SDN: August 5, 2026

Guadalupe Appraisal District continues planning for Mary B. Erskine building renovation

Cindy Aguirre-Herrera

(Seguin) — The Guadalupe Appraisal District continues to move forward with its plans to transform the historic Mary B. Erskine School building into its future home.

Chief Appraiser Peter Snaddon says while no construction has begun at the building site, significant progress is being made behind the scenes. Erskine, pg. 3

Seguin Mayor Donna Dodgen administers the oath of office to new Seguin Fire Chief Garrick Herbert during a swearing-in ceremony Monday evening at the Seguin Public Library. Herbert succeeds longtime Fire Chief Dale Skinner, who retired in July after years of service to the community. Courtesy photo.

Guadalupe County Auditor recognized among the nation’s top finance professionals

(Seguin) -- After 30 years of serving Guadalupe County, County Auditor Kristen Klein has earned national recognition for her leadership and commitment to public finance.

Guadalupe County Auditor Kristen Klein has been presented with a 2026 Outstanding Public Service Award from the Government Finance Officers Association. Klein was one of 49 recipients selected from nominations across the United States and Canada. The award recognizes exceptional professional achievement and public service in government finance.

The nomination was submitted by Roxanne Canales, Guadalupe County first assistant county auditor.

Canales says she has worked alongside Klein for nearly 15 years and has witnessed firsthand the impact she has made both within Guadalupe County and across Texas.

“I have been wanting to do it. I just know that she has worked for many years for Guadalupe County -- she got her 30-year award not too long ago, and still counting. She doesn’t, I don’t think, plan on leaving any time soon, so she’s still trucking along and she’s still very active with our Texas Association of County Auditors. She’s held every position on that board. But she still is very involved in holding training there at the conferences, and she also volunteers to give presentations at other county association trainings or conferences. But she’s currently volunteering on the Texas Association of Counties Executive Board, which helps establish policy for TAC. She’s always giving of her time and energy to train us and help us and keep learning, so yeah, she just is deserving of this honor,” said Canales.

According to Guadalupe County, Klein’s work extends well beyond her day-to-day responsibilities as county auditor. In addition to serving local government, she has represented Guadalupe County on financial advisory boards and committees while also helping train

finance professionals across the state.

Guadalupe County Judge Kyle Kutscher says while Klein’s work often takes place behind the scenes, her efforts ensure accountability and transparency.

“Commissioners Court is proud to recognize Kristen Klein for this well-deserved service award. Her professional expertise often happens behind the scenes, and it is essential to maintaining responsible stewardship of public resources,” said Kutscher.

Canales says Klein’s leadership has also had a lasting impact on those who work with her every day.

“I just feel like she’s very deserving of it through her service to us and the county. She is great to work under. She’s a great boss,” said Canales.

The Government Finance Officers Association’s Outstanding Public Service Award remains one of the most prestigous awards recognizing public finance professionals in, again, both the United States and Canada.

Registration underway for Seguin’s JAAM after-school program

(Seguin) -- If Seguin ISD parents are looking for some after-school care, then they won’t want to miss the opportunity to sign-up for JAAM. The City of Seguin Parks and Recreation Department will again be offering its JAAM (Jammin’ After-School Adventures for Me) program for the 2026-2027 school year.

Registration for the program opened last week.

Erica Taft, assistant director of parks and recreation, says the popular program will be offered at Weinert, Koennecke, Vogel, Patlan Elemetnary and at Ball Early Chilhood Center. She says students are required to attend one of the participating campuses to enroll.

“We do have a wait list and we’re able to work through a couple of people on the wait list, but yeah, absolutely -- if you’re looking for after school care, sign up as soon as possible. It’s an online sign up. We recognize that our online system can be confusing, so don’t hesitate to call our office and we walk people through the system all the time or stop in and we can help you register that way,” said Taft.

Taft says JAAM provides students with a safe, supervised environment after school that includes a daily snack, homework time, group activities, arts and crafts, movies, parties and other recreational opportunities.

The program operates until 6 p.m. while Ball Elementary dismisses at 5:15 p.m.

The weekly fee is $40, with a one-time $25 registration fee.

Erskine, continued.

Snaddon says the district recently completed the first phase of selecting a construction manager at risk.

“We’ve completed step one, which was the request for qualifications. We received six submissions and narrowed that

Parents needing assistance with registration can contact the Seguin Parks and Recreation Department at 830-401-2480 or register online through the city’s website.

down to three firms,” said Snaddon.

He says the remaining firms are scheduled to be interviewed today.

“I’ll be bringing that recommendation to the board on August 5, recommending which one of these firms we want to begin negotiations with,” said Snaddon.

Once negotiations are complete, Snaddon says the district will move

into the construction planning phase.

“We’re still hoping to get in there early 2028 at this time,” said Snaddon.

The former Mary B. Erskine School is being renovated to help the appraisal district meet the growing demand for services across Guadalupe County.

STATISTICS

MUDD

Ronald Lee “Ronnie” Mudd, age 83 of Seguin, passed away on July 29, 2026. Ronnie was born on March 13, 1943, in Victoria, Texas to Agatha Evelyn (Hoffer) and Leber Alphonse Mudd.

Ronnie grew up in Edna, Texas, and graduated from Edna High School. He attended Southwest Texas State University in San Marcos on a football scholarship and excelled at the linebacker and deep snapper position. As a member of the Alpha Psi fraternity, he was voted “college favorite” by his classmates in recognition of his strong character and personality.

After college, Ronnie was a well-liked and respected high school biology teacher, coach, and driver’s ed instructor in Rockdale, TX. In 1970, Ronnie married the love of his life, Kathryn “Kit” (Lyle). After adventures living in Singapore, they ultimately settled in Portland, Texas, where they raised their two children, Miki and Michael.

Ronnie started his career in Workplace Safety in 1971, inspecting commercial and industrial facilities throughout Texas. Even when work required him to travel, he remained present for his family, either in the bleachers or on the sidelines proudly watching his kids play sports, usually with video camera in hand.

Ronnie and Kit moved to Seguin in 2002, where he worked for Commercial Metals Corporation before retiring in 2009. He was an adored “PawPaw” to his four amazing granddaughters and continued his tradition of showing up for the people he loved. He proudly attended dance performances, volleyball matches, barrel races, basketball and soccer games, and countless other activities.

A devoted Catholic, Ronnie was actively involved in the church parishes

SOEFJE

Warren H. Soefje, age 83 of Seguin, passed away on August 2, 2026. Warren was born on September 12, 1942, in Seguin, Texas, to Grace Lucille (Behrendt) and Cleburne Soefje.

He proudly served his country in the Texas National Guard part of the United States Army. He retired from the Texas Department of Transportation after 27 years of faithful service.

The Best of Times were spent fishing and hunting, but the most precious were the times spent with his grandchildren. Warren never met a stranger and was happy to just sit and visit with anyone.

Warren is preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Bobby Soefje and wife Sally, sister, Karen Olson, and sister-in-law, Cindy Elley.

Survivors include his loving wife of 60 years, Helen B. Soefje; son, Brian Keith Soefje and wife Robin; daughter, Bridget Marie Soefje; grandchildren

at both Mount Carmel Catholic Church in Portland and St. James Catholic Church in Seguin, including Knights of Columbus, church choir, and other forms of ministry. He supported the church through his dedication to fundraising and was known for grilling delicious BBQ chicken. Ronnie also held many leadership roles in the McQueeney Lions Club that served multiple local communities.

Ronnie and Kit built a strong community of treasured friends in both Portland and Seguin. He never met a stranger, and humor was one of his favorite ways to show affection. Ronnie always made a lasting impression wherever he went and never missed an opportunity to make someone smile with a joke, funny story, or a little good-natured teasing.

Ronnie is preceded in death by his parents, older brother Kenneth Mudd, and sister-in-law Vicki Lyle Mudd.

Survivors include his loving wife of 55 years, Kit Mudd; daughter Miki (Mudd) Gulbrandsen, and husband Tom of Folsom, California; son, Mike Mudd and partner Sarah of Austin, Texas; grandchildren, Madilyn Mudd, Grace Gulbrandsen, Maya Mudd, and Kathryn Gulbrandsen; other loving family members and a host of wonderful friends.

Visitation will begin on Monday August 10, 2026, at 10 a.m. at St. James Catholic Church with the recitation of the Holy Rosary at 10:30 a.m. followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. with the Reverend Gregory J. Nevlud officiating. A reception will follow at the Knights of Columbus Hall.

Private inurnment will be held in St. James Catholic Cemetery Columbarium.

Serving as honorary pallbearers will be the Knights of Columbus Honor Guard.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. James Catholic Church, https://saintjamescc.org/give or charity of 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.

who knew and loved him as PaPaw, William A. Stevens, III, Taylor Springer and husband Ian, Connor Soefje, Cody Albrecht, Paige Soefje(Travis), Graham Soefje, and Dillon Albrecht; great-grandchildren, William “Billy” IV, Orryn, Ilo and Alanna; brothers-in-law, Kirby Olson, Jerry Broz and wife Joyce, Robert Broz and wife Peggy, and Roger Elley; sister-in-law, Carol Rodgers and husband Roy; numerous nieces, nephews, other loving family members and friends.

Visitation will begin on Friday, August 7, 2026, at 10 a.m. at St. James Catholic Church with the recitation of the Holy Rosary at 10:30 a.m. followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. Interment with military honors will follow at San Geronimo Cemetery. A reception will follow in the parish hall. Memorial contributions may be made to St. James Catholic Church, 510 S. Camp St., Seguin, Texas, 78155 or to Memorials Processing, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee, 381059959.

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.

VITAL STATISTICS

BRANTLEY

Wayne T. Brantley, age 70 of Seguin, passed away on July 6, 2026. Wayne was born in San Antonio, Texas on March 23, 1956, to Ann (Tice) and William Elzy Brantley.

From the age of six, Wayne grew up as a selfproclaimed river rat along Lake McQueeney. He attended Navarro Schools and was a 1975 graduate of Navarro High School. When he wasn’t fishing, one could find him boating, skiing, or swimming. Other times Wayne was with his buddies’ trapping raccoons and selling the hides. He also liked hunting, however one of his favorite pastimes was spent enjoying NASCAR racing.

As a mason, Wayne was a member of Guadalupe Masonic Lodge 109 AF & AM.

Wayne is preceded in death by his parents, his grandson, Ethan William Brantley, his brother, Bobby Ray Brantley, his mother-in-law and father-in-law,

CONEJO

Adela Conejo of Seguin, TX passed away on July 16, 2026. She was born on December 1, 1933, to Francisco Conejo and Enriqueta Rodriguez Conejo. Adela is preceded in death by both her parents and sister, Frances Conejo McHaney of Seguin, TX. She is survived by her sister, Natalia Conejo Lozano; brothers, Joe Conejo of Tyler, TX and Robert Conejo of Seguin, TX.

COCKRUM

Louis Eugene Cockrum passed away July 26, 2026. Viewing will be held Saturday August 8th, 2026 from 10am to 11am at the Crenshaw Funeral Home Chapel. Funeral will follow at 11am at Crenshaw Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will be held at Garden of Memories Cemetery. Survivors include brother: Jeffery Cockrum and sisters: Marilyn Jackson,

Barbara and Lenord Coleman, Sr. and his brother-in-law, Lenord “Lennie” Coleman.

Survivors include his loving wife of 36 years, Linda Kay Coleman Brantley; son, Allen Brantley and wife Tracie; daughter, Lacy Kay Brantley and partner, Scott Bauer; grandchildren, Emery, Avery, and Everett Brantley, and Jack Bauer; sister-in-law, Donna Guenther; brother-in-law, Allen Coleman and wife Debbie; numerous nieces, nephews, other loving family members and many friends.

A memorial service celebrating Wayne’s life will be held on Friday, August 7, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel with the Reverend Audrey Hewell officiating.

Wayne will be remembered by all who knew him as friendly, trustworthy and giving person, sharing his time and talents to anyone who needed help. He will be missed by his family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hope Hospice, 611 N. Walnut Ave., New Braunfels, Texas, 78130.

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.

Services honoring Adela will be held on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at St. James Catholic Church. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. with the Holy Rosary recited at 10:30 a.m. and the Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Goetz Funeral Home, Seguin, Texas.

Kathlyn Johnson, Derlene Cockrum and Pamela Lackey.

Services Entrusted To: Crenshaw Funeral Home 216 Blumberg St. Seguin, Tx 78155 830-303-2208

2 Deaths Linked To Cyclosporiasis In Michigan

(Lansing, MI) -- The first deaths linked to the cyclosporiasis outbreak have been reported in Michigan. State officials said the two people who died after contracting the illness had “significant underlying health conditions that may have been impacted by cyclosporiasis and dehydration.” The outbreak of the illness in Michigan and nine other states has been linked to lettuce from Taylor Farms served at Taco Bell. Michigan has reported more than eleven-thousand cases of the illness. Cases have been reported in 45 states.

RFK Says Kids Should Get Measles Vaccine

(Washington, DC) -- Robert F. Kennedy Jr. says parents should get their children vaccinated for measles. The Health and Human Services Secretary made the comment on CNN’s “State of the Union.” It comes as measles cases have grown in the U.S. A Johns Hopkins University tracker for health data found there were nearly 23-hundred confirmed cases in the U.S. as of late last month, passing the amount of cases recorded in 2025.

Doctors Warn Of ‘Temporal Hollowing’ From Rapid GLP-1 Weight Loss

(Undated) -- Doctors are seeing a new cosmetic side effect caused by weight loss drugs like Ozempic. The condition, known as temporal hollowing or sunken temples can make the face look older and thinner. Experts say its becoming more noticeable as GLP-1 medications grow in popularity. Temporal hollowing is the loss of fat in the temples, the areas on the sides of the forehead. The condition is more likely to happen when patients lose weight too quickly or do not follow a personalized treatment plan.

Professor Weighs In On Managing Screen Time For Children

(Clemson, SC) -- An expert is weighing in on how parents can help manage screentime for their children. Amanda Rumsey, a Clemenson University professor who trains mental health counselors, says it’s not an all or nothing approach and it’s okay in moderation. She advises parents to make sure screen time does not hurt the child’s sleep. She also says make sure there is still time in the day for daily connections between children and adults and daily time for activities that don’t involve screens. Back in May, The Department of Health and Human Services issued

First 100 guests will receive an exclusive pink GRMC cap.

• Free-flowing mimosas

• Local vendors

• Tours of our state-of-the-art Women’s Imaging Center

• Schedule your annual breast cancer screening

• And, of course, breast cancer education & resources

AUGUST

Music Camp at Spirit of Joy Lutheran Church

Children who have completed 2nd through 5th grade are invited to attend the free Music Camp at Spirit of Joy Lutheran Church, Aug. 4-6, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. each day at 416 Dolle Ave. in Seguin. Lunch will be provided, but space is limited. Register online at www.spiritofjoylc.com. For more information, email chris@spiritofjoylc.com.

Summer Reading Experience Underway at Seguin Public Library

The Seguin Public Library is inviting readers of all ages to participate in its 2026 Summer Reading Experience, “Unearth a Story.” The free program features books, activities, special events, and opportunities to win dino-mite prizes throughout the summer. Children, teens, and adults are all encouraged to join. Registration is available in person at the library or online at Seguin Public Library Summer Reading Experience. No library card is required to participate. Participants have until Aug. 6, 2026, to complete their activity boards and be entered into drawings for raffle prizes.

Seguin ISD Back-to-School Family Bash

Seguin ISD invites families to its 5th Annual Back-to-School Family Bash on Friday, August 7, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Seguin High School Cafeteria, 1315 E. Cedar Street. The districtwide event is open to students and families from Pre-K through 12th grade and will feature

free games, a hot dog supper, resource booths, prizes, and activities for the entire family. Attendees can also meet representatives from Seguin ISD schools and departments while learning about services and resources available throughout the community. Admission is free.

Pack the Bus School Supply Drive

Communities In Schools of South Central Texas is inviting the community to help local students get ready for the new school year during its annual Pack the Bus school supply drive. Donations of school supplies, hygiene items and monetary gifts will be accepted on Saturday, August 1, at the H-E-B store in Seguin and other participating H-E-B locations across the region. Donations will help provide students with the supplies they need throughout the school year. For more information or to make a financial donation, visit the Communities In Schools of South Central Texas website.

Geronimo Lions First Friday Feast

The Geronimo Lions Club invites the community to its First Friday Feast on Friday, August 7, at the Red Barn. Dinner will be served from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., or until sold out, with proceeds benefiting the Guadalupe County Children’s Advocacy Center. Plates are $20 and include your choice of grilled steak or fried fish, plus cheesy bread, a baked potato, salad, a drink and dessert. Live music will be provided by the First Methodist Church Trio. Everyone is invited.

Community Outreach and Back-to-

School Carnival

Greater Second Baptist Church invites the community to its free Community Outreach and Back-toSchool Carnival on Saturday, August 8, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the church, located at 208 South Crockett Street in Seguin. Families can enjoy free school supplies, clothing donations, hot dogs, popcorn, games and prizes, plus free haircuts for boys and braids and curls for girls while supplies last. For more information, call 830-4337004.

Continued on the next page. Elm Creek Community Cemetery Meeting

The annual Elm Creek Community Cemetery Association Meeting will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, August 9 at 1951 Settlers Way in Seguin. Donations for continued maintenance would be greatly appreciated. For more information or questions, call or text 210-414-3308.

Seguin Art League Ceramic Class

The Seguin Art League is hosting a two-day ceramic class, The Little Fisherman, with clay artist Roger Betschler on Saturday, Aug. 8 and Saturday, Sept. 12, from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Participants will create a unique fish sculpture inspired by the story The Little Fisherman, then return for glazing after the piece has been fired. The class is open to ages 12 and older. The cost is $60. Register by calling the Seguin Art League at 830-305-0472.

Continued on the next page.

Greater Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church Pastor’s Anniversary

Greater Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church will celebrate the 8th Anniversary of its pastor at 2 p.m. on Sunday, August 9. Guest speaker will be Pastor Cornelius L. Bass of Pleasant Valley Missionary Baptist Church in Creedmoor. The community is invited to attend this special celebration.

Sunflower Watercolor Class

Learn the basics of watercolor painting during the Sun Soaked Sunflower Watercolor class on Wednesday, Aug. 12, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Seguin Art League. Participants will paint vibrant sunflowers while learning watercolor techniques. The class is open to ages 16 and older, costs $45, and space is limited. Wear old clothes or an apron. Register by calling 830-305-0472.

Seguin Conservation Society Golf Tournament

The Seguin Conservation Society invites golfers to take part in its annual Golf Tournament on Friday, Aug. 14, at the newly renovated Max Starcke Golf Course. The two-person scramble begins at 9 a.m. Registration is $110 per player, with entry forms available at Starcke Furniture. Registration and payment are due by Friday, Aug. 7. Proceeds benefit the Seguin Conservation Society and its ongoing efforts to preserve and promote the community’s history. For more information, call 830379-4622 or visit seguinconservation. org.

Wildlife Association Meeting

The Guadalupe County Wildlife Management Association invites the public to its next meeting on Friday, August

14, at the Texas Agriculture Education and Heritage Center, located at 250 Cordova Road in Seguin. A social begins at 6 p.m., followed by a $15 dinner at 7 p.m. and a presentation at 7:30 p.m. Texas Parks and Wildlife Biologist Olivia Kost will discuss New World screwworm best practices, and area game wardens are expected to attend. Reservations for the meal are requested by calling 512-227-2524.

Casino BASH 2026

The Guadalupe County Children’s Advocacy Center invites the community to Casino BASH 2026 on Saturday, Aug. 15, at the McQueeney Lions Club Hall. The event will be held from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., with casino games running from 6 to 9 p.m. Guests will enjoy gaming tables, heavy hors d’oeuvres, drinks, a live and silent auction, bucket drawings and prizes. Organizers encourage attendees to wear their brightest attire. General admission tickets go on sale July 22 for $50, and sponsorship opportunities are available now. Proceeds benefit the Guadalupe County Children’s Advocacy Center and its mission of bringing awareness, safety and hope to children and families.

Precious Life Services Back-to-School Assistance

Registration is now open for the Precious Life Services “No Child Left Behind” Back-to-School Assistance Program for families needing help with school supplies. Register online by August 15. No phone calls, please. Those wishing to donate school supplies can call 830-372-5980 for more information.

McQueeney Elementary Ribbon Cutting

The Seguin Independent School District invites the community to celebrate the opening of the new McQueeney Elementary School with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 4 p.m. Monday, August 17. The ceremony will be held just before the school’s elementary Meet the Teacher Night. The public is invited to attend and help celebrate this exciting milestone for Seguin ISD.

Cyanotype Art Class

Explore advanced cyanotype techniques during Cyanotype II on Wednesday, Aug. 26, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Seguin Art League. Participants will create mixed-media images using watercolor, cyanotype, stencils, turmeric and salt. The class is open to ages 16 and older, costs $45, and all materials are provided. Wear old clothes or an apron and non-slip shoes. Register by calling 830-305-0472.

Bead and Cord Bracelet Class

Create a traditional bead and cord bracelet during a fun make-and-take class at the Seguin Art League. Sessions are offered Friday, Aug. 28, from 6 to 7 p.m., or Saturday, Aug. 29, from 4 to 5 p.m. The class is open to ages 14 and older, costs $15, and includes all materials. Register by calling 830305-0472.

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.