April 18, 2018

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Vol. 33, No. 16 WEEKLY WEDNESDAY • APRIL 18, 2018 Office (956) 487-6544 - Fax (956) 487-6165 - E-Mail: sctc78582@aol.com - www.starrcountytowncrier.com

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Ten VMS Students Advance To UIL State Competition

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South Texas College (STC) celebrated the opening of numerous facilities at its Starr County Campus on April 5. STC Board of Trustees, staff, and faculty were on hand for the official ribbon cutting of buildings they say will influence the community and students for generations to come. Attendees at the event included Rep. Ryan Guillen, D-Rio Grande City; Starr County Judge Eloy Vera; Rio Grande City Mayor Joel Villarreal; and Roma Mayor Roberto “Bobby” Salinas. U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar, D-TX, offered his congratulations from Washington. STC Board Trustees at the ribbon cutting included Benavidez, Board Chair Dr. Alejo Salinas, Gary Gurwitz, Vice-Chair Graciela Farias, and Paul Rodriguez.

STC, page 4

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Congratulations to Rio Grande City High School Golf Teams.

They competed in the District meet finals in Laredo. One of our Lady Rattler golf player, Isabella Carmona, placed 6th overall.

She will be advancing to the regional round. Our 1st qualifier to regionals. She is coached by Head Coach Arturo Menchaca and Assistant Coach Ben Carmona.

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Roma High School Robotics Team Competes at State

The Roma High School Robotics Team recently competed in the Texas Computer Education Association’s (TCEA) State Arena Competition in Hutto, TX on Saturday, April 7, 2018 against more than 60 Arena Competition teams from across the state. During the course of the competition, the teams built a robot using one LEGO EV3 or NXT, a specific set of motors and sensors, and LEGObranded elements. The teams were allowed a total retail value of $5 to incorporate non-electrical, non-LEGO parts on their robots to enhance functionality or for decoration. The teams then took their robot into three, two-minute rounds where the robots performed Congratulations to all our UIL academic qualifiers and coaches, who participated in Regional round of specific tasks on the challenge competition at UTSA April 14, 2018. Students, Kasey Escamilla placed 2nd in Poetry advancing to state round field. Points, penalties and bonus May 21st at UT, Jesus Garza placed 6th in Number Sense, and Jack Huang placed 10th in Science. Coaches awards were calculated at the Mindy Garza, Veronica Garza, Melissa Olivarez, Analyn Gundran, and Coordinator Armando Gutierrez. end of each round based on robot

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Veterans Middle School is pleased to announce that ten of its UIL students have advanced to state competition and have qualified to compete at TMSCA at the University of Texas at San Antonio on April 21, 2018. VMS is extremely proud of these students and their coaches for their hard work, dedication, and talent. Good luck to these UIL students and their coaches, Mrs. Monica Garza (Number Sense) and Mr. Dario Salinas (Calculators and Science) at state competition.

A special thanks goes out to their parents as well. Pictured above are the state-qualifying competitors from VMS and the event that they will be competing in at UTSA: Isabel Cavazos 7th grader (Calculators), Yuliana Garcia 7th grader (Calculators), Camila Garcia 7th grader (Calculators), Joanne Garza 7th grader (Calculators), Brianna Maldonado 6th grader (Calculators), Samantha Zarate 7th grader (Calculators), Tristan Solis 8th grader (Calculators), Benjamin Gonzalez 6th grader (Number Sense), Natalia Lopez 6th grader (Number Sense), and David Pratt 8th grader (Science).

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“This is an amazing team of young ladies that have a bright future ahead in the STEM field. We know they are inspiring girls across the district to get excited about math, science and engineering,” said Roma ISD Superintendent Carlos Guzman. “It was a huge accomplishment for them to make state competition on their first try ROBOTICS, page 2

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STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, APRIL 18, 2018, PAGE 2

WEDNESDAY APRIL 18TH - I.C.C. 6:00 P.M. FOR TREVIÑO FAMILY

by Silvestre & Alma Gloria Gonzalez FOR THE HEALTH OF VILLARREAL FAMILY by Their Mother †DANIEL GARCIA HINOJOSA

by Esposa e Hijos †ANDREA SALINAS (8TH AN.)

by Su Familia THURSDAY APRIL 19TH - I.C.C. 6:30 A.M. †DANIEL GARCIA HINOJOSA

by Esposa e Hijos FRIDAY APRIL 20TH - I.C.C. 8:20 A.M. ICS STUDENTS & STAFF 6:00 P.M. †GEORGE XAVIER DURAN

by Wife & Daughters

†ANSELMO “AJ” ESCOBAR (AN.)

by Alvirde Family †NOE OLIVAREZ by Wife & Family †JOSE ROBERTO MOLINA (1ST AN.)

by Mother & Family †REYNALDO MOLINA, SR. by Wife & Family

SUNDAY SACRED HEART/LOS GARCIA 9:00 A.M. †JUVENTINO BARBA (16TH AN.)

by Barba Family †DANIEL ALBERTO GOMEZ, JR.

by Mom & Dad

SATURDAY APRIL 21ST - I.C.C. 5:00 P.M. †HERMINIA “MINE” MARGO (AN.)

by Mr. & Mrs. Javier D. Margo †NICEFORO SOLIS (7TH AN.) by Family †ALBERTO BARRERA

by Mr. & Mrs. Pedro A. Garcia †NARCEDALIA GUERRERO by Family †JOSE ANGEL PEÑA by Su Esposa y Familia †EVELINA PEREZ (1ST AN.) by Children

SUNDAY APRIL 22ND - I.C.C. 11:00 A.M. †JOEL F. SALINAS by Family †RUBEN REYNA by Mr. & Mrs. Hector Ortega & Family †ROSENDO RAMIREZ (24TH AN.)

by Family †TIBURCIA G. RAMIREZ (6TH AN.)

by Family †JEFFREY TIANGCO by Aberin Family 1:00 P.M. †SIXTO FLORES, JR. by Wife & Family †ROSENDO MOLINA by Family †ADALBERTO GARZA (21ST AN.) by Family †HECTOR SOLIS (1ST AN.) by Esposa e Hijos

SUNDAY APRIL 22ND- I.C.C. 7:00 A.M. PRO POPULO - MASS SAID FOR THE PEOPLE

†ELOISA BERMUDEZ by Family 5:00 P.M. †HERLINDA IBARRA by Su Familia †MARIA CELIA LOPEZ by Diana M. Saldaña †ABEL S. SAENZ by Israel & Lupita Chapa †MARIA GUADALUPE GUERRA (1ST AN.) by Su Familia FOR THE HEALTH OF VILLARREAL FAMILY by Their Mother MONDAY APRIL 23RD – I.C.C. 6:00 P.M. †ANTONIO CANTU (AN.) by Family †EVELINA CASTILLO by Elda Castillo & Family †MR. & MRS. LAZARO GARZA GARCIA by Mr. & Mrs. Israel de la Cruz THANKSGIVING MASS BY ERRY ALVAREZ TUESDAY APRIL 24TH - I.C.C. 6:30 A.M. PRO POPULO - MASS SAID FOR THE PEOPLE

RMS Principal, Faculty, and Staff Honored Their Counselors Roma Middle School Students Participate in

On National School Counseling Week, Ringgold Middle School principal, Mr. Jorge Peña, along with the RMS faculty and staff honored their counselors Mrs. Noelia Vasquez, Mr. Felix Garza and Mrs. Cynthia Mendoza, for their hard work and dedication to their students. Thank you for helping them reach for the STARS!

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and we know they have a great opportunity in the coming years to place in the top 10. We also want to thank their coach, Berry Nall, for his dedication to the team.

Thank you to the young ladies and Mr. Nall for making the Gladiator Nation very proud!”

For more information about the competition visit https://www.tcea. org/robotics/contests/arena/.

Roma Middle School Student Council posted “Click it or Ticket” Campaign posters and banners around their school, in order to promote and educate students about the dangers of not wearing a seat-belt. 2018 marks the 16th anniversary of “Click It or Ticket,” a campaign urging Texans to buckle up. When it launched in 2002, only 76 percent of Texans used their seat belts; today nearly 92 percent buckle up. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that since the campaign’s inception 15 years ago, it has saved 5,068 lives, prevented 86,359 serious injuries and saved Texas more than $19.3 billion in related economic costs.

Thank you students for all your hard work! (President: Adrianna Martinez, Vice President: Hannah Garza, Secretary: Ricardo Muniz, and Historian: Lauren Garza. Advisors: Anakaren Lopez, Karina Eliserio and Jose R. Ramirez.)

Primer Aniversario En memoria de Antonio Cantú

Julio 11, 1952 – Abril 23, 2017 Hace un año partiste de nuestras vidas.

Aunque tu partida fue triste para nosotros sabemos que nuestro Dios te recibió diciéndote: “Bien, buen siervo y �iel; sobre poco has sido �iel, sobre mucho te pondré; entra en el gozo de tu Señor.” Mateo 25:23 (RVR1960)

Les agradecemos a cada uno de nuestros familiares (abuelita, tíos, tías, primos…etc.), amistades, vecinos y también al Distrito (R.G.C.C.I.S.D.) que nos acompañaron en esos días. Las oraciones, ofrendas �lorales, comidas y muchas más expresiones de condolencias fueron de gran bendición y fortaleza en un tiempo muy di�ícil.

Solamente ha sido un hasta luego. Un día te volveremos a ver. Te amamos; querido esposo, padre, y abuelito. De parte de tu esposa Virginia Cantú; hijos(as) Antonio y Claudia Cantú, Enrique y Alissa Cantú, John Rayan y Virginia Urbina; nietos(as) Antonio Cantú III, Amaris, Idani, Adriel, Andrés, Adán, Aili, Abram y So�ía Urbina.

Familia Cantú Ramírez

Congressman

Henry Cuellar Congressman Cuellar Is On The Job, Working For You In The 28th District : Federal Government Assistance n

n

n

n n

Grants and Federal funding for local projects Social Security and Medicare benefits Citizenship Services and Immigration status requests Veterans’ benefits Passport applications

Constituent Services n

n

n

n

Group tours for school classes and community organizations American flags flown over the Capitol U.S. Military Academy nominations Student internships

Let Congressman Cuellar Hear Your Thoughts!

1 (877) 780-0028 n henry.cuellar@mail.house.gov www.house.gov/cuellar

Come Visit Us In Our Local Offices Rio Grande City 100 North FM 3167 Grande City, TX 78582 P: (956) 487-5603 F: (956) 488-0952

Mission 117 E. Tom Landry Mission, TX 78572 P: (956) 424-3942 F: (956) 424-3936

Constituents seeking assistance from Congressman Cuellar’s office need to reside within the 28th District of Texas This document was prepared and published at taxpayer expense.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, APRIL 18, 2018, PAGE 3

Roma ISD Orchestra Program Kelsey Bass Museum receives Performs Well at UIL Competition donation from UTRGV Chaps Program KB Museum received a wonderful donation by the UT-RGV Chaps Program.

A traveling trunk was presented to the KB Museum containing learning tools, Union and Confederate jackets and accessories, replica currency, educational posters and companion books.

The Kelsey –Museum & Commission hosted over 50 educators from several school districts in the Rio Grande Valley. We extend our sincerest gratitude to the UTRGV CHAPS team for including the KelseyCongrats Ramiro Barrera Middle & Roma Middle School Orchestra Program students on earning a 2nd Bass Museum as part of the Division Rating of “Excellent” on stage and a 1st Division Rating of “Superior” in sightreading at the UIL Traveling Trunk Project.

Concert & Sightreading Contest! Way to go students & their director Dr. Noe Sanchez!

Pictured are: R.C. Salinas, KB

Museum Commission Member, Dr. Christopher Miller, UTRGV CHAPS, Belinda Trevino, KB Museum Curator, Elizabeth “Bitsy” Margo, KB Museum Commission Member, Rosanna Bacha-Garza, UTRGV CHAPS

Program Manager, Dina Gutierrez, KB Commission Member, Dr. Russell Skowronek, UTRGV CHAPS, Beatrice Brossig, KB Museum Commission Member and RGC Commissioner Dave “Chachi” Jones.

Thanks to all the Voters of Pct. # 1

Thanks for awarding me 1,185 Votes naming me as the top vote getter in the March Primary Election in the JP Race.

Your trusted Votes secured me a position in the Run Off Election which will be held Tuesday, May 22, 2018, with one week of Early Voting to be held from May 14-18, 2018.

Yes, again I am asking for your Vote and Support at this time.

Rest assured that with your Vote and Support you will have a voice in the Office of the JP in Pct. # 1.

My promise to everyone is that you will be treated fairly and impartially.

With my 33 years of legal experience the office will remain free of bias and will be open from 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Monday thru Friday To Benefit Starr County Pct #1 Community.

ORACIÓN AL ESPÍRITU SANTO Espíritu Santo, tu que me aclaras todo, que iluminas todos los caminos para que yo alcance mi ideal, tu que me das el don divino de perdonar y olvidar el mal que me hacen y en todos los instantes de mi vida estas conmigo, yo quiero en este corto dialogo agradecerte por todo y confirmar una vez mas que nunca quiero separarme de ti por mayor que sea la ilusión material. Deseo estar contigo y todos mis seres queridos en la gracia perpetua. Gracias por tu misericordia para conmigo y los míos.

(La persona deberá rezar esta oración 3 días seguidos sin decir el pedido. Dentro de 3 días será alcanzada la gracia por mas difícil que sea. Publicar en cuanto se reciba la gracia.)

Agradece gracia alcanzada:

A. L.

Juan Garcia Manager

Alejandra Tello Manager

Jocelyn Rodriguez CSR

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, APRIL 18, 2018, PAGE 4

Sales Tax Holiday for Emergency Supplies, April 28-30 With the potential for severe weather approaching this spring, Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar reminds Texans they can purchase certain items tax-free during the state’s sales tax holiday for emergency preparation supplies, from April 28 to April 30.

“The severe weather we had last year — particularly Hurricane Harvey — was a stark reminder that Texans should be prepared for emergencies at all times,” Hegar said. “This tax holiday allows people to save money while ensuring they have the supplies they need before an emergency situation occurs.”

There’s no limit on the number of qualifying items you can purchase. These include: -batteries, fuel containers and flashlights priced at less than $75;

hurricane shutters and emergency ladders priced at less than $300; and portable generators priced at less than $3,000.

Purchases that do not qualify include: -batteries for automobiles, boats and other motorized vehicles; camping stoves and camping supplies; chainsaws; plywood; extension ladders and stepladders; and tents.

A list of emergency preparation supplies that may be purchased tax-free can be found on the Comptroller’s website.

The Comptroller’s office estimates shoppers will save more than $1.5 million in state and local sales taxes during the tax holiday, which was approved by lawmakers during the 2015 Texas Legislature.

STC Continued from Front Page On the site of former farmland, STC Boardmembers say they now harvest dreams Even with the addition of brand new facilities at South Texas College’s Starr County Campus, it is not difficult for Board Trustee Rose Benavidez to see the remnants of what it used to be.

Benavidez, the daughter of a founding board member for the college; the late Manuel Benavidez, and whose district includes Starr County, says she remembers the smell of the cantaloupe fields on which the campus now sits. In the early days, she recalls students attending classes in local laundromats because of the lack of space and resources.

“If you look around the campus, there are still areas that have the remnants of what this used to be, it used to be a melon field, and they harvested crops but what we do now is we harvest success, and we harvest dreams,” Benavidez said. “What we are doing now is affording the people to do

it in facilities that match those aspirations.”

“I see this being a stepping stone into a much larger campus with a lot more programming that is directly tied to the industry that we have in the community and the region,” Benavidez said.

“More importantly, I see this as a barometer where children can look and say ‘Hey, I can go to college.

I can do better, and I’m doing it because it’s available’. As Board Trustees, we are making decisions that are impactful not just to our budget but the lives of people, and I think it’s very clear that up to this point that has happened.”

As a result of a $24 million expansion, the Starr County Campus now contains an expanded Student Services Building, a thermal storage plant, and a new 18,000 square foot library that is double the size of the former facility. The previous library has been renovated into a cultural arts center.

New construction also includes a new 55,000 square foot Health

Professions Science Center that houses biology and chemistry labs, computer facilities as well as simulation and skill labs for health professions.

“They’re going to have access to two brand new buildings, a new library, new health professions and science building, expansion of the student activities area, student services area and more parking,” said STC President Dr. Shirley A. Reed. “It’s a beautiful facility.

It is very warm, welcoming, and very state-of-the-art. We will be able to provide first class quality training in these facilities. We have new chemistry and biology labs. Students interested in the sciences, what a perfect option for them to come spend two years at South Texas College and then transfer anywhere they want to go.”

South Texas College sees its campus construction projects come to light made possible by the voter-approved $159 million bond passed in 2013. Among its five campuses, South Texas

College welcomes the expansion of new facilities designed to serve students for generations to come. The expansion will enable the college to accommodate its growing student enrollment and demands for workforce development by local employers.

“STC has transformed the landscape of Starr County,” said Rio Grande City Mayor Villarreal.

“When you’re looking at the impact of South Texas College you have to see the capital assets, human capital, long-term investments, economic growth and prosperity, and the salaries and benefits of graduates past and future.

“I mean, you’re looking at a contribution from the standpoint of economic growth that’s incredible, and you see it all around us,” Villarreal said. “STC has had a tremendous impact, and it’s an invaluable partnership and collaboration that we have with the college, and I certainly look forward to continued partnership.”

Oración a San Antonio “Bendito sea Dios en sus ángeles y en sus santos” Santo San Antonio el más gentil de los santos, tu amor por Dios y tu caridad por sus criaturas te hicieron digno, cuando estabas aquí en la tierra, de poseer poderes milagrosos.

Los milagros esperaban tu palabra, la cual siempre estaba preparada para hablar por los que estaban en problemas o ansiedades. Animado por este pensamiento, te imploro que obtengas para mi (hacer la petición).

La respuesta a mi oración puede que requiera un milagro, pero tú eres el Santo de los Milagros. ¡Oh, gentil y cariñoso San Antonio!, cuyo corazón siempre esta lleno de compasión humana, susurra mi petición a los oídos del dulce Niño Jesús, que amaba estar entre tus brazos, por favor te lo suplico, no me dejes sin respuesta, yo te rezare con fervor y por siempre tendrás la gratitud de mi corazón. Amén. Padre Nuestro, Ave María, Gloria. (Publicar después de que se conceda el favor.)

S. G.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, APRIL 18, 2018, PAGE 5

Mariachi Students Learn From Master Harpist

Thank you to the great Ivan Velasco for presenting a master class on the Harp to Roma ISD Mariachi students! What a great opportunity to learn from one of the best harpist from Mexico.

Grulla High School Senior Achieved Numerous Fine Arts Accomplishments

Thaleah Guzman, a Grulla High School senior, achieved numerous Fine Arts accomplishments this school year.

In December, she auditioned on Bb clarinet for the ATSSB AllRegion band. Thaleah placed 1st chair which allowed her to advance to the next round of competition: Area. At the ATSSB Area competition, which took place in Orange Grove High School in January, she placed 2nd chair and advanced to State. After rigorous preparation, she auditioned once again at State and came out 4th chair in the State of Texas!

On March, Thaleah auditioned

and was accepted to Texas A&M University- Kingsville’s distinguished music program.

Aside from being a great musician, Thaleah is also a very talented artist.

She participated and received top honors for her amazing artwork at this year’s Starr county youth fair high school fine arts competition. Thaleah received grand and reserve champion in the advanced category and grand and reserved champion overall for her mixed media portraits. Thaleah is an excellent student and extremely talented. We expect to see great things from her in the future.

Connected and Growing Rio Grande City Strategic Plan Public Conversations The Rio Grande City Economic Development Corporation (RGCEDC) has partnered with the National Association for Latino Community Asset Builders (NALCAB) and Rural Empowerment Advancement Program (REAP) to revisit the “Rio 2020 Strategic Plan” and develop for Rio Grande City a high-level strategic plan, the “Connected and Growing – Rio Grande City Strategic Plan.” This initiative is made possible through the generous support of BBVA Compass The “Connected and Growing – Rio Grande City Strategic Plan” will focus on Transportation, Economic Development, Civic Affairs and Water and Utilities. A total of two (2) public workshop sessions scheduled for Saturday, April 21st starting at 9 am till 3 pm. Each session will have a presenter(s) that are subject matter expert(s) on the topic and will provide information that will help stimulate conversation with the audience. The engagement will aid the Rio Grande City community in thinking and planning for the future.

The first public conversation session, “Quality of Life, Skilled Workforce & Identifying Target Industries” will have speakers - Zachary “Zach” Mannheimer, Principal of Creative Placemaking and Frank Almaraz, Chief Executive Officer of Workforce Solutions.

This session will provide the audience with new and creative ideas for growing communities.

It will also provide data, both past and current, regarding skilled workforce and industries that have been identified and/or emerging for our community and region. The second session, “Transportation – Local & Regional, Where Were We, Where Are We and Where Are We Going?” speakers - Pedro “Pete” Alvarez, Pharr District Engineer TxDOT; Jose “Joe” Escamilla, VP, Starr-Camargo Bridge Co. & Border Trade Alliance; and Tom

Logan, Transportation Director, Valley Metro. During this session the speakers will also provide data/information that is historical, current and that looks towards the future. The session will begin at 9 am at City Hall, 5332 E. US Hwy 83, Rio Grande City, TX. Rio Grande City Strategic Plan public conversation sessions are open to all residents of Rio Grande City and we encourage participation from all sectors. We especially

would like to see local youth; small business owners and entrepreneurs participate. If you would like additional information on the leadership series sessions please visit Rio Grande City Economic Development Corporation or email Celeste Cavazos.

Rural Empowerment Advancement Program (REAP) is a consulting team comprised of individuals who have worked with 79 rural counties in the South-West Texas Border.

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STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, APRIL 18, 2018, PAGE 6

LOUELLA BOLT MEMORIAL HEALTH PROFESSIONS 2017-2018 Sponsored by The Pediatric Care Center

Rules and criteria governing this award

The deadline to submit this application form is May 1st , 2018

1.

Students must be members of a group that is under-represented in a health care related field, i.e. African-American, Hispanic, Native American, and Alaskan Native. Students must be high school seniors during the 2017–2018 academic years and plan to enroll during the 2018-2019 academic year in a four-year college or university offering a science/health degree. Students are encouraged to choose classes leading to a degree in medicine/health.

Address: _______________________________________________

2.

The selection of award recipients will be based on the following criteria:

Home /Cell phone: ______________________________/_____________________

a) The student’s academic record, minimum GPA of 3.0. b) The student’s participation in school and/or outside jobs/ activities as outlined in the student’s career essay and in the letter of recommendation from a high school counselor, math teacher or science teacher. c) The student’s reason(s) for choosing health/medicine, as outlined in the student’s career essay.

3.

Individual awards for the full academic year will be $500.00.

Awards will be announced by May, 31st 2018, and payment disbursed to each student upon receipt of a copy of the proof of 2018 fallsemester college registration. No award will be sent out after August 2018.

Instructions for Submitting a Nomination

A complete application for the 2017-2018 Louella Bolt Memorial Health Professions Scholarship will contain a copy of each of the following items:

1. From the student: a) A completed application form (this form) b) A TYPED career essay not to exceed 300 words outlining the following: * College or university chosen to attend; when and why * Reasons for choosing a health related career * Possible career choices that may be of interest c) Official transcript of high school grades d) Photo of applicant 2. A letter of recommendation from the high school counselor, math teacher or science teacher containing, but not limited to, the following: a) Verification of student’s GPA and graduation date. b) Verification of high school senior class average grade. (If confidential, High School Counselor statement is required.) c) Confirmation of minority group of student. d) Information about the student’s school, job and/or other activities.

Applicant’s Name: _____________________________________

_______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________

E-mail address: _________________________________________ Soc. Sec. No.: ___________________________________________ High school: ____________________________________________ Expected completion date of high school requirements: ________ / _________ Cumulative GPA / Maximum possible GPA: ________ / _________ Name of College Admitted to (if known): _________________________________ _____________________ Check Minority Group: African-American ( ) Hispanic ( ) Alaskan Native ( ) Check Gender:

Native American ( )

Other (describe): _______________________ Male ( )

Female ( )

Submission Instructions:

Completed applications must be postmarked on or before May 1st, 2018.

Mail the completed application form (this form), career essay and the supporting documents (letters, transcript ,photo ,etc.) to: Dr. Daria Babineaux, Scholarship Program The Pediatric Care Center 214 Chaparral Blvd, Rio Grande City, Texas 78582

WE WANT TO HELP! If you need any assistance starting, writing, or proofreading your essays for ANY collegiate application please call us!

We are here to help and guide you in any way that we can.

Our goal is to assist YOU to be as successful as YOU can be!

Call Gaby at 956-263-1387 to make an appointment.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, APRIL 18, 2018, PAGE 7

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, APRIL 18, 2018, PAGE 8

Starr Readers Donates Easter Books to Roma ISD Kinder Students

A special thanks to Karen Furlong and Starr Readers for a donation of Easter books for all Roma ISD kinder students. What a wonderful surprise for our students!

The Gladiator Nation sincerely appreciates your commitment to our students and their academic goals.

For more information on Starr Readers please visit http://www. starrreaders.com/.

South Texas College Welcomes 2018 Summer Registration The summer early payment deadline to register is May 14 With the spring semester ending soon, the Office of Admissions and Records Enrollment Center is encouraging students to begin selecting their summer classes early.

“The Office of Admissions and Records is ready to assist with each step of the enrollment process. Whether you have questions submitting your admissions application, need your transfer credits reviewed, or require course registration troubleshooting, we will help you get started and see you through graduation,” said Hector Cerda,

Coordinator of Enrollment Services.

The Summer Early Payment Deadline is May 14, and classes begin on June 4.

Summer courses being offered are as follows: Summer 1 - June 4 - July; Summer 2 - July 10 – August 9; and Summer 3 - June 4 – August 9.

“Enrolling ahead of time allows the student to complete the admissions process in a timely manner, avoiding lastminute challenges or obstacles,” said Cerda. “Most importantly, students are able to enroll in the courses they need with their preferred instructors as they best

fit their schedule.”

Registering early and setting up payment arrangements by the early payment deadline allows students to avoid a $60 fee.

“Our primary goal is to streamline the enrollment process and lead the student up to registration. We want to ensure students understand the requirements and submit the appropriate documentation and test for placement as needed,” said Cerda.

For more information on registration, visit http://www. southtexascollege.edu/register/ or contact Admissions at 956872-8323.

Roma ISD Sets UIL Elementary School Record Ringgold

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, APRIL 18, 2018, PAGE 9

Elementary Held It’s 4th Six Weeks Awards Assembly

It was a record-setting meet for Roma ISD as more than 630 of our elementary school students participated Ringgold Elementary held it’s 4th Six Weeks Awards Assembly on March. Awards for presented to in our Written Events Competition. Kudos to all these students for taking on additional academic studies students for Perfect Attendance, Honor Roll, and Accelerated Reader. We are very proud of all students and to their supportive parents! A big thanks to their coaches for taking time to help prepare the kids. We who received awards. Congratulations! are proud of everyone who participates and everyone who works to make these events possible!

CITY OF ROMA REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS The City of Roma is now accepting competitive sealed proposals directly from medical carriers for the City of Roma’s Major Medical Plan.

RFP # 2018-0601 Fully Insured and Self-Funded Medical Plan Proposals Proposals will be accepted by email to csalinas@cityofroma.net with copy to garzar@ lonestar-ins.com or may be mailed to City of Roma, 77 Convent, Roma, TX 78584-0947 to the attention of Mr. Crisanto Salinas. Proper name and RFP number should be plainly marked in front of the envelope or email subject line. Proposals will be accepted until Wednesday, April 25, 2018 at 10:00 A.M. at which time, proposals will be opened or accepted. Proposals received after the deadline or in formats not otherwise listed will not be accepted. Proposals sent by overnight mail may not necessarily guarantee that it will be received in a timely manner. Therefore, it is the vendor’s responsibility to get the proposal to its designated place before the date and time established by the City of Roma. To receive detailed information and specifications required to quote the medical plan please contact Lone Star Insurance Services at garzar@lonestar-ins.com. The City of Roma reserves the right to reject any and all proposals and to accept the proposal most advantageous to the City of Roma. For further information or questions, please call Crisanto Salinas, City Manager @ (956) 849-1411 or by email to csalinas@cityofroma.net.

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STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, APRIL 18, 2018, PAGE 10

UTRGV host Civil War history teacher’s Workshop The University of Texas- Rio Grande Valley/CHAPS and the Rio Grande Valley Civil War Trail conducted a seminar on local Civil War Professional Development Workshop April 6 at Fort Ringgold.

Teachers K-12 from all over the Valley attended the workshop and received instruction on the “how to” make local history more interesting while simultaneously meeting the state teaching goals.

During the visit, the Revive Fort Ringgold staff provided a walking tour of historic Fort Ringgold.

The tour included a walk around

the parade field, the barracks, the old post hospital, post morgue and culminated at the Robert E. Lee House.

Teachers were also treated to a screening of the documentary “And the Soldiers left”. The UTRGV/CHAPS produced documentary captures a glimpse on what happen to Fort Ringgold and Rio Grande City when the soldiers left in 1946. Many local citizens were interviewed for the documentary.

Members of the local Rio Grande City Women’s Club and

the Florence J. Scott Study Club joined Revive Fort Ringgold as more than 60 teachers participated in the workshop. Valley teachers left in awe of the historical resources in their backyard. Some have made plans to bring their classes for a field trip. Teachers were provided books, maps and lesson plans to enhance the lessons. History Chests wee provided to school districts.

Teachers were given Fort Ringgold

brochures, trolley information, Fort Ringgold post cards and a copy of the Alberto Barrera Mural.

Rio’s own Taco Bar owned and operated by Mr. Albert Escobedo catered lunch. Portions of the lunch cost will go to the non-profit CASA de ESPERANZA.

(Photo left to right) Aminta Reyna, Elia Ramos, Diana Uribe, Nelda Laurel, COL Ross Barrera)

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Four RBI Day for Osvaldo Perez Spells Out Victory for Rio Grande City over Roma

Osvaldo “Baldo” Perez drove in four on two hits to lead Rio Grande City past Roma 11-3 on Friday. Baldo drove in runs on a double in the first and a single in the second.

The Rattlers secured the victory thanks to six runs in the second inning.

Rio Grande City batters contributing to the big inning included Emmanuel Garza, Baldo Perez, and Jesus Cantu, all knocking in runs in the inning.

Rio Grande City got on the board in the first inning when Baldo Perez doubled on a 1-1 count, scoring two runs. In the bottom of the first, Mike Ramos struck out a batter, and then the Rattlers made a 6-4-3 double play from Nicolas Cantu to Marc Perez to Baldo Perez.

The Rattlers put up six runs in the second inning. The offensive

onslaught came from a triple by Jesus Cantu, a single by Osbaldo Perez, and a double by Emmanuel Garza.

Mike Ramos got the win for Rio Grande City. The freshman pitcher threw six innings and allowed six hits and three runs over six innings, striking out six. Marc Perez threw one inning in relief out of the bullpen and struck out three batters to end the game, allowing 0 hits and 0 runs.

Marte Guerra took the loss for Roma. He surrendered nine runs on eight hits over one and two-thirds innings, striking out one and walking zero. Jorge Garcia pitched 3 and 2/3 innings, allowing 2 runs and 4 hits, striking out one and walking zero.

David Cruz pitched one and twothirds innings, allowing zero runs on zero hits, striking out zero and

walking one.

Rio Grande City racked up 12 hits. Baldo Perez, Jesus Cantu, Marc Perez and Saul Garcia each racked up multiple hits. Baldo went 3-for-4 at the plate to lead the Rattlers in hits. Saul Garcia, Baldo Perez, Jesus Cantu and Marc Perez all had 2 hits, while Jason Perez, Emmanuel Garza, Jeremy Gorena and Nicolas Cantu each had 1 hit. Leading the team in RBI’s was Baldo Perez with 4, followed by Jesus Cantu with 3, and Marc Perez and Emmanuel Garza with 2 each.

Saul Garcia, Baldo Perez and Nicolas Cantu each scored 2 runs, and Jason Perez, Marc Perez, Emmanuel Garza, Jeremy Gorena and AB Garza each scored one run. Jesus Cantu hit a triple. Marc Perez, Baldo Perez and Emmanuel Garza all hit doubles. Saul

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RGC: 4370 E. Hwy 83 Ste. B - 956-309-3549 Roma: 834 E. Grant St. Ste. C - 956-570-0701 Arroyo:5065 Hwy. 83 ste. A - 956-570-0702 Escobares: 4522 East Hwy 83 Ste A. 956-429-5625

Garcia hit 2 singles, and Jason Perez, Marc Perez, Baldo Perez, Jeremy Gorena and Nicolas Cantu had a single apiece.

Rio Grande City didn’t commit a single error in the field. Emmanuel Garza had the most chances in the field with nine. Nicolas Cantu had 4 putouts; Marc Perez, Baldo Perez and Jeremy Gorena had 2 putouts; and Jason Perez and Eduardo Garza had 1 putout apiece. Marc Perez had 2 stolen bases, and AB Garza and Jeremy Gorena each had one.

Roma racked up six hits on the day.

Rodrigo Clarke and Andre Barrera all managed multiple hits for Roma with two each. Rodrigo Clarke had all 3 RBIs. Raul Resendez scored two runs, while Andre Barrera scored one for the Gladiators.

APRIL 18, 2018 SECTION II, PAGE 1

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STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, APRIL 18, 2018, SECTION II, PAGE 2

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Continued from last week, April 11, 2018, section II, page 3 Aurora Castillo “A” Ramon Gerardo Barrera Jr., Ernesto Beltran, Joselien Chapa Garcia, Mike’L West Hawkins Cantu, Jocelynn Marie Lopez, Aniela Ramirez “A & B” Sebastian Ulises Fernandez, Eduardo Flores Jr., Florentino Garcia, Myha Anthonela Garza, Jeison Omar Ibarra, Alyssa Marie Resendez, Guadalupe Saenz III. Marta I Flores “A” Shanehl Lareine Avalos, Aryel Alea Gonzalez, Sergio Isaguirre III., Leonela Lee Ann Ramirez, Jordyn Alexandra Torres “A & B” Jazlyn Flores, Hector Garza Jr., Rose Mary Hernandez, Naveah Andrea Solis, Lizeth Torres, Emilio Casimiro Villarreal Priscilla Garcia “A&B” Sebastian Alvarez Dania Salinas “A” Janika Kay Flores, Ruben Galaviz Jr., Adrian Garcia, Layla Litzel Lopez, Ruben Eden Lopez,

Aurora Mendiola Garza, Kristalynn Mia Perez, Isaiah Eli Salinas “A & B” Esmeralda Galaviz, Samantha Morin, Adriana Vasquez Morin 3RD GRADE Socorro Chavana “A” Gabriella Itzel Banda, Brianna Denise De Leon, Leonardo Garza, Fredie Alexander Martinez, Yarianna Itzel Rios, Thor Rivera “A & B” Ana Reyna De Leon Martinez, Brandon Damian De Leon, Dominick Luis Garza, Peyton Raine Garza, Jeshua Olivares, Ruby Lee Rios, Diego Azael Zendeja Deleon, Ayleen Monserrat Zepeda Priscilla Garcia “A & B” Dante ES Lopez Carina Guerrero “A” Naeli Jazbell Farias, Jonathan Zuniga Chavira “A & B” Damaris Yamilee Diaz, Mairany Garcia, Litzy Guerrero, Carlos Daniel Ibarra, Sebastian Ortiz, Octavio Alexander Ruiz Garza,

Emmanuel Torres Herrada, Giovani Torres Moya, Alyah Marie Zarate Alexandra Hellmund “A” Kaylani Nevaeh Bazan, Amber Nichole Garza “A & B” Mariely Garza, Miguel Angel Gonzalez, Millie Lee Guel, Sergio Alberto Lopez Jr., Sophie Alexia Nunez, Rowen Jay Ramirez, Erik Rivera, Kylie Rose Solis Janet Zarate “A” Jose Luis Alaffa III., Alexis Isaiah Barrera, Brianna Jasmine Davila, Denessa Alizae Elizondo, Fernando Garza, Devani Elaine Gonzalez, Kaylynn Ivanna Lopez, Kalinah Montenegro, Alex J Moreno, Loretta Nicole Silva, Bertha Alicia Zendeja Deleon “A & B” Jonathan Gracia, Ashley Marie Perez, Adelyn Ayleen Salmon, Jaime Isaias Villarreal 4TH GRADE Carisa Bazan “A” Kassandra Elizabeth Garza, Mia Anahi Martinez, Yailyn Reyna Garza, Julian Andrew Zarate “A & B” Layla Lynn Flores, Jeremiah Anthony Lopez, Madison Marie Montalvo, Ytzel Morin, Nalanie Yvette Pena, Esmeralda Perez, Kendra Eileen Rios, Adrian Velasquez Jr., Priscilla Garcia “A & B” Osvaldo Pena Jr., Dephane Maria Puente Joana Rodriguez “A” Edrie Camilla Rangel “A & B” Ashley Castillo, Sarai Garza, David Guerra Jr., Hector Hugo Guerrero, Jacob Rosh Hawkins Cantu, Michael Darren Ortiz, Yaletzy Alexandria Perales, Crystal Denisse Ramirez Sonya Salinas “A” Carlos Cantu, Bryan Hinojosa, Tadiel Angel Olivares, Denaly Ozuna, Aiden Eliah Rivera, Destiny Marie Rosales

“A & B” Jacob Isaiah Cardoza, Ailyn Hernandez, Edwin Andrew Lopez, Eleyne Mendoza, Leylanie Azenetth Rodriguez, Thelma Jaylyn Vasquez Olga B. Solis “A” Deann Ilene Flores, Sophia Monique Monsivais “A &B” Alejandra Alvarez, Jonathan Flores, Jose Manuel Lopez, Joelissa Torres Pompa, Juan Marcos Villavicencio Flores 5TH GRADE Priscilla Garcia “A & B” Nancy Yvette Pena “A” Jonathan Jay Andrade, Juan Carlos Gonzalez Jr., Melanie Kassandra Orellana, Deryn Roel Solis “A & B” Jennell Laney Alaffa, Efrain Falcon Botello Jr., Julissa Martinez, Angela Makay Moreno Idolina Ramon “A” Anthony Aguilar, Ariana Delgadillo, Dayra Natasha Diaz “A& B” Ozbiel Alejandro Balderas, Tristan Javier Banda, Alberto Garcia, Andrea Boshelly Garza, Juillet Pena, Ashley Marie Resendez, Eva Samantha Rodriguez, Valeria Anette Saenz, Ramiro Sanchez, Sarah Sanchez Jessica L. Salinas “A” Karollina Bernal, Miley Ray De Anda, Hector Galvan, Emma Rose Hasbun, Glory Beth Leal Rocha “A&B” Roberto Benavidez, Oscar Sebastian Castillo, Victoria Gonzalez Nancy Lee Villarreal “A” Julian Alvarado, Myla Anzaldua, Lindsey Sky Contreras, Iris Guajardo, Ricardo Alexis Hernandez, Reuben Lee Martinez, Melissa Munoz “A & B” Adolfo Angel Cornelio, Shayla Shannelle Gutierrez, Eden Eli Gomez, Jeslynn Liana Guevara, Aaliyah Diamondique Ramirez, Joselyn Tamez

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, APRIL 18, 2018, SECTION II, PAGE 3

Guillen Calls for Change in Professional License Restrictions Guillen: It’s Time To Change Law That Prevents Texans From Working Representative Ryan Guillen (D- Rural South Texas) is calling for a change in a state law that prevents Texans from renewing an occupational license if they have defaulted on their student loans.

“Defaulting on loans should not stop Texans from being able to work and provide for their families,” said Guillen. “I support the initiative to change this restrictive law to help all working Texans.”

The Texas law went into effect in the late 1980s to incentivize paying back student loans on

time. However, opponents of this law contend it is out of date and counterproductive, as the inability to work pushes those who have defaulted into further debt. An estimated 4,200 workers in Texas were at risk of losing their license to work last year, and 250 teachers had their application for a license denied over a five year period due to defaulted loans. Representative Guillen and other Texas lawmakers are concerned about the scope of this issue, and have called for a change in this law to help workers across the state of Texas.

Since his election, Guillen has worked to improve programs and initiatives that assist

workers in South Texas. He has voted to improve mobility and infrastructure, which is vital to economic success, by increasing road funding by $6 billion, Guillen also helped pass legislation to provide financial assistance to rural and small businesses, he helped establish the Texas Enterprise Fund that supports the state’s economic development, infrastructure and job training programs, and he has supported increasing higher education and workforce training in South Texas.

These efforts have brought results as well. Unemployment in District 31 has dropped from over 9% to 6% and average yearly wages have

increased.

“Stable jobs do a great deal to enhance the quality of life of everyday working South Texans,” added Guillen. “We must do what we can to eliminate arbitrary restrictions on the ability to hold a steady job, like the current law on defaulted student loans.”

Serving ten rural South Texas counties in the Texas House of Representatives, Ryan Guillen is known for his hard work, fierce independence, and relentless efforts for South Texas families. Sign up for updates at ryanguillen.com, facebook.com/ representative.guillen and twitter. com/ryanguillen

LEGAL NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICE

Application has been made with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission for a WINE AND BEER R E TA I L E R ’ S O F F PREMISE PERMIT by: SOFIA RUVALCABA DE LOPEZ dba ELGENERAL PANCHO VILLA MEAT MARKET to be located at 6858 FM 1430, RIO GRANDE CITY, STARR COUNTY, TEXAS.

Application has been made with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission for a WINE AND BEER RETAILER’S PERMIT by: REYMUNDO A LVA R E Z d b a L O S ARCOS DRIVE THRU AND RESTAURANT to be located at 688 EAST GRANT STREET, ROMA, S TA R R C O U N T Y, TEXAS.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, APRIL 18, 2018, SECTION II, PAGE 4

Roma ISD Superintendent’s Easter Egg John & Olive Hinojosa Elementary Rewarded Hunt Proves Egg-cellent Time for Students Their U.I.L. Team with a Trip to Main Event

John & Olive Hinojosa Elementary rewarded their U.I.L. Team with a trip to Main Event in Pharr, Texas.

The students had a great year! The J & O U.I.L. team placed 2nd at the Dr. Mario Ramirez Elementary Invitational Meet, hosted a very successful meet at their campus, and placed 3rd at the District Meet.

The Roma ISD Pre-K and Kinder students had a wonderful time at our Easter Egg Hunt! It was a joy for Principal Marissa Saldivar would like to thank the U.I.L. coaches for their dedication and the students for them to meet Mr. & Mrs. Easter Bunny. The kinder students competed in some egg-cellent games as well. their hard work. Also, a special thank you to the J & O parents for their support.

A HUGE thanks to everyone involved in making the event possible, especially the Roma High School students, Roma ISD Superintendent’s Office, Roma ISD Office of Public Relations, Roma ISD Athletics Division, Roma ISD PE Department, all the pre-k and kinder teachers and support staff throughout the district, the Gladiator Television Network, the Roma ISD Transportation Department, the Roma ISD Police Department, as well as the Roma ISD Cafeteria staff for accommodating the meals of the kinder students. A big thanks to our sponsors for the event including Smile & Shine Dental, Roma Area U.S. black seeds. That pulp is edible (This is a repeat Customs & Border Protection, County Commissioner Raul Roy Pena , Discoll Health Plan, the City of from last year so and tastes like strawberries, Roma, Peter Piper Pizza, Telemundo, JP Jose “Kiko” Perez, Roma ISD Board Member Clarissa Alvarez you may already hence the name “strawberry and the Family of Omar Escobar Jr. have read it. I cactus.” They’re delicious.

Pitayas are spectacularly beautiful and edible couldn’t resist because this year’s bloom is so abundant and spectacular. Rush out to see it and do plant some in your yard.)

Having spent 20 years hiking about in the Tamaulipan brush, I can tell you that for spectacular beauty nothing matches a large clump of strawberry cactus in full bloom. Seeing one is a “WOW” moment.

In Spanish it’s pitaya; in English it’s strawberry cactus.

To scientists, it’s Echinocereus enneacanthus. In any languish it’s a very special cactus, both beautiful and edible.

The flowers are 3” in diameter with multiple rows of strap-like petals colored vivid magenta.

Each stem may have several

blossoms and in full bloom they’re a solid blanket of color nearly obscuring the stems.

Bloom time is in spring, usually early April, but you also get a later treat. Seedpods are produced which are about 1” in diameter, nearly spherical a n d covered w i t h sharp spines. Over the weeks their green skin turns to a dull, dark magenta or cerise. At that stage the spines can easily be whisked off with a little twig and the skin peeled off revealing the gray, inner pulp speckled with tiny

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New stems are produced each year around the edges of the cluster. They’re decumbent, that is declining on the ground but ascending at their tip. Stems are cylindrical, about 3” in diameter and have 7 to 10 ribs.

The spines are arranged with 7 to 12 radials in a circle like spokes of a wheel and a central spine up to 3” long. There may be up to three additional central spines, if so, they lean upward.

In time, a cluster may have a hundred or more stems, be 5 feet or more in diameter and be more spectacular every year.

If you live in cactus country, strawberry cactus ought to be in your landscape. If you visit the Valley in April, you may see spectacular beauty!

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