January 12, 2022

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. 37, No. 2 WEEKLY WEDNESDAY • JANUARY 12, 2022 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.

Guerra Family Dentistry is excited to announce our new location, 127 N FM 3167 in Rio Grande City, Texas

like to express our deepest gratitude support and our staff, who is to our family and friends for their instrumental to this dental practice!

Installment Loans 668 E. Grant St. Ste A&B Roma TX 78584-5312

Phone (956) 849-4497

Dr. Juan Carlos Guerra has provided dental care to our community for the past sixteen years. He earned his degree at The University of Texas Health Science Center Dental School in San Antonio. Dr. Guerra has increased his knowledge in functional occlusion by completing the Dawson Academy Cohort Program. He is currently a member of the Texas Dental Association and the American

Dr. Raymond Cruz Best FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Dental Insurance, Medicaid and Chip Accepted

487-2999

Dental Association. Our mission at Guerra Family Dentistry is to provide exceptional dental care and make a difference in a patient’s life. We deeply care about our patients and everything we do to help them maintain their dental health for a lifetime. We strive to grow in our professional skills through lifelong education and commitment to being the best.

We would like to thank the following individuals for their

assistance during the building process: Mr. Gilbert Milan Jr. Planning and Code Enforcement Director, Mrs. Leticia Cantu and Mr. Ruben Chapa with Lonestar Bank, Mrs. Bertha Garcia at Grande Garbage Collection Co., Mr. Ray Lopez with Lopez Ready Mix, Mr. Miguel Mirelez at Shipping Depot and Mr. Luis Mena with Ingenium Project Solutions.

Most importantly, we would

We are truly blessed to have such a hardworking and dedicated team!

We welcome new and existing patients to our state-of-the-art facility. Call to schedule your appointment at 956-263-1889

Roma ISD School Board Honors Mariachi Program Student Musicians

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

The Roma ISD School Board honored members of the Roma ISD Mariachi Program at their December 2021 Board Recognition Meeting. The Roma Middle School Mariachi earned the title of Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza National Middle School Competition Champions, the Ramiro Barrera Middle School Mariachi earned 2nd Place in the Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza National Middle School Competition, and Roma High School’s Mariachi Nuevo Santander earned 3rd place out of 20 competing groups in the Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza National High School Championship Competition.

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)

(NEW LOCATION)

201 S. San Antonio. St. Rio Grande City, TX (956)

317-1124

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, JANUARY 12, 2022, PAGE 2

WEDNESDAY JANUARY 12TH I.C.C. 6:30 P.M. †DEBANHI JEREZ by Patiño Family THURSDAY JANUARY 13TH I.C.C. 6:00 P.M. †DUARD B. “PINKY” MCGUFFIN, JR. (1ST AN.) by Wife Connie & Family †AUDELIA GARZA

by Hijo y Familia FRIDAY JANUARY 14TH - I.C.C. 12:00 P.M. †ALBERTO BARRERA, SR. (4TH AN.) by Wife Celia G. Barrera & Family †ROSENDO & MARIA PEREZ (AN.) by Family SATURDAY JANUARY 15TH I.C.C. 5:00 P.M. †ENRIQUE & MARIA CELIA GARZA by Ana Lisa Garza & Family

†ESTEBAN & PAULA GARCIA

by Ana Lisa Garza & Family †IN LOVING MEMORY OF OUR RGCHS CLASSMATES OF 1962

by RGCHS CLASS OF 1962 †PEDRITO FERNANDEZ (19TH AN.) by Fernandez Family †LORENZA GONZALEZ

by Mr. & Mrs. Rudy Martinez †INE O. & RODOLFO MARTINEZ

by Mr. & Mrs. Rudy Martinez †BALDOMERA GARCIA (1ST AN.)

by Wife & Family †ALBERTO MORIN, JR.

by Wife Cynthia Lopez Morin †JOSE MARIA ALVAREZ, SR. (5TH AN.) by Family ACCION DE GRACIAS PARA 40TH ANIVERSARIO DE MATRIMONIO DE HOMERO & JUANITA SALINAS by Su Familia

SUNDAY JANUARY 16TH – L.G. 7:00 A.M. †MR. & MRS. ADAN GARCIA

by Family

†DALIA CHAVARRIA (4TH AN.)

by Family

SUNDAY JANUARY 16TH - I.C.C. 9:00 A.M. †RAQUEL VELASCO VALLE

by Gloria De Loera †MARIA GUADALUPE VELASCO VALLE by Gloria De Loera †MARIA TERESA SALDAÑA (2ND AN.) by Sus Hijos †JERONIMA GARCIA

by Su Familia SUNDAY JANUARY 16TH – I.C.C. 11:00 A.M. †BELEN RESURRECCION

by Perez Family †RICARDO H. GONZALEZ

by Wife Blanca

5:00 P.M. PRO POPULO – MASS SAID FOR THE PEOPLE MONDAY JANUARY 17TH – I.C.C. 6:00 P.M. †HERALDO “LALO” GARCIA

by Garcia & Alaniz Family †LEONEL LOPEZ, JR. by Family TUESDAY JANUARY 18TH – I.C.C. 6.00 P.M. †ELIAS RAMIREZ FRANCO (AN.)

by Sandra Lopez

NOVENA ACCIÓN DE GRACIAS A SAN JUDAS TADEO

Oh San Judas Tadeo, Apóstol y Mártir, lleno de virtudes y colmado de poder milagroso, pariente de Cristo Jesús, intercesor fiel de todo aquel que invoca tu patronaje a la hora de la necesidad, a ti imploro desde lo mas profundo de mi corazón, que por medio del poder que Dios te ha dado, me asistas en esta urgente petición.

Como pago te prometo trabajar por el reconocimiento de tu nombre y que siempre seas invocado por todos los que a ti acudan con sus necesidades. Oh San Judas Tadeo intercede por todos los que en ti confiamos. Amen.

Se dicen tres Padre Nuestros, tres Ave Marías y Gloria. Se debe de prometer publicarla. Nunca se ha sabido que falle esta Novena.

A. G.

Medina EC Awarding $25,000 in Scholarships Apply Medina Electric Cooperative is accepting applications for the 2022 scholarship program, which provides money to be used for continuing education during the 2022-2023 school year.

Twenty $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to graduating high school seniors and five $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to adults pursuing higher education.

The parent, legal guardian or applicant must have an active membership with Medina EC to be eligible. Get more details on eligibility and apply online at MedinaEC.org/Scholarships.

Applications must be submitted online by March 4 at 11:59 p.m.

Medina EC’s scholarship program was implemented with help from Texas State Law,

2,500.00 FULLWITH FUNERAL SERVICE SILVER $

Sanchez Funeral Home

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

(956) 487-2525

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 ”

House Bill 3202 in 1997. Since then, the cooperative has awarded more than $627,500 to students throughout its service territory.

Medina EC serves members in Atascosa, Brooks, Dimmit, Duval, Edwards, Frio, Jim Hogg, Kinney, LaSalle, McMullen, Medina, Real, Starr, Uvalde, Webb, Zapata and Zavala counties.

DIVINO NIÑO JESÚS

Sanchez

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

(956) 847-7008

2021 Starr County Fair Queen, Miss Annakaren Peña will crown her successor at the 2022 Starr County Fair Pageant, which will be held on January 29, 2022.

Applications are available now for all age categories.

The deadline to apply is January 14, 2022.

Good luck to all contestants!

Acuérdate oh Niño Santo que jamás se oyó decir que alguno te haya implorado sin tu auxilio recibir. 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 siete veces: “DIVINO NIÑO JESÚS BENDÍCENOS”

S. G.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, JANUARY 12, 2022, PAGE 3

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, JANUARY 12, 2022, PAGE 4

GHS Teachers and Staff Receive an AS+K Training

On Tuesday, January 4th Grulla High School Teachers and Staff were provided an AS+K training by Border Region. Teachers were trained on how to identify warning signs from students that are dealing with mental health issues. The session also went over the procedures that are in place when handling a crisis case. A special thank you to Mr. Ariel Ozuna, Principal, and Mr. Abel Laurel, Lead Counselor, for setting this up. GHS deeply care for each of the students and want to help them in any way possible. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the main office at 956-370-4294.

Roma ISD Athletics Program Hosts 6th Grade Cross Country Fun Run Roma ISD’s Athletics Program hosted a 6th Grade Cross Country Fun Run on November. More than 80 students participated from both Ramiro Barrera Middle School and Roma Middle School.

The 1,600 meter course was set up by Roma ISD Cross Country Program Head Coach Simon Garza and the Roma High Cross Country Team.

The middle school students had an excellent time, and the high school students did a great job motivating their younger peers.

(Photos and information c o u r t e s y R a m i r o Guillen.)

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, JANUARY 12, 2022, PAGE 5

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, JANUARY 12, 2022, PAGE 6

Date January 12, 2022

Updated Property Tax Information Now Available for Texas Taxpayers Rio Grande City — New and updated property tax information has just been compiled

by Starr County Appraisal District and is available now to assist taxpayers. This property tax information is current and covers a wide range of topics, such as taxpayer remedies, exemptions and appraisals, and has information for select groups, such as disabled veterans and persons age 65 or older.

“Whether you are a homeowner, business owner, disabled veteran or taxpayer, it’s important you know your rights concerning the property tax laws.” said Rosalva Guerra, Chief Appraiser of the Starr County Appraisal District. “You can contact us about any property tax issues with full confidence that we will provide you the most complete, accurate and up-todate available information to assist you.”

This includes information about the following programs.

• Property Tax Exemptions for Disabled Veterans - The law provides partial exemptions for any property owned by disabled veterans or surviving spouses and surviving children of deceased disabled veterans. Another partial exemption is for homesteads donated to disabled veterans by charitable organizations at no cost or not more than 50 percent of the good faith estimate of the homestead’s market value to the disabled veterans and their surviving spouses. The exemption amount is determined according to percentage of service-connected disability. The law also provides a 100 percent homestead exemption for 100 percent disabled veterans and their surviving spouses and surviving spouses of U.S. armed service members killed in action.

• Property Tax Exemptions – Non-profit organizations that meet statutory requiremen appraisal district by a specific date. Businesses that receive tax abatements granted by taxing units; ship inventory out of Texas that may be eligible for the freeport exemption; store certain goods in transit in warehouses that are moved within 175 days; construct, install or acquire pollution control property; own and operate energy storage systems; convert landfill-generated gas; or store offshore drilling equipment while not in use may also be eligible for statutory exemptions.

• Rendering Taxable Property - If a business owns tangible personal property that is used to produce income, the business must file a rendition with its local county appraisal district by a specified date. Personal property includes inventory and equipment used by a business. Owners do not have to render exempt property such as church property or an agriculture producer’s equipment used for farming.

• Appraisal Notices – Normally, taxpayers receive a notice of appraised value from the appropriate local county appraisal district. The city, county, school districts and other local taxing units will use the appraisal district’s value to set property taxes for the coming year.

• Property Taxpayer Remedies – This Comptroller publication explains in detail how to protest a property appraisal, what issues the county appraisal review board (ARB) can consider and what to expect during a protest hearing. The publication also discusses the options of taking a taxpayer’s case to district court, the State Office of Administrative Hearings or binding arbitration if the taxpayer is dissatisfied with the outcome of the ARB hearing.

• Homestead Exemptions – A homestead is generally defined as the home and land used as the owner’s principal residence on Jan. 1 of the tax year. A homestead exemption reduces the appraised value of the home and, as a result, lowers property taxes.

Applications are submitted to the appropriate local county appraisal district.

• Productivity Appraisal – Property owners who use land for timberland production, agricultural purposes or wildlife management can be granted property tax relief on their land. They may apply to their local county appraisal district for an agricultural appraisal which may result in a lower appraisal of the land based on production, versus market value.

• Residence Homestead Tax Deferral - Texas homeowners may postpone paying the currently delinquent property taxes due on the appreciating value of their homes by filing a tax deferral affidavit at their local county appraisal district. This tax relief allows homeowners to pay the property taxes on 105 percent of the preceding year’s appraised value of their homestead, plus the taxes on any new improvements to the homestead. The remaining taxes are postponed, but not cancelled, with interest accruing at 8 percent per year.

• Property Tax Deferral for Persons Age 65 or Older or Disabled or Disabled Veteran Homeowners – Texans who are age 65 or older or disabled, as defined by law, or who qualify for a disabled veteran exemption may postpone paying current and delinquent property taxes on their homes by signing a tax deferral affidavit. Once the affidavit is on file, taxes are deferred, but not cancelled, as long as the owner continues to own and live in the home. Interest continues to accrue at 5 percent per year on the unpaid taxes. You may obtain a deferral affidavit at the appraisal district.

• Notice of Availability of Electronic Communication – In appraisal districts located in counties with a population of more than 200,000 or that have authorized electronic communications, and that have implemented a system that allows such communications, chief appraisers and ARBs may communicate electronically through email or other media with property owners or their designated representatives. Written agreements are required for notices and other documents to be delivered electronically instead of mailing.

• Protesting Property Appraisal Values – Property owners who disagree with the appraisal district’s appraisal of their property for local taxes or for any other action that adversely affects them may protest their property value to the appraisal district’s ARB. For more information about these programs, contact Starr County Appraisal District at 100 N. FM 3167, Ste. 300 Rio Grande City, Texas 78582 Ph. (956) 487-5613 www.starrcad.org Information is also available on the Comptroller’s Property Tax Assistance Division’s website at comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/property-tax/.

Do not give scammers money or personal information – Ignore Them!

Protect yourself and others from Social Securityrelated scams •Try to stay calm. Do not provide anyone with money or personal information when you feel pressured, threatened, or scared.

•Hang up or ignore it. If you receive a suspicious call, text, or email, hang up or do not respond.

Government employees will not threaten you, demand immediate payment, or try to gain your

trust by sending you pictures or documents.

•Report Social Securityrelated scams. If you receive a suspicious call, text, or email that mentions Social Security, ignore it and report it to the SSA Office of the Inspector General (OIG).

Do not be embarrassed if you shared personal information or suffered a financial loss.

•Get up-to-date information.

Follow SSA OIG on Twitter @ TheSSAOIG and Facebook @ SSA Office of the Inspector

General for the latest information on Social Security-related scams. Visit the Federal Trade Commission for information on other government scams.

•Spread the word. Share your knowledge of Social Security-related scams. Post on social media using the hashtag #SlamtheScam to share your experience and warn others.

Visit oig.ssa.gov/scam for more information. Please also share with your friends and family.

Report a Scam!!

Public Notice Starr County Invitation for Bids January 12, 2022 The County of Starr is requesting bids for furnishing all labor, materials, equipment, supervision and performance of all work required for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of single family residential homes. The following house to be rehabilitated or reconstructed is: 169 Garceno Loop, Roma, TX 78584 109 Juarez St, Rio Grande City, TX 78582 108 Deguello St, Rio Grande City, TX 78582 Project Type: Reservation System Participant, RSP Agreement #2020-0014; Starr County Contract Number #1003020/1003021.

Bid Documents may be obtained in person from Starr County Court House Annex at 100 N FM 3167 Rio Grande City, TX, between the hours of 8:00a.m. & 5:00p.m. Monday through Friday (excluding Holidays). Bid packages are limited to one package per contractor. For further information contact Connie Cantu, Project Manager at 716-4800 ext. 8115.

Sealed Bids will be accepted by the Starr County Federal & State Programs Staff at Starr County Annex suite 220 at 100 N FM 3167 Rio Grande City, TX. Until 3:00 p.m. Thursday, January 27, 2022. Bids not received prior to the date and time set forth above will not be accepted for consideration. Starr County will consider the lowest responsible Bid. Bids may be held by Starr County for a period not to exceed 90 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.

Pre-Bid conference will be held at Starr County Courthouse Annex 100 N. F.M. 3167 Rio Grande City, Texas 78582 at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, January 20, 2022. All Perspective Bidders are encouraged to attend.

All Bidders/Contractors must be registered with the Texas Residential Construction Commission/SAM.GOV. Bidder/Contractor shall be an Equal Opportunity Firm and practice nondiscrimination. All Bidders/Contractors must present proper documentation of capability, adequate staffing and experience to perform the tasks required. Starr County supports the submission of Bids from historically underutilized businesses. All qualified Bidders will receive consideration for selection without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, and handicap or as otherwise provided by applicable law.

PUBLIC NOTICE

CITY OF ROMA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT CARES Act (CDBG-CV) (Published on January 12, 2022): The City of Roma is giving notice of the city’s intent to submit a Community Development Block Grant CARES Act grant application for a grant request of $4,946,400.00 for a Multipurpose Community Center in the City of Roma to be located at: 1800 Block N. US Hwy 83, Roma, TX 78584 Share 16-b, Porciones 70 and 71, Abstract 163, J. Salinas, Starr County, Texas

The Multipurpose Center will serve as a site for: vaccination, testing, shelter, and goods distribution. The application is available for review at the City Hall, 77 Convent Street, Roma, Texas during regular business hours.

Alejandro Barrera, City Manager City of Roma, Texas

AVISO PUBLICO CIUDAD DE ROMA

SUBVENCIÓN PARA DESSAROLLO COMUNITARIO DE TEXAS CARES Act (CDBG-CV)

(Publicado el día 12 de enero de 2022):

La Ciudad de Roma está anunciando su intención de enviar una solicitud al program de Subvención para desarrollo comunitario de Texas CARES Act (CDBG-CV) para solicitar fondos por $4,946,400.00 para un centro multiusos en la ciudad de Roma que será ubicada en: 1800 Block N. US Hwy 83, Roma, TX 78584 Share 16-b, Porciones 70 and 71, Abstract 163, J. Salinas, Starr County, Texas El centro multiusos servirá como sitio para centro de: vacunación, examines de COVID, albergue, y distribución de suministros. La solicitud está disponible para su revisión en las Oficinas de la Ciudad en 77 Calle Convent, Roma, Texas, durante horas de oficina.

Alejandro Barrera, Administrador Ciudad de Roma, Texas

Roma ISD Selects Annette Garza as Principal for Ramiro Barrera Middle School

Roma ISD is excited to introduce Annette Garza as the new principal for Ramiro Barrera Middle School.

A graduate of Roma High School, Garza earned her Bachelor Degree and Master’s Degree from The University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley (then UT-Pan American).

Over the course of two decades, Garza has served as a teacher aide, teacher and assistant principal for Roma ISD. “Ms. Garza brings a great track record for success in the classroom and as an administrator to this position, making her a natural fit to take over the reins at RBMS,” said Roma ISD Superintendent Carlos Guzman. “Everyone who has worked with Ms. Garza has glowing reviews of her ability to help students reach their potential through caring guidance. She has helped mentor many peers, sharing her knowledge and skills for the benefit of The Gladiator Nation.

I know she will do a terrific job continuing to lead the RBMS Titans to success!”

Ms. Garza began her tenure as principal in January 2022.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for me to help our RBMS Titans excel to new heights,” expressed Garza. “My goal is to continue working collaboratively with all teachers and our leadership team, which I know will lead to continued student success. Some people may be daunted by starting the position of principal in the middle of a school year, but I have never backed down from a challenge.”

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, JANUARY 12, 2022, PAGE 7

Roma Middle School Student Wins Holiday Art Competition

Congratulations to Roma Middle 8th grader Gabriela Vera for being 1 of 4 of the 2021 Region One Education Service Center’s Holiday Card winners! Gabriela received a special visit by Region One executives in December, and they gave her a prize basket and a Chromebook for her winning rendition of a “South Texas Holiday”!

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, JANUARY 12, 2022, PAGE 8

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 P R E M I S E P E R M I T, by: JOSE ALONZO RODRIGUEZ dba J&J GROCERY AND RESTAURANT, to be located at 1315 N. FM 2360, RIO GRANDE CITY, STARR COUNTY, TEXAS.

LEGAL NOTICE Application has been made with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission for a WINE AND BEER RETAILER’S PERMIT, by: STARR COUNTY REAL EVENTS LLC dba QUINTA REAL EVENTS, to be located at 54 N. FM 649, RIO GRANDE CITY, STARR COUNTY, TEXAS. Manager of said LLC: OLGA REYES.

Gobernador Abbott y HHSC anuncian la extensión de los beneficios de SNAP de emergencia para enero El 4 de enero del 2022, el Gobernador Greg Abbott anunció que la Comisión de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Texas (HHSC, por sus siglas en inglés) está proporcionando más de $307 millones en beneficios alimentarios de emergencia del Programa de Asistencia Nutricional Suplementaria (SNAP, por sus siglas en inglés) para el mes de enero. Se espera que las asignaciones ayuden a más de 1.5 millones de hogares de Texas.

“Este apoyo de emergencia de

SNAP garantizará que más de 1,5 millones de familias puedan seguir poniendo comida en la mesa”, dijo el gobernador Abbott.

“Gracias al USDA por su continua colaboración con la HHSC para proporcionar comidas saludables a los tejanos de todo el estado”.

“Mientras los tejanos reciben el año nuevo, este apoyo adicional ayudará a las familias a comenzar el 2022 con comida en la mesa para ellos y sus hijos”, dijo el comisionado ejecutivo adjunto de Servicios de Elegibilidad y Acceso del HHS de Texas,

Wayne Salter.

La HHSC recibió la aprobación federal del Departamento de Agricultura de EE. UU. (USDA) para extender la cantidad máxima permitida de beneficios de SNAP a los beneficiarios según el tamaño de la familia, y todos los hogares de SNAP recibirán un mínimo de $95 en asignaciones de emergencia. Esta asignación de emergencia adicional debería aparecer en las cuentas de los destinatarios antes del 31 de enero.

Las asignaciones de emergencia

de enero se suman a los más de $5.4 mil millones en beneficios proporcionados anteriormente a los tejanos desde abril de 2020.

Administrado por la HHSC, SNAP es un programa federal que brinda asistencia alimentaria a familias e individuos elegibles de bajos ingresos en Texas.

Los tejanos necesitados pueden solicitar beneficios, incluidos SNAP y Medicaid, en YourTexasBenefits.com o usar la aplicación móvil Your Texas Benefits para administrar sus beneficios.

General Land Office Kicks Off 2022 “Treasures of the Texas Coast” Children’s Art Contest Texas students are encouraged to submit entries for annual competition

On December, the Texas General Land Office (GLO) kicked off the 2022 “Treasures of the Texas Coast Children’s Art Contest” and is now accepting entries. Students (public, private and homeschool) in grades K-6 are encouraged to submit their own masterpieces. Artwork should be centered on the theme “Treasures of the Texas Coast” and express why the Texas coast is important or special to each artist.

“It is truly a privilege to see the talents and passions of these young schoolchildren to help promote and protect our cherished Texas coast,” said Commissioner Bush. “I look forward to seeing this year’s entries and wish our contestants the best of luck.”

Participants will have their artwork judged, and winners will be announced by Land Commissioner George P. Bush

in the spring of 2022. The 2023 Adopt-A-Beach calendar will feature the top 40 pieces of art and will be distributed throughout the state. Conservation of Texas coastal ecosystems and the economic impacts of coastal communities are crucial to our state. This annual contest provides an exciting opportunity for young Texans to showcase their artistic talents while promoting the Texas Gulf Coast.

The grand prize winner will receive one 6 to 8-night Caribbean cruise for two from Royal Caribbean International departing out of Galveston, Miami, Tampa, Ft. Lauderdale, Port Canaveral or Puerto Rico.

They will also receive two roundtrip coach-class tickets from United Airlines to any United destination in the 48 contiguous United States, Alaska, Canada, Mexico, Central America and the

Caribbean.

The grand prize winner’s teacher will also receive one 6 to 8-night Caribbean cruise for two courtesy of Royal Caribbean and two round-trip, coach-class tickets from United Airlines.

All 40 winners will receive two Schlitterbahn tickets valid at either the New Braunfels or Galveston locations, one ticket to the Houston Zoo, one ticket to the Texas State Aquarium, one ticket to the USS Lexington, a certificate of recognition from the GLO and copies of the 2023 calendar displaying the winning artwork.

All entries must be postmarked by Wednesday, March 2, 2022. For more information, guidelines, and an entry form for the art contest, visit the Adopt-A-Beach art contest page.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, JANUARY 12, 2022, PAGE 9

Roque Guerra Jr. Elementary Student Council Delivery Gifts to Retama Manor Residents Roma ISD Mariachi Instructor Earns 2nd in Songwriting Competition

On Wednesday, December 15th, Roque Guerra Jr., Elementary Student Council members traveled to the Retama Manor to gift blankets, and socks to the residents and to sing a few Christmas carols. Roque Guerra Jr., Elementary would like to thank the Rio Grande City Chamber of Commerce for providing, Bessie the Trolley, for the transportation and the Superintendent Mr. Adolfo Peña for joining them.

Congratulations to Roma ISD Mariachi Program Co-Director Abiel Hinojosa for winning 2nd Place in the Mariachi Vargas Original Songwriting Competition! The Gladiator Nation is super proud of you! *** “Smart people ask for help, because it’s a much more efficient way of doing things than wasting time doing it the wrong way.” ~ Grace Helbig

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, JANUARY 12, 2022, PAGE 10

SE RENTA

VESTIDOS MEXICANOS DISPONIBLES

Apartamento -2 rec., 1 baño, A/C, estufa y refrigerador, incluye agua y basura. Corpus St., RGC

956-735-3120

APARTMENT FOR RENT 3bdrm., 2 bath, Off of Los Alvarez Rd., RGC. $600 mo. + $300 dep. 1yr lease.

38 Alegria Circle, RGC

(956) 847-6850

Sonita’s

SE RENTA

FLOWERS

(956) 256-8957 1711 W. Main St., Rio Grande City

Apartamentos

1009 N. Washington St., RGC. (Al lado Sur de North Grammar)

2 recamaras - 1 baño

Estufa, Refrigerador, A/C

735-3949

AL POR MAYOR ABIERTO AL PÚBLICO

WELDING SERVICE SHOP & MOBILE General Welding, Fabrication & Repair

Farm&Ranch (Fences, Corrals etc.)

For more info call

(956) 500-2401 Job Opening Program Advocate Tri-County Victim & Shelter Services Part-Time position: 13.00 hr.

Duties: Direct services to victims and families of Domestic Violence and any other violent crime against women. Performs emergency crisis screening and intake assessments to determine eligibility for victim services.

Provides information, referrals and assistance to victims and families on rights awareness, safety planning, protective order process, criminal justice support, Tx Victim Compensation applications, VINE, peer and counseling support and other community services as identified in needs assessment.

Maintains confidentiality and privacy when coordinating services with law enforcement & other community service providers. Assists eligible shelter victims and families with facility security and safety policies. Assists in maintain order, sanitization and cleanliness in the facility. Maintains documentation as required.

Qualifications: Two (2) year experience in direct services. Excellent communication and writing skills, bilingual, positive problem solving.

On site training will be provided. TVAT certification required.

For more information or to request an application call 956-486-1200 or email: bt.starrofhope@gmail.com

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Roma High Child Guidance Students Learning Skills for Careers in Education, Child Development

Students in Mrs. Emily Flores’ Child Guidance classes at Roma High School have been busy developing and creating hands-on learning activities. Child Guidance students created an Educational Parenting Guidebook, which targeted parents who have school-aged children. Students examined appropriate guidance and discipline techniques for children at various growth stages. Child Guidance is one of many classes available through Roma ISD’s CTE Program. Keep up the great work Gladiators!

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, JANUARY 12, 2022, PAGE 11

The Robert E. Lee Museum will be OPEN for Visitors January 10th - 14th Monday thru Friday 10:00 A.M. to 7:00 PM Open during Lunch Hour For More Information contact: Colonel (R) Ross Barrera 956-735-4790

¿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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OMAR REYES (956) 533-9001

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COVID-19 Update - And the hits just keep coming

By: Jake Margo, Jr., MD ED physician, Starr County Memorial Hospital Third time’s the charm...at least that’s what we are all hoping. This latest round of COVID-19, most likely the omicron variant, has struck with a vengeance. Just after Christmas 2021, patients across Starr County and across the USA as well, started showing symptoms & testing positive for COVID-19.This has sparked another rush of long lines at testing centers & rush on pharmacies selling self test kits, of which I’m sure most of you are only too aware.

When I went looking for a self test kit to test myself so I could present to work after emerging from our bubble at our Rio Grande Council Winter Scout Camp, none were available - nor had they been available for several days. Fortunately, thanks to our extensive pre-screening procedures, frequent daily temperature and symptom checks, and constant mask use, our nearly 200 scouts and leaders were able to enjoy a fantastic week of fellowship

and learning. We all eventually joined the rest of the Valley and county in wondering what was next.

Now, can we really confirm that the omicron variant has reached Starr County? Not that we have heard officially, but we are currently seeing different symptoms than we did with previous waves of COVID-19.

This time around, upper respiratory symptoms like fever, runny nose, nasal congestion, sore throat, body and joint aches, and fatigue seem to be the main symptoms. If you manifest any of these symptoms, you are most likely positive with COVID-19. If one or more family members in your household test positive and you develop the same symptoms, you are most likely positive. Unless your workplace is specifically requiring a COVID test, you should stay home and treat your symptoms.

CDC is currently recommending self isolation for at least 5 days.

Official guidelines are listed here: https://www.cdc.gov/ coronavirus/2019-ncov/yourhealth/quarantine-isolation.html Another issue we are contending with is the omicron variant is much more virulent - more easily spread - than previous versions, even in patients who are already vaccinated and boosted in many cases. Typically, those who are currently vaccinated only have mild symptoms if any at all. Because of this, many of our current positive cases are only known because they got tested after a known contact with someone positive for COVID-19.

So how can we tell whether we

have COVID-19, influenza, strep throat, or any of the other viral infections common this time of year?

Unfortunately, you really can’t, unless you test for all of them. Since only Strep throat requires antibiotics (and a quick throat swab will give us that answer) most of the others will all respond to symptomatic treatment. In other words, you treat the symptoms you have. Cough medicines like robitussin and antihistamines like cetirizine (zyrtec) can help with many symptoms.

Fever can be treated in general with acetaminophen and ibuprofen, unless there are specific reasons you should not use those medications. As a rule, antibiotics and steroids are only necessary in very specific cases - if your oxygen level is falling below 90% for example, and should only be prescribed by your physician. Taking leftover medications you may find at home is never a good idea. Please contact your physician’s office for more specific instructions as much of this treatment can be handled over the phone. Many physician’s offices have testing available and will likely be your fastest and most reliable means of testing. The Rural Health Clinics operated by Starr County Memorial Hospital are also options for those who don’t have family physicians.

What can you do to protect yourself and your family? Continue to wash your hands regularly and practice good hygiene. Wear a surgical mask or N-95/KN-95 if you can find one.

Cloth masks don’t appear to be effective for this strain of COVID-19, but you can wear a cloth mask over

a surgical mask/N-95 to help keep your main mask cleaner for a longer period of time. Get your flu vaccine and make sure you are current for all your other vaccines (pneumonia, tetanus, etc). For those who still haven’t received their COVID-19 vaccine, strongly consider getting vaccinated. Vaccination is your best defense against COVID-19.

Why should I bother getting vaccinated if I survived so far without it? The other strains of COVID-19 haven’t magically vanished, and while the latest strain seems to be causing less hospitalizations than the previous waves, those who are unvaccinated are still at highest risk for the worst illness and are often the patients who need transferring to hospitals further away. We are back to the point of all the local hospitals being full and our having to transfer “out of the area” on a regular basis.

When do I need to go to the ER? Only if you are having difficulty breathing and your oxygen level is dropping below 90%. You don’t need to come to the ER for a COVID-19 test. Not only will that make lines longer, but it may keep others from getting emergent care they need. One of the most frustrating parts of the ER - both for patients and physicians and nurses is that we only have a certain number of rooms. So if all our rooms are full of non-emergent cases, we don’t have a place for emergencies.

Bottom-line, get vaccinated, wear a mask, and stay home if you have COVID-19 symptoms and call your physician’s office if you have any additional questions.

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