SEPTEMBER 10, 2025

New Location STARR VISION

CENTER

Dr. Angie Ramirez Therapeutic Optometrist

487-2440

CASTAÑEDA Auto Insurance & Bail Bonds

488-0808 487-7000

302 E. 2nd St., R.G.C.

280 W. 2nd St. R.G.C.

Office (956) 487-6544 • E-Mail: sctc78582@aol.com • issuu.com/starrcountytowncrier Vol. 40, No. 37

WEEKLY - WEDNESDAY • SEPTEMBER 10, 2025

487-2596 Rio 4350 E. US HWY 83 R.G.C.

Grande City Grulla ISD, AVANCE Inc. Head Start Introduce New Early Childhood Partnership

Installment Loans 311 E Main St Rio Grande City TX 78582-4448

Phone (956) 487-3925

Rio Grande City Grulla ISD and AVANCE Inc. Head Start commemorated their partnership for early childhood education with a ribbon cutting on Friday, Aug. 29, 2025 at the RGCGISD Early Childhood Academy.

Through this collaboration, children enrolled at AVANCE Inc. Head Start will attend classes at the RGCGISD Early Childhood Academy, where they will benefit from co-teaching supported by district teachers and curriculum.

The initiative creates a seamless educational pathway for young learners, preparing them to transition successfully from Head Start to kindergarten and beyond.

“We are opening the doors for our youngest learners, giving

them the very best start possible,” said RGCGISD Superintendent Guadalupe Garza.

“This partnership represents hope, unity and a better tomorrow for each child and family member.”

The partnership was facilitated

by Region One Education Service Center (ESC). Region One ESC’s Early Childhood Partnerships team supports school systems in building collaborations with early childcare centers to strengthen curriculumbased education for children.

Congratulations to the newest members of the Roque Guerra, LTC (P) James Falcon, MD selected Jr. Elementary Championship Battle of the Books Team! for promotion to the rank of COLONEL Dr. Raymond Cruz Best

FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Dental Insurance, Medicaid and Chip Accepted

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

The Starr County Veterans Service Office is proud to announce that LTC James Falcon, MD has been selected for promotion to the rank of COLONEL in the United States Army (Texas National Guard). LTC The newest members of the Roque Guerra, Jr. Elementary Championship Battle of the Books Team (P) Dr. Falcon will be promoted this Fall with a promotion ceremony are: Leilany Cruz, Sophia Gonzalez, Khloe Hinojosa and Aiza Garza. These outstanding readers have to be held later in Rio Grande City. earned their place on the team through hard work, dedication, and a true love for books. Roque Guerra Jr. Elementary are so proud of their commitment and can’t wait to see them showcase their knowledge CONCERT FOR VETERANS The U.S. Air Force Band – Free and teamwork as they represent Colt Nation in the upcoming competition. Way to go, champions in the Performance 5-Member Ensemble | Honoring Our Heroes Sunday, Nov. 9, 2025 | 6–7 PM | El Kiosko, Britton Ave – Rio Grande City. making—your journey to success begins now!

• 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

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, SEPTEMBER 10, 2025, PAGE 2

Science is alive at Veterans Notice is hereby given that TNB Merger Sub, Inc., 201 S. Texas Avenue, Mercedes, Memorial Elementary School!

Texas 78570, filed an application with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, NOTICE OF PROPOSED BANK MERGER

for consent to merge with and into Citizens State Bank, 1709 N. Grant Street, Roma, Texas 78584. Citizens State Bank will be the surviving bank in the merger.

Any person wishing to comment on this application is encouraged to submit comments through the FDIC’s website at https://cra.fdic.gov/. Any person wishing to comment on the application may file his or her comments, in writing, with the Regional Director of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation at its Dallas Regional Office at 600 North Pearl Street, Suite 700, Dallas, Texas 75201, not later than September 26, 2025. The non-confidential portions of the application are on file in the regional office and are available for inspection during regular business hours. Photocopies of the non-confidential portion of the application will be made available upon request.

Veterans Memorial Elementary School Patriots are exploring, experimenting, and discovering through exciting lab activities and hands-on learning. From sparking curiosity to building future-ready skills, these young scientists are proving that learning is an adventure every day!

NOTICE TO BIDDERS FOR CATERING SERVICES Starr County is soliciting sealed bids for catering services for: San Isidro - Starr Nutrition Center Bid Packets will be available for pickup beginning Wednesday, September 3, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Starr County Annex building located at 100 N. FM 3167 Suite 220, Rio Grande City, Texas 78582.

Bids should be sent to: Starr County Judge Honorable County Judge, Eloy Vera 100 N. FM 3167, Rio Grande City, Texas 78582.

Bids will be accepted until Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Following that, all bids will be collected and taken to the Starr County Courthouse Annex Conference Room #211 to be publicly opened and read aloud. Any bid received after the deadline will be rejected and returned unopened to the bidder. Bids with conditions will not be accepted. Bids submitted by facsimile will not be accepted. The lowest or the best-qualified bidder will be awarded. Bids must be sealed and prominently marked on the lower left-hand or right-hand corner of the bid envelope with the following project title: Starr County Nutrition Program If additional information is needed, please contact: Rosie Salinas, or Lesly Treviño, Project Managers (956) 716 – 4800 Ext: 8080 The County of Starr is an Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity Employer

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, SEPTEMBER 10, 2025, PAGE 3

Rio Grande City High School newly appointed 2025- A big shoutout to the amazing Eagle Patrol!

2026 Army JROTC Battalion Command and Staff Each morning the General Ricardo Sanchez Elementary Eagle Patrol step up as leaders, helping guide the Little Lions safely to the bus area.

Their responsibility, kindness, and teamwork keep the mornings safe and smooth!

2,999.00 FULLWITH FUNERAL SERVICE SILVER $

Congratulations to the Rio Grande City High School newly appointed 2025-2026 Army JROTC Battalion Command and Staff. The Cadets were selected based on their leadership potential, performance and ability to motivate other students. The Staff will be led by soon to be promoted C/LTC Nadia Martinez, Executive Officer C/MAJ Yaritza Varela and C/CSM Amy Cervantes.

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

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 Thursday, September 25, 2025, at 12:00 P.M. at the Roma City Council Chambers, located at 201 W. Convent Ave, Roma, Texas to consider the following case(s): 1) Rezoning (COZ#2505): A request to rezone a property from Office/ Professional/Retail District (OPR) to Multi-Family District (MF) for proposed Apartment Residential use; Legal Description is Lot 106, Amended La Hacienda Subdivision, Starr County, Texas; Physical Address is 2741 Mustang Street, Roma, Texas 78584.

The City Council for the City of Roma will be holding a Public Hearing for the case(s) on Friday, September 26, 2025, at 12:00 p.m., at the Roma City Council Chambers, located at 201 W. Convent Ave., Roma, Texas.

A COMMITTED PARTNER IN STARR COUNTY Everyone deserves access to healthcare. That’s why we are part of the community. We are here to offer our support and services, complementing the care you already have by the dedicated health care professionals in Starr County. Our goal is to provide additional healthcare options close to home, so no one has to travel far to receive the care they need. Your health and wellness are our top priority, and we are here to enhance the care available in Starr County.

Bringing Doctors and Specialists Closer to Home BARIATRIC SURGERY

R. Armour Forse, MD 2795 Pharmacy Rd. Rio Grande City, TX (956) 362-3930 Manish Singh, MD 2795 Pharmacy Rd. Rio Grande City, TX (956) 362-3930

CARDIOLOGY

Mahesh Changlani, MD 2795 Pharmacy Rd. Rio Grande City, TX (956) 362-8420 Dileep Menon, MD 101 N. FM 3167 Ste. 104 Rio Grande City, TX (956) 362-3950 COLORECTAL SURGERY

Fernando Lambreton, MD 2795 Pharmacy Rd. Rio Grande City, TX (956) 362-3930

DIABETES/ENDOCRINOLOGY

MEDICAL ONCOLOGY/ HEMATOLOGY

Jose Cruz, DO 101 N. FM 3167 Ste. 106 Rio Grande City, TX (956) 362-3920

Juan Diego Palacios, MD 101 N. FM 3167 Ste. 106 Rio Grande City, TX (956) 362-3920

PULMONOLOGY/ SLEEP & CRITICAL CARE

GASTROENTEROLOGY

Juan M. Ortiz, MD 101 N. FM 3167 Ste. 106 Rio Grande City, TX (956) 362-3920

Henry Herrera, MD 101 N. FM 3167 Ste. 106 Rio Grande City, TX (956) 362-3920 Sarahi HerreraGonzalez, MD 101 N. FM 3167 Ste. 106 Rio Grande City, TX (956) 362-3920

GENERAL SURGERY

John Orfanos, MD 2795 Pharmacy Rd. Rio Grande City, TX (956) 362-3930

UROLOGY

Gaudencio Olgin, MD 101 N. FM 3167 Ste. 106 Rio Grande City, TX (956) 362-3920 Gustavo Villegas, MD 101 N. FM 3167 Ste. 106 Rio Grande City, TX (956) 362-3920 Natalia Hernandez, MD 101 N. FM 3167 Ste. 106 Rio Grande City, TX (956) 362-3920

UROLOGY

Henry Ruiz, MD 101 N. FM 3167 Ste. 106 Rio Grande City, TX (956) 362-3920 Diego AguilarPalacios, MD 101 N. FM 3167 Ste. 106 Rio Grande City, TX (956) 362-3920

VASCULAR SURGERY

Jose A. Gonzalez, MD 2795 Pharmacy Rd. Rio Grande City, TX (956) 362-3930

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, SEPTEMBER 10, 2025, PAGE 4

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, SEPTEMBER 10, 2025, PAGE 5

PROUDLY SUPPORTING RIO RATTLERS

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, SEPTEMBER 10, 2025, PAGE 6

Settled In Moving to a new city for college feels unfamiliar in every way. Waking up in a room that isn’t my childhood bedroom feels strange, as if I’ve been dropped into someone else’s life. And it’s now mine. The silence hits hard

too. I no longer hear my dog, Luna, barking in the morning or my mom screaming at me from the hallway to get up. Instead, she’s hours away, and the people I once saw daily are now faces and voices I can only see and hear

on the other end of a phone call.

Sundays are different too. Back home, church was a place where I recognized every face, where the priest knew me and my family, and his sermons just felt right. It was familiar. Here? Now, I sit in

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

25-26-1018

Description

Date Due

Audiovisual Upgrade September 25, 2025 Active Learning Classroom

Time

a pew surrounded by new people, listening to voices that I don’t recognize just yet. But it’s all new. The classes, the professors, the friends, the streets, and just life in itself. It feels like one big reset.

It’s been over a week since I left home but I feel myself adjusting slowly. I’m finding my groove and creating a routine out of a new lifestyle. I’ve learned to pick

up the phone and call the people I miss instead of wondering what they’re doing. FaceTime helps a lot, but nothing can replace hugging my parents or kissing them goodnight.

The truth is it won’t be the same. I understand that I won’t be going to the comfort of my home every night exactly as it was and that’s okay. Even though I’m miles away, my promise to

love everyone home won’t ever change. If anything, it only grew stronger. I’m settling into my new normal, and little by little, I’m just watching it begin again.

-Alma R. Peña RGC High School Class of 2025

2:00 pm

Request for Proposals packages may be obtained through our OpenGov Procurement Portal, calling (956) 872-4681, or emailing stcpurchasing@southtexascollege.edu.

South Texas College encourages vendors to register on OpenGov and subscribe to our Procurement Portal using the link below. This will provide access to solicitation documents, receive updates, and submit responses electronically. Please note that paper-based submissions are still accepted during this transition period. https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/southtexascollege If submitting a paper-based submission, it must be submitted in a sealed envelope clearly marked on the outside with the RFP number to: South Texas College Purchasing Department 3200 W Pecan Blvd, Bldg. N Ste 145 McAllen, Texas 78501 Responses received after the specified time and date will not be considered and will be returned unopened. Email responses will not be accepted.

Questions regarding this RFP may be submitted through the OpenGov Procurement Portal or directed to: Jacquline Garcia, Technical Buyer, (956) 872-4687 Email: jgarcia_1489@southtexascollege.edu Vanessa Campos, Senior Buyer, (956) 872-4661 Email: vsolis_3079@southtexascollege.edu The successful respondent will not be determined on the opening date.

South Texas College is an equal education and equal employment opportunity/affirmative action employer. As an equal opportunity employer, the College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, disability, genetic information, or veteran status.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS Interior Painting and Wall Resurfacing Services of Hospital Patient Rooms The Starr County Memorial Hospital is seeking qualified contractors to submit sealed proposals for interior painting and wall resurfacing services for designated hospital patient rooms. The objective of this project is to ensure that all patient rooms meet the hospital’s standards for cleanliness, maintenance, and appearance, thereby supporting a safe and comfortable environment for patients.

Scope of Work The scope of work for this project includes, but is not limited to: • Resurfacing of walls where necessary; • Complete repainting of hospital patient rooms; • All preparation work including surface cleaning, patching, priming and protection of surrounding surfaces and furnishings; • Use of hospital-approved paints suitable for healthcare settings; • Coordination with hospital staff to minimize disruption to patient care.

Site Visit and Questions Interested contractors may schedule a site visit or submit questions regarding the project scope by contacting, Assistant Administrator, Eloy Garza, Jr., at (956) 370-6013 or via email at eloy.garza@starrcountyhospital.com no later than September 9, 2025.

Proposal Submissions All proposals must be submitted in a sealed envelope clearly labeled “Proposal – Hospital Patient Room Painting Services” and delivered no later than 3:00 PM on September 12, 2025 to the following address: Mary Ramirez Administrative Secretary Starr County Memorial Hospital 128 N. FM 3167, Rio Grande City, Texas 78582 LATE SUBMISSIONS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. Proposal Requirements Submitted proposals should include the following: - Contractor’s name and contact information; - Detailed cost estimate and timeline for project completion; - Description of materials and paint products to be used; - Summary of similar projects completed in healthcare or institutional settings, if any; -Proof of insurance.

Selection Process The proposals will be publicly opened on September 12, 2025 at 4 PM at the Hospital’s Administrative Board Room located at 128 N FM 3167, Rio Grande City, Texas 78582.

Starr County Memorial Hospital reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and to award the contract in the best interest of the Hospital. Evaluation criteria may include cost, experience, materials, timeline, and references. The Hospital reserves the right to waive any informalities. Bids may be held by the Hospital 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 bidders’ qualification prior to the contract award.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, SEPTEMBER 10, 2025, PAGE 7

Grulla Middle School Cheer proudly wore yellow A huge THANK YOU to the Alto Bonito in support of Childhood Cancer Awareness Elementary amazing 5th Grade Helper Crew!

These awesome students are the real MVPs, making sure the baby Roadrunners get to their classrooms safe and sound every day. Alto Bonito Elementary appreciate your kindness, leadership, and big hearts.

Keep shining, Roadrunner stars!

Grulla Middle School stand united to honor and support the brave children and families fighting this battle.

Kids First When your child is ill or injured, know that South Texas Health System® Children’s is right here – just like we have been for nearly two decades.

FIRST IN THE REGION TO PUT KIDS FIRST Since opening our doors in 2006, we have been providing quality pediatric care in a kid-friendly setting that helps put young patients (and their families) at ease. We are especially proud to have been the first in the area with a dedicated pediatric emergency department.

SPECIALTY SERVICES PARENTS TRUST In addition to providing just-for-kids emergency care and being an Asthma Center of Excellence, we offer a wide range of specialty pediatric services, including everything from gastroenterology to sports medicine to cardiology and beyond.

DESIGNED WITH KIDS IN MIND Being in the hospital can be stressful for children and their families.

We provide a colorful, comfortable atmosphere, with large pediatric playrooms, an outdoor Children’s healing garden and a virtual playroom that lets patients take part in activities from the comfort of their hospital room.

Learn more about our services at southtexashealthsystemchildrens.com South Texas Health System Children’s, a trusted member of the Valley community, has been providing healing and hope for kids since 2006.

Physicians are independent practitioners who, with limited exceptions, are not employees or agents of South Texas Health System. The System shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. For language assistance, disability accommodations and the nondiscrimination notice, visit our website. 242088262-2506407 10/24

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, SEPTEMBER 10, 2025, PAGE 8

Hazel Health Awarded as Mental Health Governor Abbott, THECB Announce Services Provider for ESC Region 1 Schools Free College Application Week Ensuring All Students have Access to Mental Health Services at Home and School through the Hazel Health & ESC Region 1 Partnership Hazel Health, the nation’s most trusted provider of schoolcentered telehealth, is proud to announce its approval as an official provider to school districts through the ESC Region 1 RFP 25-0170: Mental Health Services and Resources. This designation enables schools across Texas to rapidly expand barrier-free access to evidence-based teletherapy for all students—at no cost to families.

“Research shows that 1 in 5 students are experiencing mental health challenges, a reality that schools are being asked to

address with limited resources,” said Michele Moore, District Partnerships Director at Hazel Health. “Hazel helps bridge that gap by providing much needed capacity to support students both in school and at home, at no cost to families. It also supports existing staff and ensures families can access care without added burden.”

Why Districts Choose Hazel ● Hazel supports all students at no cost to families ● Hazel does not limit the number of therapy sessions ● Hazel students see attendance gains post-therapy (+11 days per student/year) ● Hazel students experience a reduction in disciplinary incidents (40-50%) post therapy

● Hazel services are delivered by bilingual licensed pediatric clinicians Hazel’s program integrates seamlessly with the school district’s existing student services, offering flexible appointment scheduling, a parent-friendly referral process, and additional care coordination.

Sessions are confidential, culturally responsive, and supported in English and Spanish.

Access to high-quality, mental health services available from 7:00AM-7:00PM Monday-Friday.

Interested school districts can begin the onboarding process today.

For more information: contact michelemoore@hazel.co or visit www.hazel.co.

Governor Greg Abbott and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) today announced Free College Application Week Oct. 13-19, 2025.

“Texas prioritizes opportunities for students to pursue the best education they need to succeed in high demand, good-paying jobs after graduation,” said Governor Abbott. “During free college application week, Texans can apply to their preferred colleges or universities without application fees. By supporting our students today, we are investing in a stronger Texas tomorrow.”

Free College Application Week is a statewide initiative that helps Texas residents apply to public colleges at no cost.

Created by Senate Bill 2231 during the 89th Texas Legislative Session, all public colleges and universities in Texas are required to waive admission application fees for Texas residents who apply through ApplyTexas to undergraduate programs.

Alongside My Texas Future, ApplyTexas, and the Direct Admissions program, Free College Application Week

provides one more tool to help students streamline their college search and make achieving their higher education goals more affordable.

“In addition to the cost savings, combined with other tools available to Texans for planning and achieving educational and career goals, free application week removes a barrier so more students can take their first step toward higher education,” said THECB Commissioner Wynn Rosser.

For this first year, Free College Application Week is October 1319, 2025. Every year after that, it will be held the second full week of October (Monday-Sunday).

All Texas residents applying for undergraduate admission at Texas public institutions through ApplyTexas may participate.

This includes first-time college students and transfer students.

For details on residency status, see the Texas Residency Guidelines.

My Texas Future, a digital tool that connects Texans with resources and information about postsecondary opportunities, includes personalized interactive features to help prospective

students identify interests and skills, explore careers and programs, plan for school, and navigate financial aid.

Visitors can create accounts, save preferences, and request to speak to an advisor. My Texas Future also connects prospective students to ApplyTexas and the Direct Admissions program.

Users may begin an exploration of professional interests with a career quiz. With information about jobs that might fit their interests, users can compare hundreds of Texas-based careers by local demand, pay, required education, and related skills. They may also compare credential programs by average tuition, location, and salary after graduation.

Direct Admissions provides students with a list of participating Texas institutions where they can qualify for acceptance before they even begin the college application process. Students share their academic information, including class rank, grade point average, and SAT/ACT score, through their My Texas Future profile, and can receive their list as early as the end of their junior year.

CITY OF LA GRULLA REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) PROFESSIONAL WATER & SEWER OPERATIONS SERVICES The City of La Grulla, Texas, is requesting sealed proposals from qualified firms/ individuals to provide Management, Operations, and Maintenance of the City’s Water and Sewer Systems.

Facilities include: - Water Plant No. 1 - Water Plant No. 2 - Alto Bonito Elevated Storage Tank - La Victoria Standpipe - River Pump Station - Wastewater Treatment Plant - Eight (8) Lift Stations

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

25-26-1020

Description

Childcare Services - II

Date Due

October 1, 2025

Time

2:00 pm

Request for Proposals packages may be obtained through our OpenGov Procurement Portal, calling (956) 872-4681, or emailing stcpurchasing@southtexascollege.edu.

South Texas College encourages vendors to register on OpenGov and subscribe to our Procurement Portal using the link below. This will provide access to solicitation documents, receive updates, and submit responses electronically. Please note that paper-based submissions are still accepted during this transition period.

Staffing Requirements: - Two (2) licensed operators per shift at the Water Plants/River Pump Station to cover three (3) shifts per day, 24/7/365.

- Two (2) licensed operators at the Wastewater Treatment Plant to cover the day shift, 365 days per year.

Evaluation Criteria (100 points total): - Experience / Previous Work Performance – 40 points - Capacity to Perform – 20 points - Best Value to the City – 20 points - Previous Experience with the City – 20 points

https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/southtexascollege If submitting a paper-based submission, it must be submitted in a sealed envelope clearly marked on the outside with the RFP number to: South Texas College Purchasing Department 3200 W Pecan Blvd, Bldg. N Ste 145 McAllen, Texas 78501 Responses received after the specified time and date will not be considered and will be returned unopened. Email responses will not be accepted.

Questions regarding this RFP may be submitted through the OpenGov Procurement Portal or directed to: Jacquline Garcia, Technical Buyer, (956) 872-4687 Email: jgarcia_1489@southtexascollege.edu Vanessa Campos, Senior Buyer, (956) 872-4661 Email: vsolis_3079@southtexascollege.edu The successful respondent will not be determined on the opening date.

Purchases made as a result of this solicitation will be funded through The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, Perkins Basic Grant Program.

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.

Additional Categories (scored separately): - Price – 20 points - Local Presence (principal place of business or satellite office in Starr County) – 10 points RFP Documents: All prospective respondents must obtain a copy of the full Request for Proposals from the City of La Grulla. Copies are available in person at La Grulla City Hall, 194 S. FM 2360, La Grulla, Texas 78548, by email at info@cityofgrulla.com, or by phone at 956-487-3341.

Submission Requirements: One (1) digital copy must be emailed to info@cityofgrulla.com and two (2) hard copies delivered or mailed to: City Commission City of La Grulla 194 S. FM 2360 La Grulla, Texas 78548 Deadline: All proposals must be received no later than September 24, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. Late submissions will not be considered.

The City reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, waive formalities, and accept the proposal determined to provide the best overall value to the City.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, SEPTEMBER 10, 2025, PAGE 9

DPS Rolls Out New Driver License Design The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has rolled out a new design on Texas driver license (DL) and identification (ID) cards. Began Aug. 18, all newly issued Texas DLs and IDs will feature a new look, which has increased security features.

The previously issued cards, with the current design, are still valid until their expiration date.

“The way driver licenses are made can make a big difference

in terms of public safety,” said DPS Driver License Division Chief Sheri Gipson. “This new card design will make it even more difficult for criminals to produce counterfeit cards, and it enhances ways we can protect Texans’ identities from being stolen.”

Texas’ new DL and ID cards are made of tamper-resistant polycarbonate material that is difficult to reproduce and

compliant with American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA) standards.

Instead of a gold star, these new cards now feature a black, laser-engraved star in the upper right corner to indicate REAL ID compliance. The new cards also reorganize personal information in a clear and easyto-read format for identification and verification.

What were the September 11 attacks? The September 11 attacks were a series of airline hijackings and suicide attacks committed in 2001 by 19 terrorists associated with the Islamic extremist group al-Qaeda. It was the deadliest terrorist attack on U.S. soil.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, SEPTEMBER 10, 2025, PAGE 10

LEGAL NOTICE Application has been made with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission for a Malt Beverage Retail Dealer's On-Premise License by Carnes Asadas el Gordo #1 LLC dba Carnes Asadas el Gordo #3 to be located at 701 N Avasolo St. Suite D, Rio Grande City, Starr County, Texas 78582.

Officers of said corporation are: Jose Adrian Gonzalez Contreras, Corporate Officer and Mayra Elizabeth Castro Castillo, Corporate Officer.

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

1511 N. WASHINGTON ST. RIO GRANDE CITY

For info. call

956-487-8989

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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!

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www.riomotors.com

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, SEPTEMBER 10, 2025, PAGE 11

Congressman Henry Cuéllar visited the Get a CLUE about the insurance history of a home or car City of La Grulla New City Water Plant Need more information before you buy that home or car? Check its insurance history by getting a CLUE report.

What’s the report? It’s the Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange or CLUE report. It shows claims filed for homes

The City of La Grulla was honored to welcome Congressman Henry Cuéllar as he visited to see the progress of their New City Water Plant. He was greeted

by Mayor Macario “Callo” Villarreal, Commissioners Sergio Contreras and Oscar Castillo, and City Manager Robert Salinas.

Also in attendance were Javier Santiago, Head Plant Operator for the City of La Grulla, along with Woods Davis, President of Ferguson Service Systems, and his Foreman, Bobby Navarro.

It has been three years since Congressman Cuéllar joined City of La Grulla for the groundbreaking ceremony, and he was astonished by the transformation, noting: “Last time I was here there was nothing—and now look at what has been accomplished.”

On behalf of City of La Grulla, we sincerely thank Congressman Cuéllar for visiting La Grulla and for meeting with our city commission to discuss future endeavors that will continue to move our community forward.

and cars for the past seven years.

Most Insurance companies report information based on filed claims, including: •Date of loss. •Loss type. •Amount paid on claim.

How do I get a report? If you’re buying a home or car, you can ask the current owner for the report.

Each year, you can get a free report on property you own by contacting LexisNexis. You also can contact LexisNexis to dispute information in the report or to add an explanation.

Have a question about insurance?

Visit www.tdi.texas.gov.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, SEPTEMBER 10, 2025, PAGE 12

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, SEPTEMBER 10, 2025, PAGE 13

PROUDLY SUPPORTING GRULLA GATORS

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, SEPTEMBER 10, 2025, PAGE 14

SPACE AVAILABLE CALL 487-6544

El Grito en el Kiosko 2025 Celebration turnout was incredible!!

You’re in good hands.

Auto • Home • Business • Life Hablamos Español

956-488-0160

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

SPACE AVAILABLE 956-345-8159

¡Que noche tan hermosa llena de arte, musica y cultura! What a beautiful night filled with music, art, and culture! Thank you to our amazing community for coming together and not letting a little rain dampen the spirit of this year’s celebration! From great music and delicious food to local art and vibrant culture, the turnout was incredible! A heartfelt thank you to all the talented performers, dedicated vendors, and local businesses who helped make this evening unforgettable. On behalf of the City of Rio Grande City, we are truly blessed to have a community that supports and enjoys the events our departments work so hard to bring to life. ¡Viva Mexico!

SPACE AVAILABLE 956-345-8159