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September 9, 2026
Volume 61 l Number 156
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The Voice of Seguin
Seguin council gives initial approval to budget, tax rate
WEEKEND EDITION
TODAY
Darren Dunn
(Seguin) — The Seguin City Council is nearing the end of the city’s budget process. The council recently gave firstround approval to the budget and tax rate for the coming fiscal year. City officials say the budget attempts to control expenses in the fast-growing city while also meeting an increasing demand for services. City Manager Steve Parker says it was a difficult budget year because of a reduction in the revenue available to fund next year’s spending plan. He says several factors contributed to the decline, but city staff worked hard to get the best possible outcome from the available funds. “This has been a very tough budget. I appreciate all the staff that’s put in the work to make sure that we’re being good stewards of the citizens’ money. Once again, this council is focused on things that matter for communities — streets, public safety, all those types of things. We once again want to state that we’re very lean. Council, pg. 3
A mariachi welcome
Layne’s Chicken Fingers is now open in Seguin, bringing its popular chicken fingers, crinkle-cut fries, Texas toast and signature Layne’s Sauce to the community. The restaurant will celebrate its official grand opening this Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Founded in College Station in 1994, Layne’s has grown to more than 50 locations in and around Texas. Photo by Nick Spence
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New statewide license simplifies process for Texas food trucks
Special by Lindsay Hajek, Assistant Director of Main Street and Destination Seguin
(Seguin) — A new statewide licensing system for food trucks is making it easier for vendors from across Texas to do business in Seguin, creating new opportunities for communityevents to attract a wider variety of food vendors. Mobile food vendors are now required to obtain a license through the Texas Department of State Health Services. Created through House Bill 2844, the statewide license replaces a system in which vendors were required to obtain a separate license from each city where they operated. “The State of Texas has taken over the issuing of licenses for food trucks,” said Terrance Root, health inspector with the City of Seguin’s Code Compliance and Environmental Health Department. “The State of Texas will issue one license that will allow the food trucks to vend anywhere in the State of Texas.” The City of Seguin is not partnered with DSHS to conduct inspections of mobile food vendors, so the City no longer conducts health inspections of food trucks. While the statewide license simplifies the health licensing process, it does not mean food trucks can park and operate anywhere in Seguin.
“There are still zoning laws that apply to food trucks, such as no vending in residential areas,” Root said. Seguin’s Unified Development Code includes regulations governing mobile food vendors and mobile food vendor parks. Food truck operators should make sure the property where they plan to operate allows mobile food vending under the city’s zoning regulations. For vendors participating in a City of Seguin event, additional event-specific rules may also apply. Food truck operators interested in participating in events such as Earth Day, Pecan Fest or the Summer Concert Series, should contact the Main Street & Destination Seguin department for information about vendor requirements and the application process. For questions about the new statewide license, Root recommends going directly to DSHS. “I check this website for any questions about food trucks,” Root said. For more information about the Texas Mobile Food Vendor license, applications and requirements, visit the Texas Department of State Health Services at: dshs.texas.gov/retail-food-establishments/permitsretail-food-establishments/mobile-food-vendors
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Council, continued. But we also have the best of the best employees and I appreciate the focus on them to make sure they know they’re appreciated and that we want to keep them. It’s going to cost us a lot more if we don’t keep them. We have to retrain people every year. But just once again, it’s been a lot of challenges with this — with the losing of the big property values related to House Bill 9, (and) the one entity that actually was counted in the city that shouldn’t be the city (last year). (It) was very challenging. But once again, the directors stepped up, and cut their city budgets by 10 percent, just to make sure that we were making sure our employees could get their cost of living increases and so that we could retain them. (That was) one of their major priorities,” said Parker. Expenditures in the city’s general fund will be supported by a property tax rate of 52.94 cents per $100 of property value. That represents a tax increase of slightly more than a penny and a half over the rate adopted last year. Despite the projected revenue shortfall, Councilman Jason Biesenbach says city staff and the
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council worked together to develop a responsible budget and tax rate for the coming year. “I just want to say thank you to the staff. You always run lean, so that helps keep our tax rate nice and low. That helps the citizens,” said Biesenbach. The city’s revenue challenges are similar to those faced by many taxing entities this year. Officials say changes in state law have provided additional tax relief for property owners but have also reduced the revenue available to cities, counties and school districts as they work to meet the growing demand for services. Councilman Jim Lievens says these kinds of budget challenges are likely to continue for some time. “I think this climate we’re in of reduced property taxes is likely to continue. And if that doesn’t continue, maybe there’s going to be increased taxes anyway from the state. So, I’m just suggesting that we may be seeing a period of time where we’re going to be looking at reduced revenue, for not just this upcoming year, but maybe some future years,” said Lievens. The budget and tax rate were approved on first reading. A second and final reading will take place during the council’s next meeting. The city’s new fiscal year begins October 1.
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Troy Tomaselli Named SCAC Defensive Player of the Week Bryce Hayes - TLU Sports Information
SEGUIN, Texas -- Senior defensive back Troy Tomaselli (San Antonio/Cornerstone Christian) of the Texas Lutheran football team was named the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference (SCAC) Defensive Player of the Week on Tuesday. Tomaselli led the the Bulldogs defense with eight tackles, including a tackle for loss and half a sack in the losing effort. The SCAC Defensive Player of th Week honor is the third of his career and his first honor since
2024. It is the sixth SCAC Defensive Player of the Week honor since SCAC restored football in 2024. The Bulldogs (0-1) return to action when they host Southwestern at Bulldog Stadium on Saturday, September 12. Kickoff is scheduled for 6 PM with “Gold Rush” set for the theme at Bulldog Stadium. The game will be broadcast on FloCollege along with KWED 1580 AM with Reily Chestnut and Beau Hill on the call.
All streaming and live stats links will be available on tlubulldogs.com. For more information on Texas Lutheran football, follow the Bulldogs on X (Twitter) and Instagram (@TLU_Football) and as always you can find updates on all Texas Lutheran athletics on tlubulldogs.com and all official TLU social media channels (@tluathletics on X (Twitter,) @ tlu_athletics on Instagram, and @tlubulldogs on Facebook).
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8 VITAL STATISTICS
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TITUS
Roy (Lea); and her great-grandchildren, Ayden Miles, Alexis Jones, Amya Jones, and Walter Scott Amescua. Deanie made the best meals, threw the greatest birthday parties, sewed the nicest clothing, and started the wildest food fights! She had a deep faith that shaped the way she loved and served others. Those who knew her will remember her generosity, her thoughtfulness, her playful teasing, and the way she made us all laugh. She will be dearly missed. Visitation: 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM Service: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM Date: Saturday, September 12, 2026 Place: Harrell Funeral Home 4435 Frontier Trail Austin, TX 78745
BEYER
back to Pleasant Hill as a principal until her retirement. Her successes include positively affecting thousands of students, hundreds of teachers, and countless acquaintances and friends. She has two books that were published, that helped many people around the country. After her retirement Joe and Kay spent years moving between Leesville, Plattsburgh NY, Kingsbury, finally settling on 20 acres in Stairtown. Joe and Kay became a fixture in downtown Prairie Lea running their store Beyer’s Bargains. It was as much a place for those that needed help as a place to get a bargain. She spent her last years loving, and being loved, by her family, her dogs, cats, horses, and chickens. A memorial service celebrating Kay’s life will be held on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at 10 a.m. at Kingsbury Methodist Church with the Reverend Joe Berkley officiating. A reception will follow in the fellowship hall. Private interment will be held at a later date in the Kingsbury Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Kingsbury Methodist Church, P. O. Box 34, Kingsbury, Texas, 78638. 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.
Carol Deane Anderson Titus, age 83, passed away on August 23, 2026, in Austin, Texas, surrounded by her husband and her children. She was born on June 1, 1943, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, to Carrel Alonzo Anderson and Georgia Deane Shores Anderson. Deanie was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved dog and constant companion, Winnie. She is survived by her devoted husband Clark Wayne Titus; her children, Tony Titus (DJ), Terri Roy ( Jeremy), and Tyler Titus; her grandchildren, Tiffany Titus, Megan Amescua ( Jacob), Tonya Titus, Billy Wayne Roy (Marissa), and Anderson
Kay Harborth Beyer was born in Seguin, Texas on October 25th , 1946. She joined her Lord and Saviour August 11th, 2026. She joins her parents Bruno Milton Harborth and Mildred Mary Ashen Harborth, her brothers Herschel, Pat, and Johnny Harborth. She is survived by her loving husband Joe Russell Beyer Sr., son Joe Rusty Beyer, Daughter in law Susan Ann Beyer, two adoring grandchildren Emily Ann Beyer and Noah Joe Beyer, her older brother Kenneth Harborth, plus many nieces and nephews. Kay attended elementary school in Kingsbury during the last few years it was open. She graduated from Seguin High School in 1964, briefly attending Sul Ross University before graduating from Southwest Texas State University with a Bachelors in Education in 1968. While still teaching she received her Masters in Education from SWTSU in 1975. She taught many years at Pleasant Hill Elementary School before moving to Cunningham Elementary as Assistant Principal for one year before moving
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10 VITAL STATISTICS HERNANDEZ
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Ninfa S. Hernandez, 85, of McQueeney, Texas, passed away peacefully on September 6, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Ninfa was born on March 12, 1941, in Seguin, Texas, to Otto (Arthur) Sassenhagen and Petra (Luna) Sassenhagen. Ninfa was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and homemaker whose greatest joy in life was her family. She dedicated herself to creating a loving and welcoming home for those she loved. She took great pride in keeping her home spotless and beautiful, and she had a natural talent for decorating and making things with her hands. She was crafty in so many ways and could turn her creativity into something special. Among her many talents, she lovingly made clothes for her children, filling their childhoods with pieces made especially by their mother. Ninfa also had a generous heart and a genuine willingness to help others. She believed in giving back and quietly supported charitable causes through donations whenever she was able. She never hesitated to lend a helping hand to someone in need, and her generosity was simply another reflection of the kindness and compassion she carried throughout her life. Whether through a charitable donation, a helping hand, or simply being there for someone, Ninfa found meaningful ways to make a difference in the lives of others. Ninfa found joy in the simple things in life, especially spending time with her family. She loved being surrounded by the people she loved and cherished the memories made together. She also had a special love for live music and enjoyed the happiness and energy that came from listening to music and being with those around her. Above all, Ninfa’s greatest legacy will be the love she poured into her
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family. She leaves behind a lifetime of memories, traditions, creativity, and unconditional love that will continue through the generations who were blessed to know her. Ninfa is preceded in death by her parents, Otto (Arthur) and Petra Sassenhagen; her sister, Margaret Sassenhagen; her brothers, Gilbert and David Sassenhagen; and her grandson, Joel Hernandez Jr. She is survived by her loving husband of 68 years, Robert Hernandez Sr.; and their seven children, Viki Perez (Pete), Robert (Bobby) Hernandez Jr., Joel Hernandez Sr. (Sylvia), Melinda Pena (Ruben), Melissa Carrillo ( Julian), Rosie Montoya (Ben), and Dean Hernandez (Roberta); 18 grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sisters, Hortencia Morales, Dalia Medina, and Diana Walsh (Mark); her brothers, Gabriel Sassenhagen (Mary), Arthur Sassenhagen III (Ana); and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will forever cherish her memory. Ninfa’s life was a beautiful reflection of the love she gave so freely. Though she will be deeply missed, her love and memory will live on through the many generations of family she leaves behind. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate hospice staff and to everyone at Guadalupe Regional Medical Center for the care, kindness, and support they provided to Ninfa and her family during this difficult time. Visitation will be held on Monday September 14, 2026, at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel from 5 to 7 p.m. with the recitation of the Holy Rosary at 6 p.m. You are invited to sign the guest book at www.treshewell.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155, 830-549-5912.
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Another Person Dead From Flesh-Eating Bacteria In Florida (Fort Lauderdale, FL) -- A fourth person has died in Florida from flesh-eating bacteria. Health officials say a person in their late 70s has died of the bacteria in Broward County. Health officials say the bacteria, Vibrio vulnificus, is found in warm seawater and undercooked shellfish. It’s the state’s fourth death this year from the bacteria. Health officials say the best way to protect yourself from the flesh-eating bacteria is to avoid eating undercooked shellfish and to avoid exposing open wounds to warm salt water. Cuba Health Alert (Havana, Cuba) -- U.S. officials are issuing a health alert for Cuba. An official with the U.S. embassy says there’s an increase in cases of gastrointestinal-related diseases and diarrhea in the island nation. The country’s water and energy infrastructure continues to decline, in part because fuel shipments are being blocked by the Trump administration. Without fuel, officials say refrigeration and contaminated water will become difficult to maintain. United Nations human rights experts say the Trump administration is breaking international law. President Trump claims these sanctions are necessary because he believes communist Cuba, without change is a threat to U.S. national security. FDA Working On Increasing Estrogen Patches (Bethesda, MD) -- There appears to be a shortage of estrogen patches used to treat symptoms of menopause. The Food and Drug Administration says it is aware of reports of patients having difficulty accessing the patches and is working with manufacturers to increase supply. The FDA says more women have been seeking treatment for symptoms of menopause leading to a surge in demand. The supply of FDA approved patches has nearly doubled over the last year. Mental Health Warnings Put A Brake On Youth Scrolling (Raleigh, NC) -- Flashing mental health alerts directly on social media stops teenagers from doomscrolling. That’s according to a recent multiuniversity study with researchers at UNC Chapel Hill testing large warning screens on fake social media. Researchers showed over a thousand teenagers several different pop-ups within the apps, then asked how much each one would discourage them from using it. The more blunt pop-ups warnings about depression and anxiety worked best, beating out gentle reminders to take a screen-time break.
Expert Gastro (GI) Care. Right Here in Seguin. ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS
Gabriel Gonzales, DO Board-Certified Gastroenterologist
Watch Dr. Gonzales’ YouTube Video
Expert Care For: • Colon Cancer Screening & Colonoscopy • Heartburn & Acid Reflux • Crohn’s Disease & Ulcerative Colitis • Liver Disease
CALL 830-420-6770 TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT 1339 E. Court St., Suite 230, Seguin, TX 78155
• Abdominal Pain • Digestive Disorders • Preventive GI Care
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15 COMMUNITY
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Texan in Blue” Book Signing and Presentation The Seguin Heritage Museum will host a book signing and historical presentation on Francis A. Vaughan, a Guadalupe County resident who fought for the Union during the Civil War. The free event will be held Tuesday, Sept. 8, from 5 to 7 p.m. at 114 N. River St. Refreshments will be served.
ny.org or call 830-463-5353.
White House with Blue Curtain Watercolor Class The Seguin Art League will offer a beginner watercolor class with artist Cat Bollinger from 1 to 4 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 9. Participants will learn impressionistic architecture and shadowing techniques. The class is limited to four people, and all materials are provided. The cost is $45. Register and pay at the gallery during regular hours or call 830-305-0472. Curanderas & Chocolate: Cuentos of a Latina Life Teatro De Artes De Juan Seguin and the Texas Lutheran University Center for Mexican American Studies will present “Curanderas & Chocolate: Cuentos of a Latina Life” at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 10, at TLU’s Wupperman Little Theatre, 517 Prexy Drive. The one-woman show, written and performed by Patricia Zamora, features 10 characters exploring faith and healing through stories of love, loss and hope. Tickets are a $10 donation and must be purchased online. The performance is primarily in English and recommended for ages 13 and older. For more information, call 830-401-0232 or visit Teatro De Artes online. Cross Church Rummage Sale Cross Church will host a huge rummage sale Thursday through Saturday, Sept. 10-12, at 814 N. Bauer St. in Seguin. The sale will be open noon to 6 p.m. Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, and 9 a.m. to noon Saturday. McQueeney VFW All-You-Can-Eat Breakfast McQueeney VFW Post 9213 will host an All-YouCan-Eat Breakfast from 8 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 12 at the VFW Post, 275 Gallagher Road in McQueeney. Veterans and first responders eat free. The cost is $10 for everyone age 10 and older. The event will also recognize Patriot’s Day and remember the events of Sept. 11. Mid-Texas Symphony Announces 2026-27 Season The Mid-Texas Symphony has announced its 49th concert season, featuring seven performances in Seguin and New Braunfels. The season opens with “Anton Nel Plays Beethoven” Sunday, Sept. 13, at Jackson Auditorium in Seguin. Additional concerts are scheduled for Nov. 8, Dec. 13, Jan. 31, Feb. 28, April 11 and April 25. For concert details or tickets, visit mtsympho-
Seguin Chamber Annual Banquet & Awards Presentation The Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce will host its 2026 Annual Banquet & Awards Presentation from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 16 at the Seguin Coliseum. This year’s theme is “Prosperity Through Partnership.” The event is presented by Guadalupe Regional Medical Center. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available through the Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce. Matador Theatre Presents “Between the Lines Jr.” Seguin High School’s Matador Theatre and Thespian Troupe 5897 will present “Between the Lines Jr.” at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 16, and 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, at the Seguin High School Performing Arts Center, 1315 E. Cedar St. Tickets are $8 in advance and $12 at the door. Theatergoers are also encouraged to bring a canned food donation as part of the Texas Thespian Society’s Trick or Treat So Kids Can Eat community service initiative. Donations will help support people in need in the local community. Caffeine for a Cause The new 7 Brew in Seguin will host Caffeine for a Cause Sept. 18 through Sept. 20 to benefit the Guadalupe County Children’s Advocacy Center. Stop by 350 State Highway 123 Bypass North for a free small drink while helping support the local organization. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Guadalupe County Children’s Advocacy Center. Mini Mats Cheer Clinic The Seguin High School Cheerleaders will host the Mini Mats Cheer Clinic from 8:30 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, at the Seguin High School Student Activities Center. Registration/check-in begins at 8 a.m. Cost is $35 by Sept. 11 or $40 Sept. 12-19. Registration includes the clinic, a T-shirt and participation in the SHS Community Pep Rally on Sept. 23. For more information, email awiatrek@seguin.k12.tx.us. Judah First Volume 4 Musical The Greater Refuge Choir presents Judah First Volume 4 on Saturday, September 19, at 3 p.m. at Greater Refuge Church, 410 N. Guadalupe St. in Seguin. The afternoon will feature fellowship and worship with the Seguin community and surrounding area. Attendees are encouraged to dress casually and represent their church by wearing a church T-shirt. Admission is free. Additional parking will be available behind the church, across from the Seguin Police Station.
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Clothesline in the Country Watercolor Class The Seguin Art League will offer a beginner watercolor class from 1 to 4 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 23. Participants will learn to create soft-edge backgrounds and use tape-resist techniques to build layers of paint. The class is limited to four people, and all materials are provided. The cost is $45. Register and pay at the gallery during regular hours or call 830-305-0472. Scarecrow and Skeleton Window Contest Destination Seguin and the Seguin Main Street Program are accepting entries for the 2026 Scarecrow and Skeleton Window Contest. Businesses, organizations, clubs and individuals may create family-friendly displays in downtown Seguin. Entries are due Friday, Sept. 25, and displays must be installed by Wednesday, Sept. 30, and remain through Saturday, Oct. 31. For an application or help securing a downtown window, email cmclain@seguintexas.gov or visit the Seguin Visitor Center, 200 S. Austin St. Mammos & Mimosas at GRMC Join Guadalupe Regional Medical Center for Mammos & Mimosas, a free community event dedicated to breast cancer prevention, early detection, and awareness. Bring a friend and enjoy a fun and educational morning featuring complimentary mimosas, exciting giveaways, local vendors, breast health education, and tours of GRMC’s state-of-the-art Women’s Imaging Center. Attendees will also have the opportunity to learn about breast cancer prevention and schedule a screening mammogram. Don’t miss this special event on Saturday, September 26, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. in the GRMC Central Entrance Lobby. For more information about this event, please visit https://www.grmedcenter. com/mammos/ Guadalupe Master Naturalists Program The Guadalupe Master Naturalists will host a program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 28, at the AgriLife Extension Office, 210 E. Live Oak St. in Seguin. Dr. Sonja L. Swiger will discuss the life cycle of the New World Screwworm fly and the threat it poses to domesticated animals and wildlife. Refreshments will be served prior to the program. Guests are welcome. To ensure non-profit organization’s meetings and events appear in this calendar, send information to: communitycalendar@kwed1580.com, or drop off the information at the Seguin Daily News/KWED offices located at 609 E. Court St. in Seguin. For best results, submit information at least two weeks prior to the event.
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