NOVEMBER 23, 2022

¡Agradecimiento especial a la comunidad de RGCGISD por su apoyo!

Queremos usar este medio para agradecer a toda la gente que nos ayudo y voto por nosotros en la elección de Noviembre 8. Rio Grande es nuestro hogar y queremos hacer cambios positivos para nuestra comunidad. Comenzando con educar a la comunidad de lo qué pasa en las elecciones locales. Nosotros dimos una batalla 100% limpia y le dimos a la comunidad una oportunidad para elegir una nueva Era para nuestro distrito. Desgraciadamente solamente uno de los dos pudimos ganar en esta ocasión por muchos factores. Es nuestra opinión que la elección fue mal manejada y todo fue a favor de nuestros contrincantes. Es muy lamentable pero hubo intimidación hacia muchos empleados del distrito, las maquinas de votar fueron programadas de una manera

Veterans Mobile Medical Unit

que las boletas no fueron contadas si no se oprimía un botón extra, usaron jueces y administradores con antecedentes de fraude para manejar las elecciones y un Superintendente sirviendo como el secretario de las votaciones por solo comentar algunos de los innumerables obstáculos a los que nos enfrentamos diariamente.

Después de dos semanas siguen queriendo un recuento porque no aceptan la pérdida de Dalinda Escobar. Si esta posición es una posición no pagada porque razón no quieren la experiencia de una ex-maestra, doctora, emprendedora llena de experiencia con mucho que ofrecer?

Increíble pero cierto y lo mas triste es que no exista autoridad local, estatal o federal investigando estas injusticias.

Después de ver tanta

Ediel y

Barrera

Roma High Football Player Rey Gonzalez Selected for Prestigious Blue-Grey All American Bowl

17, players receive a detailed itinerary, their uniforms, meet the NFL veterans on each coaching staff, and then head on to practice.

The Veteran’s Mobile Medical Unit will be in Starr County once a week to serve the Veterans of Starr County beginning the middle of December 2022.

The unit will be staffed to provide Primary Care, Women’s Health, audiology, laboratory and Telehealth Service right here at the parking lot of the Starr County Courthouse Annex. The VA Texas Valley Coastal Bend

Health Care System identified Starr County as an area that would benefit greatly from these service. For appointments please call 1-855-864-0516.

Judge Eloy Vera would like to thank everyone who was able to join for this momentous event.

For additional information you may contact: Bobby A Domanski, Mobile Medical Unit Program Manager - VA Texas Valley Coastal Bend Health Care System - Office: 956-291-9000 ext. 63376.

Congratulations to Roma High School Mighty Gladiator Football Player #20 Rey Gonzalez, who has been selected to play in the prestigious Blue-Grey AllAmerican Bowl! He will play on Monday, December 19, 2022 at the Dallas Cowboys’ AT&T Stadium at 1 p.m.

The game features many of the nation’s top prospects from the Class of 2023. All-American Bowl participants represent nearly all 50 states, from the East to the West. On December

“We are so proud of Rey because he is a great young man who has been a model for the younger students because of his dedication to the team, his academics, and his leadership on and off the field,” said Roma High Football Program Head Coach Frank Villanueva. “He truly deserves this honor. We can’t wait to see what he does in the future beyond Roma. He will be a leader in whatever path he chooses to take. We look forward to seeing him play on Dec. 19th!”

Congratulations from The Gladiator Nation to Rey and his entire family!

corrupción sentimos aun mas responsabilidad social con esta comunidad.

El CAMBIO NO ES PARA NOSOTROS, SINO PARA LOS ESTUDIANTES Y EMPLEADOS DEL DISTRITO

Mil Gracias a la comunidad que nos apoya. Les deseamos una feliz semana de Acción de Gracias!

Dios los bendiga.

Veronica

The unveiling of the Veterans Mobile Medical Unit that will be sent to Starr County was held at the Starr County Courthouse Annex.

WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 23RDI.C.C. 6:30 P.M.

†ELEAZAR OLIVARES by Family

†ELI ROY GONZALEZ (3RD AN.) by Sus Padres y Familia

THURSDAY NOVEMBER 24TH –

THANKSGIVING 10:00 A.M.

PRO POPULO – MASS SAID FOR THE PEOPLE

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 26TH - I.C.C. 12:00 P.M.

†HORTENCIA T. CABELLO (1st an.) by Cabello Family

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 27THI.C.C. 5:00 P.M.

†JACINTO GARCIA by Osvelia Garcia

†MARIA MINERVA

by Su Hijo y Familia

†ALEJANDRO PASCUAL

LONGORIA (1ST AN.) by Family

†GUADALUPE M. & ALICIA

CASTAÑEDA (AN.) by Family

†MARIA ELENA PEÑA by Su Esposo e Hijos

†IRMA ACEVEDO DE RAMIREZ by Family

†ESTELA R. DE LUNA by Family

†RUDY MARTINEZ JR. by Cristina Martinez

†RODOLFO & INEZ O. MARTINEZ by Cristina Martinez

†LEONARDA B. GONZALEZ by Cristina Martinez

†ALBERTO GARZA by Cristina Martinez

†COSILIA CRUZ by Family

†EMMA T. GLORIA (15TH AN.) by Family

SUNDAY NOVEMBER 27TH – L.G. 7:00 A.M.

PRO POPULO – MASS SAID FOR THE PEOPLE

SUNDAY NOVEMBER 27TH - I.C.C. 9:00 A.M.

†CRUZ GARCIA by Su Esposa e Hijos

†ALISIA PEÑA CASTAÑEDA by Gloria De Loera

†MA. FELISITAS VALLE GONZALEZ by Gloria De Loera

SUNDAY NOVEMBER 27TH –I.C.C. 11:00 A.M.

†SERGIO FLORES by Family †JESSIE D. SANCHEZ by Family

5:00 P.M.

VILLARREAL

†BIENVENIDO B. VILLENO by Cadavez Family

†AMPARO BARCENAS (AN.) by Familia

†EZEQUIEL SILVA (19TH AN.) by Family

MONDAY NOVEMBER 28TH –I.C.C. 6:00 P.M.

†ALEJANDRA GARCIA (6TH AN.) by Letty & Valerie

TUESDAY NOVEMBER 29TH –I.C.C. 6.30 P.M.

PRO POPULO – MASS SAID FOR THE PEOPLE

NOTE:

PARISH OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED ON NOVEMBER 2325, 2022 IN OBSERVANCE OF THANKSGIVING. REGULAR OFFICE HOURS WILL RESUME MONDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2022.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL!

NOVENA

“Miraculous Prayer”

Dear Sacred Heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked for favors. This time I ask you this very special one (mention favor). Take it, Dear Jesus, and place it within your own heart, where your Father sees it. Then, in your merciful eyes it will become your favor, not mine. Amen.

Ramiro Barrera Middle School Students Share Positive Messages

$2,900.00 FULL FUNERAL SERVICE CALL JEFF OR SONATA SANCHEZ

“If Funeral Home 301 E. 2nd. St. Rio Grande City, Tx. 78582 (956) 847-7008

WITH SILVER METAL CASKET Sanchez

Students from Ramiro Barrera Middle School chalked their walk with positive messages of kindness and encouragement to highlight the need for positivity during Suicide Awareness Month. The students are focused on creating an environment of kindness in their school.

you made a list of all the things you could be thankful for, the list would undoubtedly be longer than your misfortunes.” ~ Catherine Pulsifer Memorial Funeral Home 101 AR Sanchez Sr. Dr. Roma, Tx. 78584 “Serving Our Community For Over 86 Years” “Caring for you & your loved ones in your time of need ”

THANK YOU

noble reason and in retrospect far more selfish. Property Taxes – specifically because mine increased significantly and to a point where even disposing of said properties would be impossible.

Something happened mid race though that gave my whole campaign a much more meaningful purpose.

pitch forks and knives with a group of five women and a child. I was too proud to compromise and ask for help for fear of owing favors in the end.

reached out and to all the constituents that stood with me and believed in me and have asked me to continue I say this to you.

It is November 16, 2022 and I find myself in the aftermath of a decision I made hastily out of frustration exactly a year ago. Ironically looking out the window of my home (where only my dogs and my husband live) nothing seems to have changed on the surface but the weather. The air however feels different -as I breath it in I finally for the first time in a long time feel it go through my whole body cleansing it somehow.

I turn 46 tomorrow and had someone told me what year 45 had in store for me I may have taken back year 36 altogether. I have served and educated my community for almost 26 years in various capacities through public service on different boards and through my various businesses.

I have guided individuals and businesses through the complicated tax codeeverything from investment guidance, business startups to making homeownership possible and in the latter years helping them through the most difficult time they will ever experience during a loss.

I have discovered however that nothing I have ever done in my life would have prepared me for the lessons learned and what I would have to face in 2022, and mind you by my own hand.

I did not decide to run for office because I considered myself a politician much less a leader. I ran for a far less

I know a lot of you are wondering why all this matters and why pen it now. Well, it matters because after this outcome I feel that I owe the people of my County an apology and its being penned now because it is only now that the fog has lifted that I have the objective wisdom to do so fairly.

I failed you because the intent originally was not made with the collective in mind. I figured if I could fix my problem for myself, it would benefit everyone as a direct result. I assumed and took for granted that my problem was the only problem that was ailing the community.

I learned through our grassroot efforts and our outreach that property taxes was just the straw that broke the camels back. What has been ailing the community of Starr County was a systemic habitual sell out of the county by our elected leaders, who are too dependent on an elected office that they no longer care for the long-term financial wellbeing of its people.

Politicians that are in it for themselves, and those that go into public services because they would not survive financially outside of it. I apologize for making this my cause too late in my election and for not building up my volunteers and reinforcments to overcome those I was up against. I went up against ALL of them (an empire) with

I put myself first -before the needs of the citizens. I failed to see that disseminating information alone does not win elections. I became too focused on becoming a good uncompromised politician (which I know now there is no such thing) that I failed to recognized the very (tactic) my adversary used to win this election.

I’m embarrassed because it’s the very thing I majored in at school. The most important principal of THE ART OF WAR. DIVIDE AND CONQUER. Victory without direct fighting is the most advantages way to win. Battle free victory- one where everyone else does the fighting for you, through deceitful deals or appearing to be with everyone and no one was his ace card.

They may have won this battle but they did lose the War and more importantly their people. A title without influence in the end is just that, and even that is a truth they cannot deny. With time as their worst enemy settling on a trusted successor to keep their secrets will become necessary in the near future.

Among the apologies, I feel I owe a very public one to my family especially one to my husband. I never thought that in my pursuit for office I would place you in the direct line of fire nor that you would have to atone for any of my sins. To my everlasting shame and regret I’m sorry that I left a loaded gun in the hands of a coward. One who lacked the wisdom or decency to know that it takes more guts not to fire than it does to do so.

Thank you for your strength and not letting me cower in the face of it all. You never let my feet touch the ground. To everyone that called and

We are continuing to shed light on all issues that affect our communities. We will continue the good fight to hold elected leaders transparent and accountable. We are reinforcing, regrouping and organizing so we won’t fail you again. I may have not been the perfect messenger but our message was perfect.

Inform, Empower, Inspire.

The future belongs to our generation and the responsibility to be better stewards of our community and its resources falls on us now.

Finally, for those out there still wondering how the heck this could have happened at the hands of five audacious women and a child -I’ll explain it in a way only a woman who loves to cook can- a recipe. From my soon to be finished book called The Cookbook. Recipe 12

Jackknifing an Election Prep time: 24-44 years

Cook time: Two weeks of early voting and Election Day Ingredients:

2-4 career politicians

5 or more financial unsound adopted budgets

50-80 empty promises

100+ favorable tax treatment of personal property

4 women a news outlet and a child.

Use accountability and transparency sparingly if at all 100% betrayal and backstabbing

Sprinkle self-interest all over it.

100% complacency Put it in oven and crank up to high heat until it implodes

Serving size: all participating registered voters Bon appetite Thank You Again for all your support!

Texas Delta Theta Master Service Project

Benefits Dr. Mario E. Ramirez Elementary

Texas Delta Theta Master of Beta Sigma Phi is proud to carry out their annual autumn service project, helping county schools with funds for uniform shirts or jackets for students who may be in need. Service committee members Rosie Garcia, chairman, and Tissa Peterson, are shown presenting a check to Principal Melinda Gonzalez at Dr. Mario Ramirez Elementary, RGCGISD. Fourth grade students, looking forward to the Fall Book Fair, are pictured showing their appreciation of the donation to their school.

Senator Judith Zaffirini is Re-Elected to the Texas Senate

With 100 percent of votes counted and reported to the Secretary of State, Senator Judith Zaffirini, D-Laredo, has won an 11th landslide re-election to represent District 21 in the Texas Senate.

She received 129,422 votes (61.53 percent) to her Republican opponent’s 75,643 (35.96 percent—far below her party’s strength of 39.3 percent); and her Libertarian opponent’s 5,274 (2.51 percent).

“I am delighted to continue to represent the families of Senate District 21 in the Texas Senate,” Senator Zaffirini said. “My staff and I embrace our mantra, “Serviam!” (I shall serve)—a lesson learned from the Ursuline nuns. No issue is too big or too small for us. If

it’s important to our constituents, it’s important to us, and we strive to represent everyone, including those who didn’t vote for me.”

Senate District 21, which was redrawn last year by the Texas Legislature, is home to 930,000 Texans and spans 16 counties stretching from the Rio Grande to the Colorado River.

“Although my constituents are separated by many miles, we are connected by our shared priorities,” Senator Zaffirini said. “They include ensuring our families are healthy and safe, fostering economic growth and providing our children with an excellent education.”

Senator Zaffirini prioritizes education in general, with a focus on early childhood and higher education; and health and human services in general, with a focus on the very young, the very old, the very poor, persons with disabilities

and veterans.

Her agenda for the next legislative session, which convenes Jan. 10, focuses on fixing the state’s electric grid, expanding access to healthcare and education, fostering economic growth and job creation, ensuring affordable housing, and protecting our environment and natural resources.

Senator Zaffirini is the first Hispanic woman elected to the Texas Senate, the second highestranking senator and the highestranking woman and Hispanic senator. During the last regular legislative session she passed 106 bills through the Republicandominated Legislature, proving her bipartisan effectiveness and making her the highest bill-passer for the fourth consecutive session. What’s more, she has passed more bills than any other legislator in Texas history.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

South Texas College is accepting competitive proposals for the following:

RFP Number Description Date Due Time 22-23-1043 Purchase and Installation of December 6, 2022 3:00 p.m.

LED Lights - II

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 Becky Cavazos, Director of Purchasing 956-872-4681 beckyc@southtexascollege. edu, or Deyadira Leal, Construction Buyer 956-872-4686 daleal@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

Students Invited to Participate in 2022-2023 Letters About Literature Texas Competition

The Texas Center for the Book (TCFB) has launched the 20222023 Letters About Literature Texas contest, a program that invites students to respond to authors about how their books or poetry have touched their lives. The contest is open to Texas students in grades 4 through 12. Students, educators and families: join the Texas Center for the Book in promoting the joys of reading and writing! Participants select a book, book series, essay, play, poem, short story or speech that has made a lasting impact. They then write a personal letter to the author that reflects how they have been changed, inspired or motivated by the work they selected.

In 2023, thanks to the generosity of the Nora Roberts

Foundation and the Texas Library and Archives Foundation, contest participants are eligible for enhanced cash prizes. Each winner’s school library will receive a $200 stipend! Details for cash prizes for students and libraries are available on the Letters About Literature website.

Additionally, state winners will be honored at the 2023 Texas Library Association Conference in Austin.

All submissions for the 20222023 contest must be submitted through the online platform by 5:00 p.m., Dec. 17, 2022 (Central). A permission form is required for all students who will be younger than 13 on Nov. 4, 2022.

To learn more about the contest, how to submit and to view

Starr County Precinct 2: Advertisement and Invitation for

winning entries from previous years, visit https://www.tsl.texas. gov/lettersaboutliterature. The site includes a Frequently Asked Questions page, student and teacher submission guidelines, letters from past winners, videos from authors and the official contest rules. Visit the Educator Resources page to get your own printable bookmarks and student handouts, participation certificates, key dates, permission forms and a step-by-step teaching guide featuring writing prompts.

For more information on Texas Center for the Book initiatives, visit https://www.tsl.texas.gov/ centerforthebook.

Established in 1987, the Texas Center for the Book seeks to stimulate public interest in books, reading, literacy and libraries.

Bids

“Reconstruction of Salineño Community Center Phase #2 Indoor Reconstruction”

Starr County Pct. 2 is requesting bids for furnishing all labor, materials, equipment, supervision and performance of all work required for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the Indoor Face to the Salineño Community Center. The project consists of demolishing and reconstructing of the indoor community center.

Bid Documents and Information towards the reconstruction may be obtained at the office of Commissioner Peña in Roma, Texas. The office is located at 500 East Grant St. Roma, Texas at Roma Motor Mart.

Bids will be received until 10:00 a.m. on December 15, 2022 after 10:00 a.m. bids will be publicly opened and read aloud at Starr County Pct. 2 office.

The County of Starr reserves the right to reject any or all bids or to waive any informalities in the bidding. Bids may be held by Starr County Pct. 2 for a period not to exceed 30 days from the date of the bid opening for the purpose of reviewing the bids and investigating the bidder’s qualifications prior to the contract award. All contractors/subcontractors that are debarred, suspended or otherwise excluded from are ineligible for participation.

Bidders / Contractor shall be an Equal Opportunity Firm and practice nondiscrimination. All Bidders/ Contractors must present proper documentation of capability adequate staffing and experience to perform the tasks required. Starr County supports the submission of Bids from historically underutilized businesses. All qualified bidders will receive consideration for selection without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, and handicap or as otherwise provided by applicable law.

Roma High Cross Country 9th Grade Boys Team Earns District Championship

A huge congratulations to the Roma High School Gladiador Cross Country 9th Grade Boys Team, who competed and placed in the 30-5A District XC Championship meet in Palmview. The boys worked hard, finishing with a total of 39 points, and earning 1st Place District Champions as a team in their division!! And a special congratulations to our District Champion Ricardo Rodriguez in his division! Ricardo Rodriguez - 1st place, Santiago Gonzalez - 6th place, Gael Gonzalez - 8th place, Yahir Torres - 12th place, Jaren Silva - 14th place, Richard Ramirez - 15th place, and Oscar Reyes - 16th place. Also part of this team are runners Santos Oliva and Jesus Carrillo. The Gladiator Nation is very proud of these student athletes!!

Thank you to Librarian Maricela Rios for providing photos of the potentially life saving Fire Prevention Week presentation that all Spartans at R. & C. Saenz Elementary School participated in recently. Thank you to the Roma Volunteer Fire Department for making it fun and educational!

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 TJ’s Star & Olivarez Wrecker Service, and will be sold. Failure of an owner or lien holder to claim vehicle 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 vehicle in custody shall constitute a waiver of the right to reclaim vehicle. Contact Raul Olivarez at 956-4886682 or 956-735-8883, 930 W. Eisenhower, Rio Grande City, TX 78582 for information concerning vehicles.

Healthy Thanksgiving Tips for National Diabetes Month

November is the start of the holiday season and National Diabetes Month. While Thanksgiving dinner and other celebrations of the season are often not balanced, those living with diabetes can enjoy traditional dishes while incorporating a few ideas to balance out some high fat and high carbohydrate plates.

Texas A&M AgriLife Extension – Neida E. Martinez, CEA-

FCH, has some tips to help make our holiday meals healthier without skipping our family favorites.

Add Balance with Fruits and Vegetables

If you imagine your Thanksgiving plate, you will notice that vegetables are likely scarce. While sweet potatoes and green beans are present, they are prepared with marshmallow, butter, bacon, or sauces, which add sugar, sodium, and fat. “The idea is that we have some vegetables or fruit on our plate that are prepared with minimal fat and sodium so that we can balance traditional high calorie foods.” “The fiber in fruits and vegetables helps us feel satisfied and they also add variety in texture and color.”

When family arrives to your holiday, you can start with crispy raw vegetables for an appetizer; those can be paired with a lowfat ranch dip, salsa, or a delicious bean dip like hummus.

For the main meal, cruciferous

vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or brussels sprouts are very filling, while dark green leafy vegetables like spinach, kale, or mustard greens pair well with sweeter dishes like sweet potatoes, corn, and cranberries.

Provide Light Drink Options

You can think of sugary drinks like soft drinks, punch, or fruit juice as a celebration drink and enjoy them on your holiday, especially if you abstain from them throughout the year. However, these beverages contain sugar and are very often consumed in larger portions.

Remember that two cans of regular soda will contain around 300 calories and the equivalent of about nineteen teaspoons of sugar. Also, juice contains nutrients like vitamin C and calcium, but a portion of juice is only four ounces.

There are numerous options for a drink with little to no sugar. Iced tea with an artificial sweetener, diet sodas, sugarfree drinks, and water, are all good options when

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

we decide to reserve our dinner calories for what’s on the plate instead of in our glass.

Top Off Dessert Pecan pie is a staple during the fall and winter and there is a reason it tastes so good, it is made with sugar, butter, and of course pecans. While pecans provide a healthy fat, they are still very calorie dense. One strategy to achieve balance in our desserts is to choose a traditional dessert, like pecan pie, and be very mindful of the portion size. Lowfat or sugar free dessert topping is light and makes any mindful portion decadent. It can also be used to top a fruit salad. Also remember that pumpkin pie is a Thanksgiving mainstay for which numerous lighter recipes have been developed. Fortunately, our Dinner Tonight website has several options for desserts featuring pumpkin. You can also sign up for weekly newsletters discussing recipes, healthy eating tips, and food safety at dinnertonight.tamu.edu

South Texas College is accepting competitive proposals for the following:

RFP Number Description Date Due Time

22-23-1044 Advertising Services December 13, 2022 3:00 pm 22-23-1045 Digital Advertising Services December 13, 2022 4:00 pm 22-23-1046 Investment Advisory Services December 14, 2022 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 Becky Cavazos, Director of Purchasing 956-872-4681 beckyc@southtexascollege. edu, or Vanessa Campos, Technical Buyer of Purchasing, 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

DSHS Encourages Flu Vaccination Ahead of Holidays

Public Health flu monitoring indicates the Texas flu season kicked off a few weeks earlier than usual this year. That’s why the Texas Department of State Health Services encourages Texans to get vaccinated now to protect themselves and their families from flu as the holidays approach.

“Vaccination remains our best defense against severe illness from flu, especially for more vulnerable populations like older adults, very young children, people with chronic health conditions and pregnant women,” said Dr. Jennifer Shuford, DSHS Interim Commissioner.

“That’s why we recommend that everyone six months and older receive their flu vaccine each year. And it’s especially important to get vaccinated now since it takes the body two weeks after vaccination to fully produce antibodies to fight flu.”

Reporting from around the

state confirms more influenzalike illness occurring earlier than recent flu seasons, which matches flu reporting from across much of the country. The flu vaccines for this 2022-2023 season have undergone substantial changes since last season, which will allow them to better protect against the flu viruses that are now circulating.

Anyone feeling ill or experiencing flu symptoms should stay at home and contact their health care provider. There are effective anti-viral treatments available for the flu, which are highly recommended for people at higher risk of flu complications, such as people with asthma, diabetes or heart disease. Other ways people can protect themselves and the people close to them from flu is to wash their hands often, cover their coughs and sneezes and stay home if they don’t feel well.

Eligible Texans can also safely

and conveniently get their flu shot and updated COVID-19 booster at the same time. The updated COVID-19 booster is designed to protect against the Omicron variants, which are causing the most COVID-19 illness in Texas right now.

Visit Vaccines.gov to find locations near you where flu vaccine and COVID-19 booster doses are available.

JOB OPENING

The City of Escobares, Texas is seeking to fill the following position: FINANCE DIRECTOR

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Plan and prepare the annual budget for the City. Plan and direct a budget workshop with the City Council at least twice per year. Direct the general financial operations of the City. Prepare monthly financial reports for the City Council. May be asked to serve as financial advisor to the City Council from time to time. Will work with external auditor in the preparation of the City’s Annual Financial Audit Report. May be asked to assist with and prepare budget and monthly financial reports for the Escobares Economic Development Corporation. Other related duties as assigned.

Successful candidate must have some experience in financial accounting, general bookkeeping experience and some knowledge of the use of QuickBooks accounting programs. Some knowledge of the laws and policies governing municipal finance and accounting practices and procedures preferred.

This is a part-time position and pay is commensurate with abilities and experience. The City of Escobares is an equal employment opportunity employer.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given of a public hearing to be held by the New Hope Cultural Education Facilities Finance Corporation (the "Issuer") on Wednesday, November 30, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. CT via teleconference. Among items to be discussed will be a proposal for issuance by the Issuer of its bonds or notes in one or more series (the "Obligations"), pursuant to a plan of financing, in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed $85,000,000, the proceeds of which will be loaned to Jack and Nancy Dwyer Workforce Development Center, Inc., a Maryland nonprofit corporation and an organization described in Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Borrower"), or an affiliated entity.

The proceeds of the Obligations will be loaned to the Borrower or an affiliated entity for the following purposes (collectively, the "Project"):

(1) To finance and refinance the cost of acquisition of certain skilled nursing facilities located at 3201 N. Ware Road in McAllen, Texas, known as Briarcliff Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, in a maximum amount of $8,000,000.

(2) To finance and refinance the cost of acquisition of certain skilled nursing facilities located at 850 12th Avenue in Fort Worth, Texas, known as Fort Worth Transitional Care Center, in a maximum amount of $5,000,000.

(3) To finance and refinance the cost of acquisition of certain skilled nursing facilities located at 1210 Eastwood Drive in Seguin, Texas, known as Guadalupe Valley Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, in a maximum amount of $4,000,000.

(4) To finance and refinance the cost of acquisition of certain skilled nursing facilities located at 825 W. Fairwinds Street in Hallettsville, Texas, known as Hallettsville Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, in a maximum amount of $4,000,000.

(5) To finance and refinance the cost of acquisition of certain skilled nursing facilities located at 2951 Highway 281 in George West, Texas, known as Live Oak Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, in a maximum amount of $3,000,000.

(6) To finance and refinance the cost of acquisition of certain skilled nursing facilities located at 3201 N. 4th Street in Longview, Texas, known as Longview Hill Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, in a maximum amount of $3,000,000.

(7) To finance and refinance the cost of acquisition of certain skilled nursing facilities located at 3106 Bob Rogers Drive in Eagle Pass, Texas, known as Maverick Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, in a maximum amount of $4,000,000.

(8) To finance and refinance the cost of acquisition of certain skilled nursing facilities located at 1200 S. Bryan Road in Mission, Texas, known as Mission Valley Nursing and Transitional Care, in a maximum amount of $6,000,000.

(9) To finance and refinance the cost of acquisition of certain skilled nursing facilities located at 120 State Loop 92 in La Grange, Texas, known as Monument Hill Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, in a maximum amount of $2,000,000.

(10) To finance and refinance the cost of acquisition of certain skilled nursing facilities located at 104 Rex Kerwin Court in Pflugerville, Texas, known as Pflugerville Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, in a maximum amount of $4,000,000.

(11) To finance and refinance the cost of acquisition of certain skilled nursing facilities located at 1350 East Lookout Drive in Richardson, Texas, known as Remington Transitional Care of Richardson, in a maximum amount of $5,000,000.

(12) To finance and refinance the cost of acquisition of certain skilled nursing facilities located at 603 E. Ave J in Robstown, Texas, known as Robstown Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, in a maximum amount of $3,000,000.

(13) To finance and refinance the cost of acquisition of certain skilled nursing facilities located at 503 Old Austin Hwy. in Bastrop, Texas, known as Silver Pines Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, in a maximum amount of $3,000,000.

(14) To finance and refinance the cost of acquisition of certain skilled nursing facilities located at 9801 S. First Street in Austin, Texas, known as Southpark Meadows Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, in a maximum amount of $5,000,000.

(15) To finance and refinance the cost of acquisition of certain skilled nursing facilities located at 5260 Brand Street in Rio Grande City, Texas, known as Starr County Nursing and Transitional Care, in a maximum amount of $5,000,000.

(16) To finance and refinance the cost of acquisition of certain skilled nursing facilities located at 4650 S. Panther Creek Drive in Spring, Texas, known as The Woodlands Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, in a maximum amount of $7,000,000.

(17) To finance and refinance the cost of acquisition of certain skilled nursing facilities located at 625 N. Main Street in Boerne, Texas, known as Town and Country Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, in a maximum amount of $3,000,000.

(18) To finance and refinance the cost of acquisition of certain skilled nursing facilities located at 422 E. 18th Street in Weslaco, Texas, known as Weslaco Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, in a maximum amount of $6,000,000.

(19) To finance and refinance the cost of acquisition of certain skilled nursing facilities located at 1219 Eastwood Drive in Seguin, Texas, known as Windsor Nursing and Rehabilitation Center of Seguin, in a maximum amount of $5,000,000.

(20) To finance and refinance the cost of acquisition of certain skilled nursing facilities located at 1300 Carl Ramert Drive in Yoakum, Texas, known as Yoakum Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, in a maximum amount of $5,000,000.

(21) To finance and refinance the cost of acquisition of certain skilled nursing facilities located at 3640 Hampton Drive in Missouri City, Texas, known as Windsor Quail Valley Post-Acute Healthcare Center, in a maximum amount of $3,000,000.

All interested parties are invited to express their views with respect to the Project and the Obligations by attending the public hearing to be held via teleconference, by dialing the following toll-free number 1-888-557-8511 (Passcode: 3788659#). Any interested persons unable to attend the hearing may submit their views in writing to the Issuer c/o Abraham "Abe" Benavides, McCall, Parkhurst & Horton L.L.P., 717 North Harwood, Suite 900, Dallas, Texas 75201, prior to the date scheduled for the hearing.

This notice is published and the above-described hearing is to be held in satisfaction of the requirements of Section 147(f) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, regarding the public approval prerequisite to the exemption from federal income taxation of interest on the Obligations. The public hearing will be held via teleconference in accordance with Revenue Procedure 2022-20 issued by the Internal Revenue Service.

DPS Increases Traffic Enforcement for Thanksgiving Holiday

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is stepping up enforcement for the Thanksgiving holiday to ensure people are able to get to and from their celebrations safely. Texas

Highway Patrol Troopers will increase enforcement on the roads from Wednesday, Nov. 23, through Sunday, Nov. 27. DPS Troopers will be looking for people not wearing seat belts, driving while intoxicated, speeding and failing to follow the Move Over, Slow Down law, among other traffic violations.

“As we head into a busy holiday season, we must remember to make safety the number one priority,” said DPS Director Steven McCraw. “Obey all traffic laws, don’t drink and drive, put your phones down behind the wheel, and look out for each other. The message is the same every year, but it’s a message that can save lives.”

DPS participates annually in the nationwide Operation CARE (Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort) initiative for the Thanksgiving holiday.

DPS offers the following safety tips for the Thanksgiving holiday: •Don’t drink and drive. Make alternate plans if you are consuming alcohol.

•Move Over or Slow Down for police, fire, EMS, Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) vehicles and tow trucks stopped on the side of the road with emergency lights activated. Show the same courtesy to fellow drivers who are stopped on the side of the road.

•Buckle up everyone in the vehicle — it’s the law.

•Slow down, especially in bad weather, heavy traffic, unfamiliar areas or construction zones.

•Eliminate distractions while driving, including the use of mobile devices. Texas law prohibits the use of portable wireless devices to read, write or send an electronic message unless the vehicle is stopped.

If you’re using a navigation device or app, have a passenger operate it, so you can keep your eyes on the road.

•Keep the Texas Roadside Assistance number stored in your phone. Dial 1-800-525-5555 for any type of assistance. The number can also be found on the back of a Texas Driver License.

•Drive defensively, as holiday travel can present additional challenges.

•Don’t drive fatigued — allow plenty of time to reach your destination.

•On multi-lane roads, use the left lane for passing only. Not only is it courteous and avoids impeding traffic, Texas law requires slower traffic to keep to the right and to use the left lane for passing only (when posted).

•Don’t cut in front of large trucks, and try not to brake quickly in front of them. They can’t maneuver as easily as passenger vehicles and pickup trucks.

•If you can Steer It, Clear It: If you are involved in a non-injury crash and your vehicle can be moved, clear the traffic lanes to minimize traffic impact. Leaving vehicles in a traffic lane increases traffic congestion and leaves those involved with an increased risk of harm or a secondary wreck. On some highways, if you don’t move your vehicle when it’s safe to do so, it’s against the law.

•Check your vehicle to make sure it’s properly maintained and always ensure your cargo is secure.

•Report road hazards or anything suspicious to the nearest law enforcement agency.

•Monitor weather and road conditions wherever you are traveling. For road conditions and closures in Texas, visit Drive Texas.

Texas A&M Forest Service urges wildfire safety during hunting season

Texas A&M Forest Service reminds Texans to be careful with activities that may cause a wildfire this hunting season.

From 2017 to 2021, Texas A&M Forest Service responded to 3,682 wildfires burning 1.4 million acres. During that time, 42 percent of wildfires occurred during the major hunting season months of September through January.

“Texas A&M Forest Service wants all hunters to be safe this upcoming season,” said Karen Stafford, Texas A&M Forest Service State Wildfire Prevention Program Leader. “We all have a role to play in protecting our state from wildfires, so remember to do your part and don’t let a wildfire start.”

The general season for whitetailed deer hunting opens Nov. 5 for all but the two westernmost counties in Texas.

Nine out of 10 wildfires in Texas are human caused, and 65 percent of wildfires that occur during hunting season are caused by debris burning and equipment use, which includes parking in dry grass and dragging trailer

chains.

Recent rainfall has helped increase the amount of moisture in vegetation across the Texas landscape. The rainfall reduced wildfire activity for much of the state.

Even when wildfire activity is low, the possibility of an ignition is a concern. It only takes one spark to start a wildfire and hunters are encouraged to be cautious outdoors. Some tips to help avoid starting a wildfire while hunting and camping this fall include:

Avoid driving over and parking on dry grass - the heat from your vehicle can easily ignite the grass.

Always check with local officials for burn bans or other outdoor burning restrictions. Each county in Texas sets and lifts their own burn bans. Make sure you know your county’s burn ban status and if it restricts open flames and other heatcausing activities such as using charcoal. View the latest burn ban map here: https://tfsweb.tamu. edu/burnbans/.

Never leave a cooking fire or campfire unattended, and always

make sure it is completely out by drowning it, stirring it and feeling to ensure that it is out cold before you leave.

When taking a trailer out on your adventures, make sure that the tires are properly inflated, chains will not contact the road and that any loose metal will not continually hit anything else, all which can cause sparks.

Always be ready to put out a fire should one start. Have a shovel and water with you in camp and have a fire extinguisher with you at all times.

For additional information about preventing wildfires this hunting season, visit https://tfsweb.tamu.edu/ HuntingFireSafety/.

JOB OPENING

Position:

Qualifications:

• Proficient typing, computer, and office management

• Effective organizational, communications, and interpersonal skills

• Bilingual: English and Spanish

• QuickBooks software experience required

• Bookkeeping experience required

• Knowledge in payroll and sales tax reports (preferred) but not required

Please email resume to mario@mendezandrobles.com

JOB OPENING

Position: Full Time/Part-Time

Qualifications:

• Proficient typing, computer, and office management

• Effective organizational, communications, and interpersonal skills

• Bilingual: English and Spanish

• Income Tax preparation experience preferred

• QuickBooks software experience preferred

• Bookkeeping experience required

• Knowledge in payroll and sales tax reports (preferred) but not required

• Bachelor’s or Associates Degree in Accounting

Please email resume to mario@mendezandrobles.com

The Delia Gonzalez Garcia Elementary Warriors kicked off their AR Program with a galactic parade! After receiving a special message from Darth Vader, each class was assigned to create a lightsaber and a poster to motivate students to read. Students also received a Star Wars book so they could start reading and earning AR points. Great job Warriors!!

Best Wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving

Your trust and kindness fill us with gratitude, and we hope the spirit of the season fills you with joy!

Lopez Family & Staff

All the Best at Thanksgiving

A bount� of well wishes to you and your loved ones at this special time of year.

We hope the holidays bring you enough peace, joy and content�ent to last the whole year.