NOVEMBER 13, 2024

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

Office (956) 487-6544 • E-Mail: sctc78582@aol.com • issuu.com/starrcountytowncrier Vol. 39, No. 46

WEEKLY - WEDNESDAY • NOVEMBER 13, 2024

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

Get into the holiday spirit with festive Miss STARR County Royal Court!

487-2596 vibes, unique finds, and local treasures!

4350 E. US HWY 83 R.G.C.

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

Phone (956) 849-4497

Newly crowned titleholders for this year’s Miss STARR County Royal Court. Congratulations to all the contestants and to the newly crowned Royal Court that will represent our community with pride! Royal Court: Tiny Miss STARR County: Emma Rhae Garza, Little Miss RGC: Delyla Rodriguez, Little Miss STARR County: Amayranni Barrera, Jr. Miss STARR County: Sarah Lee Barrera, Miss RGC: Andrea Muñoz, and Miss STARR County: Jaylynn Yarrito. Let’s cheer them on as they begin this amazing journey of leadership, community, and empowerment!

Dr. Raymond Cruz Best

Handcrafted goods to fresh produce, charming boutiques, and everything in between, there’s something for everyone. Vendors, Farmers Markets, Boutiques & More – You’re Invited! For more information contact David Perez directly at 956-735-1463. Welcome all types of vendors to be part of this magical day! See you there!

RGCGISD host a Veterans Day program

FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Dental Insurance, Medicaid and Chip Accepted

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

Rio Grande City Grulla ISD proudly hosted a Veterans Day Program on Friday, November 8, 2024, at the Fort Ringgold Auditorium.

Students, staff, administration, and community members gathered to honor veterans from all branches,

• 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

ranks, and generations for their service and sacrifice. Each veteran in attendance received a heartfelt token of appreciation, a small gesture to recognize their immense contributions to our country. The program concluded with two talented RGCGISD

students performing taps, a moving tribute to honor veterans who are no longer with us.

On behalf of the RGCGISD our heartfelt gratitude goes out to all students, faculty, and staff who helped organize this meaningful event. Special thanks

to Mrs. Elsa V. Morris, Interim Superintendent of Schools, and our School Board of Trustees for their unwavering support. We also extend our deepest appreciation to each veteran who joined us—your presence made this event truly memorable and inspiring.

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, NOVEMBER 13, 2024, PAGE 2

The Miracle Prayer

Lord Jesus, I come before you, just as I am.

I am sorry for my sins, I repent of my sins, please forgive me. In your name I forgive all others for what they have done against me. I renounce satan, the evil spirits and all their works. I give you my entire self, Lord Jesus, now and forever. I invite you into my life Jesus, I accept you as my Lord, God and Saviour. Heal me, change me, strengthen me in body, soul and spirit. (Make your petition) Come Lord Jesus, cover me with your precious blood, and fill me with your Holy Spirit. I love you Lord Jesus, I praise you Jesus. I thank you Jesus.

I shall follow you every day of my life. Amen. Mary my Mother, Queen of Peace, all the Angels and Saints please help me.

R. B. S. Amen.

ICS kicked off Red Ribbon Week with a Helicopter landing Immaculate Conception School kicked off Red Ribbon Week with a Helicopter landing. Students, Faculty, Staff, and Community members experienced the landing of the helicopter for the first time.

Thank you U.S. Customs & Border Protection and Home Land Security for making this experience such a successful presentation and visit. A moment everyone will remember FOREVER!

1st Anniversary Mass In Loving Memory of

Rodrigo Valadez 01/20/1951 † 11/18/2023

It’s been a year since you were called home by our Lord and yet it seems like yesterday. The Lord gave us the strength to go forth even though we were going through the darkest time of our lives without you. We thank God for all the wonderful heartfelt memories which we will cherish forever.

We know that you’re in heaven now with God, watching over us.

1st Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Nov. 17, 2024 at 9:00AM at Immaculate Conception Church in RGC and at 11:00AM at San Pablo Church in La Puerta.

Miss you Always your family Maria & Children

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, NOVEMBER 13, 2024, PAGE 3

Rio Grande City CTE Cosmetology students volunteer their skills Rio Grande City CTE Cosmetology students are volunteering their skills at Starr County Nursing & Transitional Care, bringing joy and beauty to the residents each month.

The nursing home will crown a Queen and King, and in celebration, students Amya Gonzalez, Briseyda Rodriguez, Kasandra Rodriguez, and Natalie Barrera, guided by their teacher Joelda Arredondo, will provide specialized cosmetology services to the Queen and her court.

The Queen and her ladies in waiting were deeply grateful for the care and attention.

Thank you, CTE students, for your community service and kindness—it truly makes a difference!

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

(956) 487-2525

SANCHEZ

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

Memorial Funeral Home 101 AR Sanchez Sr. Dr. Roma, Tx. 78584

(956) 847-7008

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, NOVEMBER 13, 2024, PAGE 4

Shopping for a health plan? How to avoid problems

PUBLIC NOTICE

Pursuant to the provisions contained in ARTICLE V, Section Five (5) of the Texas Abandoned Motor Vehicle Act, we are serving notice to the owners and/or lien holders that the below described motor vehicle, has been taken into custody by Ochoa’s Wrecker Service, and will be sold. Failure of an owner or lien holder to claim vehicles within thirty (30) days after date of this notice and make payment of all towing, preservation, and storage charges resulting from the placing of vehicles in custody shall constitute a waiver of the right to reclaim vehicle. Contact Juan Ochoa at 956-488-9789, 112 Old Military Rd., Garciasville, TX 78547 for information concerning vehicles.

2001 FORD F150 GRAY LP: SGL 8642 GEORGIA VIN# 1FTRW07621KC06071

PUBLIC NOTICE

Pursuant to the provisions contained in ARTICLE V, Section Five (5) of the Texas Abandoned Motor Vehicle Act, we are serving notice to the owners and/or lien holders that the below described motor vehicle, has been taken into custody by Lobo Wrecker Service, and will be sold. Failure of an owner or lien holder to claim vehicles within forty-five (45) days after date of this notice and make payment of all towing, preservation, and storage charges resulting from the placing of vehicles in custody shall constitute a waiver of the right to reclaim vehicle. Contact Humberto Lucio at 956-487-3384, 5879 E. Hwy. 83, Rio Grande City, Texas 78582 for information concerning vehicle.

2018 VOLKSWAGEN WHITE LP’s: XES-295-B TAMAULIPAS, MEXICO VIN# 3VVKP65N7JMO6131

With HealthCare.gov and Medicare open enrollment in full swing, many Texans are shopping for health plans.

Shopping for a plan can be complicated. You don’t want to get scammed or not get the coverage you need.

Shop smart TDI’s shopping checklist has questions to ask before you buy a plan.

Confirm plan details Premiums, provider networks, and plan details can change, so it’s a good idea to shop every year. Shopping tools can help

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS South Texas College is accepting competitive proposals for the following: RFP Number 24-25-1032 24-25-1034 24-25-1035

Description Date Due Time Audiovisual Upgrade Active December 5, 2024 2:00 pm Learning Classroom Pecan Campus Projector and December 5, 2024 3:00 pm Projector Screen Replacement Upgrade Mid Valley Campus Building F - December 5, 2024 4:00 pm Multipurpose Room Audiovisual Equipment Upgrade

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 Vanessa Campos, Senior Buyer, 956-872-4661 vsolis_3079@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.

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

you search for plans that cover your preferred doctors and drugs.

Consider each plan’s deductible, copay, and coinsurance amounts.

These are amounts you pay when you get services. Also look at what is covered before you meet your deductible.

To avoid problems: •Shop from trusted websites like HealthCare.gov and Medicare.gov.

•Beware of salespeople who suggest an alternative health plan, instead of an Affordable Care Act (ACA) plan. Alternative plans have more limits and don’t cover existing health care conditions.

•Some websites or salespeople use terms like gold, silver, or bronze to make plans sound like ACA plans. But a plan might have fewer benefits or not meet ACA coverage expectations.

Be cautious of cold calls and scams If you didn’t make the phone call about a plan, don’t give away any personal information, including Social Security, Medicare, or banking, credit card or account numbers. If you’re interested in a plan, ask for all information in writing.

Other ways to protect yourself: •Remember that scammers can

“spoof” a phone number to make it show up as another business on caller ID. •Beware of ads on social media or elsewhere online offering you gifts. The personal information you share could be used without your permission.

•Be suspicious if anyone tries to pressure you to buy quickly.

There are no “special deals” on health plans.

Call TDI’s Help Line at 800252-3439 TDI can help with questions about coverage options, insurance companies, and agents we regulate.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, NOVEMBER 13, 2024, PAGE 5

City of Roma is having a Holiday Parade In honor of Holiday Kickoff, City of Roma is having a Holiday Parade preceding this event on November 21st. The Holiday Parade begins at 5:00PM from Citizens State Bank and ends at

Guadalupe Plaza for the annual Holiday Kickoff event. Parade lineup begins at 4:00PM behind Citizens State Bank. Spectator viewing for parade will be along Grant Street. After the parade, at

6:00PM at Guadalupe Plaza the annual tree lighting, lots of freebies by the sponsors, pictures with Santa and special performances

by Roma High School Choir and Conjunto!

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE GIVEN IN ACCORDANCE TO V.T.C.A. GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 551.001 ET.SEQ. Notice is hereby given that the City of La Grulla will hold a special public hearing on Monday, December 2, 2024, at 5:00 P.M. in the City of La Grulla City Hall located at 194 S. FM 2360, La Grulla, Texas to consider the following requests: Proposed Water and Sewer Rate Adjustments Background: The City is considering adjustments to current water and sewer rates to ensure the financial sustainability of these essential services, support necessary infrastructure maintenance, and meet regulatory requirements. Additionally, there may be changes to certain non-rate fees related to water and sewer services.

Proposed Rate Changes: The proposed adjustments affect residential, commercial, and industrial rate structures. The specific details of the proposed rate changes and adjustments to non-rate services fees will be presented at the hearing.

For further information or to obtain a copy of the proposed rate changes, please contact the City Manager’s Office at (956) 487-3341.

Anyone interested is invited to attend this Public Hearing and express their views.

Accessibility Notice: The City of La Grulla is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities who wish to attend the public hearing. If you require special assistance, please contact the City Manager’s Office at (956) 487-3341 at least 48 hours prior to the meeting.

THIS NOTICE IS GIVEN IN ACCORDANCE WITH V.T.C.A., GOVERNMENT CODE, SECTION 551.001 ET. Seq.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that the Planning and Zoning Commission for the City of Roma will hold a Public Hearing on Monday, December 2, 2024, at 5:30 P.M. at the Roma City Council Chambers, located at 201 W. Convent Ave, Roma, Texas to consider the following case(s): 1) Rezoning: From Suburban Residential District (SF) to General Commercial District (C2) for a proposed Mechanic Shop; Legal Description is One (1) lot, numbered Fifteen (15), forming a part of a tract of land containing 2.12 acres, more or less, herein being partitioned out of Porcion 73, Ancient Jurisdiction of Mier, Starr County, Texas; Physical Address is 1312 North Ebony Avenue, Roma, Texas 78584. (COZ#2406) 2) Rezoning: From Suburban Residential District (SF) to Public Facilities/ Institutional District (PFI) for a proposed Barber School; Legal Description is Abstract 165, Porcion 74, G Saenz Partition, Tract 231 (Lot) and Abstract 165, Porcion 74, G Saenz Partition, Tract 231; Physical Address is 185 Rancho Nuevo Avenue, Roma, Texas 78584. (COZ#2407) The City Council for the City of Roma will be holding a Public Hearing for the case(s) on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at 5:30 p.m., at the Roma City Council Chambers, located at 201 W. Convent Ave., Roma, Texas.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, NOVEMBER 13, 2024, PAGE 6

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, NOVEMBER 13, 2024, PAGE 7

How to get help with a mental health issue If your health plan covers mental health issues, the law requires it to give the same level of benefits, such as the number of office visits, as it does for a physical illness or injury. This is known as mental health parity. Here’s what else you should know about parity and getting help.

Does insurance cover treatment for mental health and substance use disorders?

1. Equal treatment The goal of parity is to make it easier to get mental health care. That includes treatment for behavioral health issues and substance use disorders. For example, health plans must have enough in-network doctors and providers for routine and emergency care of behavioral health issues.

2. If a claim is denied It can be hard to tell if a denial of

care is a parity issue. If your mental health claim is denied, always ask why. Your health plan will have a process to review and appeal denied claims. You can use this form to ask for more details.

3. Next steps If the health plan’s appeal process didn’t solve your problem, you can also ask for an external review. An independent third party will review your case, and your health plan must honor the decision it makes. External reviews are free to you.

4. Help is available •Mental health parity is complicated but finding help shouldn’t be.

•The Health and Human Services Commission can help you find services and learn more about your rights. 800-252-8154.

•The Help Line can answer

insurance questions and explain your appeal options. 800-2523439.

•Learn how to file a health insurance complaint.

Resources •How to get help with a mental health issue (video) •Get help at MentalHealthTX •Understanding mental health systems and services in Texas (downloadable guide) •Texas Behavioral Health and Justice Technical Assistance Center •Insurance coverage and parity for mental health and substance use disorder services •Disaster Distress Helpline: Call 800-985-5990 any time •Texas Health and Human Services (Medicaid and CHIP information) •2-1-1 Texas: Care and housing resources

Save the Date!!! City of Rio Grande City Annual Lighting of the Christmas Tree will take place December 4th, 2024

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, NOVEMBER 13, 2024, PAGE 8

L E A S I N G SSPECIALS LEASING PECIALS 1 , 2 , & 3 BBEDROOMS 1,2,&3 ED S HHOMES OMES

9956-225-2022 9956-487-8564 56-487-8564

3 1 5 BUTTERFLY GARDEN DDR. 315 R. RRIO I O GGRANDE R A N D E CCITY ITY

Coldwell Banker Commercial -RGV FOR SALE - STARR COUNTY

• 38 acres off FM 2360 (La Victoria), 4 miles from La Grulla High School • Apartments just south of Dr. Mario Ramirez Elem.

• 6.9 acres on FM 755/La Carla 2miles from Rio Grande High School • Approx 2,800 sq.ft./over 1/2 acre downtown RGC • Sale/Lease 10,800 sq.ft. (LFD Building) downtown Rio Grande City

Motivated Seller’s - Make Offers Michael J. Ramey - (956) 607-5905

MANAGER $PECIAL MUST GO!! MANAGER $PECIAL

2022 Ram Bighorn/Lone Star

2023 Nissan Sentra

CALL

$

STK#26407A NICE! ONLY 16K MILES!!!

REDUCED

5 9 9 , 2 2

STK#26023A

2024 Chevy Blazer

STK#26304A

CALL

2023 Chevy Camaro

$

5 9 9 , 9 3

STK#26369A

2021 Chevy Equinox

$

5 9 9 , 4 2

STK#25949A

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, NOVEMBER 13, 2024, PAGE 9

Rio Grande City High School GEAR UP Future Health Care Heroes

Rio Grande City High School GEAR UP Future Health Care Heroes had an incredible experience at the Project SYSTEMS student workshop held at Texas State Technical College -TSTC in Harlingen!

They dove into exciting fields like Dental Hygiene, Surgical Technology, and Pre-Allied Health Careers.

Hands-on learning and insights into the college admission process are preparing them for a bright future in healthcare!

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, NOVEMBER 13, 2024, PAGE 10

SPACE AVAILABLE CALL 487-6544

“HE AIN’T HEAVY HE’S MY BROTHER” Sgt. JG Lupe Pena is pictured carrying one of many severely wounded comrades to a medivac dust off helicopter during the TET-OFFENSIVE, Saigon, Vietnam area in February 1968. Pena was awarded “THE ARMY COMMENDATION MEDAL for his heroism”.

Pena was born and reared at La Copita Ranch, Starr County, Texas. A 1966 graduate from San Isidro High School and enlisted in the U.S. Army Infantry January 1967 to January 1969, was deployed overseas to the Republic of Vietnam serving with Co. C 1st Bn. 26th Inf., First Infantry Division, “The Big Red One” with the Blue Spaders.

He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother

Song by The Hollies I’m laden with sadness … The road is long That everyone’s heart With many a winding turn Isn’t filled with the That leads us to who gladness knows where, Of love for one another who knows where But I’m strong … It’s a long, long road Strong enough to carry From which there is no him return He ain’t heavy, While we’re on the way he’s my brother to there Why not share? … So on we go His welfare is of … And the load my concern Doesn’t weigh me down No burden is he to bear at all We’ll get there He ain’t heavy, he’s my brother … For I know He would not … He’s my brother encumber me He ain’t heavy, He ain’t heavy, he’s my brother he’s my brother He ain’t heavy, he’s my brother … If I’m laden at all

Home Health Hospice Provider Services

PROVIDERS EMPESAMOS

$13 POR HORA

Llameme!

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

956-331-8462 Aceptamos:

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 NOW OPEN NOW OPEN RGC: 4370 E. Hwy 83 Ste. B - 956-309-3549 Escobares: 4522 East Hwy 83 Ste A. 956-429-5625 Penitas - 1715 Expressway 83 Suite A-2 Penitas Tx- 956-424-0133