SDN: January 20, 2026

January 20, 2026

Seguin wraps up five-day MLK celebration with Freedom March, call to unity and faith

(Seguin) -- Seguin’s fiveday Martin Luther King Jr. celebration concluded Monday morning with the annual Symbolic March, drawing residents together for a reminder of unity, reflection, and commitment to Dr. King’s “enduring vision.”

The march which began at Texas Lutheran University concluded in downtown Seguin for a special gathering of music and prayer. Serving as guest speaker was Pastor Rev. Dr. Gary Roberts of Mt. Sinai Baptist Church in San Antonio, who shared a message of faith, courage, and collective responsibility. Roberts, who moved to Seguin five years ago with his wife Sheila, says he is proud to live in a community whose spirit aligns closely with Dr. King’s legacy.

Roberts says Seguin’s MLK celebration is a living testimony rather than a completed chapter.

“This celebration that we

are having today tells a story –not a finished story but a story that is still being written and we must be a part of it, and we can only do it with God’s help and direction. God keeps his word and he’s going to be with us and we need not be fearful but trust him, work with one another, love one another in spite of and God’s going to give us the victory and so, each of us have to sacrifice in one way or another but the sacrifice is worth it,” said Roberts.

Celebration, pg. 3

Seguin invests in downtown through ‘Fix-It’ Facade Grants

(Seguin) – The “Fix-It” Facade grant program is helping downtown businesses improve their buildings. By providing matching funds for exterior upgrades, the program supports property owners in enhancing their buildings while preserving their historic character.

At the January 6th Seguin City Council meeting, funding was approved for three projects, representing a total public investment of $23,400.

1.The Magnolia Hotel, 203 S. Crockett Street – A $40,000 project to reconstruct the building’s original second-floor wood balcony on the primary facade. The grant will cover 50 percent of the costs, up to $10,000.

2. Robert Raetzsch Attorney Office, 100 S. Austin Street – A $6,800 project to repair and replace existing frames and windows above the awning. The grant will cover 50 percent of the costs, up to $3,400.

3. The Palace Theater, 314 S. Austin Street – A $20,000 project to clean and repaint the facade, repair the cracked glass entry door, and re-tile the entryway. The grant will cover 50 percent of the costs, up to $10,000.

Many youth participants took part in Friday’s Choir Showcase at the Seguin High School Performing Arts Center. Photo by Donna Dodgen

“The “Fix-It” facade grant program has played a key role in downtown revitalization since they were started in 1998. The Main Street Advisory Board is thrilled to be able to assist with the preservation of our historic downtown and this year’s projects will be very exciting to see,” said Blaire Friar, director of Destination Seguin. Downtown businesses and property owners are encouraged to begin planning building mimprovement projects and submit applications to take advantage of this opportunity. Seguin’s Main Street Program is now accepting applications for the second round of the FY 2026 funding cycle. Applications are due by 5 p.m. on Friday, February 13, 2026. Each year, the Seguin Main Street Program opens a new round of “Fix-It” facade grant funding at the start of the fiscal year in October.

For more information and to apply, visit: https:// www.seguintexas.gov/885/Fix-It-Facade-Grant

The “Fix-It” facade grants cover a wide range of exterior improvements, including façade restoration, painting, window and door repairs, awnings, lighting, and other enhancements. By offsetting the costs of these projects, the program encourages downtown property owners to invest in their buildings while maintaining the distinctive charm and heritage.

Celebration, continued.

Roberts says his message, of course, takes into account current challenges facing the nation, “urging unity and faith as guiding principles.”

“We are standing for injustices and some of the changes that are going on in our country that is not American and is not biblical and so we want to encourage everyone – let’s stand together. Trust God. Let’s work together and watch him work things out,” said Roberts.

Roberts says hearing the message is easy. Being a part of the change, however, takes a little work.

“Coming together like today is the first step and secondly, trusting God. You know, we grew up with the Pledge of Allegiance, singing God Bless America – even our money ‘In God We Trust’ -- all these things. I think we have to get back to the basics again and trust in God, worshiping and loving one another and that’s a simple and good way to start,” said Roberts.

Roberts says he also couldn’t help but praise the local leadership and commitment behind Seguin’s MLK celebration, noting its impact on the community.

“They are visionaries. I think I heard that Pastor

Malone started this some years ago and for them to carry it on, it reflects the hearts of this community, the love that they have for one another and I’ve been at a couple of workshop services this year, activities in the city and it speaks about the quality of people who live here in Seguin,” said Robert.

Monday’s Symbolic MLK March wrapped up what organizers say is still one of the largest and longestrunning MLK celebrations in Texas. The annual celebration is organized by the Seguin–Guadalupe County MLK Day Planning Committee.

The celebration began Thursday evening with the Baptist Ministers Union Service at Second Baptist Church. Friday featured a Choir Showcase at the Seguin ISD Performing Arts Center. On Saturday, the community gathered at the Seguin Coliseum for the annual MLK Banquet and Dinner Theater. It was followed on Sunday with the Gospel Fest at New St. James Baptist Church.

Organizers say the five-day observance is designed to honor Dr. King’s life and legacy while inspiring continued service, justice, and love within the community.

VITAL STATISTICS

Krueger

William John “Willie” Krueger, Jr., age 90 of Seguin, passed away on January 17, 2026. Willie was born on January 22, 1935, in Live Oak County, Texas, to Edna O. (Holtz) and Willaim John Krueger.

Willie grew up in Live Oak County and proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. He moved to Seguin in 1969. He worked for SMI and later for Guadalupe County Road and Bridge Department.

Willie is preceded in death by his loving wife Ruth “Ruthie” Krueger, his

Gibbons

MAJ William Alan “Bill” Gibbons USAF Retired, age 81 of Seguin, passed away on January 6, 2026.

Bill was born on September 15, 1944, in Cleveland, Ohio to Doris (Kinzie) and Donald Gibbons.

Bill received a Bachelor of Arts in Business Accounting from Baldwin Wallace College where he was a member of Phi Kappa Tau. He married his high school sweetheart, Betty. They were married for 59 years and had two daughters, Jenny and Carol. Bill enlisted in the Airforce in 1966. He flew B-52s in the Vietnam War and spent 13 months in-country at Pleiku Air Base. He received the Distinguished Flying Cross with two Oak Leaf Clusters and the Air Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters. Major Gibbons finished his Air Force career at Randolph Air Force Base in San Antonio as an Instrument Flight Instructor. In 1987, Bill became a Captain for American Airlines. He retired in 2007.

Bill’s pastimes and talents were varied. He rode his beloved quarter horse “Ginger” with the Guadalupe County Sheriff’s Mounted Posse, he sailed boats (each one larger than the last), built a Hatz bi-plane for which he won the Wright Brothers Award, founded W. Alan Guitars building hand crafted guitars in his woodshop and enjoyed big-game hunting in South Africa for many years. He was an active member of the Seguin Noon Lions. “Wild Bill” was probably best

parents and siblings, Alfred Krueger, Pauline Holtz, Josephine Dresch, Ollie Eckermann, Albert Krueger, Henry Krueger, Alveria Lenz, and Tyience Krueger.

Survivors include his stepchildren, Russell Cox, Jr., and Debra Hurley and husband G.R.; sister, Ella Nora Pawelek; numerous nieces, nephews, other loving family members and many friends.

Graveside Services and interment with military honors, will be held on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at 2 p.m. at Boecker Cemetery in Seguin, with the Reverend Marcus Bigott officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, c/o Jeanette Siltmann, 196 Townesend Rd., Seguin, Texas, 78155 or to Emanuel’s Lutheran Church, 206 N. Travis, Seguin, Texas, 78155.

You may visit www.treshewell.com.

known for playing his guitar and singing folk songs at events and coffee shops around Seguin.

Bill is preceded in death by his parents, Doris and Donald Gibbons. Survivors include his wife and best friend of 59 years, Elizabeth Anne (Betty) (Nadolski), daughters Jennifer Perelstein and her husband David, Carol Shymkiw and her husband Timothy, grandson Dakota Perelstein, sister Lynn Helpman, nephews James & Bill Helpman and niece Melissa Helpman, and so many friends made on his many adventures.

To quote a song Bill sang often:

“Some day when it’s all over, and they come to carry me.

When you’re wearing black and walking slow with the rest of the family.

When the choir stands to sing a song, make sure it’s one of mine.

I had a few more tunes I wanted to sing but I ran out time.”

Visitation will begin on Friday, January 23, 2026, at 1 PM at Cross Church in Seguin, followed by a memorial service including military honors at 2 PM with the Reverend Jim Price officiating. A reception will follow in the fellowship hall.

For those who desire the services may be livestreamed on the Cross Church Facebook Page. https://www.facebook.com/crosschurchseguin

Memorial contributions may be made to Cross Church, 814 N. Bauer, Seguin, Texas, 78155 or to any military organization of choice.

Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155, 830-549-5912.

VITAL STATISTICS

Ablin

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

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.

New Study Says Tylenol In Pregnancy Not Linked To Autism

(Undated) -- A new study of dozens of peer-reviewed medical studies found no link between the use of Tylenol in pregnancy and diagnoses of autism in children. The findings support existing recommendations from medical groups like the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists on the safety of using acetaminophen for pain relief or fever during pregnancy. President Trump and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. sparked controversy in September when they both said they believed Tylenol use in pregnancy may be leading to a rise in autism diagnoses. Kennedy has called autism a “preventable disease.”

Suzanna’s Kitchen Recalls Ready-To-Eat Grilled Chicken Breast

(Washington, DC) -- Suzanna’s Kitchen is recalling over 13-thousand pounds of ready-to-eat grilled chicken breast fillet products over listeria concerns. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection service announced the recall on Friday. The products may be contaminated with listeria. The ready-to-eat grilled chicken breast fillet items were produced on October 14th. The items were shipped to distribution centers for food service sales in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Missouri, New Hampshire, North Carolina and Ohio.

Newly Created Measles Vaccination Map

(Boston, MA) --- There’s a newly created map that may help Americans determine their risk level of getting the measles. Measles cases are at a 33 year high as there’s been outbreaks across the U.S.. The new map allows people to type in their zip code and then it shows an approximate percentage of neighbors who have been unvaccinated. Health experts say areas with low vaccination rates have higher risk of spread. The map was created through research at Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard School of Medicine and Icahn School of Medicine at Mt. Sinai.

Health Expert Highlights Importance Of Keeping Brain Active

(Cleveland, OH) -- A health expert is highlighting the importance of keeping the brain active for someone’s mental health. Neurologist Dylan Wint at the Cleveland Clinic says anytime an organ of the body isn’t being used for what its intended use is, it tends not to function as well. He is stressing the importance of doing exercises that challenges the brain to think. That could mean doing puzzles, playing a memory game or learning a new language. He says this can be beneficial at any age.

January

Sponsors Needed for “Swing for Seguin” Golf Tournament

The Leadership Seguin Class of 2026 is seeking sponsors for the Swing for Seguin Golf Tournament, a fundraiser benefiting Seguin Little League at 1121 S. Austin St. Proceeds will support important facility improvements and equipment upgrades to help create a safer, more welcoming place for kids to play. Sponsorships must be submitted by February 14, 2026 to receive maximum promotional exposure. Contact the Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce to get signed up or click here.

Public Meeting to Elect Guadalupe County Board Representative

The Community Council of South-Central Texas, Inc. (CCSCT), a nonprofit community action agency, will hold a public meeting to elect one low-income representative from Guadalupe County to serve on its Board of Directors. The meeting will be held Tuesday, January 20, at 10:00 a.m. at 813 N. Hwy. 123 Byp., Seguin, TX 78155. The board member will be elected by majority vote of eligible low-income individuals present, as determined by CCSCT staff using Community Service Block Grant income guidelines.

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 830-391-3979 or silvercen-

ter@sbcglobal.net

History of the Klein Opera House, now home to Seguin Art League

Dive into the history of the Seguin Art League’s iconic building, the historic Klein Opera House. Education Chair Kelly Hallmark leads us on a journey of discovery into the quirks, the mysteries and the fun of this historic treasure. Built in 1890, the Klein Opera House has been many things in Seguin including home to several businesses, community groups and now the home of the Seguin Art League.The evening includes refreshments and a tour of areas rarely open to the public. Come explore with us, join the conversation and get to know all about the historic Klein Opera House. Find out what the Seguin Art League has in store for the future of this great space in downtown Seguin. $10 donation. Book your spot by calling the gallery during open hours Tuesday – Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Or stop by! They accept cash, credit card and check. 830-305-0472.

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.

The Little Fisherman Two Part Ceramic Class

The Little Fisherman two-day ceramic class with

clay artist Roger Betschler and writer Joseph Gonzalez. Jan. 24 and Feb. 28, from 1-3 p.m. The narration of “The Little Fisherman” will be used to ignite your imagination and inspire your interpretation of a fish. The sculpture will be made in the first class. Then, after drying and a first firing, sculptures will be glazed in the second class. 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

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.

Falling Leaves in Watercolor Class

This is a beginning watercolor class where students will learn how to utilize dried leaves as both a positive and negative stencil when working with watercolor and will learn some color mixing to create the illusion of depth of background. 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.

Energy Assistance Available

The Community Council of South Central Texas is accepting applications for utility bill assistance through the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP). Funding is limited and available in select counties, including Guadalupe County. Apply online at ccsct.org/utility-assistance-apply-for-services/ and schedule an appointment with your county office. An appointment does not guarantee assistance.

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.