JULY 23, 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.

Office (956) 487-6544 • E-Mail: sctc78582@aol.com • issuu.com/starrcountytowncrier Vol. 40, No. 30

WEEKLY - WEDNESDAY • JULY 23, 2025

487-2596 City of Rio Grande City proudly City 4350 E. US HWY 83 R.G.C.

Installment Loans

of Rio Grande City honors citizen of the month proudly honors Business of Maria Ernestina Treviño the Month El Valle Bakery A beloved educator, mentor, and community leader

With full hearts, City of Rio Grande City celebrate the retirement of a beloved local treasure

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

Phone (956) 849-4497

Maria Ernestina Treviño, with over 55 years of dedication to education, Mrs. Treviño has inspired generations through her teaching, passion for the arts, and tireless support of students in theater, spelling, and speech. Beyond the classroom, she’s uplifted civic and cultural life through her involvement in organizations like Beta Sigma Phi, the Pan American Round Table, and her church. Her legacy is one of compassion, creativity, and unwavering commitment to the youth and future of Rio Grande City.

Congratulations, Mrs. Treviño! Your impact will be felt for generations to come.

El Valle Bakery, named Business of the Month for July 2025 by Mayor Gilberto Falcon and the Rio Grande City Commission. For over 50 sweet years, El Valle Bakery has been more than just a bakery — it’s been a cherished part of our mornings, our celebrations, and our community’s history. From pan dulce to tamales, they filled our hearts and homes with warmth and tradition. As the Berlanga family turns off their ovens for the final time, we extend our deepest gratitude for their decades of dedication, flavor, and love. Though the doors are closing, the memories baked here will always stay warm in the heart of Rio Grande City.

Thank you, El Valle Bakery, for the legacy you leave behind.

Treviño has officially Grulla High School Senior Named Natalie NCA All-American Cheerleader qualified for the AAU Junior Olympics Dr. Raymond Cruz Best

FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Dental Insurance, Medicaid and Chip Accepted

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

Grulla High School is proud to announce that senior Layla Flores has been named an NCA All-American Cheerleader. Layla earned this prestigious honor during the Grulla Cheer Squad’s recent participation in the National Cheerleaders Association (NCA) Cheer Camp. During the camp, standout athletes were selected to try out for AllAmerican recognition based on their talent, spirit, and leadership.

Layla impressed NCA staff with her skill, enthusiasm, and dedication, ultimately earning a coveted spot on the AllAmerican team. This achievement not only reflects Layla’s hard work and commitment to cheerleading but also highlights the strength and spirit of the Grulla Cheer program.

Congratulations to Layla Flores on this well-deserved recognition!

• 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

RGC High School, bursting with excitement to share that Natalie Treviño has officially qualified for the AAU Junior Olympics! This is one of the nation’s most prestigious youth athletic competitions, and Natalie absolutely earned her spot. She’ll be showcasing her speed in the 4x1M Relay, 100M Dash, and 200M Dash at the national meet, happening right here in Humble, Texas, from July 26th to August 2nd. Natalie, your dedication, hard work, and discipline this summer have opened up an unforgettable new experience.

We’re cheering you on every step of the way! Way to go, Nat!

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, JULY 23, 2025, PAGE 2

Escobares Fire Department delivered The San Isidro l.S.D. will be accepting proposals for Propane, Gasoline, and Diesel food and essential items to Kerrvile, Tx REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL 2025-SI-101 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.

2,999.00 FULLWITH FUNERAL SERVICE SILVER $

METAL CASKET

Sanchez CALL JEFF OR SONATA Sanchez Funeral Home

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

SANCHEZ

Memorial Funeral Home 101 AR Sanchez Sr. Dr.

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 Escobares Fire Department made a delivery to Kerrvile, Tx of food and essential items donated by the generous residents of Starr County.

Kerr County sent their gratitude to every single person who donated and supported this effort. A great shout-out to Escobares Fire Department and everyone who took part in bringing aid to the devastated communities of Kerr County.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, JULY 23, 2025, PAGE 3

Roma ISD School Board Named Region One ESC 2025 School Board of the Year

Roma ISD is proud to celebrate their incredible School Board for being named the Region One ESC School Board of the Year!

The district hosted a special dinner in their honor to recognize their unwavering dedication, visionary leadership, and tireless commitment to the students, staff, and families of our community.

Surrounded by family and friends, the Board accepted their award from Region One ESC Executive Director Dr. Daniel King, as well

as a special recognition from The Office of Congressman Henry Cuellar.

The board was selected for the honor by the Region One ESC Regional Selection Committee, composed of superintendents from across the region. As the regional winning entry in the competition, the Roma ISD School Board will be further nominated for the Texas Association of School Administrators Honor Board

Competition, which is held at the TASA/TASB Fall Convention.

TASA’s School Board Awards Committee will review the regional winners and select not more than five boards to be named and recognized as Honor Boards for the year. This same committee will then interview the Honor Boards at the TASA/TASB Annual Convention prior to selecting the Outstanding School Board, which will be announced during the convention.

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

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, JULY 23, 2025, PAGE 4

THE ROCK THAT HELD ME

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that everything eventually falls into place— even if it doesn’t make sense right away.

There were times I felt like I had to have it all figured out.

Especially when I entered high school. I believed that messing up meant I was behind. But the truth is, I learned some of my biggest lessons when everything felt like it was falling apart.

I’ve hit rock bottom before.

And strangely enough, I’m grateful for it. Because I got to see what that rock was. I got to understand what I was standing on—what held me up when I couldn’t hold myself. What’s

beautiful about the experience is the foundation we build from our mistakes, our flaws, our fears, and all the parts we think make us less than. But they don’t break us. It didn’t break me. They made me.

I’ve learned to accept that I won’t be perfect. None of us will be. That I will fall short from time to time. And that’s okay. Growth comes from those moments—the quiet ones, the heavy ones, the ones that feel like endings but really are just new beginnings in disguise.

I may not have all the answers yet, but that’s all right. Right now, I’m choosing to trust the journey. I know I’m on my

way in finding my purpose, even if it takes time. And in the meantime, I’m becoming.

Every day, I grow into a better version of myself—not perfect, but real, dedicated, and rooted in something strong.

So, if you’ve ever felt like you were at your lowest. Just remind yourself— the rock you hit isn’t where your story ends.

It might just be the thing that holds you up and helps you rise to your highest.

Because sometimes, rock bottom isn’t the end. It’s the strength to begin again.

Alma R. Peña RGC High School Class of 2025

Beat the heat: Red Cross safety tips to stay cool this summer Extreme heat is happening more often, lasting longer and getting more intense 2024 was one of the hottest summers on record and experts predict that the summer of 2025 may be just as intense with hotter than normal temperatures. The American Red Cross, Texas Gulf Coast Region, urges everyone to get ready for extreme heat by taking three actions: 1. Stay hydrated by drinking a cup of water every hour, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid sugary, caffeinated and alcoholic drinks.

2. Stay cool by spending time in air-conditioned places. If your home is too hot, go to a mall, library or cooling center.

3. Stay connected by checking on others and asking for help if you need it. Don’t forget to make sure pets have access to fresh water and shade.

“Heat can be deadly and it’s important to not overlook this invisible threat,” said Shawn Schulze, Regional CEO for the American Red Cross Texas Gulf Coast Region. “While anyone can be affected by extreme heat, it can be especially dangerous for older adults, the very young, pregnant women, outdoor workers and those with chronic conditions or

disabilities. Here in the Texas Gulf Coast Region, you can help keep people safe by looking out for your loved ones and neighbors.”

PLAN AHEAD To be ready for extreme heat, think about how you’ll stay cool. If you have air conditioning, make sure it’s working properly. If you don’t have air conditioning, think about where you’ll go to cool off, how you’ll get there and what you’ll take with you.

In an emergency it’s critical to act fast, so learn the signs of heat illness and what to do. Talk to your doctor about how you can stay healthy. Make sure you have supplies to keep medication cool and equipment charged, especially during a power outage.

When a heat wave and a power outage happen at the same time, it can be even more dangerous.

Learn what steps to take if the power goes out.

If you’re an athlete or you work outdoors, think about how you can alter your schedule to avoid the hottest times of the day. Consider how you’ll stay hydrated and find a cool place to take breaks.

Don’t forget your furry friends and make sure pets have access to fresh water and shade.

CHECK ON OTHERS Once you’re ready for the heat, connect

with loved ones and neighbors to see if they need help. Make a list of who you’ll check on and help them make a plan so they know what do. Have them sign up for free emergency alerts from their local government.

Finally, download the free Red Cross First Aid app so you’ll know what to do if emergency help is delayed and the free Emergency app for real-time weather alerts and heat safety information. Content is available in English and Spanish with an easy-to-find language selector.

Find both apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to redcross.org/apps.

About the American Red Cross: The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross. org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS South Texas College is accepting competitive proposals for the following: RFP Number 25-26-1010

Description Date Due Maintenance and Repair Parts, July 31, 2025 Materials and Supplies

Time 2:00 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 Griselda Vega, Buyer of Purchasing, 956-872-4667 gvega_4991@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.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

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

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

PROJECT NAME:

Nursing and Allied Health Campus East Building A Renovation of Radiology Lab to Multi-Purpose Skills Lab and Community Pharmacy Lab Project No. 24-25-1071

PROJECT NAME:

Re-Bid Pecan Campus Physical Plant Building E Cooling Tower Above Ground Piping System Project No. 25-26-1009

PRE-PROPOSAL CONFERENCE TIME & LOCATION:

July 31, 2025@ 11:00 a.m.

STC Purchasing Department 3200 W. Pecan Blvd, Bldg. N, Ste. 142 McAllen, Texas 78501

PRE-PROPOSAL CONFERENCE TIME & LOCATION:

July 24th, 2025@ 10:00 a.m.

STC Purchasing Department 3200 W. Pecan Blvd, Bldg. N, Ste. 142 McAllen, Texas 78501

PROPOSAL DEADLINE & August 7, 2025 @ 4:00 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, July 23, 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 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.

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.

PROPOSAL DEADLINE & July 31st, 2025 @ 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, July 16, 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 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.

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 23, 2025, PAGE 5

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, JULY 23, 2025, PAGE 6

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 23, 2025, PAGE 7

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, JULY 23, 2025, PAGE 8

SPACE AVAILABLE CALL 487-6544

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956-488-0160

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