AUGUST 20, 2025 by Starr County Town Crier

Roma Varsity Volleyball Team won the Bronze Bracket Championship at the Donna Tournament

Starr County Pct.4 Hosts FirstEver Pet Vaccination Drive

On August 11, 2025, Starr County Pct. #4 Commissioner Hernan “Nune” Garza III hosted a successful vaccination drive for residents and their pets, distributing 50 vouchers for pet vaccinations.

Commissioner Garza noted that this was the ﬁrst vaccination drive ever held for pets in Starr County.

Commissioner Garza also expressed his appreciation to his secretaries, Johanna and Marlin, for their dedicated efforts in organizing the event. Plans are already underway for another initiative, which will provide vouchers for spaying and neutering.

“I will continue to work diligently on behalf of my community and our furry friends,” Garza afﬁrmed.

“I am pleased to announce that this represents a signiﬁcant step forward in our efforts to support the furry friends of Starr County,” stated Garza. We extend our gratitude to all community members who brought their beloved pets to help keep them healthy. Special thanks go to Dr. Margo, Dr. Resendez, and their staff for making this event possible.

Alex Sarabia received the Icon, Perseverance, and Emperor International

Alex Sarabia, South Texas College Psychological Science Professor and Licensed Professional Counselor, received the Icon, Perseverance, and Emperor International Awards during a ceremony in Hidalgo, Texas on July 10, 2025 among other distinguished and inﬂuential awardees.

Paul Villarreal - Hidalgo County Tax Assessor-Collector, Professor Arturo Garcia, and a committee selected the award recipients based on academic and professional merit and career longevity and success. The awardees were individuals with an impressive career and many lifelong achievements, as well as

Awards

being well known and respected in the community.

Alex is proud to be ofﬁcially named an Icon of the Rio Grande Valley with this prestigious award, representing Starr County.

School is Back in Session!

Drivers — please slow down and stay alert! Kids will be walking to school, crossing streets, and school buses will be making frequent stops. Let’s work together to keep our students safe this school year. RGC POLICE DEPARTMENT

Pet Adoption Event a Big Success!

RGC Animal Control teamed up with Tractor Supply and Girl Scout Troops 421 & 599 for a special Pet Adoption Event — and it was a tail-wagging success!

A huge thank you to all the residents who stopped by to meet the lovable dogs searching for their forever homes.

Whether you came ready to adopt or just to show your support, RGC Animal Control are truly grateful for your continuous kindness and encouragement. Missed the event but still interested in adopting one of the fantastic pets? Contact RGC Animal Control at 956-487-8892 for more information.

Rio Grande City Rattler Band presents the

Meet RGC Marching Band Seniors! This amazing group has poured their time, energy, and heart into Rio Grande City High School band program over the years. From early mornings to late night rehearsals, they’ve led with pride, passion, and purpose. On behalf of the RGC High School band, we’re so proud of their journey and can’t wait to see the legacy they leave behind this season. Let’s make this season one to remember, seniors!

Dr. Henry Herrera is proud to care for the digestive health needs of Starr County and the Rio Grande Valley. Board-certified in internal medicine and gastroenterology, he helps patients find relief from issues such as abdominal pain, heartburn, ulcers, diarrhea, constipation, inflammatory bowel disease, and gastrointestinal bleeding. He is also specially trained in advanced procedures, including endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), which allow for less invasive diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Herrera recently became the Clinical Research Director at the DHR Health Institute for Research and Development, where he works to bring innovative treatments and medical advancements to patients here in the Valley.

A Rio Grande Valley native raised in McAllen, Dr. Herrera is committed to bringing high-quality, compassionate care close to home. He earned his medical degree from The University of Texas Southwestern Medical School, completed his internal medicine residency at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, and his gastroenterology fellowship at Texas A&M Scott & White Memorial Hospital in Temple. Dr. Herrera takes the time to listen, explain, and tailor treatment to each patient, ensuring they feel informed, comfortable, and cared for every step of the way.

2nd Anniversary Mass

In Loving Memory of Ruben C. Lopez Jr.

April 12, 1969 † August 23, 2023

(956) 362-3920

Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, in Your compassion and Your love, We entrust to Your merciful Heart the souls of our beloved departed who have gone before us in faith. We hope in Your promise that all who seek You will nd eternal life- a place of refreshment, light and peace, forever and ever.

A mass will be celebrated on Saturday, August 23, 2025 at 5:00P.M. at Immaculate Conception Church

You will always be in our hearts. We Love You, your son, Ruben C. III, wife Marilie, grandkids: Ruben IV, Roel, Roman and Mariany, parents Ruben & Melba, brothers Rodrick (Becky), nephews Christopher, Mathew and Kattie.

1st. Year Anniversary

In Loving Memory of Maria Luisa Mendoza

09/30/1932 † 08/21/2024

(09/30/1932-08/21/2024)

Maria is survived by her 14 children (of which 2 are Marine veterans and 1 is an Army veteran) 30 grandchildren, 40 great grandchildren, and 8 great-great grandchildren.

Maria endured an exceptionally challenging life from childhood to adulthood which made her impressively strong.

She came from humble beginnings in Mexico, later moving to the United States as she worked as a migrant farm worker across the U.S. She o en shared stories of her travels to

Wyoming where she and her family picked sugar beets.

Maria’s family was the rst to establish the Santa Rosa community, o en being the center of neighborhood gatherings.

She was highly respected and loved by her neighbors, and was always ready to lend a helping hand; Maria was a pillar of her community. She was not only the matriarch of the family but also a pivotal member of the Santa Rosa community.

Maria was an amazing cook, who especially enjoyed eating menudo and nopales, never shying away from a chance to feed all who would come through her kitchen door.

Her beloved shopping trips to Walmart never lasted short of 2 hours. It later became a running family joke how Maria would play hide-and-seek with whoever was picking her up so she could stay that much longer. When Maria was home, she was always ready to play Loteria.

Maria passed surrounded by her beloved family in Rio Grande City, TX. At this time we look to celebrate her beautiful life and carry on her legacy.

19th Anniversary In Loving Memory Of

Feb. 4, 1984 † Aug. 19, 2006

The Broken Chain

We little knew that morning that God was going to call your name. In life we loved you dearly, in death we do the same. It broke our hearts to lose you, you did not go alone; for part of us went with you, the day God called you home. You left us peaceful memories, your love is still our guide; and though we cannot see you, you are always at our side. Our family chain is broken, and nothing seems the same; but as God calls us one by one, the chain will link again. Rambo, We Love You!

Maria Luisa Mendoza

has been reunited with her husband: Felix Mendoza (1905-1971)

August 12, 2025 School Board Meeting Highlights

In a landmark decision, the Rio Grande City Grulla ISD school board and administration allocated over $1.3 million directly back to campuses, restoring 40% plus 10% of each school’s allotted budget. is bold step strengthens academic programs, supports teachers, enhances campus resources, and most importantly bene ts our students.

We also proudly recognized our Veterans Middle School Girls Track & Field State Quali ers and Boys Track & Field State Quali ers. eir hard work, dedication, and achievements re ect the excellence we strive for across our district.

956. Three numbers that mean more than just phone calls or maps. It’s home to me. It belongs to the Rio Grande Valley. The place that raised me and an identity I wear with pride. It’s the place that shaped me and planted my roots.

The Valley reaches across small towns and growing cities, families, friends, and communities with shared memories. It’s drives to McAllen for shopping with my mom, the smell of carne asadas with my family filling the air, and the annual traditions that are carried

Area Code

in our own town that keep our culture alive year after year. The Valley is where I learned to be proud and represent who I am. It showed me that our heritage is something to celebrate, not to hide. That every sacrifice made before me was so I could dream bigger and carry our name forward. To outsiders, the Valley may look like another border region, but it is so much more than that. It’s a story that was written by generations before me so I can be in it.

There are over 300 area codes in this country, yet none will

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

ever come close to comparing with the 956. These three numbers built me. They gave a perspective I can’t wait to share. Most importantly, it taught me the value of community and the strength that comes from where you come from.

I might be living in a different city, but my phone will always be in my area code. But no matter where I go, the valley will go with me. Because the 956 is more than an area code. It’s home.

-Alma R. Peña RGC High School Class of 2025

South Texas College is accepting competitive proposals for the following:

RFP Number Description Date Due Time 25-26-1015 District Wide Exterior August 28, 2025 2:00 p.m. Wayfinding Signage

Request for Proposals packages may be obtained by calling (956) 872-4681 or emailing stcpurchasing@southtexascollege.edu

A pre-proposal conference will be held on August 21, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the STC Purchasing Department, 3200 W. Pecan Blvd., Bldg. N, Conference Room 142, McAllen, Texas. All prospective parties are encouraged to attend.

Questions regarding this RFP or requests for additional information should be addressed to Deyadira Leal, Director of Purchasing, 956-872-4686 daleal@southtexascollege.edu, or Gil Cisneros, Construction Buyer 956-872-4671 gacisneros@southtexascollege.edu

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 the opening date.

South Texas College encourages vendors to register on OpenGov and subscribe to our Procurement Portal using the link below. This will provide access to solicitation documents, receive updates, and submit responses electronically. Please note that paper-based submissions are still accepted during this transition period.

https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/southtexascollege

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.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

South Texas College (STC) is accepting Request for Proposals (CSP) for the following project:

PROJECT NAME: Nursing and Allied Health Campus Regional Workforce Development Healthcare Center Building E Project No. 25-26-1011

PRE-PROPOSAL August 21st, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. CONFERENCE TIME STC Purchasing Department & LOCATION: 3200 W. Pecan Blvd, Bldg. N, Ste. 142 McAllen, Texas 78501

PROPOSAL DEADLINE & August 28th, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. SUBMITTAL LOCATION: STC Purchasing Department 3200 W Pecan Blvd Bldg. N Ste 145 McAllen, Texas 78501

CSP documents will be available beginning on, August 13, 2025. The documents may be obtained from RGV Reprographics located at 519 South Broadway, McAllen, Texas (Phone: 956-686-1525) upon the deposit of a refundable check in the amount of $100.00 payable to South Texas College. The deposit check will be returned if the project plans are returned in good condition within ten (10) days after the proposal deadline.

Proposals shall be accompanied by a Certified or Cashier’s Check or acceptable bidder’s bond, payable to South Texas College, in an amount not less than five (5%) percent of the proposed project amount.

Proposals received after the specified time and date will not be considered and will be returned unopened. Facsimile responses will not be accepted. All proposals must be submitted in a sealed envelope. Responses need to be clearly marked on the envelope with the CSP number and name of the project.

https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/southtexascollege

CDC Launches New Campaign to Address Youth Substance Use and Mental Health

The back-to-school season is a great time to engage with youth about mental health and substance use to promote their well-being throughout the academic year. To support these conversations, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has launched Free Mind, a new national campaign that provides youth ages 12-17 and their parents and caregivers with resources and information about substance use, mental health, and the connection between the two.

The drug overdose crisis is constantly evolving and remains an important public health issue. In 2024, more than 80,000 Americans died from a drug overdose. From 2020 to 2024, 75% of overdose deaths among youth ages 10–19 involved illegally made fentanyl. In addition, the number of teens

reporting poor mental health has increased in the past decade. In 2023, 40% of high school students stopped regular activities because of persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness and one in five students seriously considered attempting suicide.

“Teens may use alcohol and other substances to help them cope with stress, anxiety, and depression,” said Dr. Allison Arwady, Director of the CDC National Center for Injury Prevention and Control. “Talking openly about mental health and substance use, and knowing when to get professional help, is critical to helping teens stay healthy.

That’s why this campaign supports youth, parents, and caregivers in having those conversations early, before an issue arises.”

CDC spoke directly with

BID NOTICE

youth about their knowledge and perceptions regarding substance use to develop messages, branding, and tactical strategies for Free Mind. The campaign seeks to resonate with this age group by addressing the connections between substance use and mental health, risk factors that contribute to drug use, and strategies to keep them safe. CDC also has created resources for parents and caregivers about the latest substance use and mental health challenges youth may face.

Visit Free Mind: Mental Health & Drug Use Awareness for Teens | CDC to learn more about the Free Mind campaign. For more information about CDC’s overdose prevention efforts, go to Overdose Prevention | Overdose Prevention | CDC.

The City of Rio Grande City will be receiving bids for the renovations of the Rio Grande City Animal Control Building on Wednesday, September 3, 2025 at 11:00 AM. Bids are to be submitted to the City Secretary’s Oﬃce located at 5332 E. US Highway 83, Rio Grande City, Texas 78582. All submitted bids will be gathered and taken to the City Hall – Chambers located at 5332 E. US Highway 83 – Suite A., Rio Grande City, Texas 78582, to be publicly opened and read aloud.

Bid Documents, Design Plans, and Speciﬁcations are available to pick-up at the City Secretary’s Oﬃce located in City Hall at 5332 E. US Highway 83, Rio Grande City, Texas 78582 or you can visit the city’s website at www.cityofrgc.com under the business tab in bid opportunities. For any questions, you can contact Eli Gonzalez, Animal Control Director at (956) 2570240.

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATION NOTICE FOR ENGINEERING AND CONSULTING SERVICES

The Rio Grande City Economic Development Corporation (EDC) is requesting sealed Request for Qualiﬁcations (RFQ) for Professional Engineering and Consulting Services for the International Drive Project.

The statement of qualiﬁcations will be due Wednesday, September 3, 2025 at 3:00 PM at the City of Rio Grande City – City Secretary’s Oﬃce located at City Hall at 5332 E US Hwy 83, Rio Grande City, Texas 78582.

The RFQ packet for Professional Engineering and Consulting Services may be obtained at the City Secretary Oﬃce – City Hall located at 5332 E US Hwy 83, Rio Grande City, Texas 78582 or at the city website link: https://cityofrgc.com/business/bids_proposal_ opportunities/index.php

For any questions, you can contact Melinda Gomez, Interim Executive Director at (956) 487-3476.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

South Texas College is accepting competitive proposals for the following:

RFP Number Description Date Due Time 25-26-1016 Catering Services September 4, 2025 2:00 pm 25-26-1017 In-Store Purchase of September 4, 2025 3:00 pm Materials and Supplies

Request for Proposals packages may be obtained through our OpenGov Procurement Portal, calling (956) 872-4681, or emailing stcpurchasing@southtexascollege.edu

https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/southtexascollege

If submitting a paper-based submission, it must be submitted in a sealed envelope clearly marked on the outside with the RFP number to:

South Texas College Purchasing Department

3200 W Pecan Blvd, Bldg. N Ste 145 McAllen, Texas 78501

Responses received after the specified time and date will not be considered and will be returned unopened. Email responses will not be accepted.

Questions regarding this RFP may be submitted through the OpenGov Procurement Portal or directed to:

Dolores Valdez, Senior Buyer, (956) 872-4627

Email: dlozano_8412@southtexascollege.edu

Vanessa Campos, Senior Buyer, (956) 872-4661

Email: vsolis_3079@southtexascollege.edu

The successful respondent will not be determined on the opening date.