JANUARY 8, 2025

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.

The Law Office Of

J.M. “Chema” Garza Office (956) 487-6544 • E-Mail: sctc78582@aol.com • issuu.com/starrcountytowncrier Vol. 40, No. 2

WEEKLY - WEDNESDAY • JANUARY 8, 2025

Criminal Cases (Federal/State) Car Accidents/ 18 Wheeler Divorces • Real Estate/Deeds

956-317-1167 206 N. Britton Ave. Ste.B, R.G.C. jmchemagarza@gmail.com

487-2596 Rio Grande City High School Criminal Justice Mighty Gator Omar De la Garza 4350 E. US HWY 83 R.G.C.

students excelled at the 2024 TXPSTA Competition selected to the RGVCA All-Star Team

Installment Loans 668 E. Grant St. Ste A&B Roma TX 78584-5312

Phone (956) 849-4497

The Rio Grande City High School Criminal Justice students excelled at the 2024 TXPSTA Competition, and RGC High School are incredibly proud of their success, hard work, and dedication. Congratulations to the following students for their outstanding achievements: 1st Place Misdemeanor Traffic Stop – Cesar Gonzalez, 1st Place Accident Investigation – Kristal Ortiz, 1st Place Domestic Violence Team – Kristal Ortiz and Reanna Irizarry, 1st Place Building Search Team – Raul Garcia, Ivan Dimas, Lorenzo Medina, and Diego Montemayor, 3rd Place Bunker Gear Race – Heaven Garcia, 3rd Place Fire Search & Rescue – Heidy Reyes, 3rd Place Intoxicated Driver – Rene Fuentes, 3rd Place Law Enforcement Agility – Rene Fuentes, and 3rd Place Opening Statements – Alexandria Saldivar. These students demonstrated exceptional skill, teamwork, and dedication throughout the competition.

Roma High School Law Enforcement Program amazing showing at the TXPSTA Competition Dr. Raymond Cruz Best

Congratulations to Grulla High School Football Player Omar Dela Garza on being selected to the RGVCA All-Star Team! This well deserved honor is a testament to the talent and dedication he showcased throughout his exceptional high school football career. Omar was a four-year varsity standout for the Gators. What a remarkable way to cap off your journey as a Gator! Best of luck, Omar, the Gator Nation are proud of you and can’t wait to see you shine!

Mighty Gladiator Football Player Rene Aguirre earns a spot in the RGVCA East Vs. West All-Star Game

FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Dental Insurance, Medicaid and Chip Accepted

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

Congratulations to Roma High School Mighty Gladiator Varsity Football Player #71 Rene Aguirre for earning a spot in the RGVCA East Vs. West All-Star Game! The game takes place on January 11, 2025 at Bobby Lackey Stadium in Weslaco. The Gladiator Nation is mighty proud of you Rene!!

Congrats to the Roma High School Law Enforcement Program on an amazing showing at the Texas Public Service Teachers Association (TXPSTA) Competition!! The program made history with it’s first ever (EMT) Emergency Medical Technician Team 2nd Place and (SWAT) Special Weapons and Tactics Team 3rd Place. Both teams advance to the State meet in Houston, Texas. They are joined by other State Qualifiers including Basic Traffic Stop 3rd Place, Fingerprint Collection 3rd Place, and Domestic Disturbance 2nd Place! What an outstanding by the students and their instructors!!

• Individual • Partnership • Corporations • LLC’s • Bookkeeping • Payroll • Financial Statements • Form 2290 • IRS Audit Representation

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

(NEW LOCATION)

201 S. San Antonio. St. Rio Grande City, TX (956)

317-1124

YOUR LIFE MATTERS….YOU ARE NOT ALONE If you or someone you know needs help you may call 988 Suicide & Crisis. Help is available… you are not alone.

Remember, it’s okay not to be OK. Please reach out— together, we can save lives.

CHUY Alvarez ATTORNEY AT LAW

J.M. “Chuy” Alvarez

501 N. Britton Ave • Rio Grande City, Texas

956-487-4871 Cell: 956-208-0282 NOT CERTIFIED BY THE TEXAS BOARD OF LEGAL SPECIALIZATION

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, JANUARY 8, 2025, PAGE 2

Gardening at the Library The RGC Public Library is delighted to present “Gardening at the Library,” a wonderful opportunity for gardening enthusiasts and novices alike to dig deeper into the art and science of gardening. This engaging series will be held every Monday in January from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.

Don’t miss out on this vibrant and educational event at the Library!

City of La Grulla Fire Department partner with the American Red Cross to install smoke detector alarms in local homes The City of detector alarms in local homes.

The team delivered flyers to La Grulla Fire homes on the Department is following streets: proud to partner • E. El Alto St. with the American • E. 1st St. Red Cross to • E. 2nd St. enhance safety in • E. 3rd St. the community!

• Plaza St. Join City of La Grulla Fire • Laplaza St. Department and the American •J St. Red Cross on Saturday, January The City of La Grulla Fire 18, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, as they install smoke Department is committed to

keeping the community safe and looks forward to installing more smoke detector alarms in the future.

These essential safety devices play a crucial role in protecting lives and property, providing an early warning that can be the difference between a minor incident and a devastating catastrophe.

Let’s work together to protect our homes and loved ones!

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, JANUARY 8, 2025, PAGE 3

Rio Grande City Lions Club: A Busy and Impactful Fall Season The Rio Grande City Lions Club has had an impactful fall, showcasing their commitment to community service. One major initiative involved vision screenings for over 1,250 children aged 3-5 in local schools, ensuring early detection of vision issues.

They also organized an eyeglass

The Rio Grande City Lions Club’s efforts this fall truly embody their motto: “We Serve.” Front Row L-R: Eli Ramirez, Simon Garza, Melisandra Mendoza, Sylvia Garza, and Hortadelia Barrera. Middle Row L-R: Marisela Ramirez, Gloria Garza, Blanca Leal, Leída Reyes, and Juan Silva. Back Row L-R: Susie Menchaca, Lilia Ramirez Garcia, Alfredo Leal, Rogelio Reyes, Sergio Barrera, and Alberto Barrera.

recycling drive, collecting over 260 pairs to support global vision health. Members participated in the Alzheimer’s Awareness Walk, raising awareness for affected families, and engaged with the community during Market Days.

To combat hunger, the club held a food drive benefiting a

food bank, demonstrating their dedication to alleviating food insecurity.

In their November meeting, local attorney Melisandra Mendoza inspired members with her talk, complemented by a festive turkey dinner that enhanced fellowship.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, JANUARY 8, 2025, PAGE 4

Starr County Fair School Days Field Trip Reservations Are Now Open! Dates: February 19-21, 2025 Cost: Only $2.00 per child. Reserve Today: Contact Jeannie Anderson at 956-500-2705 Space is limited.

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS The City of Rio Grande City is soliciting sealed Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for Agent of Record. Sealed bids are to be addressed to the City Secretary’s Office located at the City of Rio Grande City – City Hall: 5332 E. US Hwy 83, Rio Grande City, Texas.

RFQ’s will be received until 3:00 p.m. on Friday, January 24, 2025.

Specification can be obtained by calling the City Secretary’s Office at 956-487-0672, by picking them up at the City of Rio Grande City - City Hall, 5332 E. US Hwy 83, Rio Grande City, Texas between the hours of 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Monday thru Friday, or by downloading them from the City’s website at https://www.cityofrgc.com/business/bid_opportunities.php .

SEALED RFQ’S ARE TO BE HAND DELIVERED OR MAILED TO: CITY OF RIO GRANDE CITY CITY HALL ATTN: CITY SECRETARY’S OFFICE 5332 E. US HWY 83 RIO GRANDE CITY, TEXAS 78582 Be advised that if you have any questions or download the bidding document from the city’s website, you can contact Valerie Brown-Garza, Human Resources Director at 956487-0672 or by email at vbrown@cityofrgc.com ; in the subject line of your email, please include “RFQ for Agent of Record”. So that any changes or additions via Addendum can be forwarded to the firm.

The City of Rio Grande City reserves the right to refuse and reject any or all bids and to waive any or all formalities or technicalities or to accept the bid to be the best and most advantageous to the City, and hold the bids for a period of sixty (60) days without taking action. Bids submitted past the aforementioned date and time will not be accepted.

RFQ’s must be submitted in an sealed envelope and prominently marked on the lower lefthand corner of the envelope with the corresponding: “RFQ for Agent of Record”.

DPS Shares Essential Winter Weather Safety Tips “Winter weather can be unpredictable, but by making safety a top priority you can help take control,” said Colonel Freeman Martin. “Plan ahead, check road conditions and adjust your driving for the type of roads you’re traveling on. These are all simple things that can make a big impact in making this winter season safer for everyone on the road.”

DPS encourages everyone to take the appropriate safety precautions during winter weather.

This includes checking your vehicle’s battery, windshield wipers, tire pressure, tire treads and fluid levels, as well as ensuring door and trunk locks are properly lubricated to prevent them from freezing. Having a well-stocked emergency kit with warm clothes, food, water, cell phone battery/ charger and first aid items is also a good idea.

Winter Weather Road Safety Tips: •Monitor local weather broadcasts and check the latest weather conditions from the National Weather Service before you hit the road.

•Avoid traveling when sleet, freezing rain or snow is predicted, and monitor road conditions by visiting Drive Texas or calling (800) 452-9292.

•If you must drive in inclement weather, allow extra time to reach your destination. Share your travel plans with a friend or family member so someone knows the route you’re taking.

•On icy roads, drive slowly and increase the distance between your vehicle and others, as you may need additional room to stop.

•Do not use cruise control.

•Ensure your vehicle has a full tank of gas.

•Be aware that ice accumulates on bridges and overpasses before drivers may see it on roads, so approach them more slowly in winter weather.

•Watch for downed trees and power lines. If a stop light is out, treat the intersection as a four-way stop.

Winter Weather Home Safety Tips: •Sign up for calls or texts from your local emergency notification system.

•Insulate outside faucets and

pipes near outer walls.

•Make sure furnaces, heaters, fireplaces and wood stoves are clean, well-ventilated and in good working condition.

•Keep space heaters at least three feet away from walls and combustible materials, including furniture and bedding. Turn them off when you’re away or sleeping.

Also ensure space heaters cannot tip over and there is no damage to the cord.

•To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, never operate a generator or other fuel-powered device inside a home, garage or other enclosed space. The odorless, colorless gas is deadly and is produced any time a fossil fuel is burned. Consider installing a carbon monoxide detector in your home.

•Never heat your home with a gas stove or oven.

•Check on friends and family members whose health or age may put them at greater risk.

•Stock up on firewood and supplies, including canned goods, bottled water and medication.

Rio Grande City EDC launches Small Business Boost Grant The Rio Grande City Economic Development Corporation (EDC) is thrilled to announce the launch of the Small Business Boost Grant, a new initiative to support the growth and success of local entrepreneurs. This one-time grant of $2,500 is available to small businesses in Rio Grande City with annual revenues under $100,000. Ten grants are available and the program will remain open until all funds have been awarded.

The Small Business Boost Grant is designed to provide financial assistance for essential business expenses, helping entrepreneurs strengthen their operations and thrive in Rio Grande City.

Eligible expenses include: • Equipment purchases • Marketing initiatives • Business expansion “The Rio Grande City EDC is committed to fostering a vibrant and resilient business community,” said Dalinda Guillen, Rio Grande City EDC Board of Directors President.

“This grant offers meaningful support to help our small businesses address critical needs, build a strong foundation, and achieve long-term success.”

The Small Business Boost Grant offers targeted financial assistance to local entrepreneurs to address critical needs such as marketing, equipment upgrades, or expanding their operations.

The initiative underscores the

EDC’s dedication to enhancing economic development and creating opportunities for small businesses to thrive.

Interested businesses can apply for the Small Business Boost Grant by calling 956-4873476 for more information.

About the Rio Grande City EDC: The Rio Grande City Economic Development Corporation is dedicated to driving economic growth and fostering a thriving business environment in Rio Grande City.

Through innovative programs and initiatives, the EDC supports local businesses, attracts new investments, and enhances the quality of life for residents. Visit rgcedc.com for more information.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, JANUARY 8, 2025, PAGE 5

THE COUNTY OF STARR SHERIFF’S OFFICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION Notice is hereby given, pursuant to Chapter 263.153 of the Texas Local Government Code & Chapter 59 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure and Transportation Code 683, Subsection B, 683.012, of the Texas Department of Transportation that the County of Starr Sheriff ’s Office, Rio Grande City, Texas will hold a public auction on Saturday, January 25 , 2025, at 10:00 a.m. for General Surplus, Equipment and Vehicles which have been forfeited to the State of Texas under the provisions of Chapter 59 Texas Code of Criminal Procedure. Location: 2101 I-69C, Edinburg, TX 78542. Registration to bid live will be from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. and will require a picture identification or register online at www.bondauctioneers.com. Examples of items to be auctioned are cars, trucks, heavy equipment, personal computers, electronics, office furniture, surplus, etc. All items will be sold “As Is - Where Is” to the highest bidder. Onsite Buyer’s Premium 14%, Internet Buyer’s Premium 16%. All sales are final and must be paid on the same day with cash, major credit cards (Visa, Master Card, Discover, American Express), Debit & Credit with a 3.50% processing fee. Cashier Checks accepted, No personal or business checks. For additional information, please contact the County of Starr Sheriff ’s Office, at (956) 4875571. AUC#17532 - Jose A. Camarillo

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, JANUARY 8, 2025, PAGE 6

2,999 FULLWITH FUNERAL SERVICE SILVER $

Hiring a General Automotive Mechanic work in AC’s also.

Se Busca Mecánico en General (Automobiles) y trabaje en Aire Acondicionado también.

Call (Llame): 956-573-7809

.00

METAL CASKET

Sanchez CALL JEFF OR SONATA Sanchez Funeral Home

301 E. 2nd. St. Rio Grande City, Tx. 78582

(956) 487-2525

SANCHEZ

Memorial Funeral Home

“Serving Our Community For Over 86 Years” “Caring for you & your loved ones in your time of need ”

101 AR Sanchez Sr. Dr. Roma, Tx. 78584

(956) 847-7008

SE RENTA

Apartamento -2 rec., 1 baño, A/C, estufa y refrigerador, incluye agua y basura. Corpus St., RGC

956-735-3120

755 ESTATES Se venden lotes Estates ½ ACRES LOTS ende755 ½ acres.

FOR SALE. Financiados por

OWNER FINANCED. el propietario.

Victor Daniec - Mobile (956) 821-7108 Jose Martinez - Mobile (956)-451-5039

MANAGER $PECIAL MANAGER $PECIAL 2023 Hyundai 2022 Chevy Tucson

Blazer

$

$

26,995

STK#25938A NICE! ONLY 16K MILES!!!

37,995

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2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee Altidude

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2023 Chevy Trailblazer

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CALL 4X4 DIESEL

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People across the Valley come home to Rio Motor Co. for big savings and family-friendly service!

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Rolando Flores 956-416-8945

www.riomotors.com

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, JANUARY 8, 2025, PAGE 7

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, JANUARY 8, 2025, PAGE 8

SPACE AVAILABLE CALL 487-6544

Home Health Hospice Provider Services

PROVIDERS EMPESAMOS

$13 POR HORA

Llameme!

Opening A

NEW BUSINESS In Starr County?

Professional Photoshoot

CALL US TODAY! In-Network Discounts

Monthly Events

Social Media Promotion

We Do

Notary Services

Maria Saenz ¿Tiene preguntas sobre los nuevos planes de seguro?

956-331-8462 Aceptamos:

And Much More!

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G r a n d O p e nin g s! info@starrcommerce.com

(956) 573-8540

Auto • Home • Business • Life Hablamos Español

956-488-0160

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

For limited time only

Arroyo:5065 Hwy. 83 ste. A - 956-570-0702 Roma: 834 E. Grant St. Ste. C - 956-570-0701 OPEN OPEN RGC: 4370 NOW Escobares: 4522 NOW E. Hwy 83 Ste. B - 956-309-3549 East Hwy 83 Ste A. 956-429-5625 Penitas - 1715 Expressway 83 Suite A-2 Penitas Tx- 956-424-0133