SEPTEMBER 3, 2025 by Starr County Town Crier

STC First Fire Academy in Starr County celebrates inaugural ceremony

a fantastic semester. Let’s go help make this world safer.

Adrian Estrada from Starr County Human Resources Ofﬁce received the “Making a Difference Award”

Texas Association of Counties

Representatives were on hand to recognize the efforts by Adrian Estrada from Starr County Human Resources Ofﬁce with the “Making a Difference Award” from the Texas Association of Counties (TAC).

This is a reﬂection of the dedication of Starr County’s Human Resources Ofﬁce to fostering a culture of learning and protection. This award is a testament to the unwavering commitment to employee safety and education.

The fact that TAC

representatives Ernesto Galindo and Sara E. Ratliff personally attended the Commissioners’ Court today to present the award underscores the signiﬁcance of this honor.

The “Making a Difference Award “ is awarded to leaders who go above and beyond, and Adrian’s efforts clearly embody that spirit.

It’s also worth noting that TAC’s Risk Management Program doesn’t just hand out accoladesthey actively encourage counties to engage in safety and loss prevention initiatives, making

this award a symbol of proactive leadership and tangible impact. Hats off to Adrian for making real waves in public service!

Pictured top row: Pct. 1 Commissioner Jose F. “Kiko” Perez, Pct. 4 Commissioner Hernan “Nune” Garza, Starr County Judge Eloy Vera, Pct. 2 Commissioner Raul “Roy” Pena, and Pct. 3 Commissioner Eleazar Velasquez. Bottom Row: Ernesto Galindo - TAC Risk Management Consultant, Honoree Adrian Estrada, Sara E. Ratliff, and Armandina Martinez - Starr County H.R. Director.

San Isidro ISD celebrates Class of 2026 Senior Sunrise

A New Day, A New Chapter!! The San Isidro ISD Class of 2026 gathered under the first light of dawn around the SI, for a tradition they’ll never forget — Senior Sunrise. With laughter filling the air, the seniors watched the sun rise on their first day of their final school year — a beautiful reminder that every ending begins with a new beginning. Here’s to early mornings, big dreams, and making every moment count.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends children begin vision screening around age 3 and receive annual screenings each year at ages 4, 5 and 6. After that, screening is recommended when children turn 8, 10, 12, and 15.

Of course, parents who

However, the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus notes that children’s visual systems are still developing during the ﬁrst 12 years of their life, and during this period wearing glasses can be important for normal vision development. Glasses can help straighten crossed or misaligned eyes, bolster weak vision caused by differences in vision between a child’s eyes, and even protect the stronger eye.

begin to suspect their children are having trouble with their vision are urged to take the child to an ophthalmologist once such suspicions arise. Some notable signs include inexplicable declines in academic performance, children sitting closer to the television than they once did and children’s own remarks regarding their vision if they say anything at all.

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

GRSE Odyssey of the Mind team were honored for earned 3rd Place at the Odyssey of the Mind

On Thursday, August 28, 2025, General Ricardo Sanchez Elementary Principal, Ms. Jessie De La Cruz, surprised the Odyssey of the Mind team with a delicious breakfast in celebration of their outstanding achievement. The students were honored for their hard work, creativity, and dedication that earned them 3rd Place at the Odyssey of the Mind

Prayer for Saint Carlo Acutis

O God, our Father, Thank You for giving us Carlo, a model of life for young people, and a message of love for all. You made him fall in love with Your Son, Jesus, making the Eucharist his “highway to Heaven”. You gave him Mary, as a beloved Mother, and with the Rosary, You made him sing the praises of her tenderness. Accept his prayer for us. Attend especially to the poor, whom he loved and assisted. Through his intercession, may I receive the grace I need.. (mention here) May his smile shine in Your Kingdom as it did for us, to emanate the glory of Your Holy Name. Amen J. L T.

World Finals Competition. This special recognition not only celebrated their success but also highlighted the teamwork, problem-solving, and innovative spirit that represent the pride of

GRSE. A big congratulations to the talented students and heartfelt thanks to Ms. De La Cruz and her staff for making the moment memorable!

01/13/1994 † 09/07/2024

1st Anniversary Mass In Loving Memory of Manuel Ricardo Muñiz

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

A mass will be celebrated Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Immaculate Conception Church in Rio Grande City, Tx.

The Muñiz Family

Henry Herrera, MD

Gastroenterology

Nos da mucho gusto darle la bienvenida al Dr. Henry Herrera, quien viene a servir con orgullo a las familias del Condado Starr y de todo el Valle del Río Grande con atención especializada en salud digestiva.

El Dr. Herrera es médico certificado en medicina interna y gastroenterología. Atiende padecimientos como dolor abdominal, agruras, úlceras, diarrea, estreñimiento, enfermedades inflamatorias del intestino y sangrados digestivos. También cuenta con entrenamiento en procedimientos avanzados que permiten diagnósticos y tratamientos menos invasivos, como el ultrasonido endoscópico (EUS) y la colangiopancreatografía endoscópica (ERCP).

Recientemente fue nombrado Director de Investigación Clínica en el Instituto de Investigación y Desarrollo de DHR Health, donde impulsa innovaciones médicas y nuevos tratamientos para beneficio de los pacientes del Valle.

Originario del Valle del Rio Grande y con formación en reconocidas instituciones como UT Southwestern y Texas A&M Scott & White Memorial Hospital, el Dr. Herrera combina su experiencia médica con un firme compromiso hacia su comunidad.

101 N. FM 3167

Suite 106

Rio Grande City, TX 78582

(956) 362-3920

Para Usted. Por Su Vida.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP)

Engineering and Grant Funding Services for Starr County Drainage Study

Proposal Due Date & Time: September 15, 2025 at 10am

Contact Person: Maricela Ibarra, Federal & State Director

1. INTRODUCTION

The County of Starr, Texas, is soliciting sealed proposals from qualified firms to provide engineering and grant funding services for a comprehensive drainage study. The selected firm will be responsible for developing a county-wide drainage assessment, identifying priority improvements, preparing cost estimates, and assisting the County in securing grant funding for the design and construction of the county-wide drainage study/assessment.

2. BACKGROUND

Starr County is a rapidly growing rural border county experiencing increased development pressures and climate-related challenges that affect stormwater management. The County seeks to address ﬂooding risks, improve and develop drainage infrastructure, and identify feasible projects eligible for state and federal funding.

3. SCOPE OF SERVICES

The selected ﬁrm will provide both engineering and grant funding services including, but not limited to:

A. Grant Services

1. Identify applicable funding sources (e.g., FEMA BRIC, GLO CDBG-MIT, TWDB, TxDOT, USDA).

2. Coordinate with funding agencies.

3. Assist in securing funds for the development of a drainage study that encompasses the following components and any other deemed essential:

-Data Collection & Review

-Gather existing drainage studies, GIS data, FEMA maps, and as-built plans.

-Field Investigation

-Identify existing drainage issues and infrastructure conditions.

-Hydrologic & Hydraulic Analysis

-Model current drainage patterns and capacities.

-Needs Assessment

-Identify deﬁciencies, potential improvements, and mitigation measures.

-Conceptual Design

-Prepare conceptual layouts and cost estimates for priority projects.

-Provide a comprehensive drainage study with prioritized recommendations

-Final Report

4. Prepare and submit grant funding applications on behalf of the County of Starr.

B. Engineering Services

1. Identify applicable funding sources (e.g., FEMA BRIC, GLO CDBG-MIT, TWDB, TxDOT, USDA).

2. Coordinate with funding agencies.

3. Assist in securing funds for the design, construction, and project implementation based on the results of the Starr County drainage study.

4. Prepare and submit grant applications on behalf of the County of Starr.

4. PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS

Each proposal must include the following:

• Cover Letter – Summary of the ﬁrm’s qualiﬁcations and interest.

• Firm Proﬁle – Legal name, address, contact information, and years in business.

• Project Understanding & Approach – Narrative describing how the ﬁrm will complete the scope of services (not to exceed

• Team Qualiﬁcations – Resumes of key personnel, including professional licenses.

• Relevant Experience – Examples and description of similar drainage studies and grant-funded secured infrastructure projects completed within the past ﬁve years

• Project Schedule – Estimated timeline and timetable for major tasks to achieve underlying project herein.

• Fee Proposal – Itemized description and cost and expense structure for engineering and grant services.

• References – At least three recent clients for similar work.

• Proposal not to exceed 10 pages

5. EVALUATION CRITERIA

Proposals will be evaluated on the following factors: Criteria Weight

Experience with similar projects 25%

Qualiﬁcations of key staff 20%

Project approach & understanding 20%

Experience with grants & funding agencies 20%

Cost proposal 15%

6. SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS

RFP PACKAGES MUST BE REQUESTED ELECTRONICALLY FROM MARICELA IBARRA, FEDERAL & STATE PROGRAM DIRECTOR AT MIBARRA@CO STARR TX US

Deadline: Proposals must be received no later than 09-15-25 at 10am

Address: Starr County Courthouse Annex, Ste 202 100 N FM 3167, Rio Grande City, TX 78582

Late proposals will not be accepted.

7. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The County reserves the right to reject any or all proposals. All costs incurred in responding to this RFP are the responsibility of the proposer. Selected ﬁrm must comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including DBE/HUB participation if applicable.

ISSUED BY:

Governor Abbott Signs Laws to Remove Squatters from Private Property in Austin

On August 14, 2025, Governor Greg Abbott ceremonially signed Senate Bill 38 and Senate Bill 1333 into law to close loopholes, remove squatters, and defend homeowners’ property rights during a bill signing ceremony at the Texas Capitol.

“Private property rights are a cornerstone of our Texas values,” said Governor Abbott. “Texas is facing a squatting crisis, with property owners struggling to evict delinquent tenants or remove people who were never supposed to be on their property in the ﬁrst place. Through these new laws, homeowners now have an efﬁcient means of evicting squatters from their property.”

The Governor was joined by Speaker Dustin Burrows,

Senator Bryan Hughes, Senator Paul Bettencourt, Representative Angie Chen Button, Representative Jeff Leach, Texas Association of Business

President and CEO Glenn Hamer, Texas Public Policy Foundation

CEO Greg Sindelar, and Greystar

Managing Director of Real Estate Renee Zahn.

Senate Bill 38 (Bettencourt/ Chen Button) streamlines the eviction process by clarifying venue requirements and establishing consistent timelines for trials and appeals, including a requirement that a court hold a trial in eviction suits within 21 days of a petition being ﬁled.

Senate Bill 1333 (Hughes/ Leach) empowers sheriffs and constables to take action

quickly when a property owner submits a sworn complaint that a squatter has taken possession of their property unlawfully. It also increases criminal penalties for criminal mischief related to criminal trespass involving a home and engaging in a real estate transaction involving property the person does not have a legal interest in.

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 Monday, 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 and 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

NOTICE OF BANK MERGER

Notice is hereby given that application has been made to the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, South/Southeast Regions, 1700 Pacific Avenue, Suite 3600, Dallas, Texas 75201, for consent to merge Citizens State Bank, 1709 N. Grant Street, Roma, Texas 78584, with and into Texas National Bank, 201 S. Texas Avenue, Mercedes, Texas 78570. It is contemplated that each of the former offices of Citizens State Bank, including its former home office, will become branch offices of Texas National Bank upon consummation of the merger.

This notice is published pursuant to 12 U.S.C. 1828(c) and 12 C.F.R. 5. Anyone may submit written comments on this application by September 26, 2025 to: Director for District Licensing, Comptroller of the Currency, South/Southeast Regions, 1700 Pacific Avenue, Suite 3600, Dallas, Texas 75201. Comments may also be submitted by email to LicensingPublicComments@occ.treas.gov. To request a copy of the public portion of the filing, contact the Director for Licensing at Comptroller of the Currency, South and Southeast Regions, 1700 Pacific Avenue, Suite 3600, Dallas, Texas 75201 or email Licensing@occ. treas.gov. Filing information, including the date of the end of the public comment period, may also be found in the OCC’s Weekly Bulletin available at www.occ.gov.

Study smarter, not harder: Study tips any student can employ

It would be convenient if every student had a photographic memory, making it a snap to recall pages of text or concepts in great detail. Photographic memory is not real, but a very small portion of the population, around 2 to 10 percent of children, has something called an eidetic memory, which is a similar phenomenon and one that’s virtually nonexistent in adults, according to Psychology Today. That means that students will have to rely on other skills to get ahead in their coursework, perhaps none more important than effective study skills.

Some students recognize that their study habits simply are not cutting it and they’re just squeaking by in their courses. What might get a student by in high school may be ineffective for college classes. Learning effective study skills early on is a key to academic success.

Don’t cram

Many students procrastinate with their study sessions, leading to last-minute studying before a big test. According to the American Psychological Association, students may perform well on a test for which they have crammed, but that doesn’t mean they’ve actually learned the material. Studying with the goal of long-term retention is best for learning.

Engage in active studying Reading and re-reading texts or notes is not engaging with the material. Therefore, it likely won’t help with information retention. The Learning Center at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill says a student will need to make connections with the material, which can include making a study guide, becoming the teacher and teaching the concepts to others, deriving examples from one’s

own experiences, or working problems out and explaining why they work.

Ask for help

Students do not have to struggle through difﬁcult material alone. In addition to studying with fellow students, who may have different ways of interpreting and sharing the information, individuals can seek assistance from a tutor or an academic resource center inside of the school. Working with someone else also helps students stay accountable and remain on track.

Determine a study style

Students may need to employ some trial and error to identify the study methods that work best for them. This can include a combination of note-taking, summarization, reviewing what already is known about the topic, and individual or group study sessions. Environment also is an important study variable. Some students thrive in a quiet environment, while others need ambient noise to sharpen their focus.

Work intensely

Studying in intensive, short sessions may enable students to get more done with less wasted effort. Taking breaks can boost attention, says the National Institutes of Health.

Eliminate distractions

The more research that is done on multitasking, the more data indicates it isn’t effective.

Studying while browsing the web, texting or looking at social media will increase the amount of time needed to learn the material and decrease the quality of the study session, according to research published in Computers & Education in 2012. Intelligent studying can help students make the most of their academic careers.

PUBLIC NOTICE OF BUDGET HEARING

The City Council of the City of Rio Grande City, Texas will hold a public hearing on the proposed municipal budget for the ﬁscal year beginning October 1, 2025 and ending September 30, 2026.

Date of Hearing: Wednesday, September 17, 2025

Time of Hearing: 10:00 a.m.

Location: Rio Grande City City Hall, 5332 E. Highway 83, Rio Grande City, Texas

This budget will raise more total property taxes than last year’s budget by $607,150, or 14.11%, and of that amount $186,948 is tax revenue to be raised from new property added to the tax roll this year.

A copy of the proposed budget has been ﬁled with the City Secretary and is available for public inspection at City Hall during regular business hours. The proposed budget is also available on the City’s website at: www.cityofrgc.com

All interested residents are invited to attend and participate in this public hearing.

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.