May 29, 2024

STARR VISION CASTAÑEDA CENTER

487-2440

300 East Main St. R.G.C.

Dr. Angie Ramirez Therapeutic Optometrist

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. 39, No. 22 WEEKLY - WEDNESDAY • MAY 29, 2024

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 MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONIES IN STARR COUNTY 4350 E. US HWY 83 R.G.C.

City of Roma and Roma VFW Post#9175

City of Escobares

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

Phone (956) 849-4497

City of Rio Grande City

Dr. Raymond Cruz Best FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Henry Clay Davis Chapter VFW Memorial Day Service - Rio Grande City

Dental Insurance, Medicaid and Chip Accepted

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

• 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

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, MAY 29, 2024, PAGE 2

Rattler Sr. Vivien Canales Signing Her Rio Grande City High School Class of NLI to Attend William Woods University 1984 Memorial Scholarship Awarded

Pida a los 3 Ángeles San Miguel, Rafael y Gabriel.

Prenda 3 velas blancas en un plato con agua y azúcar, haga su petición.

A los tres días publique esta oración.

Aunque no crea mire que pasa el cuarto día.

Congratulations to Rio Rattler Sr. Vivien Canales for signing her NLI to attend William Woods University in Fulton, Missouri joining the Owls Wrestling Team.

The RGCGISD community is extremely proud of your accomplishments and future opportunities.

A. P. R.

2,900.00 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

Segundo Aniversario en Memoria de

Jose Cruz Villarreal 05/03/1953 † 05/20/2022

Desde que tú no estás nada es igual Dime ¿Por qué fue así?

En este viaje llevo mil recuerdos de principio a �in Hoy vengo hasta tu tumba Con gusto a recordarte Pregunto al universo ¿Por qué tu mi bello ángel?

Vuelve a la vida Vuelve conmigo Y si no se puede Baja en las noches Que me haces falta Y quisiera verte Vieras como duele a los que te quieren

Es incurable Descansa en paz Pero mi vida te la llevaste Vuelve a la vida Vuelve conmigo Y si no se puede Dame la fuerza que necesito Para no tenerte Alguien te espera Alguien te extraña Y no va a olvidarte ¿No sé en que estuvo?

Que de las manos Te me escapaste Vuelve a la Vida ¡Y recordar es volver a vivir!

Su esposa Maricela Villarreal e hijos

Familia Villarreal

The leadership of the Rio Grande City, Texas Rio Grande City High School graduating class of 1984 is proud to announce that Ms. Violet Aileen Vela - Class of 2024 is awarded this year’s RGC High School Class of 1984

been awarded since 1993 in honor and memory for classmates and class sponsors who have passed on. Applicants (Seniors) for the scholarship must demonstrate an economic need, be active in community/public service and possess an overall C+ average (2.5 or higher) based on a 4.0 scale. Awardees draft an essay on what the meaning of being a “Rattler” means to them. Essays are reviewed and selected by the scholarship trustees.

Class of 1984 alumnus and friends of the Class of 84 annually contributed financial support to this local endeavor. The Rio Grande City High School Class of 1984 wishes all the best to the Rio Grande City Class of 2024.

Memorial Scholarship. Violet is the daughter of Kino and Sylvia Vela. Violet plans to attend the South Texas College Nursing and Allied Health Campus and UTRGV Majoring in Nursing.

“May you ever live in Glory and win in The memorial scholarship has all you do” ~ RGC High School Alma Mater.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MAY 29, 2024, PAGE 3

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MAY 29, 2024, PAGE 4

RGC FFA Students Participated in the Texas Farm Bureau Engage Program

Just because the school year is almost out doesn’t mean the students are done learning. Some Rio Grande City FFA students had the opportunity to participate in the Texas Farm Bureau Engage program. This program was designed for students to learn a bit more about the agricultural industry and issues we are currently facing. On behalf of the Rio Grande City FFA, we would like to extend a huge Thank you to the Starr County Farm Bureau and Rio Farms, Inc. for having us at your presentation.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MAY 29, 2024, PAGE 5

Grand Reopening of Guadalupe Plaza!

The City of Roma Mayor, Jaime Escobar Jr. & City Council A highlight of the event was the introduction of Roma’s proudly celebrated with the citizens of Roma the grand first-ever food park, a vibrant addition to our beloved plaza. reopening of the newly renovated Guadalupe Plaza on May This new space promises to be a hub of culinary delights 16, 2024. It was a day filled with joy and community spirit, and a gathering spot for friends and family. marked by live music, delicious offerings from local food Thank you to everyone who joined us in making this vendors, and the unveiling of a special plaque honoring the celebration unforgettable. Guadalupe Plaza is now open for many individuals who made this renovation possible. all to enjoy—come and experience the new heart of Roma!

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MAY 29, 2024, PAGE 6

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MAY 29, 2024, PAGE 7

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MAY 29, 2024, PAGE 8

RGCGISD Career and Technical Education Department Honors Rio Grande City High School CTE students and Texas Paths to Success Students for their Stellar accomplishments The Texas Department of Health and Human Services from the Rio Grande City Sector and from Austin Texas were elated to see 6 high school students celebrated by the RGCGISD CTE department as they embark on a full time career this June with the TDHHS. This grant program is the second in the state of Texas to be piloted

by Rio Grande City CTE. Guests and distinguished speakers were introduced

by Mrs. Danielle Brown from Austin, Texas and welcomed by Mrs. Maribel Montemayor RHS principal and her administrative staff.

Mrs. Agueda Garza – CTE counselor was the mistress of ceremony. The

The CTE Department honored the CTE Dual Enrollment students at South Texas College for completing 24+ college hours in the following career pathways: Welding Dual Enrollment, Information Technology Dual Enrollment and Precision Manufacturing / Machining.

business teacher Mrs. Delicia Alvarez, along with the 6 students took the challenge and held a block period daily from August to May. While in The students and Mrs. Adelina Villarreal welcomed the students as well as Mr. Maldonado, the class they were instructed daily by their parents representing South Texas College.

2 employees and at times supervisors from the Texas Department of Health and all enjoyed Students were acknowledged for their & Human Services. The students had dedication, perseverance, and fidelity to take modules and tests on how to the banquet and to the career program they selected. give benefits like SNAP, TANF and Also attending and honoring them was Medicaid . Upon successful completion the beautiful Mrs. Diana Robles and Mrs. Montalvo they will start with a full time job with from the business office, Assistant the state. If you are a senior student music provided superintendent for curriculum and this coming year and are interested in instruction Mrs. Elsa Morris, CCMR by Mariachi working right away upon graduation director Mrs. Roxy Garza & Mrs. please contact Mrs. Agueda Garza CTE Cascabel!

Nora Escobedo – Counseling Director, counselor ( 956) 735-1040.

Ms. Melissa Salinas, Mr. David Pratt & Mrs. Marissa Pena from ECHS, Mr. Pedro Martinez & Mr. Salvador Hernandez representing CTE and Grulla High School also Mrs. Maribel Montemayor RHS principal and Jessie de la Cruz – Dean from Rio High School. Students were bestowed the platinum stoles by their teachers and the CTE Director along with Mr. Maldonado. After the ceremony students enjoyed a luncheon to commemorate their accomplishments.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MAY 29, 2024, PAGE 9

RGCGISD Career & Technical Education Department honor CTE seniors with a platinum graduation stole for earning their industry- based certifications with 24 + hours and upon completion of a 4-year-old CTE pathway.

The Grulla High School banquet took place on May 13, 2024, at the GHS main gym. Mistress of ceremony was Mrs. Agueda Garza- CTE counselor for the 3 high schools.

Welcoming the students were Mr. Ariel Ozuna- Principal and the Grulla administrative staff and Mrs. Adelina G. VillarrealCTE Director.

Students were bestowed with a platinum stole that indicated their different industry-based certifications. Many of the students earned multiple certifications through their 4 years stay at GHS. Special recognition was given to Arturo Alvirde that traveled daily from GHS to RHS to complete his Animal Science pathway.

The Rio Grande City High School banquet was held on May 15, 2024 @ the RHS Main gym. Welcoming the students was RHS principal, Mrs. Maribel Montemayor and the Rio HS administrative staff. Also present was Mrs. Marissa Pena, Early College High School Principal and her

administrative staff. Teachers also gave special recognition to the following Texas State winners. The Law enforcement group in the Texas Public Service Teacher Association competition. The students in this law enforcement pathway brought back the gold. Special recognition was also given to the Skills USA winner at the regional and state level that will be advancing to Atlanta, Georgia Mr. Jesus Villarreal and his model Dayana Lerma . Special acknowledgment was also given to the culinary arts students that competed in the Cooking Around the World at the Epcot Center and upon their celebration of winning the Judges Choice Award.

The students took pictures in their respective career pathways upon being bestowed with their platinum stole for graduation.

At each banquet, the students were celebrated for their accomplishments and then proceeded to take an individual and group picture with their administrators and teachers.

All students honored were treated to a delicious meal and to the amazing music of DJ. Patomix live and the 360-photo booth. This event was coordinated by the CTE Counselor Mrs. Agueda Garza and the CTE Strategists: Mrs. Martha S. Barrera, Mr. Salvador Hernandez, Jr.& Mr. Pedro Martinez as well as CTE Clerk Ms . Noelia Cuevas. All students were coded with their industry-based certifications on their high school transcripts. The CTE Department is committed to creating civic- leaders that are contributing members of the workforce & to strive to attain a post – secondary education to order to contribute and live in a global society. Kudos to the CTE Teachers and to the wonderful students on their accomplishments. The CTE Department also provides the tech prep cords for seniors and the CTE Medals that will be worn by the seniors upon successful completion of their career pathway.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MAY 29, 2024, PAGE 10

Mental Health Awareness Month Stroke rates increased by 15% among adults younger than 65

We live in a rapidly changing world that can be complex to navigate. About half of Americans can remember a time when we were not constantly connected and it was easier to tune out the noise of the world, while the younger half of the population cannot imagine life without the internet.

Modern life can have a significant impact on mental health — for better or for worse.

The disturbing imagery in the media we are exposed to today can be deeply unsettling. At the same time, our current technology also allows us to mobilize and provide collective support more efficiently in times of natural disasters or injustice.

And ironically, while our

devices make us more connected than ever, loneliness is an increasingly serious public health concern. We are now able to have conversations with friends and family on the other side of the world in real time. However, constant connection also means that we will know if we were not invited to a friend’s party down the street. Recent survey data show that more than half of U.S. adults (58%) are lonely.

Finding a sense of calm and focusing on well-being when you are having mental health concerns can be daunting in our fast-paced society. It can be especially challenging to know where to start.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to raise

awareness of the significant role mental health plays in our lives and to encourage one another to take action toward protecting our mental health and overall well-being. To learn about free, practical resources for addressing mental health, please visit 2024-Where-to-Start-Toolkit.pdf (mhanational.org) It is important to remember that working on your mental health takes time. Change will not happen overnight. Instead, by focusing on small changes, you can move through the stressors of modern life and develop long-term strategies to support yourself — and others — on an ongoing basis.

Message from the Starr County Community Coalition.

Stroke rates among adults younger than 65 increased by 15% during the last decade.

Stroke rates were higher among adults aged 65 and older; nonHispanic American Indian or Alaska Native, non-Hispanic Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islanders, and Black adults; and adults with lower education.

Knowing the signs and symptoms of stroke is important, especially given the increase in stroke rates among younger adults. Learn the signs of stroke.

Acting F.A.S.T. is key to survival: • Face - Does one side droop when smiling?

• Arm - Does one arm drift downward when both arms are raised?

• Speech - Is speech slurred or

strange when repeating a simple phrase?

• Time - If you see any of these signs, call 9-1-1 right away.

Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the United States and a leading cause of long-term disability. Stroke rates decreased by nearly 4% during 2006-2010.

CDC analyzed stroke data from 2011-2022 to investigate whether rates had changed.

CDC’s Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention provides leadership and support for the Million Hearts® initiative, which aims to prevent one million heart attacks and strokes over the next 5 years. Million Hearts focuses on taking steps that can improve cardiovascular health for all in the areas of building

healthy communities, optimizing care, and focusing on health equity.

••• Here are a few other stroke stats, courtesy of the CDC. • One in six deaths from cardiovascular disease was due to stroke in 2020.

• Every 3.5 minutes someone in the United States dies of stroke.

• Nearly one in four strokes occur in people who have previously had a stroke.

• About 87 percent of all strokes are ischemic strokes, or ones in which blood flow in the brain is blocked.

• Suffering a stroke is a leading cause of serious long-term disability, which tends to impair mobility.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MAY 29, 2024, PAGE 11

RIO GRANDE CITY GRULLA ISD to Honor the School Lunch Heroes Serving Healthy Meals

Between preparing healthy meals, adhering to strict and often complex nutrition standards, meeting age/grade group meal patterns, navigating students’ medically prescribed diets, and balancing so much more, the school nutrition staff at RGCGISD offers service with a smile. To celebrate their hard work and commitment, schools celebrated School Lunch Hero Day on Friday, May 3rd.

K-12 schools serve nutritious breakfasts and lunches to nearly 30 million children each school day. These meals are the main source of nutrition for more than half of these children and help improve their health.

At the RGCGISD Child Nutrition Program, we are vested in sharing the common goal of helping children reach their full potential. Just like the classroom, nutritious

school meals are an essential part of the school environment. Raising the bar in school meals empowers our kids to achieve greater success inside and outside of the classroom.

The importance and nutritional value of school meals are well documented. For many children, school lunch is the most important and nutrient-rich meal of their day. RGCGISD proudly operates several meal programs and serves breakfast, lunch, and supper meals at each campus. The program serves more than 7,000 meals each day. To learn more about school nutrition programs, please visit riograndecnp.org, squaremeals.org or www.schoolnutrition.org/SchoolMeals

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MAY 29, 2024, PAGE 12

CDC Investigating Harmful Reactions to Counterfeit Botox A CDC investigation notice has been posted regarding harmful reactions in people who received counterfeit or otherwise mishandled botox: [Harmful Reactions Linked to Counterfeit “Botox” or Mishandled Botulinum Toxin Injections [CDC] Key Points: • As of April 15, 2024, CDC has received reports of 19 people in 9 states who experienced harmful reactions after receiving counterfeit botulinum toxin

injections (commonly known as “botox”) or injections administered by unlicensed or untrained individuals and/or in non-healthcare settings, such as homes or spas.

• Nine people have been hospitalized and four were treated with botulism antitoxin because symptoms were consistent with possible spread of toxin. No deaths have been reported.

• Many of the products being investigated are counterfeit or were administered in non-

healthcare settings, such as homes and spas, or by an unlicensed or untrained individual. Questions regarding product investigation should be directed to FDA. • CDC, FDA, and state and local health departments are working together to investigate these reactions.

What You Should Do: • Only get injections of FDAapproved botulinum toxin from licensed and trained professionals in healthcare settings.

• If you need an injection of

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL The Area Agency on Aging of the South Texas Development Council is currently seeking contractors for Fiscal Year 2024 (June 1, 2024-September 30, 2024) who are qualified entities to provide Health Maintenance Services (Hearing Aids).

This service is provided to individuals 60 years of age and older, their family members and other caregivers under the Older Americans Act of 1965 as amended with funding administered by Health and Human Service Commission in the Counties of Jim Hogg, Starr, Webb and Zapata.

Parties interested in providing services within our service area must contact the Area Agency on Aging and request an application.

To request an application package contact: South Texas Development Council Area Agency on Aging 1002 Dickey Ln. P.O. Box 2187 Laredo, Texas 78044-2187 (956) 722-3995 1-800-292-5426

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

23-24-1056

Description

Date Due

Purchase and Installation of June 11, 2024 LED Lights and Fixtures – Mid Valley Campus Parking Lot

Time

3:00 p.m.

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, Associate Director of Purchasing 956-872-4686 daleal@southtexascollege. edu, or Gil Cisneros, Construction Buyer 956-872-4671 gacisneros@southtexascollege.edu.

Responses to the RFP must be submitted to South Texas College, 3200 W Pecan Blvd Bldg.

N 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.

Vendors are encouraged to visit the South Texas College’s Purchasing Department website to complete the 2-part Bonfire vendor registration for receiving solicitations at: https://southtexascollege.bonfirehub.com/login

botulinum toxin for a medical condition, your doctor will choose the safest dose.

• If you get an injection of botulinum toxin for cosmetic reasons, go to a licensed and trained professional and get the injection in a medical or licensed setting.

• Your state might have a license look-up tool you can check to see if a provider or setting has the appropriate license.

• Ask if the product is approved

by FDA and obtained from a reliable source.

• If in doubt, don’t get the injection.

• If you have symptoms of botulism, such as trouble swallowing or breathing, seek medical attention immediately.

See a doctor or go to the If you have questions about emergency room. Do not wait. cases in a particular state, please Symptoms of Botulism: call that state’s health department.

• Some localized effects can be expected following botulinum toxin injection. Your provider will explain these to you.

• More concerning botulism symptoms might include double or blurred vision, drooping · 1588: The Spanish Armada eyelids, slurred speech, Sets Sail from Lisbon, difficulty swallowing, dry Portugal, heading for the mouth, and difficulty breathing.

English Channel.

These symptoms are typically · 1937: Volkswagen, the followed by muscle weakness German Auto-Mobile that progresses over hours to Manufacturer, is founded. days. See a doctor or go to the · 1999: After 22 years of emergency room right away if restoration work, Leonardo you experience these symptoms.

Da Vinci’s Masterpiece, “The • Without treatment, botulism Last Supper,” is put back on can lead to paralysis, respiratory display. failure, or death.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MAY 29, 2024, PAGE 13

Dr. Henry Ruiz, DHR Health Urologist, Named Center of Excellence for the AMS 700™ Prosthesis

DHR Health Urology Institute announced today that DHR Health Urologist, Dr. Henry Ruiz has garnered the designation of Center of Excellence for the AMS 700™ Inflatable Penile Prosthesis – a long-term treatment option for

patients with erectile dysfunction (ED).

ED is a common condition that is estimated to affect more than half of men between 40 and 70 years old to some degree. ED can be brought on by a number of physical or psychological causes, which result in the inability to get and keep an erection firm enough for intercourse. This can limit intimacy, affect self-esteem and impact relationships. The AMS 700, manufactured by Boston Scientific, is designed to deliver a natural look and feel and can help patients resume sexual intimacy with their partners.

The Center of Excellence designation recognizes achievement of program requirements, including experience with implanting the AMS 700 and commitment to continuously educating patients and the community about ED and available treatment options.

“Being designated as an AMS 700 Center of Excellence is an important recognition for us and further supports our efforts to deliver treatment options for ED patients,” said Dr. Henry Ruiz, DHR Health Urologist. “Patients often wonder how the implant will affect their ability for

intimacy. The AMS 700 is a unique solution that allows patients to be spontaneous again and is reliable with no medication side effects or ongoing costs,” added Dr. Ruiz.

The AMS 700 is designed for ease of use and a natural look and feel. It is currently used in urology practices throughout the U.S. and around the world. To date, more than 500,000 AMS 700 IPPs have been sold worldwide.

Did you know?

Even though cataracts primarily affect aging individuals, children are not immune to them.

Cataracts in children may be present at birth, and doctors will determine if children have congenital cataracts, advises the American Academy of Ophthalmology®.

But cataracts also can be acquired as an infant or young child. There are several causes

for pediatric cataracts, and they may include an eye injury, diabetes, complications from eye problems, steroid use, and radiation treatment.

The only treatment for cataracts is to remove them. Identifying pediatric cataracts early on can help children enjoy healthy vision.

Early Notice and Public Review of a Proposed Activity in a 100-Year Floodplain To: All interested Agencies including all Federal, State and Local, Groups and Individuals This is to give notice that Starr County has determined that the following proposed action under HOME Program Reservation System Participant Contract #1003549 #1003550 is located in the 100-year floodplain, and County of Starr will be identifying and evaluating practicable alternatives to locating the action in the floodplain and the potential impacts on the floodplain from the proposed action, as required by Executive Order 11988, in accordance with HUD regulations at 24 CFR 55.20 Subpart C Procedures for Making Determinations on Floodplain Management and Protection of Wetlands. The proposed project is located at 600 E. Dr Martin St., Rio Grande City, Starr County, Texas. The funds will be used to Demolish the existing dilapidated home located in a 100 year floodplain which is located in a lot of approximately 50 feet wide and approximately by 120 feet long, and reconstruct new housing on the same footprint. This home will be for elderly and/or physically challenged citizens.

Property is located on FEMA FIRM 48427C0570C in Zone A. Less than 1 acre total are in the 100 year floodplain.

There are three primary purposes for this notice. First, people who may be affected by activities in floodplains and those who have an interest in the protection of the natural environment should be given an opportunity to express their concerns and provide information about this area. Second, an adequate public notice program can be an important public educational tool. The dissemination of information about floodplains can facilitate and enhance Federal efforts to reduce the risks associated with the occupancy and modification of these special areas. Third, as a matter of fairness, when the Federal government determines it will participate in actions taking place in floodplains, it must inform those who may be put at greater or continued risk.

Written comments must be received by Starr County at the following address on or before June 14, 2024: Starr County, 100 North FM 3167, Rio Grande City, Texas 78582, Attention: Ms. Connie Cantu, Project Manager, during the hours of 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Comments may also be submitted via email at ccantu@co.starr.tx.us Date Published: May 29, 2024

Physicians Sound Alarm to Curb Rising Congenital Syphilis Rates Texas physicians are raising the alarm as cases of congenital syphilis, a dangerous illness for fetuses and newborn babies, are surging.

Texas has the fourth highest congenital syphilis case rate in the nation, with cases skyrocketing 148% from 2017 to 2022, according to Texas Department of State Health Services data.

Syphilis is “the great imitator” and “the great masquerader” for its ability to go undetected, say Emily Adhikari, MD, who leads the Texas Medical Association Workgroup on Syphilis and Congenital Syphilis, and Emma Dishner, MD, a Dallas infectious diseases specialist.

“It’s often dormant, without causing bothersome symptoms – that’s part of the trouble,” said Dr. Adhikari, who is also an assistant professor in the division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine at UT Southwestern Medical Center’s Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. People do not know they are infected, and they can spread it.

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection. Congenital syphilis occurs when a pregnant mother with untreated syphilis passes the infection to her unborn baby.

Congenital syphilis may lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, premature birth, and death immediately after birth. If left untreated, congenital syphilis can cause developmental and unexpectedly harmful health problems for the child.

The disease disproportionately affects children born to Black and Hispanic mothers. Approximately seven out of 10 infants born with congenital syphilis are in these groups. “Our experience suggests this is related to health inequity and disparate access to preventive health care, screening, and education about sexually transmitted infections,” said Dr. Adhikari.

In Texas, a pregnant person should be tested for syphilis three times during pregnancy: at their first prenatal visit, after 28 weeks

gestation, and at time of delivery.

To create more awareness about the disease, Dr. Dishner says it is important to talk about it even though it can be uncomfortable.

“There is a misconception that syphilis is only prevalent in people who are younger, more sexually active, and [fall into] a promiscuous subset like sex workers or men who have sex with men… but it exists for everyone,” said Dr. Dishner, who added that she often treats syphilis patients who do not fit such stereotypes. “Patients come into my office with positive syphilis tests who are in long-term, monogamous relationships but never got tested prior.” She said the infection is more common in those aforementioned populations.

High-risk groups should be vigilant, and others need to be aware, too.

Both Dr. Adhikari and Dr. Dishner also encounter confused patients unsure about where their infections came from, saying many patients believe – incorrectly – that syphilis has flatlined across the country.

Dr. Disher said patient education for syphilis mirrors that of other sexually transmitted infections, including advocating for regular testing, use of condoms during sexual intercourse, and discussing sexual activity and treatment plans.

One obstacle to treatment, however, is a shortage of the best remedy. “Physicians may struggle in some areas to access appropriate treatment for syphilis in pregnant individuals, for whom penicillin is currently the only option to ensure adequate treatment of the fetus,” said Dr. Adhikari, who also is the medical director of perinatal infectious diseases at Parkland Health.

As cases rise and treatment options remain limited, TMA experts highlight the need for physicians to raise awareness – including pediatricians, family and emergency physicians, and those in the infectious disease field.

“The need is urgent,” said Dr. Adhikari.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MAY 29, 2024, PAGE 14

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MAY 29, 2024, PAGE 15

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MAY 29, 2024, PAGE 16

LEGAL NOTICE APARTMENT FOR RENT Application has been made with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission for a WINE AND M A LT B E V E R A G E R E TA I L E R ’ S O F F PREMISE PERMIT (BQ) by: JNJ’S GROCERIES LLC, dba JNJ’S GROCERIES LLC, to be located at 5751 E. US HWY 83, RIO GRANDE CITY, STARR COUNTY, TEXAS. Officer of said LLC: JORGE LUIS MORALES JR., OWNER/ MANAGER.

1 bedroom, 1 bath w/ laundry, dinning, and living room appliances included.

Newly remodeled 1 block away from North Grammar Elementary in RGC.

For info. call

956-487-8989 “Help needed: - yard work - lawn care - trash disposal - general housework help

FOR SALE

Beautiful Australian shepherd puppies 3 males, 4 females Merle and tricolor available 6 weeks old. $350-$500 Call with questions

956-844-9303

MANAGER $PECIAL MUST GO!! MANAGER $PECIAL

2023 Nissan Frontier Pro-4X $

2022 GMC Sierra 1500 Limited

42,995 $

CALL

39,774

STK#25755A NICE! ONLY 16K MILES!!!

STK#25813A

2022 Chevy Blazer

$ STK#25205A

$

2022 Nissan Kicks S

32,777

29,777

$ STK#25498B

2022 Jeep Compass

25,998

$

22,997

$ STK#25683A

$

26,998

24,990

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

No Matter Where You Live, Come Home!

(956) 487-2596 · 1-800-509-0003

Paco Cantu 956-208-1821

Rolando Flores 956-416-8945

www.riomotors.com

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MAY 29, 2024, PAGE 17

People across the Valley come home to Rio Motor Company!

2024 CHEVROLET SILVERADO CUSTOM CREW CAB MSRP PRICE REDUCTION BELOW MSRP SPECIAL VALUE PRICE CONSUMER CASH 1 SELECT MARKET BONUS CASH 2 SELECT MARKET BONUS CASH 3

$4 8,265 -$ 4,000 $4 4 , 2 6 5 -$ 1,750 -$ 1,000 -$ 1,000

SALE PRICE

$4 0 , 5 1 5

OTHER AVAILABLE OFFERS YOU MAY QUALIFY FOR: GM Trade Allowance 4

FOR WELL-QUALIFIED BUYERS ( 5)

1.9% APR -OR-

$10,000 0FF MSRP when you trade in an eligible vehicle (4)

- $2,250

AVAILABLE SPECIALS: 1.9% APR For 36 Months For Well-Qualified Buyers When Financed w/GM Financial 5

$

40,515

STK# 25355

riomotors.com (1) Not available with special financing, lease and some other offers. Must take new retail delivery by 06/03/2024. (2) Not available with lease and some other offers. Residential restrictions apply. Must take new retail delivery by 06/03/2024.

(3) Not available with some other offers. Residential restrictions apply. Must take new retail delivery by 06/03/2024. (4) Must trade in a 2010 model year or newer vehicle. Not available with special financing, lease and some other offers. Must take new retail delivery by 06/03/2024. (5) 1.9% APR for 36 months for well-qualified buyers when financed w/GM Financial. Monthly payment is $28.60 for every $1,000 you finance. Average example down payment is 10.3%. Not available with

“No Matter Where You Live, Come Home!”

leases and some other offers. Must take new retail delivery by 06/03/2024. See Dealer for details. All prices plus tax, title and license. Vehicle is subject to pre-sale.

(956) 487-2596 1-800-509-0003

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MAY 29, 2024, PAGE 18

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MAY 29, 2024, PAGE 19

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MAY 29, 2024, PAGE 20

¿Necesitas ayuda de PROVIDER en tu casa, o PROVIDERS conoces a alguien que necesita PROVIDER? PAGANDO HASTA Pero, tienen miedo a pedir por temor de perder su propiedad. Sabias que existen cosas a su favor para que eso no suceda.

HABLEME: CONSULTA GRATIS

$

12.00 POR HORA

EN EL CONDADO STARR

OMAR REYES (956) 533-9001

You’re in good hands.

Auto • Home • Business • Life Hablamos Español

956-488-0160

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

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