJ) -- Johnson & Johnson has reached an agreement with the Trump administration to cut drug prices in the U.S. in exchange for exemption from Trump’s tariffs. In a statement this week, the pharmaceutical giant said as part of the agreement, Johnson & Johnson will participate in the planned website TrumpRx.gov, “which will allow millions of American patients to purchase medicines from Johnson & Johnson at significantly discounted rates.” The company also announced two new U.S. manufacturing facilities under construction, one in Pennsylvania and one in North Carolina. Amazon Pharmacy To Offer Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy (Undated) -- Amazon Pharmacy announced it will sell the Wegovy pill. The digital pharmacy will offer those with commercial insurance the pill for as little as 25-dollars for a one-month supply. Customers paying cash can buy the weightloss pill for 149 dollars a month. Individuals will be able to compare insurance versus cash pricing and eligible coupons will be automatically applied at checkout. Patients nationally can have their pill delivered to their home. Study Says Those Who Stop Taking Ozempic Will Regain All Their Weight (London) -- A new study shows that people who stop taking weight-loss injections are likely to regain their weight within two years. New research published by the British Medical Journal looked at the GLP-1 medications sold under the brand names Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro and Zepbound. It found those who take the drugs often start regaining weight within a month after stopping the medication, and that all of the user’s weight loss will likely be regained within two years. The research also showed that those who stop taking weight-loss injections are likely to regain weight four times faster than those who regained after quitting diet and exercise. Study Finds Teens Use Phones An Hour A Day At School (Seattle, WA) -- A new study shows teens spend over an hour a day on their phones while at school. Social media took up most of their device time. The Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study involved 640 teens ages 13 to 18. The study also found that older teens ages 16 to 18 and those from lower-income households had the highest smartphone use.
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invite the community to come together in the spirit of unity, service, and remembrance.
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 830-4012422 or visit library.seguintexas.gov for additional information.
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 Tuesday, 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. 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
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 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
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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