SDN: January 22, 2026 by Seguin Today

January 22, 2026

Seguin Council moves forward on NewQuest Town Center Development agreement

Darren Dunn

(Seguin) -- A major hub for shopping, dining, and more is coming to Seguin.

The Seguin City Council on Tuesday officially gave City Manager Steve Parker

authorization to move forward with an economic development agreement with NewQuest.

The developer plans to create more than 600,000 square feet of retail space on its 543acre site, located on the I-10 westbound access road between Highway 46 and FM 464. The property also stretches back to FM 78.

Development, pg. 3

Youth show calls on community to help surpass $2 million mark

Businesses, individuals, families being encouraged to show their support

Cindy Aguirre-Herrerra

(Seguin) -- After falling just a few thousand dollars short of a major milestone last year, organizers of the Guadalupe County Youth Livestock and Homemakers Show remain hopeful that support this year will push the youth organization beyond the $2 million mark.

Dustin Morgenroth, chairman of the board of directors for the Guadalupe County Youth Livestock and Homemakers Show, says the goal is within reach and represents a major step forward for the organization.

“Last year, we were within – I want to say – about $12,000 from hitting the $2 million for the youth of the county. It’s our goal, obviously, this year to finally get over that $2 million mark. This is my eighth year being chairman and I know when I first got involved, we were like around the $400,000 mark. So, we’ve grown a pretty big rate in just a few years so I know, my sales committee and the board are shooting to hit that $2 million mark,” said Morgenroth.

Morgenroth explains how reaching the $2 million total does not rely solely on the live auction held at the end of the show.

Youth, pg. 3

Seguin ISD supports road expansion project

Cindy Aguirre-Herrerra

(Seguin) -- The Seguin ISD Board of Trustees is showing public support for a future road expansion project.

The school board Tuesday night approved a resolution supporting the planning and potential expansion of State Highway 46 between Seguin and New Braunfels.

Seguin ISD Superintendent Dr. Jack Lee says the district was contacted by the New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce requesting formal support to help move the project forward, in both Guadalupe and Comal counties.

“The district was contacted by the New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce concerning the State Hwy. 46 expansion project –basically the chamber is collecting letters of support from other area chambers of commerce, economic development entities, professional and technical organizations, cities, counties, school districts –

anybody who is between that area. It’s my understanding that part of this work is to secure funding, so they requested that we consider approval of a resolution supporting the expansion project,” said Lee.

According to the resolution, the proposed project would improve connectivity between SH 46 and Interstate 35, while also considering local access, transportation needs, and economic development opportunities for the area. The

document also notes that any future development should, “where feasible, utilize existing roadway alignments to minimize impacts on local landowners, businesses, and communities.”

Lee says the resolution calls for the collaboration with neighboring cities and counties, the Texas Department of Transportation and the Alamo Area Metropolitan Planning Organization.

“The resolution says that the district supports that option and calls for planning and expansion of State Hwy. 46 between New Braunfels and Seguin with direct connectors at the intersection of State Hwy. 46 and I-35,” said Lee.

The New Braunfels chamber is also expected to receive support from other public stakeholders such as economic development entities and both professional and technical organizations.

Development, continued.

NewQuest first announced plans for the Town Center project 15 years ago. The project was delayed for years, but rapid growth in the Seguin area has now pushed it into high gear. Seguin’s population continues to swell, bringing new opportunities to the community. The city is now ranked as the 29th fastest-growing community in the United States, with a growth rate projected to surpass what New Braunfels saw during its peak period.

Economic development officials say this announcement is a monumental step forward for the Town Center project. They say they expect to have many “retailer coming soon” announcements to share this year.

The Town Center has been identified as a power center, which is the term used to describe a large, openair retail development dominated by several big-box stores.

Youth, continued.

He says it’s more of the continued support that comes in after the auction wraps up.

“(Obtaining that goal) -that’s not in the live auction. The live auction will be a little bit less because we will get quite a bit of money as add-ons which is where a lot of businesses or families will send in the add-ons for the kids after the auction. So, usually in the live auction, it will be a little over a $1 million and then we get about $800,000 to $900,0000 in add-ons,” said Morgenroth.

Meanwhile, Morgenroth says there are options for those who may not be able to attend the auction in person or who are looking for another way to contribute to area youth.

“Those businesses that maybe don’t have kids that they know of

and want to help support them, they can donate to our general fund for the youth show. What we do with that money -- we actually have a pool of money that we raise and we help those kids -- bringing them up to kind of where the average is if you will. For example, we will say we want everybody who sold a pig to be at least at $2,000 and we will go and see what it takes to do that. Anyway, if people want to help those kids out without having to spend all day at the auction, well, there are options for that because that’s what we do with those donations that we get because we know what these projects cost. Everybody who has done it or has kids who do it – we all know these projects are not cheap,” said Morgenroth.

In addition to financial contributions, organizers say community support is also accepted year-round through volunteer

involvement, both during the event and throughout the planning process.

Donations to the Guadalupe County Youth Livestock and Homemakers Show or to individual exhibitors can be made online at gcys.org. Those wishing to give by phone may also contact Co-Board Secretary Megan Reiley at 830-6602328.

This year’s youth show, which began on Monday, runs through Saturday at the Guadalupe County Fairgrounds. As reported earlier this week, the 2026 show includes 574 exhibitors and 1,607 total entries across livestock, homemaking, and Ag mechanics projects. Organizers say those numbers reflect months -- and in some cases more than a year -- of dedication by students involved in FFA and 4-H programs throughout Guadalupe County and surrounding areas.

High school basketball: Marion and Navarro split games; Seguin boys and girls fall

Chris Austin

(Marion) -- The Marion basketball teams split district games against Randolph on Tuesday night at Marion High School.

The Marion girls fell to the Lady RoHawks, 3938, in a back-and-forth contest that came down to the final possession. The Lady Bulldogs had a chance to win in the closing seconds but couldn’t convert, and Randolph held on for the victory.

Junior Whitley Wiatrek led Marion with 26 points. Senior Brooke Hopcus added seven. The Lady Bulldogs fell to 1-1 in District 27-3A play. They’ll travel to Great Hearts Northern Oaks on Friday.

The Marion boys rolled past the RoHawks, 6851. The Bulldogs’ senior class led the charge: Jackson Missildine scored 22, Travis Randle had 18, Banji Ajasin added 12, and Jaiden Riley chipped in with 11.

The Bulldogs, ranked 22nd in the latest Class 3A Texas coaches poll, improved to 18-7 overall while evening their district mark at 1-1. The Marion boys will join the girls at Great Hearts Northern Oaks on Friday.

(San Antonio) -- The Seguin Matadors fell at Sam Houston, 78-66, on Tuesday night.

Jay Menchaca paced the Mats with 17 points. Nate Walter tallied 16, while Noah King added 11. Seguin drops to 4-5 in District 27-5A. The Matadors return home to host Fox Tech on Friday, and we’ll have that game on KWED.

(Seguin) -- The Seguin Lady Matadors came up short against Sam Houston at home on Tuesday

night.

The Lady Hurricanes defeated the Lady Mats 8335. Phaedra Douglas led Seguin with 16 points. The Lady Mats fall to 5-6 in district play and will travel to Fox Tech on Friday.

(Seguin) -- The Navarro basketball teams split their District 28-4A games with Gonzales on Tuesday night at the new Navarro High School.

The Navarro boys claimed a 41-38 victory over the Apaches, improving to 1-1 in district. The Runnin’ Lady Panthers fell to 2-2 in district with a 68-48 loss to the Lady Apaches.

Both Navarro squads return to district action on Friday when they travel to Cuero.

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 William 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.

Hall

Shirley Hall died recently at the age of 85. Funeral Services will be held Monday at 11AM from the Refuge Church of our Lord. Viewal will be from

9:30 until 11AM Monday at the Church. Survivors includes daughters, Cynthia Cubit and Jo Nell Hastings and sons, Patrick Hall and Willie James Hall,Jr., numerous other relatives and friends! Services under the direction of Eunice and Lee Mortuary

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.

Recalled Tuna Accidentally Shipped Nine States

(Bethesda, MD) - The FDA is warning consumers about previously recalled tuna that accidentally shipped to stores across several states. According to a new alert from the FDA, a third-party distributor “inadvertently” shipped quarantined canned tuna that Tri-Union Seafoods recalled roughly a year ago over the product’s defective “easy open” pull tab lids. The recalled tuna was distributed at stores including Giant Foods, Safeway and Meijer in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin, California, Maryland and Virginia. Cans of the recalled tuna can be returned to the store of purchase for a full refund.

Breast Cancer DNA Test Predicts Which Treatment Will Work Best

(London) -- There’s a new breast cancer DNA test that scientists say predicts which treatment will work best. It was developed at the Institute for Cancer Research in London and involves a simple blood test and liquid biopsy. Researchers are telling the British newspaper, The Guardian, thatit has the potential to be “game changing” for the more than two million women worldwide who are diagnosed with breast cancer each year. Ifit’s used early on to direct women to the right combination of chemotherapy and immunotherapy, scientists think it would boost survival rates.

Study Shows Staying Single Not As Good For Health

(Zurich) -- A new study shows staying single may not be as good for your health compared to being in a committed romantic relationship. A research team at the University of Zurich looked at 17-thousand teens and young adults in Germany and the United Kingdom. Their study shows those who remain single for a long period of time experience an increasing feeling of loneliness and a greater decline in life satisfaction. Lead researcher Michael Karmer says findings show remaining single for a prolonged period in young adulthood is associated with moderate risks to well-being.

January

Cold Weather Coat Distribution

Bundle up for the cold weather this weekend! Spirit of Joy Lutheran Church will host a free coat distribution on Thursday, January 22, from 12 to 6 p.m. at 416 Dolle Ave. in Seguin. Coats will be available while supplies last. For more information, call 830-272-0040.

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.

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 silvercenter@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.

Geronimo VFW Dance Schedule (Jan–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: Jan. 25 – Dennis Vanek (EZ Country); 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.

Guadalupe Master Naturalists: “When Birds Inspire Innovation” Program

Guadalupe Master Naturalists will meet Monday, January 26, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the AgriLife Extension Office, 210 E. Live Oak, Seguin. Dr. Darrin Frye will present “When Birds Inspire Innovation,” exploring how nature’s smart designs inspire biomimetics and new technologies—from everyday tools to advanced military systems. Learn how feathers, wings, and natural behaviors can spark fresh ideas and inspire the next generation of innovators.

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.