NOVEMBER 27, 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. 48

WEEKLY - WEDNESDAY • NOVEMBER 27, 2024

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

487-2596 Texas Regional Bank Hosts Grand Opening in Rio Grande City 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

Texas Regional Bank (TRB) hosted a grand opening event at its new Rio Grande City banking center, its 30th location in Texas and 14th in the Rio Grande Valley on Thursday, November 21, 2024 The event featured a

ceremonial ribbon-cutting led by the RGC Greater Chamber of Commerce, with honored guests, including TRB’s Board of Directors, Executive Team, and key community leaders.

Speakers included TRB Chairman and CEO Michael

Scaief, Market Manager Dalinda Guillen, and Alex Meade, TRB’s President of Economic Development. Each highlighted the bank’s commitment to Rio Grande City, emphasizing its role in fostering growth, supporting local businesses,

and creating lasting community partnerships. Mayor Gilberto Falcon and Dalinda Guillen both reflected on the importance of collaboration and the bright future ahead for Rio Grande City.

The new banking center

offers a comprehensive suite of financial services, including personal and business banking, trust and wealth management, and commercial loans. It is conveniently located at 4389 E US Highway 83 in Rio Grande City.

RGCHS Migrant Club donate Thanksgiving 2024 Roma ISD Middle School baskets to six lucky RGCHS students Christmas Card Design Contest winners Dr. Raymond Cruz Best FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Dental Insurance, Medicaid and Chip Accepted

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

The Rio Grande City High School Migrant Club collects food items yearly to donate to Rio Grande City High School families. This Thanksgiving a total of five baskets were collected. On November 21, 2024, the Migrant Club gave away six Thanksgiving baskets to six lucky RGCHS students. On behalf of the RGCHS Migrant Club, we would like to thank RGCHS Credit Recovery and Migrant Club students, and everyone who donated items to make these baskets possible. This year’s Thanksgiving basket giveaway was a huge success. On behalf of the Rio Grande City High School Migrant Club, We wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving.

• 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

Roma ISD’s School Board and Administration took the opportunity to congratulate the winners of the 2024 Roma ISD Middle School Christmas Card Design Contest at the Nov. 20, 2024 School Board Meeting. This is the 7th year of this contest, which has allowed our middle schools to showcase the abilities of budding young artists. The cards are used throughout the community and sent across the

Valley and state, representing the best talent at Roma ISD. Dayannette Barrera was the winner from Ramiro Barrera Middle School and Carlos de Jesus Eguia Alcala was the winner from Roma Middle School. The two winners, which both received art kits to encourage them in their art, were selected by the Roma High School Art Department. They can’t wait to have these talented artists as their students!

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 27, 2024, PAGE 2

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, NOVEMBER 27, 2024, PAGE 3

Building Futures: SIHS Students Roma High School Mighty Gladiator UIL Robotics Earn OSHA 10 Certification Team Earns a trip to the National Competition

San Isidro High School students had an incredible opportunity to attend a two-day training at Noble Construction in La Feria, TX, thanks to the Region One PIM grant! They earned their OSHA 10 certification, equipping them with valuable skills for the workforce. A big thank you to the GEAR-UP Congratulations to the Roma High School Mighty Gladiator UIL Robotics Team on taking home 4, 1st Facilitator, Mr. Cris Vela, for always seeking new opportunities for the students and ensuring they take Place Trophies at their competition at Region One, earning a trip to the National Competition!!! On behalf of the Roma High School, we are so proud of these amazing students and their teachers!!! full advantage of them. Mr. Cris Vela dedication is making a difference in their futures!

The holidays are full. Full of family traditions, old friends and merry memories.

But they’re also full of difficult moments that can increase the risk of substance use.

Gift yourself time to check in

If you or someone you love wants a healthier outlet for holiday stress, visit TurnToSupportsTX.org for other options you can explore.

For more resources and support, visit TurnToSupportsTX.org

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, NOVEMBER 27, 2024, PAGE 4

Woman’s Club Participates in GFWC National Day of Service

The General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) National Day of Service (NDS) proved impactful in combatting food insecurity while raising awareness of the problem in communities across the United States and internationally. Members of the GFWC Florence J. Scott Woman’s Club partnered with the Starr County 4-H Council and 4-H Clubs to collect beans and rice for distribution through the Casa de Esperanza.

People across the Valley come home to Rio Motor Company!

2024 CHEVROLET SILVERADO 1500 CREW CAB RST 4WD MSRP PRICE REDUCTION BELOW MSRP SPECIAL VALUE PRICE CONSUMER CASH 1 GM BONUS CASH 2 TEXAS MARKET BONUS CASH 3 CHEVY MARKET BONUS CASH 4

$57,260 -$ 5,000 $52,260 -$ 1,250 -$ 2,750 -$ 1,000 -$ 1,000

SALE PRICE

$46,260

OTHER AVAILABLE OFFERS YOU MAY QUALIFY FOR: GM Trade Allowance Program 5

- $ 1,000

GET UP TO

$12,000 0FF MSRP WITH QUALIFYING TRADE-IN 5

-ORFOR WELL-QUALIFIED BUYERS

0% APR FOR 48 MONTHS

AVAILABLE SPECIALS: 0% APR For 48 Months For Well-Qualified Buyers When Financed w/GM Financial 6

$

46,260

STK# 26156

(1) Not available with special financing, lease and some other offers. Must take new retail delivery by 12/02/2024. (2) Not available with some other offers. Must take new retail delivery by 12/02/2024. (3) Not available with some other offers.

Residential restrictions aplly. Must take new retail delivery by 12/02/2024. (4) Not available with lease and some other offers. Residential restrictions apply. Must take new retail delivery by 12/02/2024. (5) Must trade-in a 2010 or newer car or truck with proof of ownership. (6) 0.0% APR for 48 months for well-qualified buyers when financed w/GM Financial. Monthly payment is $20.83 for every $1,000 you finance. Average example down payment is 9.4%. Not available with leases

“No Matter Where You Live, Come Home!” and some other offers. Must take new retail delivery by 12/02/2024. See Dealer for details. All prices plus tax, title and license. Vehicle is subject to pre-sale.

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

6

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, NOVEMBER 27, 2024, PAGE 5

Congratulations

to our newly elected and re-elected board members On Monday, November 18, 2024 Rio Grande City Grulla ISD hosted a Special Board Meeting to canvass election results and swear in the newly elected Board Members. During the meeting, the School Board unanimously approved changes in leadership roles. We are proud to congratulate Veronica Barrera as President,

Rene Peña as Vice President, Eduardo “Eddie” Ramirez as Secretary, and Pattsy Garcia and Jesse Solis as Board Members.

On behalf of Interim Superintendent of Schools, Mrs. Elsa V. Morris, and the entire School Board of Trustees, we extend our gratitude to everyone who made this event memorable.

A special thank you to our Child Nutrition Staff for providing delicious meals and to Mariachi Grulla de Plata and Mariachi Cascabel for their outstanding performances, which added a festive touch to the evening.

Congratulations to all, and thank you for your dedication to our district!

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, NOVEMBER 27, 2024, PAGE 6

RGC Cross Country team Annual 5K Glow Run/ Walk The Rio Grande City Cross Country team will host their annual 5K Glow Run/ Walk on Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024, at the Fort Ringgold Campus starting at 7:00 PM.

Annual Veterans Day Appreciation Event On Thursday, November 7th, the Rio Grande City Public Library, Kelsey-Bass Museum, and Medina Electric Cooperative, Inc. teamed up to host the annual Veterans Day Appreciation Event, a heartfelt celebration honoring local veterans for their dedication and service. Veterans attending the event were treated to a turkey meal, gratitude bags, and additional donations as tokens of appreciation for their sacrifices.

Local businesses contributed by donating thank-you bags filled with assorted items for the veterans, offering thoughtful gestures of gratitude to the men and women who have served.

The South Texas Food Bank also played a significant role, generously providing perishable

goods to ensure that all veterans enjoyed a nutritious and wellrounded meal.

This special event united the community in honoring local veterans, highlighting a strong partnership between local organizations, businesses, and residents. The City of Rio Grande

City, Rio Grande City Public Library, Kelsey-Bass Museum, Medina Electric Cooperative, Inc., Family Health Center, South Texas Food Bank and The Pediatric Care Center extend their sincere thanks to all who contributed to the success of this memorable event.

City of La Grulla Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Event

Join the City of La Grulla for the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Event!

Get into the holiday spirit with the City of La Grulla at this special event.

Grulla City Park December 3rd 6:00 PM Enjoy an evening of festive fun for the whole family, including: • Pictures with Santa • Sweets and treats • Activities for kids For more information, call Grulla City Hall at (956) 4873341. We look forward to seeing you there!

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, NOVEMBER 27, 2024, PAGE 7

Texas Regional Bank held a grand opening event at its new Rio Grande City banking center on Thursday, November 21, 2024 TRB Chairman and CEO Michael Scaief, Market Manager Dalinda Guillen, and Alex Meade, TRB’s President of Economic Development each highlighted the bank’s commitment to Rio Grande City, emphasizing its role in fostering growth, supporting local businesses, and creating lasting community partnerships in their remarks. RGC Mayor Gilberto Falcon reflected on the importance of collaboration and the bright future ahead for Rio Grande City.

Market Manager Dalinda Guillen, a longtime advocate for the region, expressed her excitement about TRB Rio Grande City, sharing, “I am deeply honored to support our Rio Grande City branch and community members. This vibrant and growing community holds a special place in my heart—not just because of my roots here, but because I truly believe in the boundless potential of this community. Together, we can continue building a future that reflects the strength and spirit of this remarkable

region.”

The ceremony also featured a presentation of a Congressional Certificate by Roberto Bazan on behalf of U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar and a City Certificate by Mayor Falcon. TRB announced a $1,000 donation to Mariachi Cascabel, showcasing the bank’s dedication to supporting local cultural and educational initiatives.

Local mariachi group Mariachi Cascabel performed, adding a vibrant cultural touch to the celebration. The event was well-

attended by community members, small business owners, and civic organizations, emphasizing TRB’s role as a community partner.

The TRB RGC banking center offers a comprehensive suite of financial services, including personal and business banking, trust and wealth management, and commercial loans. The branch is conveniently located at 4389 E US Highway 83 in Rio Grande City. For hours and services visit www.trb.bank.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, NOVEMBER 27, 2024, PAGE 8

¿Busca un plan de salud? Cómo evitar problemas

El periodo de inscripción abierta de Cuidadodesalud.gov y de Medicare está en pleno apogeo, y muchos texanos están en busca de un plan de salud.

La tarea de comprar un plan puede ser complicada. Nadie quiere ser víctima de estafas y no obtener la cobertura necesaria.

Elija de manera inteligente La lista de verificación del Departamento de Seguros de Texas (Texas Department of Insurance, TDI, por su nombre y siglas en inglés) para comprar un plan tiene las preguntas que debe hacer antes de adquirir un plan.

Confirme los detalles del plan Las primas, las redes de los proveedores y los detalles de los planes pueden cambiar cada año, por lo cual es conveniente comparar precios.

Las herramientas de búsqueda pueden ayudarle a encontrar planes que cubran sus médicos y medicinas recetadas. Tome en consideración la cantidad del deducible, el copago y el coaseguro de cada plan. Estas son

las cantidades que usted pagará cuando reciba servicios. También ponga atención a lo que el plan cubrirá antes de cumplir con el deducible.

Para evitar problemas: •Compre en sitios web de confianza como Cuidadodesalud. gov y Medicare.gov.

•Cuidado con los vendedores que le sugieran un plan de salud alternativo, en lugar de un plan de la Ley de Cuidado de Salud a Bajo Precio (Affordable Care Act, ACA, por su nombre y siglas en inglés). Los planes alternativos tienen más límites y no cubren enfermedades existentes.

•Algunos sitios web o vendedores utilizan términos como oro, plata o bronce para que parezcan planes de la ACA. Pero estos tipos de plan pueden tener menos beneficios o no cumplir con las expectativas de cobertura de la ACA. Tenga cuidado con estafas o llamadas inesperadas Si usted no llamó para pedir datos sobre un plan, no provea

ninguna información personal, como los números de Seguro Social, de Medicare, su cuenta de banco, ni tarjetas de crédito.

Si le interesa un plan, pida la información por escrito.

Otras formas de protegerse: Recuerde que los estafadores pueden hacer que un número de teléfono se vea real, parece un número de empresa legítimo en el identificador de llamadas.

Tenga cuidado con los anuncios en redes sociales o en cualquier otro sitio por internet que le ofrezcan regalos. Podrían utilizar la información personal que usted comparta sin su permiso.

Desconfíe si alguien intenta presionarle para que compre rápidamente.

Los planes de salud no tienen “ofertas especiales”.

Llame a la línea de Ayuda de TDI al 800-252-3439 TDI puede ayudarle con preguntas sobre opciones de cobertura, las compañías de seguro y los agentes que regulamos.

The First Thanksgiving Before Plymouth Rock By: U.S. Senator John Cornyn, R-Texas As the holiday season approaches, we look forward to gathering with family and friends, sharing stories, enjoying hearty meals, and giving thanks for the blessings in our lives. For many, Thanksgiving brings to mind images of Plymouth Rock, the pilgrims, and traditional dishes like oven-roasted turkey and pumpkin pie. But what if I told you that the very first Thanksgiving may have actually occurred right here in Texas decades before the Pilgrims even set foot on Plymouth Rock?

In 1598, long before the Pilgrims arrived, Spanish explorer Juan de Oñate led the first major colonization effort in what would become the United States. On April 30th of that year, Oñate and his men arrived near what we now call San Elizario, just outside of El Paso. Oñate had received a commission from King Philip II of Spain to settle what is now the state of New Mexico, leading him on a grueling 50-day journey through the Chihuahuan Desert.

Before reaching the Rio Grande River, his expedition ran out of food and water, forcing the group to forage for roots and desert vegetation. Upon reaching the river, they took ten days to recuperate—hunting, fishing, and swimming. After enduring the treacherous journey, they

celebrated their survival with a feast. Many historians now regard this as the first Thanksgiving.

Efforts have been made by Texas leaders to legitimize the claim that the original Thanksgiving occurred in the city of San Elizario. In 1992, a joint resolution passed by the Texas Legislature declared, “More than two decades before the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock, these colonists… ate and drank and gave thanks for the welcome bounty of their new land.” In 2006, Governor Rick Perry issued a proclamation designating April 30th as “First Thanksgiving Day in Texas,” honoring Oñate and the region’s early settlers. The first Thanksgiving in Texas wasn’t just about food or celebration—it was about survival, endurance, and gratitude for the journey ahead.

That spirit of Thanksgiving still resonates with Texans today.

As we reflect on gratitude this season, we should also consider how we can show thankfulness through our actions.

Thanksgiving isn’t just about what’s on the dinner table, it’s about giving back to those who are facing hardship, and there’s no better place to start giving back than in our own communities.

Across Texas, there are countless volunteer opportunities available for those interested in serving their fellow Texans during the holiday season.

Whether you’re helping package

meals, donating food or clothing, or organizing charitable drives, these efforts reflect the same spirit of Thanksgiving that Oñate and his crew expressed centuries ago. Back then, they gathered together to share meals and give thanks for their safe passage to the land we all call home. Today, we share our time and resources with others to show our thankfulness for the blessings we’ve received.

Let’s take a page from history and make this Thanksgiving about more than just a meal but also about the kindness we extend to our fellow Texans and the spirit of service and gratitude in hearts across the Lone Star State.

Senator John Cornyn, a Republican from Texas, is a member of the Senate Finance, Intelligence, and Judiciary Committees.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, NOVEMBER 27, 2024, PAGE 9

A Message of Thanks For The Holiday

Thanksgiving is one of our favorite holidays because it gives us a chance to reflect on the many blessings we enjoy today including the friendship of people like you.

We thank you for your support this past year and wish you a very Happy Thanksgiving!

Judge Jose Luis Garza Family & Staff

381ST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT STARR COUNTY, TEXAS

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, NOVEMBER 27, 2024, PAGE 10

LEGAL NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICE

Application has been m a d e w i t h t h e Te x a s Alcoholic Beverage Commission for WINE AND MALT BEVERAGE R E TA I L E R ’ S O N PREMISE PERMIT (BG), by: 2360 MEATS, LLC dba ROBERTO GARZA, to be located at 174 S. FM 2360, LA GRULLA, STARR C O U N T Y, T E X A S .

Manager Managed: ROBERTO GARZA.

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: GLENDA MARTINEZ, dba MAC DRIVE THRU, to be located at 5529 FM 1430, RIO GRANDE CITY, STARR COUNTY, TEXAS.

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 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 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

2,900.00 FULLWITH FUNERAL SERVICE SILVER $

METAL CASKET

Sanchez CALL JEFF OR SONATA Sanchez SANCHEZ

Funeral Home

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

(956) 487-2525

“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

PUBLIC NOTICE

JR’S WRECKER SERVICE LLC 50 VICTOR GARCIA RD. ROMA, TX 78584 PHONE# (956)847-1396/ (956)844-9690 VSF LICENSE #0647947 TLDR internet address (https://www.tdlr.texas.gov) 2012 CHEVROLET EQUINOX WHITE VIN#2GNFLEE52C623116 LP# XBU-391-B TAM • TOTAL FEES:$793.00 (TOTAL STORAGE CHARGES CANNOT BE COMPUTED UNTIL VEHICLE IS CLAIMED)

If the vehicle is not claimed 45 days after the date this notice is sent gives this vehicle storage facility the right to dispose of the vehicle. Additionally, failure to claim the vehicle is a waiver of all right, title, or interest in the vehicle and personal property and a consent to sell the vehicle at a public sale.

PUBLIC NOTICE JR’S WRECKER SERVICE LLC 50 VICTOR GARCIA RD. ROMA, TX 78584 PHONE# (956)847-1396/ (956)844-9690 VSF LICENSE #0647947 TLDR internet address (https://www.tdlr.texas.gov) NISSAN SENTRA GRAY VIN#013CB0234914B75B LP# WZE-335-B TAM • TOTAL FEES:$817.73 (TOTAL STORAGE CHARGES CANNOT BE COMPUTED UNTIL VEHICLE IS CLAIMED)

If the vehicle is not claimed 45 days after the date this notice is sent gives this vehicle storage facility the right to dispose of the vehicle. Additionally, failure to claim the vehicle is a waiver of all right, title, or interest in the vehicle and personal property and a consent to sell the vehicle at a public sale.

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 MANAGER $PECIAL 2022 Ram 2022 Chevy Bighorn/Lone Star

Blazer

CALL

CALL

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

STK#26444A

2024 Chevy Blazer

STK#26304A

CALL

2023 Chevy Camaro

$

5 9 9 , 9 3

STK#26369A

2021 Chevy Equinox

$

5 9 9 , 4 2

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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 27, 2024, PAGE 11

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, NOVEMBER 27, 2024, PAGE 12

SPACE AVAILABLE CALL 487-6544

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