SDN: May 19, 2026

May 19, 2026

Pride Fest organizers defend Seguin event amid online backlash

(Seguin) -- Organizers of a Pride Fest planned for Seguin this fall say their goal is to bring love and unity to the community.

The Riverside Pride Fest is scheduled for October 31 at the Seguin Coliseum, and organizers are responding to criticism from some community members who have spoken out against the event online.

Pride Fest Board Member Hunter Bledsoe says pride events are about bringing people together. He says that’s exactly what they hope to do in Seguin.

“Pride Fests are times where people from the LGBTQ community and their allies can come together and just enjoy being who we are. You know, there’s a lot of hate in the world and we just like to have, you know, one day out of the year to just have fun, be ourselves and enjoy being the people that God made us to be,” said Bledsoe.

Bledsoe says Pride Fest will be a free public event, with the early portion of the day designed for a broader audience.

“So, it’ll start at 10 o’clock in the morning and the main part of it goes to 1:45 p.m. We’re going to have booths and vendors. There’ll be food and we’ll have some live music. There’ll be face painting and just the kind of things you would expect to find at a festival,” said Bledsoe.

Because of Texas Senate Bill 12, organizers say minors will not be allowed during the later portion of the event due to state restrictions involving drag performances.

“Texas has passed a law that drag shows can’t have anybody under 18 in attendance. So, at 1:45, we’ll shut the event down. And then at 2:15 p.m., after we’ve cleared everybody out, we’ll open the event back up for 18 and over only. So, we’ll be checking IDs at the door and there will only be adults inside. And that’s when we’ll have our drag show,” said Bledsoe.

Bledsoe says drag is often misunderstood, but organizers intend to fully comply with all state laws and regulations.

Pride, pg. 3

(Seguin) -- For the past four years, Madison Morales and Cheng Chen have pushed each other to the top of their class at Seguin High School.

Morales, the Class of 2026 salutatorian, and Chen, this year’s valedictorian, have held the number two and number one spots, Students, pg. 2

Early voting for May 26 Primary runoff now underway

Aguirre-Herrera

(Seguin) -- Early voting is officially underway for Guadalupe County voters who want to cast their ballots ahead of the Joint Democratic and Republican Primary Runoff Election scheduled for Tuesday, May 26.

Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. today through Friday, May 22, at the Guadalupe County Elections Office, located at 3251 N. Highway 123.

Other early voting locations include the Cibolo Fire Station No. 2 at 3864 Cibolo Valley Drive in Cibolo; Redemptive Grace Ministries at 2240 FM 725 in New Braunfels; the New Berlin Community Center at 8815 FM 775 and the Guadalupe County Elections Office Annex located 1101 Elbel Road in Schertz. Guadalupe County voters are reminded that they can cast a ballot at any of the early voting locations despite where they live.

The runoff election will determine party nominees in several closely watched races, including contests for the newly created Congressional District 35 seat.

On the Republican ballot, State Rep. John Lujan and businessman Carlos De La Cruz are seeking their party’s nomination for the congressional seat. Lujan, a current member of the Texas House, says his legislative experience makes him the strongest candidate. De La Cruz says he has the endorsement of President Donald Trump.

Democratic voters will also choose between Maureen Galindo and Johnny Garcia for their party’s nomination in the same congressional race.

Guadalupe County Republicans will also decide the nominee for the Precinct 4 seat on the Guadalupe County

Students, continued.

respectively, every semester since their freshman year.

Morales says she has long hoped to earn the title of salutatorian.

“I had hoped so. I sort of knew. I’ve been second in rank since my freshman year, so it’s been an accomplishment that I work for,” said Morales.

She says the competition between her and Chen was never cutthroat but instead motivating.

“There definitely was friendly competition. Yeah, there was. Yeah, there definitely was,” said Morales. And more like, we pushed each other, so we both accomplished a lot because of it.”

Courtesy Photo

As for her future, Morales says she plans to attend Houston Christian University.

“I’m going to Houston Christian

Commissioners Court. Incumbent Stephen Germann faces former Cibolo City Councilman Joel Hicks in that runoff.

Another race drawing statewide attention is the Republican runoff for U.S. Senate, where incumbent Sen. John Cornyn is facing Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton. The winner will advance to the November general election to face Democratic nominee James Talarico. Voters with questions about polling locations or eligibility may contact the Guadalupe County Elections Office at 830-303-6363.

Election Day is Tuesday, May 26.

University to major in animation, and I also want to possibly double major in theology as well.”

As she prepares to address her classmates one final time, Morales says she wants the Class of 2026 to celebrate how far they have come.

“Class of 2026, we did it. We finished, we completed the race, and I believe that we’re all on to do more wonderful things. And I’m very proud of everyone here,” said Morales.

For Chen, graduation marks more than the end of high school.

While many students are just beginning to think about independence, Chen says he has already been living it.

During his senior year, he chose to remain in Seguin after his family moved to Houston.

“I don’t think many people

know, but actually I’m living on my own this senior year in my own apartment. It is mainly a choice because, like I said, I’m coming to senior year knowing that I’m valedictorian and I have so . many leadership roles. So, switching to a different school with my family because they moved to Houston, which is all the way on the other side of Texas -- I don’t want to go all the way over there. I want to keep the things, keep the leadership roles and then making sure staying here where I’m used to and I’m familiar with and all my teachers, everything that’s holding me (together),” said Chen.

It’s no surprise, however, to see Chen’s optimism. He says living on his own has given him a head start on adulthood.

Students, pg. 3

Pride, continued.

“Drag gets a bad rap. All it is, is an art form. We’ve had people dressing up to perform for centuries, and now all of a sudden, it’s a problem. But we’re following the law, doing what we’re told to do, and we will have 18 and only from 2:15 p.m. on for our drag show,” said Bledsoe.

Some online critics have argued that the event conflicts with their religious beliefs, but Bledsoe says he believes much of the backlash is rooted in something other than religion. He says while he expected some opposition, he wishes the response had been different.

“I’m disappointed every time that we have attacks like this because where it all comes from…it’s all based on white Christian teachings. It’s not based on Christ. It’s based on the white Christian teachings. They want to quote scripture at us and say that we’re an abomination. But I challenge them to show me where Jesus ever said that. You know, they’re saying they want to be Christian, which means Christ-like. What they’re doing and the way that they’re treating people, human beings, is nothing Christ-like,” said Bledsoe.

Bledsoe says people have the right to disagree with the event, but he does not believe that disagreement should prevent others from exercising their own freedoms.

“Everybody’s open to believe what they believe, but trying to shut down a peaceful pride celebration, because in your version of Christianity, it’s wrong. That’s just not what we do here in the United States. This is the land of the free,” said Bledsoe.

He says Riverside Pride Fest is more than just drag performances or appearances, adding that organizers hope to provide a positive celebration for the community.

“Pride is so much more than that. It’s just a day to be able to enjoy people in our community together and hopefully step away from all the stuff we’re having to fight, all the laws that are trying to be passed against our community. We’ve become the scapegoat, (and) the

Students, continued.

“I’m kind of, basically getting myself used to how dorms are, being on my own, cooking, going to places on myself, paying bills, checking bills, everything, just kind of early adulting, I suppose, but without having too much pressure yet, because I’m still in high school,” said Chen.

This experience will no doubt be a part of his speech and overall message to his fellow students. He says it’s important to stay in tuned to what is important.

“Enjoy your time in high school. I’ve always been staying busy for these (past) few years, and I haven’t had too much time with family and all that.

person to hate. It seems like people have to have somebody to hate. And so that’s our community now. Our Pride Fest has nothing to do with hate. It’s about love and inclusion and welcoming people,” said Bledsoe.

Organizers say those who do not wish to attend are free not to participate, while those interested in the event will be welcomed.

Bledsoe says organizers also expect continued opposition leading up to the event but says they are following current laws and will continue to comply with any legal requirements, even as future legislative changes remain possible.

“It’s just people trying to legislate their beliefs and hate, and we’re just going to stand up and fight it. That’s all we can do,” said Bledsoe.

According to social media posts, several opponents of the event are expected at tonight’s Seguin City Council meeting. While the city owns the Seguin Coliseum, it does not directly approve events held there. The facility is a public rental space available to groups that secure an open date and pay the required fees.

Bledsoe says organizers also plan to attend tonight’s meeting to share information directly about the 2026 Riverside Pride Fest. The Seguin City Council meeting begins at 5:30 p.m. today at Seguin City Hall.

The Texas Legislature passed Senate Bill 12, which broadly addresses public performances that have an adult theme and that might be available to children.

According to social media posts, several opponents of the event are expected at tonight’s Seguin City Council meeting. While the city owns the Seguin Coliseum, it does not directly approve events held there. The facility is a public rental space available to groups that secure an open date and pay the required fees.

Bledsoe says organizers also plan to attend tonight’s meeting to share information directly about the 2026 Riverside Pride Fest. The Seguin City Council meeting begins at 5:30 p.m. today at Seguin City Hall.

Spend some more time with family, because during college, you’ll be away and it’ll be a stressful time with your family or without your family,” said Chen.

As for his future, Chen says he isn’t wasting any time. He has enlisted in the United States Marine Corps Reserve and will leave for boot camp just one week after graduation.

“I’m actually already enlisted in the Marine Corps. As reserve, I have my MOS as 1345, the heavy equipment operator. So, I will be shipping out actually a week right after graduation. I’m shipping out June 1st to boot camp,” said Chen.

After completing boot camp, Chen plans to begin classes at Texas

A&M University.

“I will be attending A&M College Station in the spring term. For that, I will be studying a major in computer science, electrical engineering and a minor in cybersecurity, as well as joining the Corps of Cadets. And I’m actually thinking of going the officer route with Marine Corps, but as well as at the same time will be a reserve so I can have my civilian life too, because I’m really into the cyber field, so that’s one of my passions for my full time. And I’ve been looking really forward to it,” said Chen.

The 2026 Seguin High School Graduation Ceremony will be held Friday, May 22 at 7:30 p.m. at Matador Stadium.

TLU Hosts Seguin Super Regional at Ed Kruse Stadium May 21-22

Bryce Hayes - TLU Sports Information

SEGUIN, Texas -- The No. 8 overall seed Texas Lutheran softball team has advanced in the 2026 NCAA Division-III Softball Championship and will host the NCAA Seguin Super Regional at Ed Kruse Stadium May 2122, the NCAA announced Sunday afternoon.

The Bulldogs are appearing in their second straight super regional and are hosting supers for just the second time in program history. No. 3 Texas Lutheran welcomes No. 2 Redlands, the No. 9 national seed in the NCAA Tournament, to Seguin in a rematch from the 2025 DIII Women’s College World Series.

The Seguin Super Regional begins Thursday, May 21 with a 2 p.m. CT first pitch. Game two is scheduled for a 1 p.m. start on Friday with the “if-

necessary” third game set for 3:30 p.m. All games will be broadcast on ncaa. com. All dates and times are subject to change due to potential weather in the area this week.

The winner of the weekend’s super regional will advance to the 2026 DIII Women’s College World Series in Salem, Virginia.

For more information on Texas Lutheran softball, follow the Bulldogs on Facebook (@txlutheransoftball), X (Twitter) (@TLUsoftball), and Instagram (@tlu_softball) and as always you can find updates on all Texas Lutheran athletics on tlubulldogs.com and all official TLU social media channels (@tluathletics on Twitter, @tlu_athletics on Instagram and TikTok, and @tlubulldogs on Facebook).

VITAL STATISTICS

JACKSON

Donald Eldon Jackson, age 86 of Seguin, passed away on May 10, 2026. Donald was born on November 18, 1939, in Guadalupe County, to Velma (Woods) and Everett General Jackson.

Donald is preceded in death by his wife, Fran Jackson, his parents and his brother, Harold Jackson. Survivors include his daughter, Drena Lanae Tucker; brothers, Wayne Jackson and wife Reba, and David Jackson; sisters, Sharon McCallister, and

ZIMMERMAN

Leo A. Zimmerman, 78 of Seguin, Texas, went home to be with the lord on Tuesday, May 12, 2026. Leo was born in San Antonio on July 13, 1947. He is preceded in death by his parents Eugene and Mary Persyn Zimmerman. Leo graduated from Holy Cross High School where he achieved great academic success and graduated near the top of his class. He also was a left-handed pitcher for the baseball team. In 1969, Leo graduated from St. Mary’s University with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and a minor in Chemistry.

Leo worked for City Public Service as a computer programmer. He also worked for GECU and retired from SMI/CMC in Seguin. He was a hard worker. Leo also enjoyed going to Medina Lake with family and friends.

FLORES

Margaret Flores, age 75 of Seguin, passed away on May 16, 2026. Margaret was born on September 23, 1950, in Seguin, Texas to Francisca (Jimenez) and Felix Saenz.

Margaret worked for ten years as a nurse’s aide and then fifteen years for the Motorola Corporation. She enjoyed serving our Lord at her church, Bethel Church C.L.A.D.I.C., where she was the President of the Damas (Ladies) for many years. She devoted her life to our God. She loved singing and was ready to direct a service, sing a song or work in the kitchen. She will be remembered as a fantastic cook.

Her love for her family was immeasurable. She would do anything for them without question and was always ready to help anyone in need. Her presence was always felt, and we will miss her dearly, but find peace in knowing she is rejoicing with the Lord and the love of her life George Flores, Sr. Margaret is preceded in death by her loving husband of 52 years, her

MATTHEWS

Elsie Bernice Matthews entered eternal rest in the early morning hours of May 12, 2026, at the age of 79. She was born to JuJia Holland Shipp and her father in Guadalupe County, Seguin Texas. Elsie att~nded and Graduated school at Lincoln Ball High School.

She got married in 1962 where she spent most the her career being a homemaker taking care of her children. She will forever be remembered for her kind heart & always taking care or everyone she loved.From watching her soap operas, playing bingo and spending time with family.

Brenda Grogan and husband Charles; numerous nieces, nephews, other loving family members and friends.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at 10:30 a.m., at Faith Lutheran Church with the Reverend Jeremy Pedersen officiating. Inurnment will be in the Faith Lutheran Columbarium.

Memorial contributions in Donald’s honor may be made to Faith Lutheran Church, 1326 E. Cedar St., 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.

Survivors include his sons Brian Zimmerman and Chad Zimmerman (wife Amy). Grandchildren, Cole Zimmerman, Austin Zimmerman, Luke and Ellie Zimmerman. Brother John Zimmerman (wife Brenda) and sister Alice Zimmerman Boubel as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will begin on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at 10 a.m. at Cross Church 814 N. Bauer St. in Seguin followed by funeral service at 10:30 a.m. with the Reverend Jim Price officiating. Interment will follow in Guadalupe Valley Memorial Park and lunch follows at the Fellowship Hall at Cross Church.

Serving as pallbearers, Cole Zimmerman, Austin Zimmerman, Luke Zimmerman, Brandon Zimmerman, Gene Zimmerman and Ryan Boubel. Memorial contributions may be made to Cross Church, 814 N. Bauer, Seguin, Texas, 78155 or to the charity of one’s choice.

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.

“Prince Charming”, George Flores, Sr., her parents and her brothers, Elogio, Domingo Sr., Eusebio Sr., Juan, Felix, Jose, sister, Mary Gonzales and beloved son-in-law, Lawrence R. Salais.

Survivors include her daughter, Barbara Fuentes and husband Mario; son George S. Flores, Jr. and wife Sheri; daughter, Angelica Flores and Ray Maggio; grandchildren, Mario Isaac Fuentes and wife Cynthia, Joshua Fuentes, Autumn Flores, Madison Salais and Amelia Flores; brother, Jesse Saenz and wife Mary; numerous nieces, nephews, other loving family members and many friends.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. with a prayer service at 6 p.m. Funeral service will be held on Friday, May 22, 2026, at 10 a.m. at Bethel Church C.L.A.D.I.C. with the Reverend Joel Arroyo officiating. Interment will follow in Guadalupe Valley Memorial Park.

Serving as pallbearers will be Mario Isaac Fuentes, Joshua D. Flores, Chase Hernandez, Chanse Hernandez, Eusebio Saenz, Jr., and Gary Machado.

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.

She is preceded in death by her Parents, her Daughter Peggy Ann Matthews, her two Brothers David Lee Shipp and Roy Lee Shipp and her great grandchildren Keagen, Adaelyn and Ace.

She leaves to Cherish her memory her four Children Linda Goss Matthews, Ella Mae Matthews (Clarence Tibbs), Edith Matthews(Steven Taylor), and Eddie Matthews Jr; her brother Robert Lee Shipp Jr (Janice); twelve beloved grandchildren; nine great grandchildren and one great great grandson.

Visitation will begin on Tuesday May 19, 2026 at 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Eunice & Lee Mortuary 406 North Guadalupe Street in Seguin Texas. Funeral Services will begin on Wednesday May 20, 2026 at 12 p.m. at Bethel Pentecostal Church 834 North Guadalupe Street in Seguin, Texas.

AUTEN

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of William Brutus Auten. Brutus was born September 22, 1945, to parents – Drs. Gladys and John Auten in Corpus Christi, Texas and died May 6, 2026, in Seguin, Texas.

It is hard to believe that we are no longer able to see that gentle guy with the easy rolling walk leaning on a counter assigning nicknames to all; sharing sage advice; telling a joke or playing (and always shuffling) cards; cooking a great Thanksgiving meal or listening to and helping a friend in need.

Even his name – Brutus -- has a story. For the first 21 years of his life, he was called Bill, but that changed soon after he joined the Coast Guard and was assigned to a ship based in Hawaii that had so many Bills aboard that he said, “I’ll go by my middle name, Brutus.” This one decision proved over the years to be a wise one. Yes, each time he introduced himself to a stranger, there could be eyerolls and gales of laughter followed by the question – “And how is Popeye?” Well, people from all over world in the oil and gas industry seemed to have no trouble remembering his name, because often when an issue arose at a site someone would suggest -- “Just call Brutus, get him to come help you!”

After his military service he returned to college and graduated from Texas A&I (Texas A&M, Kingsville). Brutus was a worker and greatly respected others committed to jobs and work. From high school on he always had a job and was an entrepreneur at heart mowing lawns, delivering feed, running a golf course, being a certified firefighter and EMT, or working as a schoolteacher substitute on his days off from the fire station. But his career opportunities sky-rocketed when he was recruited to work for Grant Oil and Tool as a salesman. That job morphed into international work in the oil industry that took him all over the world. He lived first in Houston, then Singapore as he covered the East and Middle East with his friend and business partner, Jimmie

WILLMANN

Charles Julius “Charlie” Willmann, Sr., age 101 of Seguin, passed away on April 25, 2026. Charles was born on March 31, 1925, in Seguin, Texas to Ethelda (Behrendt) and Charles Willmann, and grew up on his family farm in Seguin.

Charlie is preceded in death by his loving wife of 58 years, Patricia “Patty” Willmann, his parents, and his sister, Ethel Willard and her husband D. B.

Survivors include his children, Charles “Chuck” J. Willmann, Jr. and wife Kay, Daniel N. Willmann and wife Carol and Jennie Willmann Moseley and husband Mike; numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, great great grandchild; other loving family members and a host of friends.

Williams, and later based in Los Angeles as he managed service operations in Alaska and the lower 48 while still being called to travel internationally. There came a time when Brutus was willing to continue servicing Alaska, but he wanted to leave LA and return to Texas. He partnered with George Hendricks to purchased peach and pecan land in Seguin, Texas, and it was there that he met and married the love of his life, Kathi, or Peg as he often called her.

Brutus loved both playing and watching sports. He was blessed with a natural golf swing; had a mean serve that helped earn him and his tennis partner a trip to the State Tennis Tournament; treasured his time as both guard and fullback on the Ingleside Football Team that made its way to the State finals. And, while in Singapore he mastered the game of Squash.

Prior to Brutus’ permanent retirement from traveling, he and Kathi purchased Comanche Crossing – a bar/convenience store in Seguin. Just as in all his jobs, he loved interacting with people; enjoyed opening early; greeting customers and having the opportunity to play cards and cribbage with friends.

Brutus is survived by his wife, Kathi; sister Annette Blaschke; nephew Barrett Blaschke; great- niece Madison Jane (MJ) Blaschke; sister-in-law, Janis Thomas and husband Gary; nephew, Ethan Thomas; God Daughter, Kimberly Williams Johnson; and so many more loving family members and friends around the world.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2026, from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Comanche Crossing Country Store, 2080 FM 477, Seguin, Texas, 78155. Please bring your best “Brutus Stories” as we look forward to having time with all of you!

If you should choose to honor Brutus’ memory, gifts to Ingleside Exes Scholarship Fund, created by Brutus and his sister, PO Box 7, Ingleside, Texas 78362, or the Texas Agricultural Education and Heritage Center (Red Barn), 250 Cordova Road, Seguin, Tx, 78155, would be greatly appreciated.

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.

A Life Service celebration is being planned at the Texas Agricultural and Heritage Center (Big Red Barn), on Saturday, June 13, 2026, from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. with remarks made at 2 p.m., 250 Cordova Road, Seguin, Texas, 78155, sometime this summer.

Memorial contributions may be made to First Presbyterian Church, P. O. Box 870, Seguin, Texas, 78156, the Texas Agricultural Education and Heritage Center (Red Barn), 250 Cordova Road, Seguin, Tx, 78155, Guadalupe Regional Medical Foundation, 1215 East Court St., Seguin, Texas, 78155 or to Guadalupe County Children’s Advocacy Center, 265 Wetz, 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.

Networking

Guadalupe

WA Health Monitors Two Separate Hantavirus Cases

(Olympia, WA) -- The Washington State Department of Health is monitoring two separate hantavirus cases. Three King County residents were potentially exposed to the Andes strain that’s linked to the MV Hondius cruise ship. They have not shown any symptoms and will continue to be monitored. The second case involves a person in Chelan County with Sin Nombre hantavirus. It’s not connected to the cruise ship. The person likely got the virus from mice droppings. Health officials say the risk to the public in both cases is very low.

Scientistst Find Nutrient Deficit That May Fuel Anxiety

(Sacramento, CA) -- A new study has found a brain chemistry difference in people with anxiety. Scientists at the University of California found that people with anxiety disorders have lower levels of choline [[ KOH-leen ]], a nutrient needed for healthy brain function. The strongest difference was noted in the prefrontal cortex, the area tied to emotional control and decision-making. Researchers say the discovery is the first clear chemical brain pattern linked to anxiety and could lead to new nutrition-based treatments.

SCOTUS

Allows Mail Distribution Of Abortion Drug

(Washington, DC) -- The Supreme Court is allowing the abortion drug mifepristone [[ mih-feh-PRIS-tone ]] to be sent to women by mail. On Thursday the court extended a stay on an earlier ruling by an appeals court that required women to get the drug through in-person visits, as opposed to telehealth visits. The ruling preserves the right to access the drug by mail as the case plays out in the lower court. The case originated when the state of Louisiana sued the FDA over a move that allowed mail orders of mifepristone.

Toddler Seriously Hurt From Inhaling Decorative Cake Powder

(Australia) -- Doctors say a toddler in Australia may have permanent lung damage after inhaling a toxic decorative cake powder. Kate Robinson tells the Australian news outlet “News-dot-com-dot-au” that her 14 month old is recovering in the hospital after falling into a coma. He recently ate from a tube of decorative cake powder, which tests later showed contained copper and zinc. Now the toddler’s parents are advocating for inedible powders to be banned from stores. There’s concerns about product labelling and its place next to edible decorating ingredients.

Hispanic Chamber Annual Awards Banquet

The Seguin-Guadalupe County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce will host its 37th Annual Awards Banquet on May 20 in the Seguin Coliseum. A social hour will begin at 6 p.m., followed by dinner at 7 p.m. The banquet recognizes individuals from the community, who have made significant contributions and are nominated by their peers. Tickets are available through the Hispanic Chamber office at 971 W. Court St. or at Reyes & Family Insurance Agency 806 N. Austin St. Call 830372-3151 for more information.

Starcke Park Golf Course Grand Re-Opening Tournament Weekend

The wait is almost over. Golf is returning to Seguin. Starcke Park Golf Course will celebrate its grand reopening with a special tournament weekend on Saturday, May 30 and Sunday, May 31. The Sunday event will feature a four-person scramble with lunch served at 11 a.m. and a shotgun start at 12:45 p.m. Entry is free, and concessions and beer will be available for purchase. Cart path only will be in effect. Participation in the Sunday tournament will be determined through a lottery system. Individuals were invited to submit an entry form, with selected participants notified ahead of the event with additional tournament details. Enter here: https://forms.office.com/r/BNumdKWdR9 The reopening also signals the return of regular play at Starcke Park. Online tee times will open May 22—10 days in advance—for rounds beginning in June. Golfers can also make tee time reservations by phone starting May 25 by calling 830-401-2490. City officials say they look forward to welcoming golfers back to the course and encourage the community to be part of the celebration as one of Seguin’s favorite recreational amenities returns to action.

Families

May is National Foster Care Month, and SJRC Texas | Belong is recognizing the vital role foster caregivers play in the lives of children who have experienced abuse or neglect. Foster families provide more than just safety and stability — they offer nurturing homes, healthy family dynamics, and support that can leave a lasting impact well into adulthood. The organization says there is a significant need right now for foster families. Learn more at sjrctexas.org.

Guada-Coma ICA Chapter Meeting

The Guada-Coma Chapter of the Independent Cattlemen’s Association of Texas will meet at 6:30 p.m. Monday, May 18 at Seguin Cattle Company, 2424 State Highway 46 in Seguin. All producers are welcome to attend. The meeting will include chapter scholarship awards, state convention delegate designations, a beef meal, and door prizes. RSVP by Friday, May 15.

Ready, Set, Hired!: LinkedIn Essentials

The Seguin Public Library, Seguin Economic Development Corporation and Workforce Solutions Alamo are hosting Ready, Set, Hired!: LinkedIn Essentials at 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 20 at the Seguin Public Library. The free job-seeker education program is open to ages 16 and older and is designed to help participants build practical tools and strategies for today’s job market. This month’s session will focus on LinkedIn essentials. Registration is required. Ready, Set, Hired! is held on the third Wednesday of each month through a partnership aimed at helping local job seekers prepare for success.

Asian Spice Teas

The Seguin Public Library is hosting Asian Spice Teas at 11 a.m. Friday, May 22 at the Seguin Public Library. The adults-only program celebrates Asian American and Pacific

Islander Heritage Month with a hands-on exploration of spices, herbal teas and tea-making traditions from diverse Asian communities. Participants will learn how herbs and spices are used for flavor, wellness and ritual while creating their own custom herbal tea blend to take home. Registration is required for this sensory-filled class, which also includes guided tastings and a chance to discover new flavors in a welcoming setting.

Pastor Installation Service

Greater Second Baptist Church will host the installation service for Pastor James D. Mathews at 3 p.m. Sunday, May 24 at Greater Second Baptist Church, 208 South Crockett Street in Seguin. The special service will celebrate Pastor Mathews’ installation under the theme “God’s Elected,” based on 1 Samuel 16:11-13. Special guest Pastor Dr. L J Gillespie Sr., of Greater Love Missionary Baptist Church in San Antonio, will also participate.

Cultural Arts District Public Input Meeting

The Seguin Commission on the Arts is hosting a public input meeting for the city’s cultural arts district application from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, May 26 at Teatro de Artes, located at 921 West New Braunfels Street. The meeting will give community members a chance to share input as Seguin pursues designation for a local cultural arts district. Residents are encouraged to attend and help shape the future of arts and culture in the community. RSVPs are encouraged for the public meeting.

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.