AUGUST 4, 2021 by Starr County Town Crier

STARR VISION CENTER

487-2440

300 East Main St. R.G.C.

Dr. Angie Ramirez Therapeutic Optometrist

CASTAÑEDA Auto Insurance & Bail Bonds

488-0808 487-7000 280 W. 2nd St. R.G.C.

The Law Ofﬁce Of

J.M. “Chema” Garza Vol. 36, No. 31 WEEKLY WEDNESDAY •AUGUST 4, 2021 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

Serina Ramirez Broke a 35-yearLaw Enforcement Torch Run for 487-2596 the Special Olympics in RGC! old State Record for Shot Put 4343 E. Hwy. 83 R.G.C.

City of Rio Grande City are ECSTATIC that for the ﬁrst time in over 15 years, are hosting their own Law Enforcement Torch Run for the Special Olympics! This means that all monies raised will STAY in Starr County to beneﬁt Starr County Special Needs efforts. Each Starr County City and School Police Department along with Texas Department of Public Safety - South Texas Region, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and US Border Patrol RGV Sector is participating in raising funds on their behalf in a friendly fun competition. Visit this link to donate on behalf of your favorite organization. h t t p s : / / g i v e b u t t e r. c o m /

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Dr. Raymond Cruz Best FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Dental Insurance, Medicaid and Chip Accepted

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RioGrandeValleyLETR The Special Olympics has made its way back to Rio Grande City and all other cities in Starr County, thanks to the commitment of each entity. **The Torch run is a free 5K event to the public and we encourage all law enforcement participants to bring family and friends to support and participate. When: September 25, 2021 Registration: 7 AM Race Start Time: 8 AM Location: TBA in Rio Grande City There will be fun, games, snacks, a DJ, and activities, and vendors presents in support of promoting inclusion to our Special Needs community. For questions or involvement opportunities, please contact avillarreal@cityofrgc.com

History has been made by Serina Ramirez, RGCHS Junior, has not only broken a Rio Grande City High School record but has also broken a 35-year-old State Record for Shot Put that was set in 1986. She also placed 2nd in Discuss qualifying her for the State Games of America being held in Des Moines, Iowa. Congratulations to Serina for all of her hard work and dedication. Serina continuously made the district proud last year and she continue to do so this year. That’s a huge accomplishment.

RGCGISD Grulla High School Certiﬁed Medical Assistants

419 East 2nd St. Rio Grande City, Tx.

Congratulations to the students at RGCGISD Grulla High School in becoming Certiﬁed Medical Assistants with a 100% passing rate! Thank you to Ms. Rodriguez for her hard work and dedication she put in daily. OPEN MON-SUN 7AM-7PM

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STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, AUGUST 4, 2021, PAGE 2

WEDNESDAY AUGUST 4TH - I.C.C. 6:00 P.M. †FRANCISCO J. HALILI JR. by Family †RAMON GARCIA ALANIS by Family †JOSEIAS SEPULVEDA by Family THURSDAY AUGUST 5TH - I.C.C. 12:00 P.M. FOR THE FRIENDS & BENEFACTORS OF THE BENEDICTINE SISTERS OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD by Benedictine Sisters †JOSE LUIS HERNANDEZ (13TH AN.) by Su Hermano FRIDAY AUGUST 6TH - I.C.C. 6:00 P.M. †ANGELA RAENELL REYNA (15TH AN.) by Family †PEDRO C. & JOSE P. OLIVARES (55TH AN.) by Ramona Olivares & Family

†BILL D. POPE, SR. by Rosario G. Pope & Family †NYDIA MAYEUX (1ST AN.) by Familia Reyna, Hernandez, Ward †ESTORGIO & DORA SALAZAR (1ST AN.) by Children SATURDAY AUGUST 7TH - I.C.C. 5:00 P.M. †HAROLD & HUGO HINOJOSA by Family †MANUELITA C. PORRAS (57TH AN.) by Mr. & Mrs. Abel Porras †HAROLD RAY (AN.) by Aida Ray †ALEX HORNUNG by Grandma Stella Ward †MARIA DEL CARMEN MORALES (10TH AN.) by Familia Morales †DORA G. MORALES by Family SUNDAY AUGUST 8TH - I.C.C. 7:00 A.M. PRO POPULO – MASS SAID FOR THE PEOPLE

SUNDAY AUGUST 8TH - I.C.C. 9:00 A.M. †CHRISTIAN HERNANDEZ by Su Mama, Papa y Hermano †DAVID H. GARZA, SR. by Florence SUNDAY AUGUST 8TH - I.C.C. 11:00 A.M. †MARK JASPER ENTRATA RETUBIS by Patiño Family †IRMA SALAS GONZALEZ by Family †FRANCISCO J. HALILI, JR. by Sunga Family †ELEODORA FONDEVILLA by Perez Family 5:00 P.M. †MACARIO VILLARREAL, JR. by Family †GENOVEVA BENAVIDEZ (1ST AN.) by Family †ARMANDO GARCIA COLORADO by Wife & Family

Misa de Primer Aniversario En Memoria de

Genoveva “Beba” Benavidez 01/03/1935 † 08/08/2020

Nuestro corazón se estremece al recordarte. No asido fácil superar el no verte mas, tu recuerdo esta en todo lugar pero nos consuela pensar que estas en un maravilloso lugar sabemos bien que tus ojitos ya no podían mas, mientras ellos se agotavan nuestros almas se apagavan al saber que ya no te viéramos mas madre! Se que si en este mundo orabas por nosotros tu amor nos sigue tocando y tus oraciones han sido escuchadas. Te recordamos y nos llena nuestra alma de gozo al saber que ya no ay mas dolor y ahora caminas y brillas felizmente en los caminos de oro como te los mereces por todo lo que nos diste mientras estuviste junto a nosotros. Extrañamos tu regaños enojos y sonrisas también “durante tus 85 años de vida en este mundo demostrastes ser una mujer luchista y sin temores, nos enseñastes que las cosas mas simple de la vida nos asen mas felices permaneciendo siempre humilde y nunca dejar de ser guerreros como tu y no rendirnos así sea ultimo día de nuestras vidas con gran dolor te recordamos día a día especialmente hoy a un año de tu partida.

MONDAY AUGUST 9TH– I.C.C. 6:00 P.M. †CARMEN & PEDRO PEÑA, JR. by Their Children †ENRIQUETA G. SAENZ by Ella Saenz & Sisters †ENRIQUETA RESENDEZ by Vela Family †PEDRO GONZALEZ (1ST AN.) by Family †LORENZA & FORTUNATO SEGOVIA by Sus Hermanos †IGNACIO & LEOBARDO SEGOVIA by Sus Hermanos TUESDAY AUGUST 10TH – I.C.C. 6.00 P.M. †RAYMUNDO GONZALEZ SOLIS by Su Familia †LORENZA BRIONES by Family

A. P. R.

Thank you, St. Jude, for the hope you offer to all who believe in you. Melissa Y. Hernandez

Feliz Cumpleaños Celestial En Memoria de

Lorenza Briones 08/10/1956 † 11/11/2020

Hoy es tu cumpleaños, cumples años en el cielo, en ese hermoso paraíso. Hemos cambiado tu cumpleaños por las misas en tu memoria. Cada día, cada noche le pido a Dios que nos de fuerzas para soportar tu ausencia. Tu nos enseñaste muchas cosas, tu nos dejaste claro que la vida es para vivirse por que en un momento se va. Te extrañamos, te recordamos con amor y con la fe de que te volveremos a ver. Eres nuestro ÁNGEL en el cielo, eres una parte de nosotros que nos impulsa a vivir y conforme pasa el tiempo te amamos y te extrañamos mas.

Se celebrara una misa el martes 10 de agosto a la 6:00 p.m. en la Iglesia Inmaculada Concepcion en Rio Grande City

Familia Briones

2,500 FULLWITH FUNERAL SERVICE SILVER

Se celebrara una misa el Domingo 8 de agosto a las 5:00 p.m. en la Iglesia Inmaculada Concepcion en Rio Grande City, Texas

Sus hijos, hijas, nietos y bisnietos

Familia Benavidez

†DALINDA TORRES by Sus Hijos

Pida a los 3 Ángeles San Miguel, Rafael y Gabriel. Prenda 3 velas blancas en un plato con agua y azúcar, haga su petición. A los tres días publique esta oración. Aunque no crea mire que pasa el cuarto día.

Sanchez Funeral Home

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

(956) 487-2525

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(956) 847-7008

MELISSA Y. HERNANDEZ

4 apps that can make driving safer

Technology has changed the world in ways too numerous to count. Many of those changes have made the world a safer place, but a growing dependence on smartphones, particularly when behind the wheel, continues to put the safety of drivers, their passengers, fellow motorists, and pedestrians in jeopardy. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicates that distracted driving was responsible for the deaths of more than 3,100 people in the United States in 2019. The threat of distracted driving is just as significant beyond U.S. borders as well. That includes Canada, where estimates from Transport Canada’s National Collision Database indicate 21 percent of the country’s fatal collisions involved distracted drivers. Though smartphones are not the lone distraction drivers face, they do pose a significant threat. But smartphones also can help drivers be safer behind the wheel. The following are four apps that drivers can install on their smartphones that were designed to make modern driving safer. 1. SafeDrive: The SafeDrive app can block all the textual apps in a phone, removing a major threat to drivers’ ability to concentrate behind the wheel. Drivers who utilize SafeDrive can still make phone calls, but they won’t be able to receive or send messages. 2. LifeSaver: The LifeSaver app runs silently in the background and then wakes up and locks the phone when a driver begins driving. Parents of young drivers should know that the app’s “Family View” feature can enable them to track their children’s driving and even see when kids are behind the wheel so parents won’t contact them. The app also can alert loved ones when drivers arrive at their destination. 3. TextDrive: This app sends auto response messages to people who try to call or text drivers while they’re behind the wheel. Drivers can reply to messages using voice commands as well. 4. DriveWell: Drivers who want some insight into their driving habits should consider the DriveWell app. The app is designed to provide drivers with feedback about their driving habits. Drivers can access trip summaries, details on their maneuvers and even track their speeds. Drivers interested in utilizing technology to become safer drivers can try various apps designed to reduce driver distractions.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, AUGUST 4, 2021, PAGE 3

Citlali Gonzalez Named Principal for Roma GFWC Florence J. Scott Woman’s Club Awards Scholarship The GFWC Florence J. Scott ISD’s Delia G. Garcia Elementary School Woman’s Club of Rio Grande City Roma ISD and the Delia G. Garcia Elementary S c h o o l Wa r r i o r s are happy to welcome C i t l a l i Gonzalez as the school’s new principal. Gonzalez is a 1997 graduate of Roma High School who attended Texas State University in San Marcos to earn her bachelor’s degree with majors in both mathematics and Spanish. She also earned her teaching certiﬁcation from TXST. She went on to earn her Principalship Certiﬁcation from Lamar University. Gonzalez began her career returning to her alma mater to teach math. She served 11 years

at Roma High School, during which she served as the Chair of the Math Department, was named the 2010 Teacher of the Year, and taught Education Program dual enrollment courses for South Texas College. Gonzalez went on to serve at Ramiro Barrera Middle School as an assistant principal for eight years, heading up the science and math departments. “When people ask why I want to be a principal I tell them that every teacher knows that the foundation of education is never to stop learning or growing, and that is what I have done throughout my career – continuing constantly learning new methods and elevating my own education. That thirst for growing as a person led me to earn my principalship and work toward that goal,” Gonzalez

explained. “I know that I have a lot to offer to our families and I know that as an administrator I can have a really positive impact on students’ lives.” “I am very excited to be working with elementary school students because having spent almost 20 years at the secondary level I know exactly what students need in order to be successful in middle school and high school. What I have learned about student success and outcomes will be a great addition to a terriﬁc team already in place at Delia G. Garcia Elementary,” she said. “I want to continue inspiring our Warriors to reach for their dreams and arm them with the tools they need to be highly motivated and successful in their journey beyond their time in elementary school.”

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awarded its annual scholarship to the third ranking student from Rio Grande City High School, Gianna Janee Garcia. Gianna will be attending St. Mary’s University in the upcoming fall semester for 2021 where she will be studying Political Science. During high school, she persevered through advance courses and was able to achieve being ranked third after all her hard work. She is aiming to pursue a career in law and plans to become a lawyer in order to do her part in making the world a safer place. She constantly volunteered and helped wherever she could whether it be at football games, after school fundraisers, or public service for the church. Throughout her time at Rio Grande City High School, she was active in many

different clubs and groups, such as Student Council, U.I.L. Ready Writing, Mock Trials, and even within the Law Enforcement Club where she spent a majority of her time learning law enforcement routines and procedures along with the inner workings of the court along with the needed social skills needed to succeed in the law

ﬁeld. Gianna is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Martin Martinez, Jr. and Debbie Guerra Martinez. Shown making the presentation to Gianna, seated center, are Bitsy Margo, treasurer, at left, Aminta Reyna Alaniz, president, at right, and ofﬁcers Maria Elia Ramos, Tissa Peterson, and Nelda Laurel, standing l-r.

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STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, AUGUST 4, 2021, PAGE 4

By Valerie Borum Smith, MD, MPH, FAAP Valerie Borum Smith, MD, MPH, FAAP, is a pediatrician at St. Paul Children’s Services in Tyler, Texas, and is a member of the Texas Medical Association COVID-19 taskforce. Good news for parents— children who are 12 years and older can now get the COVID-19 vaccine, and it couldn’t come at a better time. While children are less likely to develop severe illness from COVID-19, they are still at risk. Families deserve the chance to get back to an active life without the constant worries. The vaccine is the best shot at a normal life, protected from Covid. Which COVID-19 vaccines

Why Children Need the COVID-19 Vaccine can children get? While adults have several options, Pﬁzer-BioNTech is currently the only option available for children. To be effective, this vaccine is given in two doses that are given three weeks (21 days) apart. Maximum protection is achieved two weeks after receiving the second shot. Is the COVID-19 vaccine safe for children? Yes. The vaccine was developed using science that has been around for decades, and it received emergency authorization from the Food and Drug Administration. The Pﬁzer vaccine was tested and monitored for safety and effectiveness in children 12 and older, just as it was tested for adults. More than seven million children under 17 have received the vaccine in the United States.

Can children get the virus from the vaccine? No. The vaccine does not contain the live virus, so your child cannot get Covid from the vaccine. Why are pediatricians recommending children get the vaccine? Our role as pediatricians is to keep patients safe and healthy, and to allow them to get back to those activities they deserve to be doing. When parents ask me if they should get their children vaccinated for COVID-19, I recommend they do. I would never recommend something I wouldn’t recommend for my own child, a family member, or a loved one. Another reason for getting the vaccine is that children can spread the virus to others. There could be

family members, friends, teachers, classmates, or others who have a health condition that puts them at greater risk of getting Covid and facing serious consequences. The vaccine helps prevent the spread of Covid to everyone around them. Good to Know: Pediatricians, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) all recommend that children get the COVID-19 vaccine. More than four million children in the United States have tested positive for the virus since the start of the pandemic, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, and more than 300 have died. When and how was the vaccine tested? The Pﬁzer study with children began in March 2021. The study enrolled 2,260 participants ages 12 to 15. Of those children, 1,131 received the vaccine (two shots, given three weeks apart) and 1,129 received saline placebo shots. The study found the vaccine worked even better for children than it did for adults. No children in the vaccine group got sick with COVID-19, while 18 children in the placebo group became ill. Moderna recently released the results of its test of the vaccine in 3,732 people ages 12 to 17. Two-thirds received two vaccine doses, and there were no cases of symptomatic COVID-19 in fully vaccinated adolescents. More than 160 million people have been fully vaccinated, including more than seven million 12 to 17 year-old adolescents. The CDC continues to monitor for side effects. Did they rush the testing to get the vaccine approved quickly? No. Researchers have been studying and working with mRNA vaccines for decades. This includes studies for the vaccines for the ﬂu,

Zika, and rabies. All of that work made it possible for scientists to create the COVID-19 vaccine. Once necessary information about the Covid virus was available, scientists began designing the speciﬁc mRNA instructions that would be effective against the that virus. Does the vaccine change your DNA (genetic material)? No. The Covid mRNA vaccine does not affect or interact with DNA (genetic material) in any way. It never enters the nucleus of the cell, which is where our DNA is kept. What information is available about the long-term effects of the vaccine? The long-term effects are not known for children or adults at this time. The long-term effects of getting Covid are not known either. However, research has shown that some children who have recovered from a mild case of Covid may have long-term inﬂammation in the heart and lungs. What are the short-term side effects in children who have gotten the vaccine? Some children have experienced pain at the injection site, fever, chills, tiredness, headache, and joint and muscle pain. These typically lasted one to three days. In general, the risks from getting COVID-19 seem to be much greater than the risks of getting the vaccine. Should my child get the vaccine if they have allergies? If your child has a history of severe allergic reaction to any ingredient in the vaccine (such as polyethylene glycol), they should not get the vaccine. It is important to talk to your pediatrician about the vaccine, especially if your child has a history of allergies. How should I make the best decision for my family on the getting the vaccine? As with any medical concern,

talk to your child’s pediatrician or health care provider. They will have the best information regarding your child’s medical history and can make a recommendation based on information specific to your child and family situation. Where can I get my child vaccinated? Vaccines are being given at pediatrician offices and at pharmacies. Be sure to check in advance if you need an appointment or if walk-in options are available. You can also visit covidvaccine.texas.gov or call 1-833-832-7067 to find a vaccine near you. How much does it cost, and do I need insurance? The vaccine is free for everyone. You and your child do not need insurance to get a vaccine. When will younger children be able to get the vaccine? Children 5 to 11 are expected to receive approval to get the vaccine in the winter. Children even younger will likely be able to get the vaccine in early 2022. As we see more contagious variants of COVID-19, such as the Delta variant, we will likely see more unvaccinated people become ill, including young children. While thankfully most young children recover well from COVID-19, there are some that develop lifethreatening complications such as multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C). They can also spread COVID-19 to more vulnerable family and community members. Can my child get the COVID-19 vaccine and other vaccines at the same time? Yes, the Covid vaccine can be given with other childhood immunizations. If your child is behind on HPV, meningococcal, and other recommended vaccines, now is a good time to catch up and get all the necessary vaccines with the Covid shot.

NOTICE OF BUDGET HEARING FOR SOUTH TEXAS COLLEGE The Board of Trustees of South Texas College will meet on the 24th day of August 2021, at 5:00 p.m., at the Pecan Campus, Ann Richards Administration Building, Second Floor in the Board Room at 3201 W. Pecan Blvd., McAllen, Texas for the purpose of conducting a Public Hearing for the general public to be present and participate in the Hearing relating to the adoption of the Fiscal Year 2021-2022 South Texas College Budget. A copy of the proposed budget may be viewed at the Office of the Vice President for Finance and Administrative Services located at 3201 W. Pecan Blvd., Ann Richards Administration Building, Second Floor, Room 230, McAllen, Hidalgo County, Texas. At the termination of the Public Hearing, the Board of Trustees of South Texas College may adopt the budget for the Fiscal Year 2021-2022 at such meeting or may adopt the budget at a subsequent meeting. If any person needs special accommodations as specified under the Americans With Special Disabilities Act, please contact the Office of the President of South Texas College at (956) 872-8366 at least 72 hours prior to the date of the meeting. SOUTH TEXAS COLLEGE BY: Dr. Ricardo J. Solis, President

R. T. Barrera Eagles Enjoying Learning About Dinosaurs

The Fourth Grade Teaching Team at R. T. Barrera Elementary is doing an awesome job integrating technology and hands-on learning into a memorable Summer Enrichment Program project with their students. They will never forget these awesome lessons about dinosaurs!

FROM THE DESK OF HUMBERTO “BERT” GONZALEZ STARR COUNTY CLERK STARR COUNTY RESIDENTS ON BEHALF OF YOUR COUNTY CLERK HUMBERTO GONZALEZ, JR. IT IS MY DUTY TO INFORM YOU THAT IF YOU OWN LIVESTOCK AND HAVE A MARK AND BRAND FILED WITH OUR OFFICE YOU WILL HAVE TO RENEW IT. THE RENEWAL PERIOD IS AUGUST 31, 2021 THROUGH FEBRUARY 28, 2022. IF YOU ARE TO HAVE ANY QUESTIONS PLEASE CALL MY OFFICE AT 956-7164800 EXT 8033. FEE: $26.00 (CHECKS, MONEY ORDERS OR CARD) THANK YOU HUMBERTO GONZALEZ, JR. STARR COUNTY CLERK

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, AUGUST 4, 2021, PAGE 5

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, AUGUST 4, 2021, PAGE 6

Starr County Groundwater Conservation District Adalberto Garza DVM, Interim General Manager The Starr County Groundwater Conservation District encourages landowners to register all existing water wells in the county. Groundwater Districts were established through legislative action to allow local land owners to have control over their groundwater resources. This action is basically a state mandate. There are several things that we must do to maintain local control of our groundwater and the most important step is to register existing water wells in the county. All water wells including those that are not in use should be reported. The form to be used can be found on our website at scgcd. org under well registration form. Well water that is to be used for livestock and domestic use (house use) is exempt from fees. It also costs nothing to register your water wells. Water wells that are used for commercial use, such as the selling of water, or industrial use are considered nonexempt wells. There will be a fee imposed by the district for nonexempt well water use. Over ninety percent of the well water used in the county will be exempt of fees because it will be used for livestock and domestic use. The use of this water resource

is primarily in the rural areas of the county. It is our mission to help conserve and preserve this precious resource. When ﬁlling out the form enter as much information as possible. In some instances, particularly in old wells, it may be impossible to have all the information requested. What is most important is the land owner and address, the location by road description as to where the well is and the GPS coordinates that can easily be determined through a Google Earth pin drop. The form can be mailed to the address on the form. Our ofﬁce is in the courthouse annex building. You can call 956 716-4800 for questions.

Keep devices in top How to remove mildew shape and running well from your home’s exterior The need for reliable technology has never been more apparent. When the world hit the proverbial pause button in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak, technology was crucial to keeping people connected to the world around them, helping people maintain some semblance of normalcy as it pertained to work and education. Students and families who have invested in various electronics to help keep their household running should understand that maintenance is required to keep these devices running effectively. These tips can help keep gadgets in tip-top shape. · Protect devices from extreme temperatures. Electronic devices are designed to operate under an array of conditions, but pushing those conditions can result in damage. Most devices are ﬁne between temperatures of 32 F and 90 F. But don’t leave electronics in the car, in a sunny window or outdoors. · Clean devices regularly. Refer to the user’s manual for the proper ways to clean the devices you rely on each day. Some may require a speciﬁc cleaner or a particular fabric to help ensure the device isn’t scratched or damaged. Spray cleaners on a cloth and then wipe off devices, rather than spraying cleaners directly on electronics. Try a can of compressed air to remove dust from crevices or vents.

· Invest in a surge protector. While surge protector power strips multiply the number of available outlets, they also serve a more important purpose. These devices will cut off power to plugged-in electronics if there is a power surge, helping to prevent damage. · Don’t overcharge. It’s essential to have gadgets charged and ready to go, but overcharging can reduce battery life. Do not leave devices charging overnight. Battery University ®, a free educational website offering battery information, says that nickel- and lithiumbased batteries should be stored with a 40 percent state-of-charge. This level minimizes age-related capacity loss and keeps the battery in good condition. · Use protective cases. Cases can prevent damage if devices are dropped and also may safeguard against scratched screens. Cases and covers also minimize dust and dirt on devices. · Keep software up-to-date. Security issues may arise when software is not updated, and programs may not run effectively or be compatible with others. Along the same vein, routinely clean out unused ﬁles to free up space, and clear cookies and browser histories to maintain speed and efﬁciency. Routine maintenance can keep electronics working properly when they’re needed the most.

People who live in regions with high humidity may find their homes are vulnerable to exterior mildew growth. Mildew is a kind of mold. Molds include all species of microscopic fungi that grow in the form of hyphae, which are multicellular filaments, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. Mold thrives on any organic matter and surfaces with moisture management problems. Mildew, in particular, lives on shower walls, windowsills and other places where moisture levels are high. Mildew also can grow on home siding as well as fences and other exterior structures. While typically gray or white, mildew can be various colors. Experts recommend various cleansers to help combat the issue of mildew on a home. One of the first products that homeowners tend to reach for is sodium hypochlorite, which is a standard bleach used in laundry and pool sanitation. While sodium hypochlorite seems to make mildew vanish, those at This Old House say that chlorine evaporates too quickly to get to mildew’s roots on porous surfaces, such as wood or vinyl siding. Bleach also can stain clothing and damage foliage around the house. Hydrogen peroxide, or oxygen bleach, is less volatile, will not affect foliage and can clean mildew, algae and dirt on and below the surface.

Trisodium phosphate is another effective cleanser. Commonly known as TSP, it often succeeds where other solutions fail in regard to stubborn stains and mildew. TSP also works well on various exterior surfaces. TSP needs to be used with extreme caution. When using TSP, wear long sleeves, gloves, goggles, and a respiratory mask, says Today’s Homeowner. The product also requires adequate ventilation. There also are some environmental concerns, as TSP can damage foliage. In addition, if the product ends up in lakes and streams, it can trigger an overgrowth of algae that results in the depletion of oxygen levels in the water. Eco-conscious homeowners may want to try oxy cleansers before TSP. Mildew shies away from bright sunlight, so it tends to grow on the north side of homes. Removing trees or other foliage that can further block sunlight to areas of the house can help eradicate mildew growth and stop it before it starts. Another tactic is to clean out gutters regularly and thoroughly to reduce moisture and to prevent decomposing debris from running over the edge of the gutters. This runoff can drip down the home’s siding and spread the mildew to other areas. Mildew can be problematic any time of year. Clean up mildew when the weather cools down to spruce up the look of a home.

Starr County Texas Community Block Grant Program (TxCDBG) 2020-2021 Contract No. 7219429 Advertisement and Invitation for Bids The County of Starr will receive bids for Street Improvements until 10:00 am on Monday, August 23rd, 2021 at the Starr County Judge’s Ofﬁce located in Starr County Annex, 100 FM 3167, Rio Grande City, Texas. Bids will be publicly opened and read aloud immediately after at 10:00 am on Monday, August 23rd, 2021 at the Starr County Annex, 100 FM 3167, Rio Grande City, Texas. The project will consist of the reconstruction of a section of Guerra Garza Rd., the construction of Mi Ranchito St., Luis Martinez Ln, and Beto Guerrero Ln. Bids are invited for, but are not limited to, the items and the approximate quantities as follows: 1. 2. 3.

1,200 LF of street construction consisting of 1 ½ inch HMAC, 8” Caliche base, 6” Subgrade along Guerra Garza Rd. 680 LF of street construction consisting 1 ½ inch HMAC, 8” Caliche base, 6” Subgrade, along Mi Ranchito St. 802 LF of street construction consisting 1 ½ inch HMAC, 8” Caliche base, 6” Subgrade, along Luis Martinez Ln and Beto Guerrero Ln.

Bid/Contract Documents, including Drawings and Technical Specifications are on file for review at Starr County Annex, 100 FM 3167, Rio Grande City, Texas during normal business hours or may be obtained by interested parties for fifty dollars ($50.00), non-refundable, per set or copy, at Rio Delta Engineering located at 117 Rio Vista Blvd., Rio Grande City Tx. 78582, (956) 263-1041. A pre-bid meeting will be held at Starr County Annex, 100 FM 3167, Rio Grande City, Texas at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 17th, 2021. Any comments, questions or additional information pertaining to the Bid Packet or Construction Plans is needed this should be directed to the Project Engineer (Rio Delta Engineering) via email or phone prior to 12:00 pm, Wednesday, August 18th, 2021. If any amendments are required, this shall be done the via email. A bid bond in the amount of 5 percent of the bid issued by an acceptable surety shall be submitted with each bid for those contracts that exceed $25,000. A certified check or bank draft payable to the Starr County or negotiable U.S. Government Bonds (as par value) may be submitted in lieu of the Bid Bond. Attention is called to the fact that not less than, the federally determined prevailing (DavisBacon and Related Acts) wage rate, as issued by the Texas Department of Agriculture Office of Rural Affairs and contained in the contract documents, must be paid on this project. In addition, the successful bidder must ensure that employees and applicants for employment are not discriminated against because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual identity, gender identity, or national origin. Adherence to the grant recipient’s Section 3 Policy is required for contracts and subcontracts in excess of $100,000.00. The County of Starr reserves the right to reject any or all bids or to waive any informalities in the bidding. Bids may be held by Starr County for a period not to exceed 60 days from the date of the bid opening for the purpose of reviewing the bids and investigating the bidder’s qualifications prior to the contract award. Starr County

Eloy Vera, County Judge

08/04/2021

All contractors/subcontractors that are debarred, suspended or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation on federal assistance programs may not undertake any activity in part or in full under this project.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, AUGUST 4, 2021, PAGE 7

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, AUGUST 4, 2021, PAGE 8

Apartment For Rent

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Location: 504 W. Santa Maria St. Rio Grande City, Tx.

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956-317-1117 • 956-735-9298

2-120X45 Lots 1-48x24 Bldg

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956-345-8159

ROMA POLICE DEPARTMENT NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION

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(SULLIVAN CITY)

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Notice is hereby given, pursuant to Chapter 59 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure and Transportation Code 683, Subsection B, 683.012, of the Texas Department of Transportation that the Roma Police Department, Roma, Texas will hold a public auction on August 7, 2021, at 10:00am for said vehicles. Location: 3061 – 3059 US Hwy 83 in Rio Grande City, Texas 78582. Registration to bid will be from 8:00am to 10:00am and will require a picture identification. Items to be auctioned are cars and trucks. All items will be sold “As Is-Where Is” to the highest bidder. Onside Buyer’s Premium 12% for first $5,000 and remaining balance per item is tiered. Internet Buyer’s Premium 14% for first $5,000 and remaining balance per item is tiered. All sales are final and must be paid on the same day with cash, major credit cards (Visa, Master Card, Discover, American Express), Debit & Credit with a 3.99% processing fee. Checks accepted day of auction only with certain conditions. For additional information, please contact Bond and Bond Auctioneers (956) 2830422 Jose A. Camarillo AUC#17532 or Roma Police Department at 956-849-2231.

2021 Chevy Equinox

28,995

STK#23371A

Nice!

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2020 GMC Acadia SLE

STK# 23356A

CLEAN LOW MILES!

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STARR COUNTY 229TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT ATTORNEY’S OFFICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION Notice is hereby given, pursuant to Chapter 59 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure that the 229TH Judicial District Attorney’s Office, Rio Grande City, Texas will hold a public auction on August 7th, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. for General Surplus, Equipment and Vehicles which have been forfeited to the State of Texas under the provisions of Chapter 59 Texas Code of Criminal Procedure. Location: 3061 - 3059 US 83, Rio Grande City, TX 78582. Registration to bid will be from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. and will require a picture identification. Examples of items to be auctioned are cars, trucks, heavy equipment, personal computers, electronics, office furniture, surplus, etc. All items will be sold “As Is - Where Is” to the highest bidder. Onsite Buyer’s Premium 12% for first $5,000.00, & remaining balance per item is tiered. Internet Buyer’s Premium 14% for first $5,000.00, & remaining balance per item is tiered. All sales are final and must be paid on the same day with cash, major credit cards (Visa, Master Card, Discover, American Express), Debit & Credit with a 3.99% processing fee. Checks accepted day of auction only with certain conditions. For additional information, please contact the 229th Judicial District Attorney’s Office, at (956) 716-4800. Jose A. Camarillo AUC#17532

2018 Chevy Tahoe

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STK# 23358A

LOW MILES!

2019 Ford Mustang

STK# 23268A LIKE NEW!!

27,995

2018 Chevy Silverado LT

STK# 23386A Like New!!!

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2018 Chevy Silverado Crew

STK# 23393A LIKE NEW!

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Rolando Flores 956-416-8945

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STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, AUGUST 4, 2021, PAGE 9

¿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 4, 2021 PAGE 10

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Arroyo:5065 Hwy. 83 ste. A - 956-570-0702 Roma: 834 E. Grant St. Ste. C - 956-570-0701 OPEN OPEN E. Hwy 83 Ste. B - 956-309-3549 East Hwy 83 Ste A. 956-429-5625 RGC: 4370 NOW Escobares: 4522 NOW Penitas - 1715 Expressway 83 Suite A-2 Penitas Tx- 956-424-0133

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