SDN: March 19, 2026

March 19, 2026

Guadalupe County names new Elections Administrator

(Seguin) – There’s a new person in charge of overseeing local elections. The Guadalupe County Election Committee has appointed Cristian “Cris” Pérez García as the county’s new Elections Administrator.

Pérez García was recently sworn into the role and will lead the Guadalupe County Elections Administration Office, where officials say she will be responsible for maintaining accurate, secure, and transparent voting processes across the county.

With six years of experience in election administration in both Texas and Oregon, Pérez García says her focus is rooted in expanding access while also safeguarding the integrity of elections.

“My goal is simple: remove barriers, provide access, and make sure every eligible voter in Guadalupe County can participate,” said Pérez García. “I am truly honored to serve the residents of Guadalupe County as Elections Administrator and look forward to working alongside this community. Election administration is more than a profession to me; it’s work I care deeply about. Over the past six years working in elections across Oregon and Texas, I’ve seen firsthand the dedication voters bring to the process, and that passion is what fuels the work I do

every day.”

She says this commitment includes ensuring all voting methods are handled correctly — especially

mail-in ballots, an area of expertise thanks to her time working in Oregon.

“I have hands-on experience now both in inperson voting and also voting by mail. So, one of the things that I’d like to focus on is ensuring that the ballots by mail get handled correctly. I think that because Texas is an in-person state, I wonder if there is enough focus being placed on the ballots by mail part of it, because it’s not the only way that Texas votes, of course, and it’s a federal process and needs to be correct and that’s my expertise in having handled ballots by mail in a large-scale operation. So, it’s one of the things I want to focus on,” said Pérez Garcia.

She says her leadership approach will include both transparency and consistency.

“Transparency is very important. So that really starts with building consistency, adhering to the law. And I know that Guadalupe County elections already has put themselves out there to the public as trustworthy. So just following the law, our responsibility is to follow established processes carefully so voters can continue to trust the results,” said Pérez Garcia.

Elections, pg. 3

(Seguin) -- A Seguin man was arrested Saturday night after allegedly exposing himself inside a local business. Seguin Police Department officials say officers were dispatched at approximately 10:22 p.m. to a report of a male exposing his genitals inside Love’s Truck Stop located in the 3100 block of Interstate 10 West.

Upon arrival, officers made contact with employees who reported that the man had been walking throughout the store with his genitals fully exposed, causing alarm among both customers and staff.

Man arrested for indecent exposure at Seguin business Downtown Dollars: How your visits keep the community strong

They say based on the investigation, as well as officers’ training and experience, probable cause was established to arrest Hardin for indecent exposure and public intoxication.

Hardin was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Guadalupe County Jail.

Police say the case remains under investigation with additional charges possible.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has additional information is encouraged to contact Detective M. Schramm at 830-401-2367.

(Seguin) -- Downtown Seguin isn’t just where we shop and eat, it’s a big part of what keeps our local economy strong. Recent visitor counts show more people are coming downtown than ever before, and each visit makes a real difference for our community.

Every coffee purchased, every boutique shopped, every meal enjoyed at a local restaurant helps support jobs for our neighbors and friends. These dollars help business owners keep doors open, hire staff and invest in their storefronts. When you explore downtown, you’re not just spending money, you’re helping create opportunities right here at home.

Downtown Seguin’s sales tax collections have increased by 19 percent since 2023, reflecting the growth of local businesses and rising foot traffic. In 2025, downtown Seguin welcomed over 70,000 visitors, a 35 percent increase from the previous year. Visitors are spending more time downtown as well, with an average stay of 263 minutes, showing that people are not just coming, they are exploring and enjoying everything the

area has to offer.

But it’s not just about commerce. These visits foster a sense of community, turning downtown into a place where people connect, collaborate, and celebrate Seguin’s unique character. Events are better than ever thanks to the crowds that show up, support local talent, and spread the word. Popular community events like Holiday Stroll and the “Biggest Small-Town Fourth of July Parade” bring an estimated 10,000–12,000 visitors each year. Across downtown, more than 260 events are hosted annually, with over 50 held at Central Park. Next time you stroll down Austin Street, stop in a new shop, grab a bite at a local restaurant, or enjoy a downtown event, remember: your visit matters. Every step helps sustain local jobs, encourages new businesses, and strengthens the community we all love.

Downtown Seguin is thriving, and it’s all thanks to the people who walk through our doors every day. Your dollars do more than pay for goods and services, they build the future of our downtown.

Elections, continued.

A native of Los Angeles, Pérez García says her journey from Oregon to a small North Texas county ultimately shaped her decision to pursue the position in Guadalupe County, a move she describes as both professional and personal.

“First of all, Texas does feel like home to me, and I was really drawn to Guadalupe specifically because, I mean, I had lived previously in the area, at least close enough, so it felt familiar, it felt like home. But it’s also growing, and it’s an engaged community. Having worked in a smaller North Texas county, I’ve seen how important local elections are at the small level. It’s just the right size for me, and I’m just excited to serve a community that values participation. So, I did my research for that as well,” said Pérez-Garcia.

Her appointment follows a selection process conducted by the county’s election committee. Committee members include Kyle Kutscher, Teresa Kiel, Daryl John, Glenda Henry, and Karen Hale.

County Clerk Teresa Kiel says Pérez García stood out among applicants for her expertise and approach to voter engagement.

“She stood out the most with her knowledge of the

election laws, and she had this quiet confidence and security about herself, but she knew the Election Code book backwards and forwards. She was confident, and her communication skills were great. And she has a passion for outreach, trying to get more residents involved in the voting (process),” said Kiel.

Kiel says that outreach will be especially important as the county looks to improve voter turnout.

“I just think that outreach is going to be great. She’s going to get more people involved in voting, which we need. We’re not having great turnout for voting, so that would be very helpful,” said Kiel.

Pérez García says she is grateful for the opportunity and ready to build on the work already established within the office.

“I am grateful to the Elections Commission for their confidence in me and honored to follow a leader who made a lasting impact in this office. I look forward to working with the talented staff of the Guadalupe County Elections Administration Office to serve this county,” said Perez Garcia.

She replaces former Elections Administrator Lisa Hayes. Residents seeking more information about upcoming elections can contact the office at (830) 303-6363 or visit the county’s website, GuadalupeTX.gov/page/elections.home.

Navarro and Marion studentathletes recognized on Academic All-State basketball teams

Chris Austin

(San Marcos) -- Several area high school girls’ and boys’ basketball senior student-athletes were named Academic All-State by the Texas High School Coaches Association this week.

The Navarro Lady Panthers had four student-athletes selected. Hana Kay, Presley Larson, and Camden Shields were named to the Academic AllState second team. Trinity Loftice earned Academic All-State honorable mention.

For the Navarro Panthers boys’ basketball team, Chase Nored and

Colorado Kenway were recognized on the Academic All-State second team.

Marion High School’s Eryn Beck was named to the Academic All-State first team in girls’ basketball. Brooke Hopcus earned second team honors, while Shadie Rabenaldt received an honorable mention.

On the boys’ side, six Marion Bulldogs earned Academic All-State recognition. Travis Randle was selected to the first team. Gavin Moltz and Marcelo Morales earned second team honors. Nate Halter, Giuseppe Castagnetto, and Jaiden Riley were named honorable mentions.

VITAL STATISTICS

NAUMANN

Roland Berthold Naumann, age 94 of Seguin, passed into the loving arms of the heavenly father on Thursday, March 12, 2026. Roland was born on February 23, 1932, in Seguin, Texas, to Ella Louise (Lambrecht) and Berthold Otto Naumann. He was a kind, gentle soul, who loved and cared for his family. He graduated from Seguin High School and joined the Coast Guard following graduation. After attending Durham Business School in San Antonio, he went to work as a CPA, at the firm of Fred E. Pflughaupt and Company at the Alamo National Bank Building in downtown San Antonio. In later years, he and another partner, Andrew Beaver bought the business and formed the firm, Beaver and Naumann. When close to retirement they merged with the firm of Tschirhart Orion and Little in San Antonio. He worked in the accounting field for 59 years. He was very active in the community with membership in the Kiwanis Club and the Salvation Army, serving as a treasurer for the organizations. At Emanuel’s Lutheran Church he served on the council and as President of the congregation.

He and his wife, Nora, loved to go camping. They made many trips

HERNANDEZ

Juanita (Janie) Hernandez, February 12, 1941 - March 9, 2026 a lifelong resident of Seguin, Texas, passed away at the age of 84. She celebrated her final birthday on February 12 surrounded by her children, Henry and James Hernandez and her daughter Christine Buck, sharing one of her favorite treats—cake with pineapple filling, which she loved despite carefully managing her diabetes.

Janie was born in Seguin and raised in Geronimo, where she later married and devoted her life to raising her family. She was a loving mother, grandmother, and friend whose kindness and gentlespirit touched everyone who knew her.

She was a devoted member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, where she servedfaithfully for many years as a Guadalupana and Cursillistas and was a loyal volunteer in herparish community.

Janie was known for her sweet nature and the simple joys she cherished

around the United States over the years, starting with a pop-up tent camper and gradually moved up to a 5th wheel. Their favorite places to go on a regular basis was to the New Orleans, LA area and the panhandle beaches of Florida.

Roland is preceded in death by his Loving wife of 62 years, Nora Ellen Wheeler Naumann, his parents, daughter-in-law, Jenavee Naumann, sonin-law, Charles “Chuck” Sheldon, sister, Maxine Stansberry and husband Bob, nieces Marcia Stansberry and Janet Stansberry and nephew, Robert Stansberry, mother-in-law and father-in-law, Dan D. and Jimmie Lorene Wheeler, and sister-in-law, Maxine Carpenter.

Survivors include his daughter, Julie Sheldon; son, Thomas Naumann and wife Lori; granddaughters, Jennifer Sheldon Wilkes and husband, Andy, and Michelle Sheldon; nieces, nephews, cousins, other loving family members and a host of friends.

Visitation will begin on Friday, March 20, 2026, at 10 a.m. at Emanuel’s Lutheran Church followed by funeral service at 11 a. m. with the Reverend Marcus Bigott and the Reverend Rudy Salazar, Jr. officiating. A reception will follow in the fellowship hall.

Graveside services and interment with military honors will follow at 2 p.m. in the Floyd Chapel Cemetery in Gonzales County.

Memorial contributions may be made to Emanuel’s Lutheran Church, 206 N. Travis, 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, 7815, 830-549-5912.

in life. She lovedwatching I Love Lucy, caring for her plants, and keeping an eye out for the cardinals she adored. Her warmth and comforting presence made her a beloved friend to many.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Gumecindo Hernandez; her parents, Pedroand Teresa Alvarado; her sisters Adela Barrientos and Maria Barrientos; and her brothers Joe Alvarado and Pedro Alvarado Jr. She is survived by her loving children, sons Henry Hernandez (Juanita) and James Hernandez, and daughter Christine Buck (Michael); her cherished granddaughters, Haley Buck and Allison Buck; her sisters Lupe Villarreal, Teresa De La Cruz, Nancy Spittler, and Nasha Marin; and her brothers Jesse Alvarado (Sylvia) and Johnny Alvarado (Nora).

Though she departed this life too soon, Janie now rests in the loving embrace of God and is reunited with her dear husband in heaven.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 19, 2026 at Palmer Mortuary from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00p.m. with the Holy Rosary recited at 6:30 p.m. by Deacon Nick Carrillo. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, March 20, 2026 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church at 10:00 a.m.Interment will follow at San Geronimo Cemetery.

Funeral arrangements are under the care of Palmer Mortuary and Cremations located at 1116 N.Austin Street, Seguin, Texas 78155; 830.379.9430. Please log on to www.palmermortuary.com tosign and view the guest book.

Drug Therapy Combo Reduces Bad Effects Of Diabetic Kidney Disease

(Jacksonville, FL) -- Researchers at the Mayo Clinic think they have identified a drug-and-supplement combination therapy to reduce the harmful effects of diabetic kidney disease. A study published in the Lancet shows the cancer drug dasatinib and a natural substance known as quercetin brought down inflammation and brought up protective factors in the kidney. Lead study author Doctor LaTonya Hickson says this combination treatment holds potential to help reduce and halt kidney damage from diabetes. Nearly 12 million people in the U.S. are impacted by diabetic kidney disease which is the leading cause of kidney failure.

Cannabis

Medication Shows Little Effectiveness In Treating Mental Health Disorders

(Sydney) -- Researchers at Australia’s University of Sydney say cannabis medication shows little effectiveness in treating most mental health disorders. They reviewed data from 54 randomized trials over the last 45 years and found no significant benefit to using marijuana as a primary treatment to manage PTSD, opioid addiction, anxiety issues or psychotic conditions. However, they did find that cannabis-based meds reduced some autistic traits in people with autism spectrum disorder and boosted sleep time in patients with insomnia. Their study is published in the medical journal Lancet.

Vaping

Linked To Faster Onset Of Cannabis Disorder

(Undated) - A new study suggests using cannabis vape cartridges could lead to faster-developing symptoms of Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome. The increasingly common marijuana-related disorder causes severe stomach pain, nausea and vomiting in some long-time chronic cannabis users. The study was published in Sage Journals and surveyed more than one-thousand participants suspected of having or diagnosed with CHS. According to the study, those who exclusively vape reported developing symptoms of CHS sooner than those who exclusively smoked marijuana. The study also found that women experienced more and longer-lasting CHS symptoms than men.

Study Shows 24 Minutes Of Music Decreases Anxiety

(Toronto) -- A new study finds listening to music at least 24 minutes in a day may significantly decrease anxiety. The study done at Toronto Metropolitan University involved 144 adults with anxiety and on medication. They listened to music for different lengths of time and researchers concluded that 24 minutes was the key to lessening anxiety and an improvement in negative moods.

Advanced care. Active lifestyles.

Free Mulch for Seguin Residents

Free wood chip mulch is available to residents within the Seguin city limits through the City of Seguin Public Works Department while supplies last. Mulch may be picked up from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday at 634 Fred Byrd Drive. Residents must bring shovels, gloves and containers if self-loading. Staff will assist with loading large trailers or dump trucks only. For information, call 830-401-2416.

Household Hazardous Waste Collection Service Begins in Seguin

Seguin residents now have a safe and convenient way to dispose of household hazardous waste as the City of Seguin launches a new at-your-door collection service beginning Monday, March 1. The service is available to residents who receive City garbage collection, with scheduled pickups taking place every Monday between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. at participating homes in Seguin. The program allows residents to properly dispose of items such as automotive fluids, paints, chemicals, household cleaners, and small electronics while helping protect public health and the environment. Residents must schedule a pickup in advance. For scheduling details or additional information, visit hhwsolutions.com or call 888-694-4978.

Women’s History Month Events at TLU

Texas Lutheran University will celebrate Women’s History Month throughout March with a series of free events open to the community. Events begin at 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 4 with a screening of Sally! in Wupperman Little Theatre inside the Schuech Fine Arts Center, followed by a discussion about the life and legacy of former TLU professor Dr. Sally Gearhart. A Lunch and Learn Authors Panel will be held at noon Tuesday, March 18 in the Dunne Conference Center at Tschoepe Hall. Those planning to eat lunch are asked to RSVP by March 13. The celebration concludes with the “Her Vision, Her Voice” Women’s History Month Recital at 7 p.m. Monday, March 30 in Ayers Recital Hall at the Schuech Fine Arts Center. All events are free and open to the public.

SHS students offer free tax help

Seguin ISD students are offering free tax preparation assistance through the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. The service is available from 4:10 to 5:10 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays through March 31 at the Seguin High School Library. The program is provided by IRS-certified students in the Seguin Independent School District Career and Technical Education business pathway and is open to individuals and families earning about $67,000 or less, persons with disabilities, and limited English-speaking taxpayers. Appointments are encouraged. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact

Helen Stamper at hstamper@seguin.k12.tx.us

Free Tax Help at Texas Lutheran University

Texas Lutheran University is offering free tax preparation assistance through its IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs. The clinic will be held Wednesdays from 5 to 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon through April 15 at the Beck Center on the Texas Lutheran University campus, 1020 Beck Drive in Seguin. The service is provided at no cost by accounting students from Texas Lutheran University and is open to individuals and households earning $69,000 or less, as well as seniors, people with disabilities, and limited English-speaking taxpayers.

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.

Geronimo VFW Dance Schedule

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: 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.

Guada-Coma ICA Chapter to Hold Producer Meeting

The Guada-Coma Chapter of the Independent Cattlemen’s Association of Texas will hold a chapter meeting at 6:30 p.m. Monday, March 16 at Seguin Cattle Company, located at 2424 TX-46 in Seguin. All producers are welcome to attend. The program will feature Dr. Caroline Alsop of Southern Winds Veterinary Clinic speaking on herd and bull selection. A beef meal will be provided, and door prizes will be awarded. Attendees are asked to RSVP by Friday, March 13.

National Ag Day celebration

The Guadalupe County Farm Bureau will host a National Ag Day event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 17 at its office, located at 325 S SH 46 in Seguin. The community is invited to come out and find out what ag-

riculture is all about. Several vendors will be on hand, and free hot dogs will be given away from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

C.A.S.T. for Kids at Irma Lewis Outdoor Learning Center

The C.A.S.T. for Kids Foundation will be hosting a morning of fishing and celebration for children with special needs at 9:00 AM on March 21, 2026, at the Irma Lewis Outdoor Learning Center in Seguin, TX. The event enriches the lives of children with special needs, supports their families, and strengthens the community through fishing. For event details, contact coordinator April Bustamante at (830) 446-0110 or email irmalewis@castforkids.org. More information is available at https://castforkids.org/event/irmalewis.

South Texas Home and Garden Show

The 19th annual South Texas Home and Garden Show will be held Saturday, March 21, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Floresville Event Center, 600 S.H. 97 W. in Floresville. The free event will feature more than 100 vendors, gardening classes, food trucks, performances, plants, home décor, a blood drive and door prizes. Admission and parking are free. For more information, visit southtexashomeandgarden.com.

TLU to Host Disability Awareness Month Events Featuring Parasport Race and Panel Discussion

Texas Lutheran University is inviting the community to take part in its Disability Awareness Month celebration in March, highlighting education, inclusion, and advocacy. A wheelchair exhibition race featuring Texas Parasport athletes will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 21 at Bulldog Stadium during the university’s D3 Challenge track meet. The event marks the third anniversary of the exhibition and is now recognized as a World Para Athletics certified competition. In addition, a Self-Advocacy in Medicine panel discussion will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 26 via Zoom.

Green Valley SUD Scholarships

Green Valley Special Utility District is offering four $5,000 scholarships to graduating seniors whose parent or guardian receives water service from the district. Two scholarships are for university-bound students and two for those pursuing trade schools. Eligible students include those attending Seguin, Marion, New Braunfels, Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City or John Paul II Catholic School. Applications are due March 24. Apply at gvsud.org.

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.

CLASSIFIEDS

Multi-Family Yard(s) Sale, Westbend Cir, Seguin Sat, Mar 21, 9-1

Kitchenware; tools; some furniture; decor; sewing/craft; bikes; electronics; VR headset; books; sidelites; vintage collectibles; jewelry (50+ charms); m/w/teen clothes including 18 biker jackets (LesDeux, A&F, Harley); So many goodies - like an estate sale at yard sale prices!

Ukrainian Fund-Raiser Sale, 306 Westbend Cir, Sat, Mar 21, 9-1

Men’s jackets; sweaters; novelty t-shirts; StarWars & Halo action figures; gift items made by Ukrainian or local artists/crafters (watercolor prints, jewelry, accessories, mesh wreaths, hand embroidered children’s dresses/men’s shirts)