August 26, 2020 by Starr County Town Crier

STARR VISION CENTER

487-2440

Dr. Angie Ramirez Therapeutic Optometrist

CASTAÑEDA Auto Insurance & Bail Bonds

488-0808 487-7000

300 East Main St. R.G.C.

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

SPACE AVAILABLE CALL 956-487-6544 The Law Ofﬁce Of

J.M. “Chema” Garza Vol. 35, No. 35 WEEKLY WEDNESDAY • AUGUST 26, 2020 Ofﬁce (956) 487-6544 - Fax (956) 487-6165 - E-Mail: sctc78582@aol.com - www.starrcountytowncrier.com

Criminal Cases (Federal/State) Car Accidents/ 18 Wheeler Divorces • Real Estate/Deeds

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

487-2596 4343 E. Hwy. 83 R.G.C.

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

Phone (956) 487-3925

Covid-19 Convalescent Plasma Donation Drive Was a Success! Dr. Raymond Cruz Best FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Dental Insurance, Medicaid and Chip Accepted

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

TEXAS

These are challenging times for our community. Many people have asked, ‘What can I do to help or contribute to the COVID-19 response?’ The Convalescent Plasma Donation Drive hosted by DHR Health and Starr County Memorial Hospital (SCMH) last S a t u r d a y ’s presents a unique opportunity for individuals, who have recovered from COVID-19, to help other patients currently struggling in their ﬁght against the virus. to help up to four COVID-19 who are ﬁghting severe and According to the FDA, some patients. life-threatening COVID-19 preliminary information suggests The donated plasma will be infections. THANK YOU DONORS!! a single donation has the potential used to treat patients in hospitals

CAR WASH

& STEAM CLEANING

SHAMPOO • WAX • PICKUP & DELIVERY

500-2950 615 West 2nd St. R.G.C.

NOW ACCEPTING COMMERCIAL FLEET CARDS

BENNY

OPEN MON-SUN 7AM-7PM

BIG DOOR SALE LARGE SELECTION

WE HAVE A NEW LINE OF DOORS AVAILABLE

956-487-2140 5470 E. HWY 83 R.G.C. TX 956-519-3237 • 6601 W. HWY 83 - MISSION, TX

• 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)

107 N Flores St. Rio Grande City, TX (Inside Macias Law Firm)

(956)

317-1124

Alexia Salmon earns the coveted industry based certiﬁcation to be a pharmacy tech

Alexia Salmon is 18 years old,she feels very fortunate to have been in the HOSA program throughout her entire high school years. She has worked at Lino’s pharmacy for almost 2 years while attending high school. While working there she realized she was fulﬁlling part of her dream to become a pharmacist. She will be attending STC

this fall with hopes of ﬁnishing her prerequisites to then apply to pharmacy school at A&M Kingsville. The entire RGCCISD administration, the CTE department & her teachers and school board members congratulate her & her supportive parents on her outstanding accomplishments.

SPACE AVAILABLE CALL 956-487-6544

CHUY Alvarez ATTORNEY AT LAW

El abogado con mas de 34 años de experiencia

501 N. Britton Ave • Rio Grande City, Texas

956-487-4871 Cell: 956-208-0282 NOT CERTIFIED BY THE TEXAS BOARD OF LEGAL SPECIALIZATION

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, AUGUST 26, 2020, PAGE 2

Commissioner Raul “Roy” Pena Hosted Dr. Mary Jane Garza-Partnership Coordinator from a Drive-By Food Distribution Fair the Regional Census Center Meet with Local Leaders

Starr County Pct. 2 Commissioner Raul “Roy” Pena hosted a drive-by food distribution fair on Thursday, August 13, 2020 in Fronton, Texas. During this uncertain times, many families are struggling to put food on their tables. Starr County Commissioners have been working tirelessly to provide much needed food for residents to feed their families. A total of 1500 families were provided with a food and vegetable box as well as gallons of milk. (Photos courtesy of Blanca Ruiz-City of Roma, TX)

Dr. Mary Jane GarzaPartnership Coordinator from the Regional Census Center (U.S. Department of Commerce U.S. Census Bureau) came to Starr County to meet with local leaders to provide the current census data. She also commended the leaders for working diligently to ensure that Starr County residents get counted in the 2020 CENSUS. Starr County Judge Eloy Vera was joined by Commissioner Pct. 2 Raul “Roy” Pena, Mayor Bobby Salinas-Roma, TX, Mayor Pedro Flores-La Grulla TX, Jessica

Alvarez-City of Escobares, Nilda Elizondo-Starr County Industrial Foundation, Marie Pena - Pct. 1, Johanna Trevino- Representing Pct. 4. Starr County Judge Eloy Vera would like to remind all residents that by responding to the census we can all make a difference and shape the future of Starr County #Census 2020. Complete the 2020 CENSUS if you haven’t already-it only takes ﬁve minutes. RGC census helpline phone number: 956-3171585.

El censo determina los fondos federales destinados a las comunidades en materia de educación, salud, carreteras y más. Por ello es importante estar informado al respecto y participar en el Censo 2020.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, AUGUST 26, 2020, PAGE 3

FEMA Announces Lost Wages Grant for Texas FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor approved Texas for a FEMA grant under the Lost Wages Assistance program. FEMA’s grant funding will allow Texas to provide $300 per week -- on top of their regular unemployment beneﬁt -- to those unemployed due to COVID-19. FEMA will work with Texas Governor Greg Abbott to implement a system to make this funding available to Texas residents.

On Aug. 8, 2020, President Trump made available up to $44 billion from FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund to provide ﬁnancial assistance to Americans who have lost wages due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The state of Texas agreed to administer a lost wages program for its citizens who are unemployed due to COVID-19. FEMA looks forward to working with the governors of additional states who agree to

What To Do If You Witness a Car Accident

Safety ﬁrst! If you’re driving and an accident takes administer a lost wages program place in front of you, make sure you pull over to to bring ﬁnancial relief to a safe area. ...Call for Emergency services. Every unemployed Americans. second counts in an emergency, so it’s best to call 911 To see a list of states previously ASAP just in case someone is injured. ...Cautiously approved, visit: https://www. help out. ...Stick around until the police arrive. fema.gov/fact-sheet/lost-wages...Tread carefully. (La Grulla Fire Department FM2360) assistance-approved-states To learn more about FEMA’s lost wages supplemental payment assistance, visit: https://www. fema.gov/fact-sheet/fema-lostwages-supplemental-paymentassistance

Call to ARTISTS:

Rio Grande City Public Library is currently soliciting for Artists (3-5 min) videos to be featured during the ﬁrst ever Paseo del Arte Virtual Show! For more information contact the Rio Grande City Public Library at 956-487-4389.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, AUGUST 26, 2020, PAGE 4

WEDNESDAY AUG. 26TH - I.C.C. 6:00 P.M. †DORA E. GARZA by Luis & Jerry †BILL D. POPE, SR. by Wife Rosario Pope & Family POR LA SALUD MARICELA DE LA TORRE & JACINTO BARRERA by Barrera Family THURSDAY AUGUST 27TH - I.C.C. 6:30 A.M. †IGNACIO & IGNACIA G. GUTIERREZ by Rosario Pope & Family

Obituary

Natalia A. Barrera March 7, 1932 † August 21, 2020

On August 21, 2020 our beloved mother, Natalia Barrera left this world to join our dad after a long courageous battle with Alzheimer’s. She was born to Moises Alvarado and Florencia Salazar on March 07, 1932, en El Tepehuaje Tamaulipas, Mexico. She married the love of her life on September 19, 1953. Preceded in death were her parents, her brother Abelardo, her sisters, Flor Flores, Adalinda De la Garza, her granddaughter Velma Perez and her son in law Roel Perez. Natalia is survived by her four daughters, Marylu Dickey (Tom), Natalia Perez (+Roel), Viviana Rivas (Luis), Martha N. Sanchez (Sabino), 3 sons, David Barrera Jr., Sergio Barrera (Juanita), Oscar Barrera (Linda). Also surviving are 21 grandchildren, 38 great grandchildren, 1 brother,

Ricardo and 2 sisters, Ernestina Trillayes and Arminda Longoria, numerous nieces, nephews, grand nieces, grand nephews and many friends. Mom lived in Rio Grande City for 50 years and she migrated to Washington State for seasonal farm work with her family for about 25 years. She enjoyed dancing, playing cards and playing bingo and watching The Prize is Right. She loved and cared for her family, when we lived in Mexico and dad would go north to work and mom would stay to take care of six of us kids, imagine that! In 1968 dad decided to bring us to the US and we settle in Rio Grande City. We migrated to Washington where Oscar the 7th child was born; he was the light of her life. Mom, you were always a wonderful mom and set a great example for all of us to follow we will miss you greatly and you will be in our hearts forever. We are forever grateful to all the caregivers that took care of mom throughout the years. Due to the pandemic and keeping everyone’s safety in mind, the family has decided that only immediate family members can attend the wake but please feel free to join us if you can on Thursday August 27, 2020 at 6:00 p.m., to accompany us for the procession from Hernandez Funerals to the Ruben Solis Cemetery, in La Grulla, TX. Burial will be at 6:30 pm.

FRIDAY AUGUST 28TH - I.C.C. 6:00 P.M. †MARIA “CUQUITA” R. BROWN (4TH AN.) by Family †CHAYSE OLIVAREZ by Family †BILL D. POPE, SR. by Wife Rosario Pope & Family †MAYRA ANGELINA GARZA by Sus Hijos

Publicar en cuanto se reciba el milagro.

SUNDAY AUGUST 30TH - I.C.C. 9:00 A.M. †ANTONIA G. CARRION (AN) by Familia Carrion †ELIAS CHAPA VILLARREAL by Wife & Children †GUADALUPE CASTAÑEDA, JR. by Wife Alicia & Family SUNDAY AUGUST 30TH - I.C.C. 11:00 A.M. †NUMERIANO PLAMENCO (1ST AN.) by Perez Family †LAZARO & ALEJANDRA GARCIA by Granddaughter Valerie †TOMAS & SANTITOS R. TREVIÑO (AN.) by Family

5:00 P.M. †RICARDO ORTIZ (13TH AN.) by Family †SUSIE GARZA by Family †ARMANDO ACEVEDO (8TH AN.) by Silva Family MONDAY AUGUST 31ST– I.C.C. 6:00 P.M. PRO POPULO - MASS SAID FOR THE PEOPLE TUESDAY SEPT. 1ST – I.C.C. 6.30 A.M. PRO POPULO - MASS SAID FOR THE PEOPLE

Eduardo (Walle) Garza Moreno 10-13-1943 † 08-27-2019

No sabíamos esa mañana que Dios iba a llamar tu nombre. En vida te quisimos mucho, en la muerte lo mismo. Nuestros corazones se rompieron al perderte pero no te fuiste solo, parte de nosotros se fue contigo el día en que Dios te llamó a su casa. Nos has dejado recuerdos hermosos. Tu amor sigue siendo nuestra guía y aunque no podemos verte siempre estás a nuestro lado. Nuestra cadena familiar se rompió y nada parece lo mismo, pero cuando Dios nos llame uno a uno, la cadena se unirá de nuevo.

Su esposa Eva Canales Garza, sus hijas Isela Garza, Imelda Garza y nietos

Familia Garza 2,500 FULLWITH FUNERAL SERVICE SILVER $

Sanchez Funeral Home

A. E. V. & M. V.

SATURDAY AUGUST 29TH - I.C.C. 5:00 P.M. NO MASS

†IMELDA RAMON (12TH AN.) by Family †IGNACIO & MARIA MINERVA GUERRA by Rosario Pope & Family †BILL D. POPE, SR. by Wife Rosario Pope & Family †NYDIA R. MAYEUX by Rosario Pope & Family

Primer Aniversario en Memoria de

ORACIÓN AL DIVINO NIÑO JESÚS

Niño amable de mi vida, consuelo de los cristianos la gracia que necesito, pongo en tus benditas manos. (Padre Nuestro...) Por eso con fe y conﬁanza, humilde y arrepentido, lleno de amor y esperanza; este favor yo te pido (se pide la gracia que se desee y decir 7 veces: “Divino Niño Jesús, bendícenos”).

†LINDA DIANA GARZA by Lydia Garza Saenz & Family

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

(956) 487-2525

.00

METAL CASKET

CALL JEFF OR SONATA SANCHEZ

“Serving Our Community For Over 86 Years” “Caring for you & your loved ones in your time of need ”

ST. JUDE NOVENA

Sanchez

Memorial Funeral Home 101 AR Sanchez Sr. Dr. Roma, Tx. 78584

(956) 847-7008

May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, gloriﬁed, loved and preserved throughout the world now and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus pray for us. Holy Mary, Mother of Jesus, pray for us, St. Jude, worker of miracles, pray for us. (Say this nine times a day, by the 8th day your prayer will be answered. Say it nine days, it has never been known to fail. Publication must be promised.) Thank you St. Jude.

A. P. R.

The Miracle Prayer

Lord Jesus, I come before you, just as I am. I am sorry for my sins, I repent of my sins, please forgive me. In your name I forgive all others for what they have done against me. I renounce satan, the evil spirits and all their works. I give you my entire self, Lord Jesus, now and forever. I invite you into my life Jesus, I accept you as my Lord, God and Saviour. Heal me, change me, strengthen me in body, soul and spirit. (Make your petition) Come Lord Jesus, cover me with your precious blood, and ﬁll me with your Holy Spirit. I love you Lord Jesus, I praise you Jesus. I thank you Jesus. I shall follow you every day of my life. Amen. Mary my Mother, Queen of Peace, all the Angels and Saints please help me. S. L. Amen.

La Oración del Milagro

Nuestro Señor Jesucristo, vengo ante ti, así como soy. Estoy arrepentido por todos mis pecados, me arrepiento por todos mis pecados, por favor perdóname. En tu nombre, yo perdono a todos los que me hayan hecho algo a mi. Yo renuncio a Satanás, todos los espíritus diabólicos y todos sus trabajos. Yo me entrego a ti totalmente, Señor Jesucristo, ahora y por siempre. Te invito a mi vida Señor Jesús. Te acepto como mi único Dios y Salvador. Sáname, cambiame, fortalece mi cuerpo, alma y espíritu. Ven Señor Jesús, cúbreme con tu sangre preciosa, y lléname con tu Santo Espíritu. Te adoro Señor Jesucristo. Te alabo Señor Jesucristo. Te doy gracias Jesús. Te seguiré todos los días de mi vida. Amen. María madre mía, Reina de la Paz, todos los Ángeles y Santos por favor te imploro, ayúdame. Amen. (HAGA SU PETICIÓN) L. C.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, AUGUST 26, 2020, PAGE 5

¿Cómo puede verificar que alguien es un tomador del censo? John and Olive Hinojosa Elementary Si alguien visita su casa este la Oficina Si nadie está en casa cuando Newest Employees año para recopilar información del Censo el tomador del censo visita, el Welcome para el Censo 2020, asegúrese de que tiene una insignia de identificación válida con su fotografía, una marca de agua del Departamento de Comercio de Los Estados Unidos y una fecha de vencimiento. Los trabajadores del censo también pueden llevar bolsas de

y otros equipos con el logotipo de la Oﬁcina del Censo. Los participantes del censo trabajan entre las 9am y las 9pm, incluyendo los ﬁnes de semana.

tomador del censo dejará un aviso de su visita con información sobre cómo responder en línea, por teléfono o por correo. Si responde en línea o por teléfono hoy, es menos probable que un tomador del censo tenga que visitar su casa para recoger su respuesta.

If someone visits your home this year to collect information for the 2020 Census, check to make sure they have a valid ID badge with their photograph, a U.S. Department of Commerce watermark, and an expiration date. Census workers may also carry Census Bureau bags and

other equipment with the Census If you respond online or by Bureau logo. phone today, a census taker is less Census takers work between likely to have to visit your home 9am and 9pm, including to collect your response. weekends. If no one is home when the census taker visits, the census taker will leave a notice of their visit with information about John and Olive Hinojosa Elementary would like to welcome the newest employees to the Red Diamond how to respond online, by phone Family. Pictured left to right: Mrs. Karen Cantu - 1st Grade Teacher, Mrs. Adriana Martinez -1st Grade or by mail. Teacher, and Mrs. Juanita Reyna - Ofﬁce Support Staff.

How Can You Verify That Someone Is a Census Taker?

NO CREDIT CHECK WITH CLEAR TITLE! TEXAN CREDIT

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ALMA ALONSO

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956-487-0279 Assistant Manager

CSR COLLECTOR

4762 E. Hwy 83 Ste. B • Rio Grande City, TX

*all loans subject to our normal credit criteria. Must have veriﬁable income & residence. Title must be in customer’s name and vehicle must be registered and running.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, AUGUST 26, 2020, PAGE 6

LEGAL NOTICE Application has been made with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission for a WINE AND BEER RETAILER’S OFFPREMISE PERMIT, by AMALIA LARA dba CORONITAS DRIVE THRU, to be located at 1201 W. MAIN ST., RIO GRANDE CITY, STARR COUNTY, TX

DPS Ramping Up Move Over/Slow Down Enforcement The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is reminding motorists during the summer months that the department is continuing its enforcement efforts across Texas focusing speciﬁcally on violations of the state’s Move Over/Slow Down law. These periodic enforcement operations by DPS Troopers are planned throughout the year at various locations in Texas, with several operations planned in August. One of those operations took place throughout the day on Wednesday,

August 19. The Department of Transportation participated in a non-enforcement capacity. The law, originally passed in 2003, requires motorists to move over or slow down when certain vehicles – including police, ﬁre, EMS, Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) vehicles and tow trucks – are stopped on the side of the road with emergency lights activated. As a result of the 86th Legislative Session, highway maintenance or construction vehicles under contract with TxDOT, utility service vehicles, and stationary solid waste or recycling vehicles

ADVERTISEMENT STARR COUNTY HAS BEEN AWARDED FEDERAL STATE-SET-ASIDE FUNDS MADE AVAILABLE THROUGH THE DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (DHS)/FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY UNDER THE EMERGENCY FOOD AND SHELTER NATIONAL BOARD PROGRAM. Starr County has been chosen to receive $10,126 to supplement emergency food and shelter programs in the county. The selection was made by a National Board that is chaired by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency and consists of representatives from American Red Cross; Catholic Charities, USA; National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA: The Jewish Federations of North America, The Salvation Army; and, United Way Worldwide. The Local Board was charged to distribute funds appropriated by Congress to help expand the capacity of food and shelter programs in high-need areas around the country. A Local Board made up of Lilly Lopez - Killelea, United Way of South Texas; David Luna , American Red Cross; Lieutenant Adolph Aguirre, The Salvation Army; Libby Salinas, Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley; Jaime Longoria, Community Service Agency; Rabbi Claudio J. Kogan, The Temple Emanuel; Norma Pimentel, Catholic Social Services; Cynthia Fuentes, Starr County; Frank Llanas, Homeless Representative; Belinda F. Simons, Su Casa de Esperanza and Elizabeth Zamora, Calvary Baptist Church representative will determine how the funds awarded to Starr County are to be distributed among the emergency food and shelter programs run by local service agencies in the area. The Local Board is responsible for recommending agencies to receive these funds and any additional funds available under this phase of the program. Under the terms of the grant from the National Board, local agencies chosen to receive funds must: 1) be private voluntary non-proﬁts or units of government, 2) be eligible to receive Federal funds, 3) have an accounting system and conduct an annual audit, 4) practice nondiscrimination, 5) have demonstrated the capability to deliver emergency food and/or shelter programs, and 6) if they are a private voluntary organization, have a voluntary board. Qualifying agencies are urged to apply. Starr County has distributed Emergency Food and Shelter funds previously South Texas Food bank and Catholic Social Services This Agency was responsible for providing 39,438 meals and 151 bills paid in utility assistance. Public or private voluntary agencies interested in applying for Emergency Food and Shelter Program funds must contact Maria Flores, United Way of South Texas: 113 W. Pecan Blvd. McAllen, TX 78501-9584, or call (956)686-6331 for an application. The deadline for submitting applications to the United Way of South Texas is Wednesday, September 9, 2020 by 5:00 p.m.

ADVERTISEMENT STARR COUNTY HAS BEEN AWARDED FEDERAL STATE-SET-ASIDE FUNDS MADE AVAILABLE THROUGH THE DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (DHS)/FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY UNDER THE EMERGENCY FOOD AND SHELTER NATIONAL BOARD PROGRAM. Starr County was allocated $15,000 to supplement emergency food and shelter programs in the county under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The selection was made by a National Board that is chaired by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency and consists of representatives from American Red Cross; Catholic Charities, USA; National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA: The Jewish Federations of North America, The Salvation Army; and, United Way Worldwide. The Local Board was charged to distribute funds appropriated by Congress to help expand the capacity of food and shelter programs in high-need areas around the country. A Local Board made up of Lilly Lopez - Killelea, United Way of South Texas; David Luna , American Red Cross; Lieutenant Adolph Aguirre, The Salvation Army; Libby Salinas, Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley; Jaime Longoria, Community Service Agency; Rabbi Claudio J. Kogan, The Temple Emanuel; Norma Pimentel, Catholic Social Services; Cynthia Fuentes, Starr County; Frank Llanas, Homeless Representative; Belinda F. Simons, Su Casa de Esperanza and Elizabeth Zamora, Calvary Baptist Church representative will determine how the funds awarded to Starr County are to be distributed among the emergency food and shelter programs run by local service agencies in the area. The Local Board is responsible for recommending agencies to receive these funds and any additional funds available under this phase of the program. Under the terms of the grant from the National Board, local agencies chosen to receive funds must: 1) be private voluntary non-proﬁts or units of government, 2) be eligible to receive Federal funds, 3) have an accounting system and conduct an annual audit, 4) practice nondiscrimination, 5) have demonstrated the capability to deliver emergency food and/or shelter programs, and 6) if they are a private voluntary organization, have a voluntary board. Qualifying agencies are urged to apply. Starr County has distributed Emergency Food and Shelter funds previously South Texas Food bank and Catholic Social Services This Agency was responsible for providing 39,438 meals and 151 bills paid in utility assistance. Public or private voluntary agencies interested in applying for Emergency Food and Shelter Program funds must contact Maria Flores, United Way of South Texas: 113 W. Pecan Blvd. McAllen, TX 78501-9584, or call (956)686-6331 for an application. The deadline for submitting applications to the United Way of South Texas is Wednesday, September 9, 2020 by 5:00 p.m.

were added to the list of vehicles that require motorists to move over or slow down. “Our Highway Patrol Troopers and other officers risk their lives every day for the people of Texas, and their safety is particularly vulnerable while working on the side of the road, where the slightest mistake by a passing motorist can end in tragedy,” said DPS Director Steven McCraw. “While our officers are serving and protecting Texans, we’re asking drivers to do their part by adhering to the law – simply move over or slow down.” Specifically, Texas law states that a driver must either: • Vacate the lane closest to the applicable vehicles stopped on the side of the road (if the road has multiple lanes traveling in the same direction) or • Slow down to 20 mph below

the speed limit. (If the speed limit is below 25 mph, the driver must slow down to 5 mph) • Drivers should only move over if they can do so safely and legally; otherwise, they should slow down. “In light of the numerous vehicle crashes that occur in Texas and across the nation on a daily basis, and the unfortunate fact that many still violate the state law that has been in effect over 16 years, we are increasing our enforcement and education efforts related to this law,” said Director McCraw. “In addition to complying with the law to protect those who work on the side of the road, we encourage motorists to show the same courtesy to fellow drivers stopped along the roadways. Let’s all get home safely.” Violations of the law can result in a ﬁne of up to $200;

the ﬁne increases to $500 if there is property damage. If violators cause bodily injury, they can be charged with a Class B misdemeanor, resulting in possible jail time and a maximum ﬁne of $2,000. Data collected from 2019 shows that DPS Troopers issued more than 27,900 warnings and citations to motorists violating the Move Over/Slow Down law. Through July of this year, Troopers issued more than 7,500 warnings and citations for violations of the law. In the Southeast Texas Region, the majority of those violations this year occurred on I-10 and I-45. From January 2016 through January 2020, Texas DPS Troopers have been in 65 stationary crashes where their vehicle or the Trooper was struck while performing a law enforcement duty on a highway.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, AUGUST 26, 2020, PAGE 7

Women’s Equality Day By Sydney Goggans The year of 2020 has opened up a lot of problems that were unexpected for the globe. Full of tribulations, it seems as if the terror will not cease. The economy is spiraling out of control, loved ones are dying and it seems as if there is no light at the end of the tunnel. While it is easy to say that 2020 has been the worst year yet for so many people, we must recognize that 2020 has been the year of reawakening. We are realizing the terrors that are still awake and alive and the path to justice is becoming a uniﬁed objective for the people of this country. The growing inﬂuence of social media acts as a journalistic platform to expose the troubles of a world that we have not conquered. And so, because of that, the young people of today are more educated than

ever before. Systemic oppression still festers through our laws and policies, but we have a chance to change this through our willingness to be educated on matters and being an activist and ally for others. 2020 is serving as a time for self-reﬂection and understating the importance that history can have on our future. The topic of equality is a major theme circulating through the usage of memes and other types of informational posts on social media platforms. On August 26, Women’s Equality Day will most likely be commemorated heavily in the virtual world especially since people use social media as a form of their own activism. Women’s Equality Day is important because it memorializes and commemorates the establishment of the 19th

amendment which granted women the right to vote. With the election coming up and the frequent virtual conversations about equality, Women’s Equality Day will deﬁnitely be a historical moment this year due to the context of this intense election and COVID-19. That is why it is important that we acknowledge this day and the struggles from those before us to get us to where we are. While it may seem obvious that Women’s Equality Day should be deemed as important, we must actually take time to celebrate it with integrity. In 2018, 16 million women were not registered to vote. That was only 2 years ago. Voting is an American right. And we must celebrate this day by encouraging other women to vote. Our grandmother,

great grandmothers, and other matriarchal ﬁgures fought for this moment in history and we must honor them by exercising our rights. For this holiday, it is essential that we use our voice that is given in order to advocate for the importance of voting. Election Day is coming fast and every second makes us closer and closer to Nov. 3. My generation is the future, but we cannot act “woke” and blast Women’s Equality Day on our Instagram stories without actually doing the work that the women before us paved for us to do. Since we are the gatekeepers of social media, we must use our platforms to encourage more women to vote. And that, in itself, is enough to celebrate for Women’s Equality Day. United we must stand. If we act divisive,

we unintentionally disregard their work and accomplishments at the expense for our freedom. -------------------

(Credit to American Forum) Goggans is a student at Spelman College in Atlanta, GA. She currently majors in English and has an interest in how the media we consume inﬂuence culture. In her free time, she enjoys reading current affairs and attending local cultural events.

-------------------

Women began agitating for the right to vote in the early 19th century. In the U.S., decisions about who could vote were left up to the states. The 19th Amendment, ratiﬁed in 1920, ensures voting rights for everyone regardless of gender. Today, Women’s Equality Day celebrates the achievements of women’s rights activists and reminds us of the unique daily

struggles that women face.

NOVENA A LA DIVINA PROVIDENCIA O SANTÍSIMA TRINIDAD ¡Oh Divina Providencia! ¡Concédeme tu clemencia y tu inﬁnita bondad! Arrodillado a tus plantas a ti de toda caridad portento, te pido para los míos trabajo, casa, y sustento. Concédeles la salud, llévalos por un buen camino, que sea siempre la virtud la que los guíe en su destino. Tu eres toda mi esperanza. Tu eres el consuelo mío. En la que mi mente alcanza, en ti creo, en ti espero y en ti conﬁó. Tu divina Providencia se extienda en cada momento, para que nunca nos falte trabajo, casa, vestido y sustento. Amen. Rece por 9 días: 9 Padres Nuestros y 9 Ave Marías, mismos que sin tener fe será atendido. Rece con una vela encendida y déjela consumirse y publíquela al noveno día.

A. P. R.

Notice Draft Environmental Assessment Available for Public Review and Virtual Public Hearing With In-Person Option State Loop (SL) 195 FM 755 to US Highway (US) 83—One Mile NW of the Loma Blanca Intersection CSJs: 3632-01-001, etc. Starr County, Texas

The Pharr District of the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) proposes to construct a new-location relief route in Starr County between Rio Grande City and Roma. The proposed roadway would extend from Farm-to-Market (FM) 755 to US Highway (US) 83—one-mile northwest of the Loma Blanca Intersection. The total distance of the project is approximately 17.24 miles.

overpass approach at US 83/Loma Blanca Road would have two 12-foot vehicle travel lanes in each direction with 17-foot inside shoulders and 10-foot outside shoulders. The proposed project would also include improvements to FM 3167 and FM 649. At these locations, the cross streets would be widened to provide a travel lane and left-turn lane in each direction, for a length of 285 feet within the intersection.

This notice advises the public that a draft environmental assessment (EA) is available for public review and TxDOT will be conducting an online virtual public hearing on the proposed project with an in-person option. The virtual hearing will be held on Monday, Sept. 14, 2020 at 3:00 p.m. To log onto the virtual public hearing, go to the following web address at the date and time indicated above: www.txdot.gov. In the upper right-hand search box enter the search keyword: SL 195. Project staff will give a presentation which will be a pre-recorded video and will include both audio and visual components. Please note that the pre-recorded presentation will not be available on the website until the time and date listed above. Following the virtual public hearing, the presentation will remain available for viewing at the web address indicated above until Thursday, Oct. 1, 2020 at 11:59 p.m. If you do not have internet access, you may call (956) 702-6246 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday to ask questions about the project and access project materials at any time during the project development process.

Thirty-six potential waters of the U.S., including wetlands, occur within the proposed project right of way. All proposed roadway and drainage improvements would be designed in a manner to avoid or minimize impacts to jurisdictional crossings. Designs for this project are preliminary, and specific structures for the crossings are not finalized. Coordination with the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is ongoing. It is anticipated that impacts to these features would be authorized by the USACE under Nationwide Permit 14 for Linear Transportation Projects without a Preconstruction Notification. The project area crosses the mapped FEMA-designated 100-year floodplain of 17 crossings. Potential fill within the floodplain would be determined during final design and coordinated with the appropriate local floodplain administrators. The proposed project would not raise the base flood elevation to a level that would violate applicable floodplain regulations or ordinances.

Additionally, TxDOT is providing an in-person option for individuals who would like to participate in-person instead of online. In-person attendees will be able to view the same presentation delivered in the virtual public hearing which will be playing on a screen, review hard copies of project materials, ask questions of TxDOT staff and/or consultants from a socially distanced approach, and leave written comments. The in-person option will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2020 from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the TxDOT Pharr District Office, 600 W. I-2, Pharr, TX 78577 and on Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2020 from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the TxDOT Roma Area Office, 2654 US 83, Roma, TX 78584. The same information will be presented at both locations. Attendance at the in-person option will be by appointment only. Individuals wishing to attend the in-person option must call (956) 702-6246 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, to make an appointment. In recognition of COVID-19, enhanced safety measures will be applied at the in-person option, including a requirement to wear a face mask, submit to a temperature check prior to entry, have an appointment, and follow social distancing practices. If anyone arrives without an appointment, they may be asked to wait outside to ensure we maintain appropriate occupancy within the hearing room. For both the virtual public hearing and in-person option, members of the public may call (956) 704-9020 and verbally provide testimony from 3:00 p.m. on Sept. 14, 2020 to 11:59 p.m. on Oct 1, 2020. Formal written comments may also be provided by mail or email as explained below. All verbally provided testimony and timely written comments submitted by mail or email will be included as part of the official record for this hearing and project and considered by TxDOT. Responses to verbally provided testimony and written comments will be prepared by TxDOT, included as part of the hearing and project record, and made available online. The proposed project is a new-location reliever route. FM 755 (the eastern terminus) is a two-lane undivided roadway, and US 83 (the western terminus) has two lanes in each direction with a center left-turn lane. The proposed SL 195 project would connect these two existing roadways. The proposed project would entail the construction of a new-location four-lane divided highway, connecting FM 755 to US 83. The new roadway’s typical section would have two 12-foot vehicle travel lanes in each direction and a grassy median; the roadway would expand to include left-turn lanes at the at-grade intersections with existing roadways and at the turn-around locations provided along the alignment. The roadway would have four-foot inside shoulders and 10-foot outside shoulders within a typical 300-foot-wide right of way. There would be an overpass approach at the intersection with US 83/Loma Blanca Road. In the areas with future overpasses, the right-of-way would increase to 450 feet wide to accommodate future main lanes over the intersection. The

The proposed project would require approximately 667.01 acres of new right of way. Potential displacements include one commercial, five residential, and seven other structures that appear to be non-habitable sheds or other outbuildings located adjacent to residences. Relocation assistance is available for those displaced through TxDOT’s Relocation Assistance Program. The relocation process would be conducted according to the Title II and Title III of the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970. Information about the benefits, services and Right of Way Acquisition schedule can be obtained by calling the TxDOT District Office at (956) 702-6110. The Draft EA, maps and drawings showing the project location and design, tentative construction schedules, and other information regarding the proposed project are available online at www.txdot.gov, keyword: SL 195. These materials will also be available in hard copy form for review at the in-person option. Technical Reports are available upon request. TxDOT makes every reasonable effort to accommodate the needs of the public. The virtual public hearing will be conducted in English, with Spanish translation services also available. Persons interested in attending the hearing who have special communication or accommodation needs are encouraged to contact Norma Robledo with TxDOT at (956) 702-6161. Requests should be made at least two days prior to the public hearing. Every reasonable effort will be made to accommodate these needs. For more information about the project please visit www.txdot.gov, keyword: SL 195. The public is invited to attend this hearing to provide input regarding the proposed project. Written comments from the public regarding the proposed project are requested and may be submitted by mail to: TxDOT, Attn: Pharr District Engineer, 600 W. I-2, Pharr, TX 78577. Written comments may also be submitted by email to Romualdo.Mena@txdot. gov. All comments must be postmarked or received on or before Oct.1, 2020. Responses to written comments received and public testimony provided will be available online at www.txdot.gov, keyword: SL 195, once they have been prepared. If you have any general questions or concerns regarding the proposed project or the virtual hearing, please contact Romualdo Mena Jr., P.E., Project Manager with TxDOT at (956) 702-6246 or by email at Romualdo.Mena@txdot.gov. The environmental review, consultation, and other actions required by applicable Federal environmental laws for this project are being, or have been, carried-out by TxDOT pursuant to 23 U.S.C. 327 and a Memorandum of Understanding dated December 9, 2019, and executed by FHWA and TxDOT.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, AUGUST 26, 2020, PAGE 8

Safely shop for groceries while social distancing As recently as a few months ago, grocery shopping was an uneventful chore that few people were likely to remember after returning home. But in the wake of efforts to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus, grocery shopping changed in ways that few people will ever forget. Social distancing guidelines and recommendations urged consumers to stay in their homes as much as possible, but grocery shopping requires people to spend time outside their homes. A few simple strategies can help shoppers stay safe as they shop for groceries. ·Wear a mask. Safety guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are evolving as scientists learn more about COVID-19. One of the more signiﬁcant changes the CDC made to its initial guidelines was to recommend people wear cloth face coverings in public settings where social distancing measures are difﬁcult to maintain. As communities reopen, certain restrictions may be relaxed, but the CDC continues to advise people to wear masks while out in public, including when shopping for groceries. The CDC notes that wearing masks may slow the spread

of the virus by preventing people who have it but are asymptomatic from transmitting it to others. · Shop during off-peak hours. Traditionally “off-peak” hours may no longer apply at many grocery stores, the majority of which have changed their store hours so staff can thoroughly clean and disinfect stores each night. But even if stores are not open as late as they used to be, there’s still times of day when fewer customers will likely be in the store. Early mornings may be designated for shoppers in vulnerable populations, such as the elderly. However, many stores remain less crowded in the mornings than they are during the rest of the day. Avoid shopping on weekends if you want to steer clear of crowds, as these are the only times when people who are still working can ﬁnd time to shop. Weekday mornings or late afternoons may be ideal times to shop for shoppers who want to avoid crowds. · Wash hands before and after going to the store. The CDC continues to tout the importance of washing hands as a means to preventing the spread of COVID-19. Scientists are still unsure about how easily the virus

can spread from contact with potentially contaminated surfaces, but washing hands before and after shopping is a simple safety measure that prevents the spread of germs and potentially harmful viruses like COVID-19. ·Avoid touching your face. The Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology note that respiratory infections can be caused by an assortment of bacteria, viruses and other disease-causing germs. Scientists believe COVID-19 is spread through the respiratory droplets of infected persons. These droplets are essentially invisible, but when people come into contact with them and then touch their eyes, nose or mouth, viruses can spread. So people should avoid touching their face with potentially dirty hands. Grocery shopping has changed as the world reacts to the COVID-19 virus. As communities reopen, it’s important that people remain diligent when shopping for groceries, taking every step necessary to protect themselves and others from contracting this potentially deadly virus.

Famous Hispanic writers Many of the world’s most accomplished writers are of Hispanic descent. Whether they’re journalists, novelists or screenwriters, Hispanic writers have contributed much to the world of letters throughout history. ·Isabel Allende: Among the most widely read Hispanic writers, Isabel Allende has authored works of ﬁction and nonﬁction alike. Born in Peru, this Chilean American was awarded the 2014 Presidential Medal of Freedom by then-President Barack Obama. Known as a vivid storyteller, Allende’s novels include “The House of the Spirits” and “City of the Beasts.” Allende’s books have sold well over 65 million copies

and have been translated into more than 35 languages. ·Junot Díaz: Dominican American Junot Díaz won the 2008 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction for his popular novel “The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao,” which examines life in the Dominican Republic under dictator Rafael Trujillo. In 2010, Díaz was selected to serve on the Pulitzer Prize board of jurors, becoming the ﬁrst writer of Hispanic background to earn that distinction. ·Pedro Almodóvar: Academy Award-winning writer and director Pedro Almodóvar is a native of Spain, where he ﬁrst rose to prominence as a writer during La Movida Madrileña, a

countercultural movement and renaissance that took place largely in Madrid after the death of dictator Francisco Franco in 1975. Almodóvar’s screenwriting credits include the 2006 ﬁlm “Volver,” which earned Almodóvar’s fellow Spaniard Penélope Cruz an Oscar nomination. Spanish ·Javier Marías: novelist Javier Marías was something of a prodigy, writing his ﬁrst novel at the ripe old age of 17. Since then, Marías’ writing has been translated into more than 40 languages. Marías’ work includes the 2013 novel “The Infatuations,” which was shortlisted for the 2013 National Book Critics Circle Award.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, AUGUST 26, 2020, PAGE 9

Human Trafﬁcking Prevention Course Required for TDLR Health Programs

Help #ProtectThePump: Look for possible vandalism and report possible credit card skimmers Texas consumers and gas station merchants can help protect fellow Texans from credit card fraud by paying attention when they’re purchasing gasoline at the pump and reporting any irregularities to local law enforcement and the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Thieves sometimes attach credit card skimmers on gas pumps to steal payment card information from customers when they purchase fuel. Often, there are signs that show consumers and vendors there may be an issue. Does the pump appear to have been tampered with? Is the cabinet door loose or damaged? Is the card slot loose? If there’s security tape on the cabinet, does it look like it has been cut? Whether a credit card skimmer is found by a consumer, a service technician or a merchant, the merchant is responsible for immediately notifying law enforcement and disabling all dispensers where skimmers have been located until law enforcement or TDLR investigators can remove the device. Merchants also are required by state law to notify

TDLR within 24 hours. Merchants and consumers should report skimmers via the TDLR website: https://www.tdlr. texas.gov/Skimmers. TDLR’s Customer Service line

is available anytime between 7 a.m. until 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, at 1-800-8039202. TDLR representatives are ﬂuent in English, Spanish and Vietnamese.

Professionals in 10 healthrelated programs regulated by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation – a total of 68,345 people – will be required to complete a Texas Health and Human Services Commissionapproved human trafﬁcking prevention training course before they can renew their license, starting on Sept. 1, 2020. The training requirement is a result of House Bill 2059 (86R), which passed during the 2019 legislative session and affects professions that provide direct client care licensed under Title 3 of the Texas Occupations Code. “Health care practitioners are in a unique position to intervene in human trafﬁcking because victims and survivors of human

trafﬁcking may be seen at local clinics or other medical settings. Although our licensees won’t be directly intervening in an ongoing situation, their awareness of the signs of a potential human trafﬁcking situation could save a life. Knowing when and why to report something to law enforcement will make a difference,” said Brian E. Francis, TDLR executive director. Licensees in these TDLR programs will take the new course: Athletic Training, Behavior Analysis, Dietitians, Dyslexia Therapy, Hearing Instrument Fitters & Dispensers, Massage Therapy, Midwives, Orthotists and Prosthetists, Podiatry, and Speech-Language Pathology and

Audiology TDLR has created a dedicated webpage, Human Trafﬁcking Prevention Training for Health Care Practitioners, with more information on the training requirement as well as instructions on how to register for the free course. TDLR protects the health and safety of Texans by ensuring they are served by qualiﬁed, licensed professionals. Inspections of individuals, businesses, and equipment are done on a regular basis to safeguard the public. Currently, the agency regulates 38 business and occupational licensing programs with more than 1,000,000 licensees across the state.

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Se ofrecen clases de inglés en línea en el condado de Starr Para más información: http://www.esc1.net/adulteducation

(956) 984-6276 Region One offers free GED & English classes in Hidalgo, Starr & Willacy counties. Call 956-984-6270 for more information.

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STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, AUGUST 26, 2020, PAGE 10

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STARR of Hope A Center for Victims of Domestic Violence Classiﬁcation Title: Program Coordinator Classiﬁcation Series: Part Time *Full Time Advancement Pay Grade: Salaried Application Deadline: August 28, 2020 *Experience Required For applications & information email : reg.starrofhope@gmail.com

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En referencia de los vehículos: 2000 Ford (Camión) Rojo Vin#1FTWX32F4YD25533 dueño Sonny Gonzalez 2002 Blanco Vin#1FDXF46F82EA50405 dueño Nabors Well Service LTD 2000 Ford Blanco Vin#1FDWF36RX8ED87604 dueño Jose O. Villarreal Tienen 30 días para pagar o haremos lo que corresponde a la ley.

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STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, AUGUST 26, 2020, PAGE 11

Grulla Middle School Distributed Black-necked stilts are amazing birds! Devices and School Materials A few years ago, while at the riverviewing platform near the Roma City Hall to watch for waterfowl, I saw 29 species including an indigo bunting, a pair of black phoebes, a ﬂock of white-faced ibises and, my favorite, a pair of black-necked stilts. The black-necked stilt is a truly amazing sight. It’s a shore bird and, in this area, can’t easily be mistaken for anything else. From beak to tail it’s about 14 inches long and it has about 10 inch legs. In the proportion of its leg length to its body size, those are the relatively longest legs of all birds. To make the legs even more incredible, they’re bright pinkishred. The body is black above, which is sharply contrasted with clean white beneath. This bird is a wonder to behold in both color and shape. The bill is long, thin, pointed and black. Each eye is crimson with a white eye ring. The wing tips, when the wings are folded, reach to the tip of the tail. The feet are partially webbed. Despite the long legs, the stilts walk steadily and conﬁdently. When picking up food it typically bends at the knees and then uses its long beak to reach the food. Its usual habitat is sandbars along a river, marshes, and pond edges. While it can swim, it typically wades in the shallows, sometimes up to its belly, or

walks about examining mud flats and marshes. It’s food consists of aquatic insects, mosquito larvae, crayfish, tiny fish, snails, flies, beetles, grasshoppers, and occasional plant seeds. The stilt’s nest is just a shallow depression on the ground, often near some clumps of grass, and is lined with leaves of grass, tiny twigs, broken bits of shell, and a few feathers. The eggs, 4 to 5 in number, are buff colored and splashed with blotches of dark brown. Typically the male incubates the eggs during the day and the female at night. The hatchlings are precocial which means that they are, with some parental guidance, able to find food for themselves almost immediately. As many as a hundred times a day, the parents may leave the nest briefly to moisten their feathers. The cooling from evaporation protects them and the eggs from the heat of the day. Black-necked stilts have a rather large range. They can be found here in the Valley all year and are common in the western states, east of the Rocky Mountains, during the summer. They’re also found to the south of us in winter. They have a few other common names: lawyer, longshanks, and daddy longlegs. The lawyer name may come from the fact that it is a noisy bird making a “kleepkleep-kleep” or “kek-kek-kek” sound almost incessantly. Or it may result from the neat almost tuxedo look of its colors as well as the elegant, almost courtly

grace with which it moves, I’m delighted to have the blacknecked stilts in our area. While they’re beneﬁcial and amazing to see, they’re also a reminder of how limited our imaginations are and of how innovative and creative nature can be.

GMS Staff distributed devices and school materials. GMS Administration thanks the parents for their patience. Staff did their best to expedite the process. Thank you Crane Community!!

• • • •

Region One ESC offers free GED preparation classes ONLINE in Starr County For more information:

http://www.esc1.net/adulteducation

(956) 984-6276 Region One offers free GED & English classes in Hidalgo, Starr & Willacy counties. Call 956-984-6270 for more information.

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¿Necesitas ayuda de PROVIDER en tu casa, o conoces a alguien que necesita PROVIDER? Pero, tienen miedo a pedir por temor de perder su propiedad. Sabias que existen cosas a su favor para que eso no suceda.

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AUGUST 26, 2020 PAGE 12

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