7-30-25

New Location STARR VISION

CENTER

487-2440 302 E. 2nd St., R.G.C.

Dr. Angie Ramirez Therapeutic Optometrist

CASTAÑEDA Auto Insurance & Bail Bonds

488-0808 487-7000 280 W. 2nd St. R.G.C.

Office (956) 487-6544 • E-Mail: sctc78582@aol.com • issuu.com/starrcountytowncrier Vol. 40, No. 31

WEEKLY - WEDNESDAY • JULY 30, 2025

487-2596 Diego Martinez signing with the University 4350 E. US HWY 83 R.G.C.

Former Miss Roma Laura earns The Presidents of the Southwest in Hobbs, New Mexico Ramirez Volunteer Service Award

Installment Loans 311 E Main St Rio Grande City TX 78582-4448

Phone (956) 487-3925

The City of Roma Mayor Jaime Escobar, Jr., Council Members Gaby Rodriguez, Joel Hinojosa, Jr. and City Attorney Abel Villarreal, Jr. recognized former Miss Roma, Laura Ramirez at the City Council Meeting for her recent achievement in earning The Presidents Volunteer Service Award. Miss Ramirez earned this award by Congratulations to Diego Martinez on signing into college basketball at the University of the Southwest completing numerous volunteer hours in different communities in Hobbs, New Mexico! On behalf of Rio Grande City Grulla ISD, we’re proud of your achievement and around the RGV. Keep up the good work Laura! wish you continued success!

Aiden Valdovinos Finalist for Kylie Gomez, Kassidy Lee Garcia, Joe Daniel Male Wrestler of the Year Dr. Raymond Cruz Best

FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Dental Insurance, Medicaid and Chip Accepted

487-2999 419 East 2nd St. Rio Grande City, Tx.

Mijares, and Adiel Hinojosa will represent VMS at the 2025 TAAF Games of Texas Summer Track Meet GOOD LUCK, VMS ATHLETES! Please join Veterans Middle School in cheering the student athletes who will be representing VMS and our community at the 2025 TAAF Games of Texas Summer Track Meet at Texas A&M - College Station, from July 31 – August 3, 2025!

Athletes Competing: Kylie Gomez (6th grade) – 4x100m Relay, Kassidy Lee Garcia (7th grade) – 4x100m Relay, Long Jump, Joe Daniel Mijares (7th grade) – 200m Dash, 400m Dash, Long Jump, and Adiel Hinojosa (8th grade)- 110m Hurdles. These incredible student athletes have been working hard all summer long, and VMS are so proud of their dedication and

Congratulations Aiden Valdovinos! Aiden is a Finalist for Male determination. commitment to the track program Wrestler of the Year from the All-Valley Sports Awards!

Your Rattler Family is behind and student athletes. you every step of the way! A “Champions aren’t made in 8th Annual RGCGISD Back-to-School Backpack Giveaway!! heartfelt thank you to Rio Grande gyms. Champions are made Presented by Driscoll Health Plan: Thursday, August 7 from City Parks & Recreation and from something they have deep 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. RGCGISD Fort Ringgold Multi-Purpose all the RGC coaches for their inside them — a desire, a dream, Center, 1 S. Fort Ringgold Ave, Rio Grande City unwavering time, support, and a vision.” ~Muhammad Ali Free backpacks for the first 1,000 students—while supplies last!

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Mario A. Méndez, EA Licensed to practice before the IRS (Internal Revenue Service)

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317-1124

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, JULY 30, 2025, PAGE 2

RGCGISD athletic coaches participated in a CPR and First Aid workshop

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SANCHEZ

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Roma, Tx. 78584 “Serving Our Community For Over 86 Years” (956) 487-2525 “Caring for you & your loved ones in your time of need ” (956) 847-7008

The Rio Grande City High School and Grulla High School athletic coaches recently participated in a CPR and First Aid workshop.

This hands-on training equipped the coaching staff with essential lifesaving skills and basic first aid practices to ensure the safety and well-being of the students. A big thank you to the presenters for providing such a valuable and informative session!

RGC Rattler Basketball JV team place 1st at the Mcallen Memorial Basketball Tournament

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, JULY 30, 2025, PAGE 3

Hypertension: The Silent Killer By: DHR

Dr. Dileep Menon, screenings are essential— Health Cardiologist especially for those with risk

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is often referred to as the “silent killer” because it usually presents no symptoms while quietly damaging the body over time. Many people are unaware they have it until a serious event like a heart attack or stroke occurs. This condition increases the workload on the heart and arteries, eventually leading to complications such as heart failure, kidney Congratulations to RGC Rattler Basketball JV team for finishing in 1st place at the Mcallen Memorial damage, and vision problems.

Basketball Tournament. Special thanks to Mark Sanchez for making time to coach the boys. They finished Over time, high blood with a record of 3-0. pressure can harden arteries and reduce blood flow to vital organs. Because it develops gradually and without warning signs, routine blood pressure

factors like obesity, smoking, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease.

The encouraging news is that hypertension is both preventable and manageable.

A heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, stress management, and appropriate medication can significantly reduce your risk.

If you haven’t had your blood pressure checked recently or are concerned about your DHR Health Multispecialty heart health, consider speaking with a cardiologist. Taking Clinic: 101 N. FM 3167, Suite a proactive step today could 104 Rio Grande City, TX 78582 make all the difference for For an appointment, call your tomorrow.

(956) 362-3950.

Dileep Menon, MD Cardiología

El Dr. Dileep Menon es especialista certificado en cardiología con amplia experiencia en el diagnóstico y tratamiento de enfermedades del corazón y la salud cardiovascular.

Está certificado en diversas áreas como cardiología clínica, ecocardiografía, medicina nuclear, tomografía cardiaca y cardiología intervencionista. Su enfoque médico está basado en la evidencia, lo que significa que utiliza tecnología avanzada y conocimientos actualizados para prevenir, detectar y tratar una gran variedad de condiciones cardiacas. Estas incluyen la enfermedad de las arterias coronarias, presión alta, colesterol elevado, problemas del ritmo cardiaco, enfermedades de las válvulas del corazón y trastornos vasculares periféricos.

El Dr. Menon ha estado atendiendo a pacientes en Rio Grande City por más de cinco años y continúa comprometido con el bienestar de la comunidad de Starr County.

Estudió medicina en JIPMER, en la India, completó su residencia en medicina interna en la Escuela de Medicina de la Universidad del Sur de Illinois, y su subespecialidad en cardiología y cardiología intervencionista en la Universidad de Stony Brook, en Nueva York.

101 N. FM 3167 Suite 104 Rio Grande City, TX 78582 (956) 362-3950

DHR Health proudly meets the federal definition of a “physician-owned hospital” (42 CFR § 489.3). As required by law, a list of the hospital’s physician owners and investors is available at www.dhrhealth.com. DHR, Ltd. and its affiliated entities comply with applicable Federal civil rights laws and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.

Para Usted. Por Su Vida.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, JULY 30, 2025, PAGE 4 Dyslexia should Not Hold Anyone Back. Pablo Picasso, Albert Einstein and Steven Spielberg are some notable people who dealt with Dyslexia.

Welcome, RGC High School Mighty Rattler Freshmen!

NOTICE OF INTENTION TO ISSUE CERTIFICATES OF OBLIGATION NOTICE is hereby given that it is the intention of the City Commission of the City of Rio Grande City, Texas (the “City”) to issue interest-bearing Certificates of Obligation of the City to be designated and known as the “CITY OF RIO GRANDE CITY, TEXAS COMBINATION TAX AND REVENUE CERTIFICATES OF OBLIGATION, SERIES 2025” (the “Certificates”) for the purpose of providing for the payment of contractual obligations to be incurred for the design, planning, acquisition, equipping, construction, and renovation of public property, and designated infrastructure and for other public purposes specifically being (i) water system improvements, including water meters; and (ii) the payment of contractual obligations for professional services in connection with such projects (including, but not limited to, financial advisory, legal, architectural, and engineering). The City Commission tentatively proposes to authorize the issuance of the Certificates at its regular meeting place at Commission Chambers, City Hall, 5332 East US Highway 83, Rio Grande City, Texas, at a Special Meeting of the City Commission to be commenced at 10:00 a.m., on the 17th day of September, 2025, in an amount not to exceed $1,000,000. The City Commission proposes to provide for payment of the Certificates of Obligation from a pledge of an annual ad valorem tax, as well as a subordinate lien pledge of the net revenues of the City’s Waterworks and Sewer System. The Certificates are to be issued, and this notice is given, pursuant to Section 271.041, et seq., Texas Local Government Code.

In accordance with the provisions of Subchapter C of Chapter 271, Texas Local Government Code, as amended (“Chapter 271”), the following information has been provided by the City (excludes $32,665,000.00 principal amount of outstanding debt obligations the City has designated as self-supporting and which the City reasonably expects to pay from revenue sources other than ad valorem taxes; provided, however, that in the event such selfsupporting revenues sources are insufficient to pay debt service, the City is obligated to levy ad valorem taxes to pay such debt obligations). The current principal of all outstanding debt obligations of the City is $38,310,000.00, the combined principal and interest required to pay all currently outstanding debt obligations of the City on time and in full is $48,246,858.00, the estimated combined principal and interest required to pay the Certificates of Obligation on time and in full is $1,720,368.88, the estimated interest rate for the Certificates of Obligation is 4.15% and the maximum maturity date of the Certificates of Obligation will not exceed the maximum allowed by law. Market conditions affecting interest rates vary based on a number of factors beyond the control of the City, and the City cannot and does not guarantee a particular interest rate associated with the Certificates of Obligation. The resolution designating certain outstanding debt obligations of the City as self-supporting for purposes of Chapter 271 is available upon request sent to the City at the address noted above. /s/ Gilberto Falcon

What an incredible start to the students journey at Rio Grande City High School. First day kicked off with an exciting greeting from Rio Grande City High School very own Mighty Rattler Drumline, Cheer Squad, and Drill Team, setting an energetic tone for their high school experience. During orientation, they heard from the Principal Mrs. M. Montemayor and the administration about crucial school rules and unwavering commitment to safety. This information is vital for a smooth and positive experience for everyone. Rio Grande City High School are also glad you had the opportunity to learn about the many school organizations that make the campus so vibrant. From clubs to sports, there’s something for everyone to get involved in and thrive. On behalf of the Rio Grande City High School, we’re so excited to have you here and can’t wait to see you grow and succeed as Mighty Rattlers!

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, JULY 30, 2025, PAGE 5

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, JULY 30, 2025, PAGE 6

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL 2025-SI-101 The San Isidro l.S.D. will be accepting proposals for Propane, Gasoline, and Diesel Fuel. Proposals must be in the Business Office, 5175 FM 1017, San Isidro, Texas 78588 by 2:00pm on August 12, 2025 for further information contact Mr. Leonel Olivarez at (956)481-3100.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS South Texas College is accepting competitive proposals for the following: RFP Number Description 25-26-1013 Campus Dining and/or Food Truck Services – Pecan Campus

Date Due August 14, 2025

Time 3:00 pm

Request for Proposals packages may be obtained at the Purchasing Department located at 3200 W Pecan Blvd Bldg N Ste 145, McAllen, TX 78501 (Corner of Quince & 31st St) or by calling 956-872-4681. Responses received after the specified time and date will not be considered and will be returned unopened. Email or Facsimile responses will not be accepted. All responses must be submitted in a sealed envelope. Responses need to be clearly marked on the envelope with the RFP number.

The successful respondent will not be determined on opening date.

Questions regarding this RFP or requests for additional information should be addressed to Deyadira Leal, Director of Purchasing, 956-872-4681 daleal@southtexascollege.edu, or Vanessa Campos, Senior Buyer of Purchasing, 956-872-4661 vsolis_3079@southtexascollege. edu. Responses to the RFP must be submitted to South Texas College, 3200 W Pecan Blvd Bldg N Ste 145, McAllen, TX 78501.

South Texas College is an equal education and equal employment opportunity/affirmative action employer. As an equal opportunity employer, the College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, disability, genetic information, or veteran status.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, JULY 30, 2025, PAGE 7

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, JULY 30, 2025, PAGE 8

Apartment For Rent

2 bedroom, 1 bath, kitchen, living room, stove, refrig, central A/C & heating. Rio Fence, El Arroyo. For more info, call:

956-500-3706

PUBLIC NOTICE

Pursuant to the provisions contained in ARTICLE V, Section Five (5) of the Texas Abandoned Motor Vehicle Act, we are serving notice to the owners and/or lien holders that the below described motor vehicle, has been taken into custody by Ochoa’s Wrecker Service, and will be sold. Failure of an owner or lien holder to claim vehicles within forty-five (45) days after date of this notice and make payment of all towing, preservation, and storage charges resulting from the placing of vehicles in custody shall constitute a waiver of the right to reclaim vehicle. Contact Juan Ochoa at 956-488-9789, 112 Old Military Rd., Garciasville, TX 78547 for information concerning vehicles.

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NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION AUGUST 9, 2025

Property to satisfy Landlord’s lien. Sale is on Saturday, AUGUST 9, 2025 at 10:00 A.M. Super Starr Storage, 215 North F.M. 3167, Rio Grande City Texas 78582. Property will be sold to the highest bidder for cash only. Cleanup and removal deposit may be required. Seller reserves right to not accept any bid and to withdraw property from sale. Property unknown until day of the sale.

Property includes contents of spaces of the following tenants: Odilia Saldana, Wayne Schwartz, Michelle Flores, Luis Romo, Romeo Ramirez Jr, Alberto Chapa, Stanislaus Uzoigiwe, Rolando F Perez, Patricia Galvan, Robert Cano, Julie Lara, Julio De La Garza, Pedro Bermea, Maria G Olivarez, Gerardo Alvarez, Everlin Gonzalez, Chantell K Sifuentes, Jorge Rosa III

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STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, JULY 30, 2025, PAGE 9

Registration is now open for the City of Roma’s 2025 Miss Roma Pageant

City of Roma’s 2025 Miss Roma Pageant Sunday, September 14th 3:00 – 7:00 PM Yamil R. Yunes Performing Arts Center Pageant Categories: Miss Roma – Grades 9th–12th; Junior Miss Roma – Grades 6th– 8th; Little Miss Roma – Grades 3rd–5th; and Tiny Miss Roma – Grades Kinder–2nd.

Registration Fees: Miss Roma: $15 and Junior, Little & Tiny Miss Roma: $10. Participants must be a resident of Roma, TX. If participant is not enrolled in Roma ISD, parents must present utility bill upon registration for

Become A Sponsor! The 2025 Miss Roma Pageant is happening on September 14th in Roma, TX — and Roma are inviting YOU to be part of this inspiring celebration of grace, beauty, and

community spirit. Sponsorship Levels: Gold – $300, Silver – $200, Bronze – $100, and In-Kind – Donate services or goody bag items. Your support helps fund scholarships, empower youth, and

make this event unforgettable.

Sponsors receive recognition in event materials, social media, and mentions! Contact Jasmin Lopez at (956) 849-1411 or jlopez@ cityofroma.net.

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE Hope & Help Center of Starr County Starr County, Texas

verification purposes.

Parents may register participants at Roma City Hall starting on July 21st through August 15th. https:// www.cityofroma.net/.../miss-

roma-2025.

For more information please call (956) 849-1411 and ask for any of the pageant coordinators, Jasmin Lopez, Iris Ojeda or Aly Ceballos.

The Hope & Help Center of Starr County will hold a Public Hearing to receive public input regarding the submissions of a proposal to the Office of Colonia Initiatives for the Community Development Block Grant Program for a Colonia Self-Help Center Program. This contract is through the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA), with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development as the awarding agency. The purpose of this hearing is to gather feedback from residents, community leaders, and stakeholders to ensure that the Hope & Help Center meets the needs of the community.

The purpose of this hearing is to allow colonia citizens to discuss local housing and community development needs, the amount of TDHCA funds available, and eligible activities. Citizens are encouraged to participate and share their views. Those unable to attend may submit views and proposals to County Judge Eloy Vera at the County Courthouse Annex.

Date: August 5, 2025 Time: 5:30 PM Location: La Casita, Hope & Help Center, 10 Mayorga Street, Rio Grande City, TX 78582.

The Hope & Help Center, formerly known as the Starr County Self-Help Center, was re-established under its new name as of July 2025 to reflect its renewed commitment to providing vital support services, mental health resources, educational programs, infrastructure assistance, and community development opportunities throughout Starr County.

Residents of Starr County are encouraged to attend and provide their input.

Spanish translation services will be available.

For more information, please contact: Hope & Help Center of Starr County Phone: (956) 487-2120 Email: starrcountypct3@co.starr.tx.us Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, JULY 30, 2025, PAGE 10

SPACE AVAILABLE CALL 487-6544

A Big Thanks to Our Dedicated Firefighters!

You’re in good hands.

At the Rio Grande City Fire Department, we’re committed to keeping our community safe, and that includes making sure our fire hydrants are always in top shape.

Our hardworking firefighters have been conducting thorough inspections of fire hydrants across the entire city. This vital process ensures that each hydrant is properly labeled by color, which helps improve response times during emergencies.

Additionally, our team has provided a list of hydrants that need attention from the Public Utilities Department regarding pressure issues. This proactive measure helps ensure that all hydrants are fully functional and ready to serve when every second counts.

Thank you to all of our firefighters for your dedication and hard work in keeping our city safe!

Auto • Home • Business • Life Hablamos Español

956-488-0160

103 W. 2nd Street Rio Grande City, Tx 78582