News

Area high school seniors take part in annual debutante ball
Officials remind drivers to use caution around emergency vehicles
Journey of American soldiers to be featured at Palace Theatre
Seguin ISD trustee steps down from office
Chili supper tradition continues at Lifegate Christian School
Seguin Little League registration deadline nears
Vocalists sought for annual Noche De Gala contest
Pair of free throw contests being made available to local children
Officials rescue three from low-water crossings
Country refrains from sounding flood sirens during storm; Emergency officials remind residents of warning system
Nearly 100 county roads closed following downpour; County addresses effort to close flood gates throughout area
Three juveniles arrested following break-in at KC Hall; Officials say one of the suspects fell through the ceiling
Pair arrested for shooting at Congressman's office, police vehicle
Seguin receives over three inches of rain
Rain cause school cancellation in NISD
City Council approves contractor for Geronimo Creek Sewer Project; Oak Village North residents again voice concerns regarding contractor, sub-contractor
Officials remind drivers to use caution around emergency vehicles
Navarro ISD considers football field renovation
Grand Champion of Show
Youth, organizers wrap up another successful youth livestock, homemakers' show
Injured deputy recovering following weekend accident
Guadalupe County youth shine at annual youth livestock, homemakers' show
City approves grant funding for bird sculpture project
Seguin man dies following motorcycle collision
US Supreme Court throws out interim redistricting maps; Primary election date still slated for April, but could change
Deputy, another driver injured in collision; SPD officer avoids injury as vehicle hits patrol car
Rescue group seeks permanent, foster homes for dogs at city, county shelters

Area high school seniors take part in annual debutante ball

Fallon Boenig

Gentry Bryan

Breanna Lind

Christianna Mueller

Krischelle Joyner

By Cindy Aguirre-Herrera

(Seguin) -- A year's worth of soft skills and proper etiquette will be unveiled this weekend as ten young ladies dressed in large white gowns are officially presented during this year's Annual Mid-Texas Symphony Ball and Debutante presentation. The event is scheduled for Saturday night at the Seguin-Guadalupe County Coliseum.

Trina Eastwood, Seguin chapter president and debutante ball chairwoman, says the debutante presentation is a fundraising effort to continue the symphony operation in Seguin and surrounding communities.

"It is a fundraiser for the Mid-Texas Symphony because the symphony provides music for Seguin, New Braunfels and San Marcos. The Seguin chapter of the guild puts on this fundraiser every year in order for the classical music to be available for everyone to enjoy and the debutantes are part of the fundraising effort. It's a yearlong program that they participate in. They do a lot of community service. They usher at the symphony concerts. They feed the musicians. They learn a lot of soft skills, etiquette dinners -- there is just a great deal of information that the girls learn -- everything from that to waltzing," said Eastwood.

Eastwood says the senior high school students are especially excited about being escorted onto the floor for their official bow. She says as part of their presentation, the girls have to present the Texas dip -- an exaggerated, Texas-style curtsy "where they bow nearly all the way down to the floor in their large white ball gown."

The event will get underway at 6:30 p.m. with a cocktail hour and debutante presentations beginning at 7:30 p.m. The evening wraps up with dinner and dancing. Also included will be the annual silent auction. Eastwood says prizes were collected and will be displayed by each participating debutante.

Eastwood says not only is the event a great way to raise funds and awareness about the Mid-Texas Symphony but it's also a great opportunity to introduce the program to seniors and their families wishing to participate in the future.

"We actually have the girls either be nominated or they can just contact me and they can join the program. It's for everyone one. It has nothing to do with socioeconomic status or any of those things. We want every single girl in the Guadalupe County area that would like to learn some of these soft skills and participate in the fundraising of the symphony, we would love for them to participate," said Eastwood.

Tickets are $70 each and can be purchased at the Edward Jones Investments Office (Kathy Nossaman). The office is located at 116 S. Moss St.

Kathryn Garza

Brianna Reinhard

Megan Ludzenski

Ashley Kuvet

Lorelei Chittenden

Officials remind drivers to use caution around emergency vehicles

By Jessica Domel

(Seguin) -- Officials at the Seguin Police Department are reminding drivers to slow down and use caution when passing or approaching an emergency vehicle.

The advice comes on the heels of an accident involving a Seguin Police officer's patrol vehicle. Seguin Police Chief Kevin Kelso says Officer Martina Wissman was uninjured in the collision Friday evening, but her patrol vehicle did suffer some damage.

"Basically she had responded to an accident at I-10 and 46. She positioned her vehicle to stop any of the oncoming traffic onto one of the on-ramps. So basically she kind-of put her car across the roadway blocking both lanes of eastbound traffic. A vehicle approaching did not see her out there even though she had emergency lights and everything on and didn't see her in time. As a result, he struck the left, front quarter of her patrol vehicle," said Kelso.

Wissman was not in the patrol vehicle at the time it was struck and was able to move away from her car to avoid injury.

Kelso says it's important for drivers to slow down and be cautious when approaching an area where officers are directing traffic.

"We should always be looking up ahead (and) seeing what the potential for dangers are. We should always be scanning. In an instance such as this where an officer has the roadway blocked, what you need to do is start slowing down well in advance so that you can see the officer. Sometimes it's at night, which makes it a little bit more difficult, and see what kind of commands - either verbal or hand signals - as to what the next appropriate action should be," said Kelso. "Typically, they're going to be moving you to another lane or they're going to be moving you off the roadway because of the potential threat up ahead. We need to be very attentative and make sure you do exactly what the officers are asking to avoid injury with everyone."

In addition to using patrol car lights, Kelso says Seguin Police officers can also utilize flares and cones to notify drivers of hazards or lane changes up ahead. He says the officers also don fluorescent vests so that they're visible to passing motorists.

It's also important for drivers to pay attention when officers have someone pulled over on the side of the road or when an ambulance or other emergency vehicle is stationed on the side of the roadway.

"As far as the traffic code goes, when you're approaching a stationary emergency vehicle that has visual signals going, meaning their lights and so forth, what you should do is vacate the lane closest to the emergency vehicle when driving on the highway with two or more lanes. That's when you're driving in the same direction as the emergency vehicle," said Kelso. "So when it's two or more lanes, you need to vacate the lane next to the actual patrol car. Whenever you're on a roadway that is less than two lanes, what you need to do is slow to a speed not to exceed 20 miles-per-hour less than the posted speed limit as long as that speed limit is 25 miles-per-hour or more. If the speed limit is less than 25 miles-per-hour, which doesn't happen a whole lot in our area, you need to slow down to five miles below the posted speed limit when passing emergency vehicles."

Failing to slow down for an emergency vehicle with its lights on is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $200. If violation of the law results in property damage, the driver may be fined up to $500.

Journey of American soldiers to be featured at Palace Theatre

By Cindy Aguirre-Herrera

(Seguin) -- A look into the lives of those serving overseas including those active in the National Guard will make it to the big screen Friday night in Seguin. "Where Soldiers Come From" is the first of a series of films to be shown in Seguin as part of the Texas Independent Film Network. Denise Crettenden, a board member with the Seguin Film & Arts Festival, says the group has teamed up with the Palace Theatre to host the films each month. Crettenden says she's excited about this first film featuring some of America's heroes.

"It's a documentary about a group of young men who joined the National Guard and they end up serving in Afghanistan and they serve there nine months and they come home and it follows them through that entire process in Afghanistan and after they come home. It also follows their families and friends and the town where they are from and how their deployment affects everyone. It's really interesting. You learn a lot of things that maybe you didn't know about the people that serve our country this way," said Crettenden.

Crettenden says not only will the films provide a high quality level of entertainment for the community but it will also support various charities.

"This film is part of a Texas Film Series that is going to be at the Palace this year. Every month, we're showing a different Texas film from the Texas Independent Film Network and so this is the one for January. Admission is only $3 and all of the money goes to the Veteran's Comfort Zone here in Seguin," said Crettenden.

According to Crettenden, the Veteran's Comfort Zone is a program under the direction of the Disabled American Veterans Auxilary Unit #61 and is housed at the DAV building, the former fire station on Vaughan Street. The VCZ offers a variety of services to veterans in-house and helps refer them to agencies where they can get additional help with resume writing, job searches, housing, education, emergency assistance, peer-to-peer meetings, group meetings, family support groups, Bible study, and help with VA benefits. VCZ co-chair Terri Herle will speak after the film about the VCZ, what it offers, and how the community can provide support.

The film series will continue on Feb. 11 with "Slacker 2011," a remake of the Richard Linklater classic made by 24 different Texas filmmakers. On March 10, there will be a barbecue and beer double feature that includes "Barbecue: A Texas Love Story" from Seguin's own Chris Elley and "Something's Brewing in Shiner."

This weekend's film gets underway at 7 p.m. Friday at the downtown theatre.

Seguin ISD trustee steps down from office

By Cindy Aguirre-Herrera

(Seguin) -- It was an emotional evening for longtime Seguin ISD Trustee Jeff Koehler who after many years of service to the school district has decided to officially step down from office.

Koehler, who represents constituents of District 5, took a moment Tuesday evening to publicly address his time on the school board over these past 13 years. Speaking at the podium, Koehler says the opportunity to have served the Seguin ISD and its students has truly been an honor.

"During these 13 years, we have seen many changes -- some good, some bad, some crazy and some unbelievable. I will cherish the respect and convivial relationship we all have shared. I will never regret our desire and intense focus on doing what is right for all the children in the Seguin ISD. I will fondly remember being selected one of the five best school boards in the state of Texas with the assurance that we were robbed! I will always drive by our schools proud of things we saw built and the renovations that took place at all of the other campuses. I doubt that my mind will rest until the Legislature of the State of Texas constitutionally funds all school districts not just adequately but equally -- allowing districts like ours, to do the very best for our students and teachers," said Koehler.

Koehler cites obligations with his business, Design Associates, and his family as reasons for stepping down early. He does, however, say he will leave his position with a few regrets.

"The main one being the unfinished business about a new high school. The families and citizens of this district must come together to see that a new facility be built for Seguin High School. This my friends is not a pipe dream. Every day that goes by without plans for building a new high school is a waste. Everyone in this room knows this to be true. Now the mindset of the community must focus on this real need," said Koehler.

Despite his decision, Koehler says he will never forget the students, teachers, administrators and each of the support staff members who have walked beside him all these years and who he says have inspired him personally.

Koehler during his term also applauded the opportunity to have worked alongside what he says are the two best superintendents in the state of Texas. Those, of course, being former Seguin ISD Superintendent and now Navarro ISD Superintendent Dee Carter and current Seguin School Superintendent Irene Garza.

Koehler says under their respective leadership and the team effort of current board members, the Seguin ISD in his mind has been one of the most dedicated districts around and knows that he leaves the children in good hands.

"Our slogan not only applies to the district as a whole but it also applies individually to each and everyone of you in this room. We are a district that offers an education as Good as Gold and you the people that make up this very large family are as 'Good as Gold'."

Honoring Koehler for his service to the Seguin ISD was Superintendent Garza. Garza says Koehler's service and commitment to the district will forever be appreciated.

"For us, you will be a missing link. For our team of eight, you have played a special role as a member of the board. You have dedicated a lot of time. You have been passionate about what you do each and every day for each of those 13 years that you have served. I totally will say that I'm glad to call you my friend and I wish you the best," said Garza.

As a result of Koehler resigning two years early, the Seguin ISD Board voted to exercise its option to fill the vacant trustee seat by appointment. The other option would have been to order a special election to fill the vacancy for the unexpired term. Due to the expense of calling for an election, the board unanimously felt that an appointment would be its best choice.

In the mean time, trustees are being asked to submit names of potential candidates living in District 5 to Board President Louis Reyes prior to the next regularly scheduled school board meeting. At that time, an appointment is expected to be made. Whoever is appointed to that seat will be required to serve up through the next school board election slated for November of this year.

Chili supper tradition continues at Lifegate Christian School

By Cindy Aguirre-Herrera

(Seguin) -- Lifegate Christian School will be turning up the heat this weekend. School supporters are inviting the community to the annual Chili Supper and Auction.

The fundraiser being hosted by the school's booster club will get underway at 5 p.m. Saturday.

Booster Club President Tres Hewell says the cooler temperatures expected Saturday night will be just the perfect condition to bring the family out for dinner.

"All of the parents and the students cook the chili and bring it in. Some of it is judged. Those that want to have it judged usually have it there at 4:30 and the judges come in and award the top pot of chili and the second best and the third best and everybody is awfully proud of their own chili," said Hewell.

Hewell says this weekend's fundraiser is one of the largest for the school with all proceeds go directly back to the students.

"Lifegate Christian School was founded in 1981 so it is our 31st Chili Supper so we're really excited about that. The booster club has always sponsored the chili supper and the purpose is to help the school. We're a K-12 school and we're there to assist and help the school in whatever needs they may have whether it be desk and chairs or computer equipment or sports equipment for the football team or the volleyball team or the basketball team or the track team. We help fund our academic competitions and sporting events through our proceeds. This year, we're anxious to work on our playground some more so that's kind of one of our goals for this year," said Hewell.

Saturday's event will include the chili supper, live and silent auctions plus kids activities. Meal tickets are $7 each and will be available at the door.

Seguin Little League registration deadline nears

By Sennett Rockers

(Seguin) - The deadline for Seguin Little League baseball and softball registration is fast approaching. The last day for players to register for 2012 season is a little over one week away.

Monty Trost, a member of the Seguin Little League board of directors, says registration requires just one trip to the little league complex in Starcke Park.

"It is now time to sign up your child or children to play for the 2012 baseball and softball season with Seguin Little League. The registration deadline is (Saturday), Feb. 4. Folks can pick up a blank application on the south wall behind the concession stand down there at the fields. The registration fee is $60 per player with a maximum of $150. So, if somebody has five kids they all play for the maximum fee of $150," said Trost.

A focus for every age group is to improve baseball and softball skills, and Trost believes little leaguers benefit off the field, as well.

"It just helps develop kids and you can almost look back over history and see that kids that have played little league, they just bond better with other kids. The athletic experience, the exercise, it's all positive things for kids," said Trost.

Seguin Little League is also looking for sponsors for the upcoming season. Sponsorships are available for a team, a field sign, or a scoreboard. For more information about registration or sponsorships contact Seguin Little League at (830) 372-1221.

Vocalists sought for annual Noche De Gala contest

By Cindy Aguirre-Herrera

(Seguin) -- This weekend will mark the first step for those wanting to compete for the big prize during this year's 27th Annual Noche De Gala Competencia de Vocalistas. A mandatory meeting is scheduled for this Saturday afternoon for all interested participants. The mariachi singing contest hosted by Teatro De Artes De Juan Seguin is scheduled for Saturday, March 10 at Texas Lutheran University's Jackson Auditorium. Serving as co-chairpersons will be Gilbert and Glenda Moreno.

Organizers says the competition is open to anyone wishing to showcase their mariachi singing talent on stage accompanied by a professional mariachi group. This years' live mariachi group that will be accompanying the vocalistas is Mariachi Los Herraderos de San Antonio.

Vocalistas will compete in four divisions: youth, amateur, professional, and masters division (previous winners of the professional division). Past competitions have drawn contestants of all ages representing cities such as Seguin, Austin, San Marcos, Stockdale, Kingsville, New Braunfels, Lockhart, San Antonio, Beeville, Luling, Prairie Lea, Houston and Sutherland Springs.

Singers (vocalistas) wishing to participate in the competition should provide their name, address and telephone number by contacting Gilbert or Glenda Moreno at 830-303-3320 or by emailing teatrodeartes@yahoo.com. Registration is also available by calling Teatro VISTA worker Cristobal Sanchez at 401-0232 or Teatro Coordinator, Yvonne De La Rosa at 210-367-7832.

Registration packets are available at

<www.teatrodeartes.org>. The mandatory meeting will be held at Teatro's Cultural Arts Center located at 921 W. New Braunfels St.

Pair of free throw contests being made available to local children

By Cindy Aguirre-Herrera

(Seguin) -- Kids will be taking it to the hoop this weekend. Two individual free throw contests are being held in Seguin Saturday at the St. James Catholic Church Gymnasium. The first Hoop Shoot free throw contest will be hosted by the Seguin Elks Lodge. This contest is open to boys and girls ages 8-13.

Contest chairperson Teresa Cohen says the contest is a standing tradition for the local civic organization.

"This is a national free throw that the Elks put on throughout the country. Last year, they had two million children that participated in this free throw shoot. So Saturday morning, we will go to the gym and we will register them and then they'll shoot 25 free throws. The top six winners then go to district and district is Feb. 11 in New Braunfels. There's no entry fee. Trophies are given to the first and second place winners," said Cohen.

Cohen says she encourages families to make time in their already busy schedules to give their child a chance at going to nationals.

"It's a lot of fun for the children. It's a nationally recognized free throw contest and we would just love to have them out. I think they would all have a very good time," said Cohen.

The Elks Lodge free throw contest begins with registration at 9 a.m. Saturday. The cost is free.

Also inviting kids onto the court this Saturday is the Knights of Columbus. The international Catholic fraternal service organization will be hosting its own contest from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday at the St. James gym.

Organizers say the KC hoop shoot is sponsored annually with winners progressing through local, district and state competitions. This particular contest is open to boys and girls ages 10 to 14 years old. All participants are required to furnish proof of age and written parental consent. To enter call Alejandro Guerra at 830-822-2765.

Officials rescue three from low-water crossings

After receiving over three inches of rain Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, the water rose enough to reach the foundations of several homes in the Elmwood area. Courtesy photo.

By Jessica Domel

(Seguin) -- Although the three to six inches of rain that fell over Guadalupe County Tuesday night and Wednesday morning may have been a welcome sight to local farmers and ranchers, the rain did cause some problems for drivers as they attempted to make their way to school or work Wednesday.

Seguin Fire/EMS Battalion Chief Rusty Krueger tells KWED and the Seguin Daily News that at least two people had to be rescued after their vehicles became stuck in low-water crossings.

He says the first person was rescued near the Baer Creek Subdivision.

"We had a person drive into a low-water crossing in the subdivision at Baer Creek," said Krueger. "We used our aerial ladder to do a pick-off. We extended it out to the car and actually had a ladder where he was able to climb up into the ladder."

The male driver was reportedly uninjured following the incident.

Krueger says the second rescue occurred on FM 2438 at Mill Creek.

"She was actually sitting on the ledge of her window. It actually created a challenge for us because it was like 500-yards wide there, so the rescuers had to get in their rescue gear and had to walk out to get her and escort her out," said Krueger.

That driver was also reportedly uninjured.

Sheriff's officials also report that a third driver had to be pulled from a vehicle stuck in a low-water crossing. That driver was reportedly rescued by volunteer firefighters in the 200 block of Cottonwood Creek Road. No word yet on that driver's condition.

Water covered dozens of low-water crossings across the county Tuesday night and Wednesday morning. Officials from the county road and bridge department, the Guadalupe County Sheriff's Office and Seguin Police Department barricaded or closed many of those roads as conditions became too dangerous to allow drivers to pass.

Seguin Fire Marshal Greg Dreiss says it's important for drivers to remember - turn around, don't drown. He says even a few inches of water can cause tires to lose traction and begin to slide. Twelve inches of water can float many cars while two-feet of rushing water will carry off pick-up trucks, SUVs and many other vehicles.

When the area receives too much rain in a short period of time, water fills many of the low-water crossings and can cover a missing segment of a roadbed or missing bridge.

Officials from the Texas Department of Public Safety also warn that in flash flood situations, waters rise so rapidly that the water may be far deeper by the time you are halfway across a low area, trapping you in your vehicle. They say that's why it is best to avoid low-water crossings and flooded roadways.

It's also illegal to drive around barricades set up by law enforcement officials to keep drivers away from low-water crossings.

The rain also caused some alarm for residents who live in lower-lying areas of the county Wednesday.

Krueger says as he was checking a local neighborhood, he noticed that water was flowing down the street, so fire officials walked door-to-door to warn residents of the Elmwood Subdivision.

"Down in the area around Monticello and Hermitage, we had some water actually in the first floors of some of those houses," said Krueger. "Of course they're built up off the ground, so there was not any damage to the lower floors because they're basically ready for that."

In response to water covering some area roadways preventing school buses and parents from getting through, the Navarro Independent School District also cancelled its classes Wednesday.

Country refrains from sounding flood sirens during storm; Emergency officials remind residents of warning system

By Cindy Aguirre-Herrera

(Seguin) -- Wednesday morning's downpour left more than several inches of rainfall. For some, it left questions as to why the flood sirens were not sounded throughout Guadalupe County.

Helping to clear up any confusion that residents may have is Dan Kinsey, Guadalupe County's Emergency Management Coordinator. Kinsey says the county, who had been carefully monitoring the weather a couple of days in advance, has a specific procedure in place for the sounding of the flood sirens throughout the city of Seguin and county.

"Most of it fell in the northeastern part of the county. So east of the Guadalupe River is where we got the highest amounts - kind of the Geronimo Creek, Alligator Creek watershed. We have procedures for the Guadalupe River - at what flow we would sound the sirens. It never reached that through the lakes, so they weren't sounded there. Now on the Geronimo Creek, we do have sirens over on that Geronimo creek side, but we don't have any gauges there to tell us at what level the water is. So that's really at the request at the city of Seguin that we would sound the sirens on that side. They evaluated the situation of what they saw. There were four homes in the Elmwood Subdivision that were going to be threatened, and rather than sounding the siren, it is 130 decimals so it can be heard a mile diameter from the siren, they would just knock on the doors of those four homes rather than to cause a larger alarm and panic. So that's how they handled that," said Kinsey.

Like the handful of homes in the Elmwood Subdivision, Kinsey says homes in another part of the county also experienced similar flooding.

"There was potentially some minor flooding on the Guadalupe below where the Geronimo meets the Guadalupe, but we have one gauge down there at (FM )1117, but by the time that we know it is flooding there, it's flooding there. So you're sounding the siren to tell the people it's flooding, but by that time, they already know that," said Kinsey.

Kinsey says residents should educate themselves about the layout of the properties and low-water crossing areas that surround their homes, schools and places of employment.

He says when it comes to heavy rainfall, Guadalupe County remains a prime candidate for localized flooding.

"The thing is Guadalupe County in its entirety is in flash-flood alley - especially along the rivers near the Cibolo, the Guadalupe River and the San Marcos. If you live here, you really have to pay attention to the situation. The forecast is just an educated guess. It's not an exact science. We don't know really until it's very close in of how much rain we are going to get," said Kinsey.

When the flood sirens do sound, individuals are asked to tune into radio station AM 1580 KWED for details and the latest weather information. The radio station works in complete partnership with the emergency officials in the city of Seguin, Guadalupe County and with the Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority to bring safety warnings to its listeners.

Residents are also encouraged to follow updates from the Guadalupe County Emergency Management Office both through Twitter and Facebook.

Nearly 100 county roads closed following downpour; County addresses effort to close flood gates throughout area

By Cindy Aguirre-Herrera

(Seguin) -- Emergency and safety officials apparently weren't the only ones out keeping a close eye on rising waters Wednesday morning. The Guadalupe County Road and Bridge Department was also put into full force. Road and Bridge Administrator Larry Timmermann says his guys set out during the early morning hours to place barricades and close roads that were experiencing high waters.

"Generally when we have an event like we had (Tuesday) night, the sheriff’s department will notify us when the water starts to rise. Myself and my assistant start checking the crews out, and last night we had six crews out starting at 3 a.m. Depending on what area it is, the flood gates are generally along Geronimo Creek and Alligator Creek, so they start on the northern end of that watershed and come down," said Timmermann.

A few concerns were raised on a few of the flood control gates that were apparently not locked Wednesday morning. One of those in particular was the west side of the gate along Timmermann Road on Geronimo Creek.

According to Timmermann, that area was assessed later on that morning, and at the time didn't need to be closed. That particular side of the roadway was eventually closed at around 10 a.m. by the Guadalupe County Sheriff's Office following a call from a concerned resident.

"We try to close each side. We like to have a man on either side of the creek, but sometimes it works and sometimes we can't get to all the gates to close them. We are limited just like the traveling public. Sometimes we can't through a water crossing to close a gate, "said Timmermann.

Timmermann stresses that his crew does the best that it can to get to each of the crossings. He says there are approximately 90 crossings that are checked during severe weather conditions.

"Well set up a barricade farther back down the road to warn the public not to cross there or not to go through there that the road is closed. Both myself, my department and the sheriff's department has keys to the locks on the gate. The sheriff's deputies also have keys, and they can close those gates anytime they see fit, and they can also open them, "said Timmermann.

Timmermann says county personnel obviously can't close all gates and roads simultaneously making it important that residents remember to follow the general rule - turn around, don't drown.

As a result of continued bouts of localized flooding following heavy rain, the county is currently in the process of applying for a grant to help with the purchase of automatic signs warning drivers to avoid low-water crossing areas.

Seguin ISD reviews superintendent performance
(Seguin) -- Seguin ISD's top administrator is getting a thumbs up. Members of the Seguin ISD Board of Trustees Tuesday night spent nearly four hours behind closed doors evaluating and discussing the job performance of Superintendent Irene Garza.

Trustee Nancy Ayotte says at the end of it all, the board is pleased with Garza's dedication to the education of students in the Seguin ISD.

"Regarding the superintendent contract, we did her evaluation. It was a good evaluation. We were happy with her performance. At this time, we're not going to take any action on her contract. We may review that during the budget process, but for now she is okay with leaving things as they are," said Ayotte.

Ayotte says Garza is currently operating under a three year contract - a contract that keeps her in the position through 2015-2016. She says due to the length of the contract, both the board and Garza felt it was best to not lengthen the contract at this time.

As far as additional compensation, Ayotte says both parties again agreed that no increase in salary will be granted at this time.

"Over the last couple of years because things have been tight, we have maybe extended her contract or done something like that but not necessarily done any salary change at that time. We've waited until later at her request at first. Now it's just kind of become habit for us to wait and do all of that at the same time," said Ayotte.

Garza says while she is appreciative to the board for a good review, she is also ready to tackle those issues that still need to be addressed.

"When you look at those candid conversations that are had, you can continue to do good things for kids and you can continue to put systems in place and continue to make progress. We have a great group of staff members and students that we serve in our community. Standards continue to change. When you look at the expectations that are handed down from the state, we're looking at the STAAR assessments and the end-of-course assessments, there's always continual discussion on how you advance the education of the kids that we serve. We're able to keep the discussion very focused on what's in the best interest of kids, and that's what makes it great to be a part of this process," said Garza.

This marks Garza's seventh year to serve as superintendent of schools for the Seguin ISD.

Three juveniles arrested following break-in at KC Hall; Officials say one of the suspects fell through the ceiling

Officials with the Knights of Columbus say someone fell through the ceiling of the KC Hall during an attempt to burglarize the building.

By Jessica Domel

(Seguin) -- At least one local teen fell approximately through the ceiling of the Knights of Columbus Hall on South Austin Street while the building was being burglarized Tuesday afternoon. Seguin Police Det. Sgt. Victor Pacheco says the teen was one of three who were detained Tuesday evening after officials reportedly found the males between the ages of 12 and 13 in possession of items stolen from inside the hall.

"At about 3:57 p.m., officers responded over there for an alarm. While they were there, they found that the KC Hall was open - one of the doors in the rear of the building," said Pacheco. "Upon further investigation, they found that the building had been burglarized and was actually entered through a vent in the roof. While at the scene, they were able to locate three juveniles at an address in the 300 block of Gerdis. Upon further investigation, they located trash cans with various items from the KC Hall. So the children were detained at that point."

Despite the approximately 10-foot fall from the ceiling to the floor of the hall, Pacheco says none of the males reported injuries. He says all three were detained and transported to the Guadalupe County Juvenile Detention Center to be held for burglarizing the building.

This isn't the first time the local KC Hall has been burglarized or vandalized over the past few months. In fact, Grand Knight Greg Seidenberger tells KWED and the Seguin Daily News that the building has been damaged or burglarized at least five times.

Pacheco says at this time, it is unclear whether or not the three juveniles detained Tuesday are responsible for previous crimes at the hall.

Seidenberger and a handful of other members of the local Knights of Columbus were called to the KC Hall after the burglary alarm sounded Tuesday afternoon. After surveying the building and speaking with officials, Seidenberger told KWED that it appears as though the suspects were on a shopping spree of sorts. They reportedly took beer, wine coolers, soft drinks, candy and other snacks from the bar area, filled two trash cans with the items and then dragged them outside the hall.

(KC HALL continues below)

Seguin Fire/EMS personnel were called to the Knights of Columbus Hall Tuesday evening to help officials from the Seguin Police Department onto the roof of the KC Hall after it was burglarized. Officials utilized the ladder on the fire department's truck three to gain access onto the rooftop where the burglary suspects reportedly gained access to the building.

(KC HALL continues from above)

"They gained access to the roof of the building by crawling up our electrical service panels. They had some kind of tool, and they smashed our turbine vents and gained access through a hole in the roof. As they were maneuvering towards the building, (they) fell through," said Seidenberger. "They took out a bunch of ceiling tiles. They broke one of the air-conditioning ducts. We're very fortunate that the individual was not injured severely because that's a 10-foot fall. So that's the major damage. The second major damage, which is the hardest one for us to repair because it takes time, is that they discharged fire extinguishers in the building. Everything in the building from our flags to our curtains to our stage to our trash cans, chairs and tables and the floor is coated with a fine powder. It's the residue from the fire extinguishers. That's just taking time for us to clean it, to mop it and get it repaired."

The Seguin Fire/EMS Department was called to the KC Hall along with officers from the Seguin Police Department Tuesday evening. Seidenberger says when officials first found the rear door open to the hall, they looked in and saw a cloud of what appeared to be smoke so the fire department was called in as a precaution.

That smoke turned out to be the powder from the fire extinguishers that had been discharged inside the building.

While the Seguin Fire/EMS Department was on-scene, they also assisted SPD personnel by transporting an officer to the roof of the building via the fire department's ladder truck. While on the roof, the officer was able to recover two of the turbine vents that had reportedly been damaged by the juveniles as they tried to gain access to the hall.

"I've been very impressed with the police department, the sheriff's department and they responded every time we've called. They've been very thorough in their investigations. They've tried to help us. They've tried to deter further actions. They've been patrolling the area, and that's been a real benefit to us. We're very grateful," said Seidenberger. "Also citizens calling in, alerting the police department or alerting some of our members that something's going on has been a big help. This past summer we had some incidents, and concerned citizens called us and said, 'Hey, there's something going on' or they called the police department. (Tuesday) when the incident occurred, I am so impressed with the response of the police department and the fire department. EMS showed up as a contingency. The detectives were so thorough, and I was just really proud to be a citizen and have that kind of protection and support from the professionals."

Despite the damage to the building, Seidenberger says the KCs were able to hold a meeting in the hall Tuesday evening. He said the group also planned to hold bingo as regularly scheduled Wednesday.

Pair arrested for shooting at Congressman's office, police vehicle

Diana Garza Julian Navarro

By Jessica Domel

(Seguin) -- Damage caused by a BB/pellet gun has landed an 18-year-old Seguin woman and a 25-year-old Seguin man behind bars. Seguin Police Det. Sgt. Victor Pacheco says Diana Garza and Julian Navarro were taken into custody Tuesday afternoon for acts of criminal mischief with damage estimated at over $1,500, which is a state jail felony.

"There was a current investigation going on in which a Seguin Police officer's patrol vehicle was damaged. It was shot five times with what appeared to be a BB gun or pellet gun type weapon. There was also a second case that was being investigated in which two window panes where shot out with a BB gun or pellet gun in the 100 block of North Austin Street," said Pacheco. "Investigation led to use to two possible suspects Diane Garza and Julian Navarro. The investigation led to them admitting to shooting the police car and the building."

The officer's patrol vehicle was reportedly shot five times with a BB/pellet gun Nov. 24 while the vehicle was parked at the officer's home overnight. Police say the BB/pellets caused the driver's side window to shatter and also reportedly caused paint and body damage.

The second incident, in the 100 block of North Austin Street, reportedly involved the office space occupied by US Congressman Henry Cuellar. That building is currently owned by a local attorney according to police. Officials say damage to that structure is estimated at over $2,500.

Pacheco says during a traffic stop on Dec. 8, officers reportedly found loose BBs, several boxes of pellets and CO2 canisters in a vehicle tied to the suspects. After investigating the mischief to both the building and the police officer's vehicle, Pacheco says police were able to tie the traffic stop, Navarro and Garza to the acts of mischief.

He says at this time police believe the shots were fired at the patrol car and the congressman's office as acts of retaliation.

"It was in retaliation to recent traffic citations by the police against one of the suspects," said Pacheco.

Garza was held in the Guadalupe County Jail in lieu of a $20,000 bond. She has since been released after posting bail.

Navarro is currently being held in the county jail in lieu of a $20,000 bond.

Seguin receives over three inches of rain

Check out the KWED rain gauge!

Rain cause school cancellation in NISD

(Geronimo) -- Navarro ISD schools are closed today. The district originally planned to delay the start of school, but Superintendent Dee Carter says only about 30 percent of the bus routes are open at this time, which led to the decision to cancel school today.

City Council approves contractor for Geronimo Creek Sewer Project; Oak Village North residents again voice concerns regarding contractor, sub-contractor

By Jessica Domel

(Seguin) -- Oak Village North residents filled the Seguin City Council Chambers Monday night as the council voted four-to-three to hire Salinas Construction Technologies as the contractor for the fifth phase of the Geronimo Creek Sanitary Sewer Project.

Of the over 60 residents who attended the specially-called meeting, 15 spoke out against the hiring of Salinas Construction Technologies Monday night and asked the council to instead do more research before awarding the contract to the lowest bidder.

City Manager Doug Faseler explained that last week the Seguin City Council opted to award the bid to the company, but only on the condition that company's background be further evaluated. The action was taken after area resident Forrest Mims presented the council with negative reviews of Salinas Construction's past performance for the city of Agua Dulce. Faseler says the reviews are complete and they are ready to move forward.

"Mayor, council, if you'll recall at the last council meeting the bid was awarded to Salinas Construction Technology with the condition that staff go back and verify some of the issues that had been brought up by the public as well as do some further reference checks," said Faseler. "Staff has done that. Provided are the reference checks that TRC Consulting Engineer provided for us as well as phone interviews that our city engineer has done with Bexar County, the city of San Antonio and TxDOT. In addition, our city attorney has done some research into some claims made at the last meeting and presented some of his findings."

City Engineer Joe Ramos says that he went back and did additional reference checking with several entities that had not been contacted previously by the city.

"There are three references provided for you, and what I did is basically I just called them on the phone and talked to them about Salinas. You'll see the responses I got from them," said Ramos. "Of the additional references that we checked, we didn't find anything that causes any concern or any alarming issues."

The city received six positive responses, three negative responses - including the review by the city of Agua Dulce - and three responses that were not directly associated with the quality of the work.

Councilman Don Keil says that he did his own internet research on Salinas Construction Technologies and said that he found that there were several instances in which Salinas was not the lowest bidder for a project, and the company was still selected to do the work.

He says he doesn't feel the company is a low-bid type of operation and he thinks going out for additional bids could end up costing the city more money.

"I went 25 pages deep into at least three major search engines, and the only thing I could find in reference to them were the two incidents that Mr. Mims brought out as far as any kind of negativity. I think that can be found pretty much for any contractor. I did find that they were just awarded a highway bid in Bandera County I think on Highway 16. That started in December.

He continued, "What happens down the line if we should reject this? I don't know that we could come back with any kind of real economy that's going to justify delaying this thing. So that's the one thing I worry about. I think the folks are justified in their concern, and I respect all that they have. I think any re-bid on this could really put us in a deep financial hole on this whole project," said Keil.

Councilwoman Mary Louise Gonzales voiced her concerns at the meeting not about the Salinas Construction company, but about their choice of subcontractor for the project. Solo Construction would be the sub on the new job.

Gonzales says she's concerned about some of the previous work that Solo did for the city on a past sewer expansion project.

"I'm just a little concerned about that since they have the problems over here with the (Seguin Outdoor) Learning Center. As far as anything else, I think we've pretty much checked everything. All contractors have some problems. You can't go perfectly well on everything, but we've checked pretty much everyone. I don't have any problems except the Solo," said Gonzales.

According to representatives from Salinas Construction Technologies, Solo Construction has already been selected to be the sub-contractor for the project.

Gale Minton, a resident of Oak Village North, voiced her concern with the project and with the city's decision to select the lowest bidder to handle the next phase.

"From the very start with Phase 3 - disaster. Probably a low-bid contractor. Then Phase 4's ongoing mess - again, probably a low-bid contractor you're considering suing. The Outdoor Learning Center problem - the contractor never to be used again by the city of Seguin - probably a low-bid contractor. A pattern seems to be occurring here that the city council's approving a sub-standard contractor or low bidder all the time with every one of these projects costing the city a lot more money," said Minton. "So as a citizen of Seguin, I'm beginning to be alarmed as this trend is continuing."

Minton chastised the city council and accused the council members of ignoring reports from Mims regarding work on past projects.

"If he (Mims) made you look bad, it's because the city officials who are responsible for doing their job correctly have failed. So it is them you need to reprimand and find out why this job was not done correctly. Stop blaming Forrest Mims and we the citizens for any incompetencies on part of the city. If a citizen asks a question, then the citizen has the right to an answer. Those are our citizen rights. I would like to ask our city councilman Mr. Pees - get your flack jacket on - do you listen to we the citizens in District 8 Mr. Pees? You have heard our concerns in all the city council meetings. You attended the meeting on Jan. 10, and you listened then; however, I believe you have a personal vendetta against us in Oak Village North because Mr. Pees, our city council representative for District 8, you're the one that made the motion to accept Salinas Construction despite the revelations made known at the city council meeting and again tonight which is why we're all here tonight sir. We're all appalled at you and your actions. Have you ever tried to understand our concerns? You sir do not value customer service," said Minton.

Skip Skonnard, who also lives in Oak Village North, compared the hiring of a contractor for the sewer project to that of finding someone to work on a home.

"Your house, your own home, your personal home you paid for to retire in has a bad foundation. You go out and get three bids. One is $30,000. One is $40,000 and one is $60,000. You go out and get your references and they all look good. In fact, the $60,000 guy says, 'Trust me, anything goes wrong, and I'll be here tomorrow. I'll build your house over.' So you look at the $30,000/$40,000, and then somebody comes up and says, 'You know that $30,000 guy, he sunk my home. He split in half. He ruined it. I had to bring someone else in and spent $50,000 to fix it.' He says, 'If you don't believe me, ask Joe.' So you ask Joe. Bottom line is, you know where this is going.

He continued, "If this was your home, and you had to spend $30,000, $40,000 or $60,000, knowing what you know today - and I'm not saying Mr. Salinas is bad, he may be good - but would you investigate some more? Would you stop and ask yourself? Would you investigate some more before you gave this man $30,000 to fix your home? He may be perfectly the best, and it may be that his brother-in-law hates him and came up with this story and spread rumors, but you don't know that right now," said Skonnard.

Oak Village North was placed in Councilman Bob Pees' district after it was annexed. Pees says despite what people might say, he's very serious about the project and is concerned about the way it will work with Oak Village North.

"Contrary to what some people believe, this is not the first sewer line that we've ever laid. We lay them all over the city without problem and without the help of some outside people. That is why in my motion last week I stipulated that we would do further investigation. That's why tonight I made the stipulation in my motion that we would have close and continual oversight in the project. I can assure you that I will insist upon that being followed all the way through the project, and I'm going to be watching it real close," said Pees.

The council voted four-to-three to approve the awarding of the contract to Salinas Construction. Council members Pees and Keil voted in favor of Salinas. They were joined by council members Nick Carrillo and Steve Tschoepe. The "no" votes on the council were cast by council members Gonzales, Tomas Castellon and Carlos Medrano.

Officials remind drivers to use caution around emergency vehicles

By Jessica Domel

(Seguin) -- Officials at the Seguin Police Department are reminding drivers to slow down and use caution when passing or approaching an emergency vehicle.

Wissman was not in the patrol vehicle at the time it was struck and was able to move away from her car to avoid injury.

Kelso says it's important for drivers to slow down and be cautious when approaching an area where officers are directing traffic.

Navarro ISD considers football field renovation

By Cindy Aguirre-Herrera

(Geronimo) -- The Navarro ISD is looking at tackling problems with its football field. Superintendent Dee Carter says the district has begun discussion on the possible renovation of the playing surface at Erwin-Lee Field.

Steps toward a possible renovation of the field and drainage system were presented Monday night to members of the school board by Bill White and Steve Carrollway of Texas MultiChem. The company was asked to examine the field and assess its current condition.

"He was pretty critical when he came and very open about the condition of the grass, the fact that the drainage on the field is really poor because it's almost flat. That's not a good situation for drainage and good turf growth out on a field. Our field gets tremendous use because it's really the only field that we have for junior high and for high school. Even our intermediate school uses the field on occasion for their activities plus band and community groups. So it has really taken a beating over the years, and it shows it," said Carter.

Carter says the suggestion to renovate the football field is no overnight idea. She says in 2010, the district's facilities committee listed the deteriorating football field as its number one athletic priority and number seven in the district's overall priority list. She says the district felt it was important to consider the project since the first six priorities have either been address or are currently underway. One of the those projects is the renovation of the old junior high gym.

"We're looking at options right now. What the board heard (Monday) night was the assessment from the gentleman from Texas MultiChem on what it would take to really give us a field that would last for years and years if it's properly cared for. That involves killing the vegetation as soon as it emerges - that would be about the middle of March - and then stripping off all of the dead grass and installing a new irrigation system and increasing the drainage on one side of the field. The visitor's side drainage has been improved greatly over the past couple of years, but the home side needs a little bit of work and then bringing in a lot of top soil and then laser-grading that to ensure a very precise sloping on the field so that it would drain properly and then either installing sod, sprigging or seeding the field so that it would be ready by next August," said Carter.

If the district decides to move forward with the football field renovation, the estimated cost will be approximately $219,000. Carter says the district at this time is fortunate to be in good financial shape to consider such projects.

"I'm very glad that we have the financial ability now to be chipping away at these projects and able to think about what we can do to improve our facilities," said Carter. "Our audit showed that we have $3.5-million in fund balance, so we have surpassed what we must have in order to be in TEA's good graces. I'm so delighted about that, and it leaves some funds."

Carter says the district is working hard to address pressing issues district-wide. She says the district is faced with growth and even a stronger demand for better facilities.

"We crossed the 1600 student mark this fall. That's the very first time that we've had that many children at Navarro. So our growth seems to be again on an upward spiral - not uncontrolled, fast growth, but nice, moderate growth. We're 3A now, which has a lot of academic implications as well as athletic implications," said Carter. "So we're just trying to do our best to provide what we can for our kids. So I appreciate our board's help in doing that."

District officials say they hope to continue discussion of renovating the field and will hopefully considering an official vote during its next regular meeting. If the district, wants to have the field ready for August, then it is being advised to have a decision by no later than March.

Grand Champion of Show

Cameron Bargfrede, of the New Berlin 4-H Club, stands with the buyers of his award-winning steer at the Guadalupe County Youth Livestock and Homemakers' Show. Bargfrede's project was awarded the Grand Champion of Show in the steer division. Code Poerner of the Cibolo Creek FFA took home the Reserve Grand Champion of Show award. Photo by Jessica Domel.

Youth, organizers wrap up another successful youth livestock, homemakers' show

By Jessica Domel

(Seguin) -- After an action-packed weekend, organizers of the Guadalupe County Youth Livestock and Homemakers' Show are declaring this year's event a success. Mark Flanagan, chairman of the sale at the youth show, tells KWED radio and the Seguin Daily News that hundreds of Guadalupe County students benefited from this year's homemakers' sale and the livestock sale, which helped youth show participants gather money for college.

"I think people have to learn about the importance of the youth in the community that these kids are striving to become educated in college," said Flanagan. "For me, I just want to make a different kind-of like Joe Paterno wants to make an impact, I want to make a difference at being a post-graduate professional. I know what it costs to go to college. So our goal is to educate kids. I believe there's around 1,500 kids involved this year, and if you can make an impact on 1,500 kids, and by the time they graduate high school they have part of their college paid for, that's just an awesome accomplishment."

Although the final figures from the sales are still being worked out, Flanagan says he can proudly say that this year's sales raised a significant amount of money for the youth who spent months preparing their award-winning projects for the show.

"The kids' projects are always awesome down there, and a lot of people do not realize how awesome they are and what kind of projects they have," said Flanagan. "I was asked to be the chairman three years ago. The year before I took it over, I think it has raised money into the $400,000s. We developed an awesome team of very successful people, and the first year we did it, it went over half-a-million-dollars. Last year it went over $600,000, and I'm hearing right now it's over $700,000 this year."

Dozens of buyers representing organizations like the Wade Busby Memorial, businesses like Capital Farm Credit and Kirby's Korner and individuals bought projects at the sales this year.

Flanagan says because the role the buyers play is so important to the youth who participate in the show, the youth show's organizers opted to try something a little different to show their appreciation to them this year.

"One of the most important things that I've learned through time is that the one thing they will always remember is the food. Troy Brown and Nancy Brown with Next Door Catering, along with Penshorn's Meat Market, along with the Belmont Social Club, along with Cooper's Barbecue, put together a King's Feast. We provided the beverages for the people. It was a new development this year," said Flanagan. "On Friday night was the baked goods, the handicrafts, the needlepoint and also the industrial arts. On that evening, all the food was donated. The food was equivalent of feeding 400 people. We never ran out of food. We never ran out of beverages. Saturday we never ran out of food, and we never ran out of beverages. It was wonderful."

As for Flanagan, the local man says he takes the time to help organize the youth show each year because he sees how important it is to the youth of the community and their futures.

"This was the 71st year. For me, one of my mentors is Tuddy Dietz, and 21 years ago I had never been involved in this project. He encouraged me to do that. He actually brought out the hog panels, paid for it out of his own pocket. He had a high school student named Mark Cerda, and that's how I got started," said Flanagan. "It's my opportunity to give back. The more people we get involved, it has a greater impact on the economic impact in our community."

Although the 71st Annual Guadalupe County Youth Livestock and Homemakers' Show wrapped up Sunday, Flanagan says organizers are already preparing to make next year's show even better.

"I'm going to make a very concerted effort with my team of people to go out to different businesses and educate them on the value of supporting this organization and the impact they can make in supporting the education of kids," said Flanagan. "I'm going to make it extraordinary in an effort to educate the community of what a wonderful organization this is."

The results from each category of the Guadalupe County Youth Livestock and Homemakers' Show are now available online at www.gcys.org.

Injured deputy recovering following weekend accident

By Jessica Domel

(Seguin) -- The Texas Department of Public Safety is continuing its investigation of a collision that sent two men, including a deputy from the Guadalupe County Sheriff's Office, to the hospital.

Guadalupe County Sheriff Arnold Zwicke says the sheriff's office is awaiting the official report from DPS regarding the collision that occurred at the corner of State Highway 46 and West Court Street Saturday evening.

"My understanding is that Deputy (Brad) Gostick was on patrol and was at an intersection. He had a turn signal for him to turn left, and at the same time, a driver came through, running the red light, hitting him almost head-on," said Zwicke. "The deputy luckily only received a broken hand, which will require some surgery."

Gostick and the driver of the white Dodge 2500 pickup truck that collided with the deputy's patrol car were both transported to Guadalupe Regional Medical Center by Seguin Fire/EMS following the collision.

Zwicke says Gostick was treated and released Saturday.

"We're thankful that the extent of the injury was limited to his hand," said Zwicke.

No word yet on the condition of the other driver who was hospitalized.

The Seguin Police Department, an officer from Texas Lutheran University, Guadalupe County Sheriff's Office personnel and Trooper Samson Krueger from DPS all responded to the collision Saturday.

Zwicke says DPS will handle the investigation of the accident.

"Normally our policy is that the Department of Public Safety is called in to investigate our accidents," said Zwicke. "They handle it fully - that way it removes any doubt of how the investigation was handled."

The name of the other driver involved in the collision has not yet been released by authorities.

Several lanes of traffic were blocked off Saturday evening as law enforcement officials worked to investigate that accident and treat both drivers.

Guadalupe County youth shine at annual youth livestock, homemakers' show

Over 600 students from schools across the county participated in the Guadalupe County Youth Livestock and Homemakers' Show over the weekend. The students have worked for months to raise and take care of their projects, which were presented over the weekend. The award-winning projects were then auctioned off at either the homemaker's show and ag-mechanics auction Friday evening or the livestock sale Saturday afternoon. A list of all the winners of this year's show can be found online at www.gcys.org. Photos by Jessica Domel.

City approves grant funding for bird sculpture project

By Darren Dunn

(Seguin) -- A major public art display may soon become a permanent part of the Seguin landscape. The Seguin City Council recently approved a $2,500 grant that will help to fund a bird sculpture project.

Several local artists are offering their talents for the project, including Marika Bordes, Dennis Martin, Roger Betschler, Howard Crunk, Barry Duncan and James Franklin Schmidt.

Martin spoke to the council Tuesday on behalf of the group. He says the project will feature several birds that will be placed in the city's new Walnut Springs Park in downtown Seguin. He says the idea is to enhance the public spaces while also drawing more people to the park.

"The Walnut Springs Park Bird Sculpture Sanctuary Project will provide public art for the city of Seguin. The concept for this project is based on the status of Seguin as a bird sanctuary city. The bird sculptures will enhance visitor appreciation for the park and its flora and fauna," said Martin. "The art will provide a dimension of beauty that will be another incentive for more people to visit and enjoy the park and the city."

Martin says the art pieces once completed and installed would be owned by the community. He says work on many of the sculptures is already underway.

In fact, Crunk showed council members work that's being done on an owl that will eventually be one of the art pieces in the park.

Martin says this is an important opportunity for Seguin.

"The project will become part of the community's public art inventory along with the statue of Juan Seguin and the mural on Donegan Street of early city life," said Martin. "As an engineer told me, 'Do not forget the Central Park fountain. It is a wonderful example of public art.' The project includes eight birds: a hawk, an owl, three herons, two roadrunners and a scissor-tail fly catcher. The birds are made of wood, metal and a combination of the two materials."

The project has an $18,000 budget. The group has already secured $2,500 from the Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce's Help Seguin Shine Fund Task Force.

Martin says the additional $2,500 from the city will help them attract other donations from individuals or groups. He says they have plans to raise the rest of the money needed to complete the project.

Martin described the project as a cultural landmark and an economic engine for the city, businesses and the community.

The council was unanimous in its support of the project, and the city's parks department will assist in the installation of the sculptures once completed.

Martin says they hope to get the pieces finished and installed by August of this year.

Seguin man dies following motorcycle collision

By Jessica Domel

(Seguin) -- A four-vehicle accident on North Austin Street claimed the life of a 59-year-old Seguin man Friday.

Seguin Police Officer Seth Burgoon says Armando Aleman was pronounced dead after he was flown to San Antonio Military Medical Center in San Antonio for injuries he sustained after his motorcycle was hit by an SUV at the corner of Humphreys and North Austin streets.

Sgt. Aaron Seidenberger tells KWED that traffic near that intersection was stopped prior to the accident while a driver headed northbound on Austin Street attempted to turn left.

"Traveling northbound on Austin Street, apparently traffic started coming to a stop. As it was coming to a stop, the silver Chevy Trailblazer wasn't going to be able to stop. To avoid a rear-end collision, the Chevy Trailblazer swerved into oncoming traffic not seeing the motorcycle that was coming southbound," said Seidenberger. "The Chevy Trailblazer struck the motorcycle as it was in its own lane traveling southbound. The Chevy Trailblazer then proceeded forward from momentum and struck the next car coming southbound - causing minimal damage to that vehicle."

Burgoon says the impact of the head-on collision between the two SUVs actually pushed the SUV that was hit into another vehicle behind it.

(FATAL WRECK continues below)

(FATAL WRECK continues from above)

Aleman, who was reportedly not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, was treated on the scene by Seguin Fire/EMS. He was then transported to the New Braunfels Airport to be flown via air ambulance to the San Antonio trauma center.

According to police officials, Aleman died en route to the hospital.

Burgoon says 68-year-old Florence Rainey, a passenger in the Chevrolet Trailblazer, was also transported to Guadalupe Regional Medical Center for injuries sustained in the wreck.

Her father, the driver of the SUV, identified as 93-year-old Ira Miears, was reportedly uninjured as were the other people involved in the collision.

Burgoon says the collision is still under investigation.

A young woman was also injured in a collision involving a motorcycle over the weekend. Officials say a female in her early 20s was injured after her motorcycle collided with a trailer around 2 p.m. Saturday on Church Road in the New Berlin area. The victim was treated on the scene by first responders from the New Berlin Volunteer Fire Department and the Seguin Fire/EMS Department. She was flown via AirLIFE to University Hospital in San Antonio for treatment. No word yet on her condition.

US Supreme Court throws out interim redistricting maps; Primary election date still slated for April, but could change

By Jessica Domel

(Seguin) -- The fate of Texas' primary election is unclear following a ruling by the US Supreme Court that a district court in San Antonio erred in redrawing the state's redistricting maps.

The justices voted unanimously to set aside the three-judge panel's interim maps, saying the state-approved maps do not violate the Constitution or the Voting Rights Act.

Opponents of the state-approved redistricting maps claimed they didn't reflect the increase in Texas' minority population.

State Rep. John Kuempel, who represents Guadalupe County in Austin, tells KWED and the Seguin Daily News that now that a decision has been made by the Supreme Court, a number of things can happen.

"The Supreme Court sided with the state legislator, the defendant in the redistricting case, and remanded all the maps that the district court in San Antonio drew. It remanded that back to the district court saying that they have overstepped their judicial bounds and really replaced the legislators' will with the will of the court. So what happens with those maps is that they have to go back, with certain direction from the United States Supreme Court, to be redrawn using what we passed in the 82nd Legislature as kind-of a base plan and then really just focusing on Section Two of the Voting Rights Act of where the plaintiffs said the biggest problems are. We understand that. That goes back to the San Antonio court.

He continued, "What we don't understand, getting back into the primary and when the dates will be held, there are still some other things that can happen. We're getting awfully close to making it really, really hard on the counties to hold primary elections on April 3. What can happen is that we can go to another split primary where they'll keep the races that are unaffected by the ruling on April 3 and the Texas House, Texas Senate and Congressional races could be held at a later time, or they could keep the primary unified and move everything back until May or even June. The Supreme Court didn't offer any direction considering that. So we'll have to wait and see once the district court redraws their maps," said Kuempel.

Despite uncertainty over how the state will handle primary elections, Kuempel says state legislators are happy with the ruling by the Supreme Court.

"It was the will of the people that elected us to send us up there to draw those maps, and those are the maps that we passed. Like I said before, we thought that the district court in San Antonio expressed their will over ours. It's the constitutional right of the state to be able to draw those maps, and the Supreme Court agreed with us.

He continued, "We were happy to see the outcome, and we're going forward and just waiting for more direction and hopefully a little clarity for all the constituents and voters across the state. This really is a unprecedented case. The more you visit with the people involved in it, you really understand that because it's never happened and there's no case precedent to look back to give you any explanation. Here we are, we've got to deal with it, and like I said, sooner than later, hopefully we'll get some kind of direction," said Kuempel.

In looking at the proposed redistricting maps, Kuempel says Guadalupe County was only affected in terms of who will represent this area in Washington D.C.

"The Texas House seat, my seat, was unaffected with the interim maps. So with what we passed in the legislature and what the district court proposed with the interim maps was Guadalupe and Wilson counties. That stayed the same. So I don't see any change in that. I don't see any change in our Texas Senate map that we passed and what they used as an interim map, but there is likelihood that something will change in the congressional map affecting Guadalupe County. That did change in the interim map. That is one way we will probably be affected by this decision," said Kuempel.

US Congressman Henry Cuellar currently represents Guadalupe County in Washington, D.C.

The ruling by the US Supreme Court Friday morning means the San Antonio federal court will essentially go back to the drawing board on an interim plan for the primary elections.

The primary was originally scheduled for March, and was then pushed back to April. Officials say depending on how long it takes to select an interim map, the state democrat and republican parties may again opt to push back the primary date at some point in the coming weeks.

Deputy, another driver injured in collision; SPD officer avoids injury as vehicle hits patrol car

Two people, including a deputy from the Guadalupe County Sheriff's Office, were transported to Guadalupe Regional Medical Center Saturday night following a two-vehicle collision at the corner of Court Street and State Highway 46. Trooper Samson Krueger from the Texas Department of Public Safety tells KWED and the Seguin Daily News that the deputy was headed southbound on SH 46 while the white truck was headed westbound on Court Street. The two collided near the intersection. At this time, Krueger says it is unclear who had the right-of-way at the time of the crash. The accident is under investigation. No word yet on the condition of the deputy or the other driver. The accident was the second involving a local law enforcement official this weekend. Friday evening, a Seguin Police officer's patrol car was hit as she was directing traffic away from the interstate following a single-vehicle roll-over accident near the 607 mile marker on the interstate. Officials say the officer managed to move away from the vehicle as the driver struck the patrol vehicle. The officer was reportedly uninjured. Photo by Jessica Domel.

Rescue group seeks permanent, foster homes for dogs at city, county shelters

By Jessica Domel

(Seguin) -- The down economy isn't just taking a toll on your pocketbook - it's also reportedly having a negative effect on the local pet population.

Carol Hirschi, founder of Asylum Dog Rescue, says both the city and county animal shelters have a lot of really nice dogs in need of good homes.

"It's been a tough year for dogs. With the economy, a lot of them have been dumped," said Hirschi. "The city is over-flowing, and they have some wonderful dogs down there. The county as well. They're just over-flowing with dogs."

Hirschi, who also owns the Mosheim Mansion Bed and Breakfast, says her rescue organization is housing Dachshund mixes, Chihuahuas and Chihuahua mixes that come from the Seguin animal shelter on River Street and the county animal control facility on North Guadalupe Street near the sheriff's office.

She says there's a common misconception that the animals at the public facilities are mutts, but that's not true. She says there are plenty of purebreds in the pound.

"Don't think that they don't have them. Recently at the county they had a full-blood Weimaraner, and they had a Shih Tzu downtown. There's plenty of pure-breds out of both shelters. A lot of people forget about the county. They remember that there's the Humane Society on 46, and they think that that's the county facility, but that's the Humane Society. The county pound is next to the sheriff's department. So that place is often over looked, and they have lots of really nice dogs there," said Hirschi.

There are currently several dogs staying at the Mosheim Mansion through Asylum Dog Rescue.

Hirschi says the group works with both the county and city facilities to fix and fully vet the pets that stay at the mansion until they're adopted.

"We get them checked out by a vet, and then we want to make sure that they're healthy. If they aren't, we fix them up because sometimes they've got mange, they're pregnant or they have some other issue. We get them healthy. We get them fixed. We make sure they've got all their shots. Then we try to find them a good home," said Hirschi.

Hirschi says in some ways, she believes taking the dogs out of the animal shelters and putting them in a warm home with people is better for the dogs before they're adopted.

"I think in some ways it does because it's more of a home atmosphere. We have isolation areas of course because we can't just bring a dog home and plop them in with the general population because we don't know their health status," said Hirschi. "They get a lot of affection from different people. They have a lot more space because even if they're in isolation, they have a lot of space to move around, play and things like that as opposed to a little kennel. I think the interaction is a big part of it with different people so we can get to see what their personality is, and we get a chance to get them crate trained and get a feel for what kind of person would be a good fit for them."

For those people who may like to travel or just aren't ready for a full-time commitment to a pet, Hirschi says Asylum Dog Rescue is searching for foster pet parents.

For those people who are ready and willing to adopt a pet through Asylum Dog Rescue, Hirschi says there's a modest re-homing fee involved - depending on the dog. An adoption contract is also required.

"They can meet the ones that are eligible or some of our up-and-comings and see if they can find one that's a good match. We've got some that are special needs. We have a teeny, weenie Dachshund mix who was actually - we're not sure if he was hit by a car or thrown from a car. A good Samaritan took the dog to a vet - a little tiny Dachshund mix named Lulu, and she's is just a little angel. She is like six-pounds of love," said Hirschi. "Then we have a little Chihuahua, fully house broken, up on all her shots, fixed and we know all her medical history. She's up for adoption. We have a couple of Dachshunds and Dachshund mixes that are absolutely adorable."

To see the dogs that are available through Asylum Dog Rescue, call the Mosheim Mansion Bed and Breakfast at 830-372-9905.

Pets can also be adopted through the Guadalupe County Animal Control office by calling 379-1224 and asking for animal control. The animals that are available for adoption through that facility can be seen by visiting the animal control page at www.co.guadalupe.tx.us and clicking on "Found and estray animals."

Dogs and cats that are up for adoption at the city's animal shelter can be seen in the Friday edition of the Seguin Daily News. Pets can also be seen online at by clicking on the "Animals for Adoption" link on the Animal Services section of www.SeguinTexas.gov. To adopt from Seguin’s Animal Services, call 401-2335. The office, at 809 S. River St., is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and on the weekends from 9:30 a.m. to noon. Those who adopt through the city of Seguin will receive a free voucher to spay or neuter adopted pets and reduced vaccinations at four local veterinary offices.

The Guadalupe County Humane Society, located on State Highway 46 north of IH-10, also has many pets available for adoption. You can find them online at www.gchshumane.com.

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Interested in Adopting a Pet?

Try one of these local shelters:

Seguin Animal Services

809 S. River St.

830-401-2335

Available Mondays through Fridays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and weekends from 9:30 a.m. to noon

http://tinyurl.com/SeguinPets

Guadalupe County Animal Control

3021 N. Guadalupe St. (near the sheriff's office)

830-303-8853

Available Mondays through Fridays 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon

http://tinyurl.com/CountyPets

Guadalupe County Humane Society

2484 N. State Highway 46

830-372-2055

Open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

www.gchshumane.com/

Asylum Dog Rescue

409 N. Austin St.

830-372-9905

Call for appointment

Society for Animal Rescue and Adoption (SARA Sanctuary)

Located on Rawhide Road off of Old Colony Road and Jakes Colony Road

830-401-0280

Call for an appointment.

www.SaraSanctuary.org

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