BIG NEWS FOR ROMA ISD! Roma ISD has been awarded its first-ever Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) Grant — a huge $216,226 investment to expand career training opportunities for future nurses!
Mayor Jaime Escobar Jr. was honored to be invited by Alcaldesa Adriana Hinojosa Ibáñez to Ciudad Mier to meet with Gobernador Dr. Américo Villarreal Anaya.
conversations will continue as they work together toward this vital goal.
During a special ceremony at Texas Southmost College in Brownsville, state and local leaders celebrated more than $1.17 million in JET Grants for five Rio Grande Valley schools. Roma ISD proudly joined honorees Edinburg CISD, South Texas ISD, Weslaco ISD, and Texas Southmost College! What this means for Roma students: Training for 100 future licensed practical & vocational nurses in partnership with South Texas College; Upgraded hospital beds & high-tech simulator mannequins for hands-on learning; and Real-world skills with industry-standard healthcare technology. “Our students’ futures just got brighter,” said Jaime Escobar, Jr., Roma ISD CTE Director. “This is the first of many JET Grants to come!” Thank you to Governor Greg Abbott and the Texas Workforce Commission for supporting programs that prepare students for high-demand careers while building a stronger Texas workforce. We are proud to keep opening doors for our Gladiators!
During this important meeting, very positive discussions were held regarding taking the necessary steps to begin with the initial feasibility studies for a new international bridge between Ciudad Mier and the City of Roma. City of Roma are pleased to share that the Governor is in full support of this project, and
On behalf of the City of Roma, we extend our sincere gratitude to Alcaldesa Hinojosa Ibáñez for her warm hospitality and for providing us the opportunity to meet with the Governor of Tamaulipas.
This project represents a historic opportunity to strengthen trade, security, and economic development for both our communities.
RGC Cross Country has a strong start!
and Isaac Guerra placed in the top 20 in the varsity Division, and in the Freshmen division, Christian Romero, Efrain Alaniz, Guadalupe Guerrero, and Ismael Guerra placed in the top 5.
La Union Viper Cheerleaders turned heads and lifted spirits at the Grulla Middle School pep rally
Grulla Elementary young Texans had a blast exploring the Lone Star State!
Merit Energy Company is applying to the Railroad Commission of Texas for a permit to dispose of oil and gas waste by injection into a formation not productive of Oil and Gas.
The applicant proposes to dispose of oil and gas waste into the Frio formation.
The proposed disposal well, the Yzaguirre 2, API 42-427-32468 is located 2 miles NE from Rincon, TX in the Yzaguirre (7400) Field, in Starr County, Texas.
The wastewater will be injected into strata in the subsurface depth interval from 2300 to 4000 feet.
LEGAL AUTHORITY: Chapter 27 of the Texas Water Code, as amended, Title 3 of the Texas Natural Resources Code, as amended, and the Statewide Rules of the Oil and Gas Division of the Railroad Commission of Texas.
Requests for a public hearing from persons who can show they are adversely affected or requests for further information concerning any aspect of the application should be submitted in writing, within fifteen days of publication, to Technical Permitting, Oil and Gas Division, Railroad Commission of Texas, P.O. Box 12967, Austin, TX 78711 (Telephone 512/463-6792)
La Union Elementary Viper Cheerleaders turned heads and lifted spirits at the Grulla Middle School pep rally, where they lit up the event with exuberant energy and school pride. It was a thrilling moment to see the Vipers in action, uniting schools and bringing the Viper spirit! A huge thank you to KRGV Channel5News and Grulla Middle School for spotlighting La Union Viper cheerleaders and capturing the squads vibrant moment! Your support helps amplify the hard work and enthusiasm of the students and showcases the strength of the community.
Grulla Elementary young Texans had a blast exploring the Lone Star State! From its rich history and diverse landscapes to its unique symbols and culture, students discovered what makes Texas one-of-akind. They learned about the state flag, famous landmarks, and the stories that shaped our home. Grulla Elementary are proud to see their excitement as they connect with the heritage of Texas!
Starr County Judge Eloy Vera and the Commissioners’ Court signed a proclamation for the 10th Anniversary of
Rio Grande
(UTRGV), Starr County Judge Eloy Vera and the Commissioners’ Court signed a proclamation to recognize the impactful strides that the university has made in the past 10 years.
Over 60,000 degrees conferred, empowering thousands of students across the region 42 new academic programs launched, including bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and professional degrees UTRGV has opened the doors to many innovative and remarkable academic opportunities for students while remaining one of the most affordable institutions in Texas.
Managing GERD: What You Need to Know
By: Dr. Henry Herrera, DHR Health Gastroenterologist
Judge Eloy Vera and the Commissioners’ Court proclamation is more than a ceremonial gesture - it is a heartfelt acknowledgment of UTRGV’s role in shaping the future of the region.
Pictured: Top Row: Pct. 1
“We would like to extend our congratulations to its leaders, faculty, and staff on a decade of success.” -Judge Eloy Vera
Commissioner Jose F. “Kiko” Perez, Starr County Judge Eloy Vera, Pct. 2 Commissioner Raul “Roy” Pena, and Pct. 3 Commissioner Eleazar Velasquez. Pictured with the Proclamation: Richard Sanchez – UTRGV Associate Vice President for Governmental Relations.
Many of us have felt that burning sensation in the chest or throat after a meal. That’s heartburn, a common symptom of acid reflux. While occasional reflux is normal, frequent or severe symptoms may be a sign of GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). Beyond heartburn, GERD can cause chest pain, trouble swallowing, chronic cough, hoarseness, or nausea.
The good news is that simple lifestyle changes can make a big difference. Try not to lie down within three hours of eating, elevate the head of your bed, and sleep on your left side to reduce nighttime reflux. Losing even a little weight can ease stomach
pressure, and avoiding smoking and alcohol also helps. Your diet matters too. Foods like tomato sauces, fried or fatty meals, chocolate, coffee, and other caffeinated drinks often trigger reflux. Learning which foods bother you—and limiting them—can help control symptoms.
When changes aren’t enough, medications such as antacids, Pepcid, or stronger acid blockers like Prilosec and Nexium can bring relief. But if symptoms continue, it’s important to see a gastroenterologist for testing and personalized care. If you’re struggling with reflux, don’t ignore it. Visit our clinic—we’re here to help you find lasting relief and protect
your digestive health. DHR Health Multispecialty Clinic: 101 N. FM 3167, Suite 106 Rio Grande City, TX 78582 For an appointment, call (956) 362-3920.
Henry Herrera, MD
Gastroenterology
Nos da mucho gusto darle la bienvenida al Dr. Henry Herrera, quien viene a servir con orgullo a las familias del Condado Starr y de todo el Valle del Río Grande con atención especializada en salud digestiva.
El Dr. Herrera es médico certificado en medicina interna y gastroenterología. Atiende padecimientos como dolor abdominal, agruras, úlceras, diarrea, estreñimiento, enfermedades inflamatorias del intestino y sangrados digestivos. También cuenta con entrenamiento en procedimientos avanzados que permiten diagnósticos y tratamientos menos invasivos, como el ultrasonido endoscópico (EUS) y la colangiopancreatografía endoscópica (ERCP).
Recientemente fue nombrado Director de Investigación Clínica en el Instituto de Investigación y Desarrollo de DHR Health, donde impulsa innovaciones médicas y nuevos tratamientos para beneficio de los pacientes del Valle.
Originario del Valle del Rio Grande y con formación en reconocidas instituciones como UT Southwestern y Texas A&M Scott & White Memorial Hospital, el Dr. Herrera combina su experiencia médica con un firme compromiso hacia su comunidad.
101 N. FM 3167
Suite 106
Rio Grande City, TX 78582
(956) 362-3920
Para Usted. Por Su Vida.
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP)
Engineering and Grant Funding Services for Starr County Drainage Study
Proposal Due Date & Time: September 15, 2025 at 10am
Contact Person: Maricela Ibarra, Federal & State Director
1. INTRODUCTION
The County of Starr, Texas, is soliciting sealed proposals from qualified firms to provide engineering and grant funding services for a comprehensive drainage study. The selected firm will be responsible for developing a county-wide drainage assessment, identifying priority improvements, preparing cost estimates, and assisting the County in securing grant funding for the design and construction of the county-wide drainage study/assessment.
2. BACKGROUND
Starr County is a rapidly growing rural border county experiencing increased development pressures and climate-related challenges that affect stormwater management. The County seeks to address flooding risks, improve and develop drainage infrastructure, and identify feasible projects eligible for state and federal funding.
3. SCOPE OF SERVICES
The selected firm will provide both engineering and grant funding services including, but not limited to:
3. Assist in securing funds for the design, construction, and project implementation based on the results of the Starr County drainage study.
4. Prepare and submit grant applications on behalf of the County of Starr.
4. PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS
Each proposal must include the following:
• Cover Letter – Summary of the firm’s qualifications and interest.
• Firm Profile – Legal name, address, contact information, and years in business.
• Project Understanding & Approach – Narrative describing how the firm will complete the scope of services (not to exceed
• Team Qualifications – Resumes of key personnel, including professional licenses.
• Relevant Experience – Examples and description of similar drainage studies and grant-funded secured infrastructure projects completed within the past five years
• Project Schedule – Estimated timeline and timetable for major tasks to achieve underlying project herein.
• Fee Proposal – Itemized description and cost and expense structure for engineering and grant services.
• References – At least three recent clients for similar work.
• Proposal not to exceed 10 pages
5. EVALUATION CRITERIA
Proposals will be evaluated on the following factors: Criteria Weight
Experience with similar projects 25%
Qualifications of key staff 20%
Project approach & understanding 20%
Experience with grants & funding agencies 20%
Cost proposal 15%
6. SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS
RFP PACKAGES MUST BE REQUESTED ELECTRONICALLY FROM MARICELA IBARRA, FEDERAL & STATE PROGRAM DIRECTOR AT MIBARRA@CO STARR TX US
Deadline: Proposals must be received no later than 09-15-25 at 10am
Address: Starr County Courthouse Annex, Ste 202 100 N FM 3167, Rio Grande City, TX 78582
Late proposals will not be accepted.
7. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
The County reserves the right to reject any or all proposals. All costs incurred in responding to this RFP are the responsibility of the proposer. Selected firm must comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including DBE/HUB participation if applicable.
ISSUED BY:
Eloy Vera County Judge Starr County, Texas
Students can combat bullying
Students are bullied every day. Bullying can happen anywhere, but it is prevalent in school environments. Bullying is often under-reported because children and young adults may be scared of the consequences of outing their bullies.
In 2014, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Department of Education released the first federal definition of bullying. The definition encompassed three elements: 1. Unwanted aggressive behavior; 2. Observed or perceived power imbalance; and 3. Repetition or high likelihood of repetition of bullying behaviors.
DoSomething.org says around 20 percent of students between the ages of 12 and 18 have been bullied during the school year, and more than 150,000 teens have skipped school because of bullying. The Pew Research Center reports that 35 percent of U.S. parents with children younger than 18 say they are extremely or very worried that their children might be bullied at some point. Those fears may be warranted, as the Monique Burr Foundation for Children reports a child is bullied on a playground every seven minutes and between 50 and 77 percent of students report having been bullied.
Bullying victims may feel they’re in a helpless situation,
but students can do their part to curtail bullying and report offenders. Here are some actions students can take, courtesy of StopBullying.org.
·Treat others with respect. Students should stop and think before they do or say anything to another person that has the potential to be hurtful. Making it a point to be nicer to others and recognizing that everyone is different is a start.
·Apologize for past behaviors. Those who think they may have bullied someone in the past should own up to it and apologize with meaning.
·Talk to an adult. Students can talk to an adult they trust if they are being bullied or have witnessed another person being bullied. Telling someone can help a person feel less alone. This person may help develop a plan to stop the bullying.
·Stay in groups of friends. Most bullying happens when adults aren’t around or when a person is isolated. Having a strong group of friends can deter bullying.
·Be aware of cyberbullying. Much bullying does not take place in person. Cyberbullying is prevalent and happens online or through text messages. Students should always think about what they post, and be aware that
something said “in private” might be forwarded. Students should not share anything that could hurt or embarrass another person.
·Contact authorities, if applicable. According to the Anti-Bullying Alliance, most bullying incidents are not crimes, but there are certain types that are illegal and should be reported to the police. Bullying that involves violence or assault; theft; harassment and intimidation over a period of time, including calling someone names or threatening them; and/or perpetrating abusive phone calls, emails or texts, should be reported.
·Lock down privacy settings. Together with their parents, students should safeguard their devices by adjusting privacy settings. These settings control who sees what is posted on social media. If a person is bullying another through text or social media, the person being harassed can document what is said by taking screenshots and then block that person from contact.
·Let others know they aren’t alone. Students can support others who are being bullied by letting them know they are not alone.
Bullying continues to be a concern in schools. Students can be proactive partners in stopping bullying at school and after hours.
A healthy start to a healthy school year!
NOTICE OF BANK MERGER
Notice is hereby given that application has been made to the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, South/Southeast Regions, 1700 Pacific Avenue, Suite 3600, Dallas, Texas 75201, for consent to merge Citizens State Bank, 1709 N. Grant Street, Roma, Texas 78584, with and into Texas National Bank, 201 S. Texas Avenue, Mercedes, Texas 78570. It is contemplated that each of the former offices of Citizens State Bank, including its former home office, will become branch offices of Texas National Bank upon consummation of the merger.
This notice is published pursuant to 12 U.S.C. 1828(c) and 12 C.F.R. 5. Anyone may submit written comments on this application by September 26, 2025 to: Director for District Licensing, Comptroller of the Currency, South/Southeast Regions, 1700 Pacific Avenue, Suite 3600, Dallas, Texas 75201. Comments may also be submitted by email to LicensingPublicComments@occ.treas.gov. To request a copy of the public portion of the filing, contact the Director for Licensing at Comptroller of the Currency, South and Southeast Regions, 1700 Pacific Avenue, Suite 3600, Dallas, Texas 75201 or email Licensing@occ. treas.gov. Filing information, including the date of the end of the public comment period, may also be found in the OCC’s Weekly Bulletin available at www.occ.gov.
NOTICE OF PROPOSED BANK MERGER
Notice is hereby given that TNB Merger Sub, Inc., 201 S. Texas Avenue, Mercedes, Texas 78570, filed an application with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, for consent to merge with and into Citizens State Bank, 1709 N. Grant Street, Roma, Texas 78584. Citizens State Bank will be the surviving bank in the merger.
Any person wishing to comment on this application is encouraged to submit comments through the FDIC’s website at https://cra.fdic.gov/. Any person wishing to comment on the application may file his or her comments, in writing, with the Regional Director of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation at its Dallas Regional Office at 600 North Pearl Street, Suite 700, Dallas, Texas 75201, not later than September 26, 2025. The non-confidential portions of the application are on file in the regional office and are available for inspection during regular business hours. Photocopies of the non-confidential portion of the application will be made available upon request.
NOTICE OF PROPOSED BANK MERGER
Notice is hereby given that TNB Merger Sub, Inc. 201 S. Texas Avenue, Mercedes, Texas 78570, filed an application with the banking commissioner of Texas on or about August 25, 2025, for consent to merge with and into Citizens State Bank, 1709 N. Grant Street, Roma, Texas 78584, with Citizens State Bank surviving such merger. The existing main office of Citizens State Bank will continue as the main office of Citizens State Bank following the merger.
Any person wishing to comment on this application, either for or against, may file written comments with the Texas Department of Banking, 2601 North Lamar Boulevard, Austin, Texas 78705-4294 on or before the 14th day after the date of this publication. Such comments will be made a part of the record before and considered by the banking commissioner. Any person wishing to formally protest and oppose the proposed bank merger and participate in the application process may do so by filing a written notice of protest with the Texas Department of Banking on or before the 14th calendar day after the date of this publication accompanied by a protest filing fee of $2,500. The protest fee may be reduced or waived by the banking commissioner upon a showing of substantial hardship.
Kids First
When your child is ill or injured, know that South Texas Health System® is right here – just like we have been for nearly two decades
Children’s
FIRST IN THE REGION TO PUT KIDS FIRST
Since opening our doors in 2006, we have been providing quality pediatric care in a kid-friendly setting that helps put young patients (and their families) at ease. We are especially proud to have been the first in the area with a dedicated pediatric emergency department.
SPECIALTY SERVICES PARENTS TRUST
In addition to providing just-for-kids emergency care and being an Asthma Center of Excellence, we offer a wide range of specialty pediatric services, including everything from gastroenterology to sports medicine to cardiology and beyond.
DESIGNED WITH KIDS IN MIND
Being in the hospital can be stressful for children and their families. We provide a colorful, comfortable atmosphere, with large pediatric playrooms, an outdoor Children’s healing garden and a virtual playroom that lets patients take part in activities from the comfort of their hospital room.
Learn more about our services at southtexashealthsystemchildrens.com
South Texas Health System Children’s, a trusted member of the Valley community, has been providing healing and hope for kids since 2006.
070292.0000016 DMS 352519775v2
The Rafaela T. Barrera Elementary School students are kicking off the year strong with healthy eating habits in the cafeteria and fun, active PE programs in the gym and playground. By keeping their minds and bodies healthy, the students are setting themselves up for success in the classroom all year long.
Rafaela T. Barrera Elementary can’t wait to see all they will achieve!
August 28th through September 3rd has been proclaimed as Overdose Awareness Week.
It’s a time to raise awareness of drug overdose, strengthen our efforts to prevent overdoses and substance-use related harms and deaths, and enhance our support for individuals with substance use disorders.
Overdose Awareness Week is also a time to remember those tragically lost to overdose and the pain of the families who are left behind and an opportunity to recommit ourselves to working together to build safe, healthy,
and resilient communities.
The goals of Overdose Awareness Week are:
•To continue our efforts to enhance prevention and harm reduction
•To take action to reduce barriers to treatment and expand access to recovery support services
•To renew our commitment to taking action to end overdose
•To raise awareness of drug overdose and reduce stigma
•To promote treatment and celebrate recovery
•To provide an opportunity to
remember and mourn those lost to drug overdose
•To inform people around the world about the risk of drug overdose
•To affirm our duty to stop the flow of illicit drugs from reaching our communities.
For information on Overdose Awareness Week, please visit https://archive.cdc.gov/ www_cdc_gov?drugoverdose/ awareness/overdose-awareenssweek.html
Message from the Starr County Community Coalition
¡GRITO at El Kiosko –Bigger & Better Than Ever!
Save the Date, Rio Grande City!
Celebrate our roots, culture, and heritage with a night full of music, art, and community spirit!
This year, enjoy a special performance by The Tejano Queen Band in tribute to the legendary Selena Quintanilla.
Saturday, September 6, 2025
6 PM – 10 PM El Kiosko on Britton Ave, Rio Grande City
What to Expect:
• Live music & entertainment
• Local art & vibrant mercado
• Family fun for all ages
• A celebration of our heritage you won’t forget!
FREE EVENT | All Ages Welcome
Let’s make this year’s ¡Grito! the loudest, proudest, and most unforgettable yet.
