March 21, 2018

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.

The Law Office Of

J.M. “Chema” Garza

Dr. Raymond Cruz Best Family & Cosmetic Dentistry

Dental Insurance, Medicaid and Chip Accepted

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

Vol. 33, No. 12 WEEKLY WEDNESDAY • MARCH 21, 2018 Office (956) 487-6544 - Fax (956) 487-6165 - E-Mail: sctc78582@aol.com - www.starrcountytowncrier.com

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Roma Middle School One Act Play Team Wins 2nd in District

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Roma High Debate Team Makes History

Est. 1970

Congratulations to Ringgold Middle School Mariachi Nuevo Cascabel for earning 2nd Place at the Second Annual Raíces Mariachi Competition. The event was held on Sunday, March 4th, 2018 at the State Farm Arena grounds as part of the Borderfest Festivities. Mariachi Nuevo Cascabel is under the direction of Diana L. Salinas.

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RGC High School Students Win Big at the West Texas

Ringgold Middle School Mariachi Nuevo Cascabel Placed at Competition

956-487-5555 956-487-0100 414 E Main Street,R.G.C.

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206 N. Britton Ave. Ste.B, R.G.C. Fax: 866-922-4714 jmchemagarza@gmail.com

Congratulations to the Roma Middle School One Act Play Team on winning second place at the District One Act Play Competition! Congratulations also goes to students Danelo Gonzalez, for being named Best Actor, and to Joanna Garcia, for earning Honorable Mention.

INSURANCE AGENCY

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Rio Grande City High School Career & Technical student Rolando Ramirez and Jr. FFA member, Naitssa Ramirez win big at the West Texas San Angelo Fair. For the first time ever, Mrs. Randy Martin -Lara traveled with her AG students to San Angelo Texas to compete in the livestock show representing RGCCISD. From February 05-07, the dedicated hard working students groomed and showcase their projects. The results were outstanding since it was the first time the students had represented the district in this traditional west Texas venue.

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Diana Robles-Méndez, CPA, PLLC Certified Public Accountant

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

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Congratulations to the Mighty Gladiator Roma High School Debate Team, which made history for the school by earning 2nd place and qualifying for state competition for the first time in school history!

The Gladiator Nation is so proud of you Rene Barrera and Damaris Martinez!!!

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STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MARCH 21, 2018, PAGE 2

WEDNESDAY MARCH 21ST - I.C.C. 6:00 P.M. †GUADALUPE M. CASTAÑEDA, JR.

by Wife & Family †IGNACIA G. GUTIERREZ by Family †ARNOLDO GONZALEZ, JR. (11TH AN.) by Family †BENITO CASTAÑEDA by Esposa y Familia †JOSE PEÑA (8TH AN.) by Familia Peña THURSDAY MARCH 22ND - I.C.C. 6:30 A.M. SPECIAL INTENTION FOR VILLARREAL FAMILY

†ONEIDA BALDERAS GARZA (2ND AN.) by Garza Family †LOURDES ELIZONDO (2ND AN.)

by Garza Family †ELOISA BERMUDEZ by Family †BONIFACIO BARRERA, SR.

by Daughters Quela & Sylvia SATURDAY MARCH 24TH - I.C.C. 5:00 P.M. PRO POPULO - MASS SAID FOR THE PEOPLE

FRIDAY MARCH 23RD - I.C.C. 8:20 A.M. ICS STUDENTS & STAFF

SUNDAY MARCH 25TH - I.C.C. 7:00 A.M. †RUBEN KLEIN by Saenz Family †ALBERTO BARRERA by Rosalinda Lopez †DALIA T. CHAVARRIA by Rosalinda Lopez

6:00 P.M. †ISRAEL RIOS (21ST AN.) by Esposa e Hijos †RAFAEL & ENRIQUETA RESENDEZ

by Family

SUNDAY SACRED HEART/LOS GARCIA 9:00 A.M. †ANITA V. GARZA (AN.)

by Mr. & Mrs. Rodolfo T. Garza

A SAN ANTONIO

Oh admirable San Antonio, glorioso por la celebridad de los milagros que habéis obrado, que tuvisteis la dicha de tener en vuestros brazos al Señor en forma de tierno infante, obtened me de su bondad la gracia que ardientemente deseo de lo íntimo de mi corazón. Tu que fuisteis tan bondadoso con los pobres pecadores, no mires a los pecados de quien os ruega, sino a la gloria de Dios, que será otra vez exaltada por ti, y a la salvación de mi alma, tan unida a la petición que ahora tan encarecidamente te hago.

Como prenda de mi gratitud, os prometo llevar una vida más conforme con las enseñanzas del Evangelio y consagrada al socorro de los pobres, que tanto habéis amado y al presente amáis. Bendecid esta promesa que os hago y alcanzadme la gracia de ser a ella fiel hasta la muerte. Amen. (S.G.)

†DANIEL ALBERTO GOMEZ, JR.

by Mom & Dad †LUIS MORIN (28TH AN.) by Su Familia †RUBEN ORTIZ, JR. (1ST AN.) by Family SUNDAY MARCH 25TH - I.C.C. 11:00 A.M. †JOEL F. SALINAS by Family †LAZARO & ALEJANDRA R. GARCIA

by Letty & Valerie †ABEL LEONCIO & ABEL LEE SANCHEZ by Family †ABEL JUAN & YNDALECIO SANCHEZ

by Family †IDOLINA C. SALAZAR by Mr. & Mrs. Fidel Salazar 1:00 P.M. †SUSANO SEPULVEDA (5TH AN.)

by Celinda Salinas & Family †SIXTO FLORES, JR. by Wife & Family †HERLINDA IBARRA by Su Familia †JAIME SOLIS (1ST AN.)

by Wife Maricela Rodriguez & Family\

†CANDELARIA & LUCIO AYALA (1ST AN.) by Family 5:00 P.M. †ANGELITA M. REYNA by Family †REYNA & MARTINEZ DECEASED FAMILY MEMBERS by Family †SILVERIO GARCIA (16TH AN.) by Sus Hijos †ONEIDA BALDERAS GARZA (2ND AN.)

by Garza Family †LOURDES ELIZONDO (2ND AN.)

by Garza Family MONDAY MARCH 26TH – I.C.C. 6:00 P.M. †JORGE GASTELUM by Ellert Family TUESDAY MARCH 27TH - I.C.C. 6:30 A.M. †JAIME SOLIS (1ST AN.)

by Solis & Rodriguez Family †ERASMO DAVID GARZA (2ND AN.)

by Family

RGCCISD Hosted a Migrant Gala Scholarship Fundraiser

The RGCCISD Migrant Education Program, in conjunction with Title 1 State and Federal Programs, hosted a Migrant Gala scholarship fundraiser on March 8. Attendees were privileged to stories from Armando Ramirez, III-Grulla High School, Jacqueline Pruneda-Rio Grande City High School and Maria MartinezPreparatory for Early College High School.

Special guest, former Rio Grande City High School student, Juan Alberto Benavides, Jr. shared his inspiring message of willpower, hard work and strength This successful event was administration, Mr. Alfredo of character to persevere through made possible by our dedicated Garcia, Superintendent of Schools, obstacles. school board members, district Mrs. Virginia Gonzalez, Director of State and Federal Programs, and Mrs. Veronica Garcia, Migrant Education Coordinator.

Special thanks to our amazing community, supporters and Mr. Jorge Peña, Ringgold Middle School Principal, for allowing us to host our gala in his school and to all those individuals who CALL JEFF OR SONATA diligently worked to make this Funeral Home Memorial Funeral Home SANCHEZ 301 E. 2nd. St. 101 AR Sanchez Sr. Dr. event possible-Many Thanks.

Rio Grande City, Tx. 78582 Roma, Tx. 78584 “Serving Our Community For Over 86 Years” Together, we are constructing a (956) 487-2525 “Caring for you & your loved ones in your time of need ” (956) 847-7008 brighter future!

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STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MARCH 21, 2018, PAGE 3

Roma High JROTC Program Takes Home Top Grulla High School Held Their National Prize at La Copa Ranch Raider Challenge Honor Society Induction Ceremony Roma High School’s JROTC Program participated with more than 250 other high school JROTC Cadets in the La Copa Ranch Wolfpack 2018 Raider Challenge, sponsored by the Louise Allen Foundation, the McAllen US Army Recruiting Company and the Cadets from TAMUK and UT-RGV. Raider Competitions focus on physical fitness, mental toughness, teamwork and endurance. Roma High’s team beat out 21 other valley schools to repeat as the 2018 Wolfpack Raider Challenge Champion. The Gladiator Battalion placed first in the Jacobs Latter, CASVAC and Streamers.

“The Copa Ranch Raider continues to lead the way in showcasing many of the finest, hardworking Army/Air Force JROTC Raider teams in the Rio Grande Valley. The best of the best Army JROTC programs compete against the best Raider teams in the Valley,” explained Roma High School JROTC program

Faculty Luis Barrera. “The Army JROTC La Copa Raider serves as the unofficial Rio Grande Valley Championship for the top Raider program. This event couldn’t have taken place without the generosity of the Louise Allen Foundation, the dedication of the

Grulla High School held their National Honor Society Induction Ceremony. Principal Mr. Julio Eguia welcomed the students and their families. Mistress of Ceremony for the evening was Senior NHS President, Ruby Adame. Senior Officers Victor Hinojosa, Larissa Martinez, and Paola Ibarra each lit a candle as they recited the meaning behind each of the four pillars on which the NHS is based: Scholarship, Service, Character and Leadership. The inductees took the oath and were inducted in front of their family and friends.

US Army McAllen Recruiting Mr. Julio Eguia presented a membership certificate to all inductees. National Honor Society Advisor: Iliana Station Soldiers and our senior Navarro, Faculty Council: Veronica Garcia, Aida Martinez, Sebastian Dougherty.

ROTC cadets/staff from UT-RGV and TAMUK. We congratulate the excellence exemplified by our young cadets and look forward for more great things from them in the future.”

ATTENTION

RIO GRANDE CITY RESIDENTS:

The City of Rio Grande City Public Works Department would like to announce that a 4 Way-Stop will be installed on Embassy Street and Doria Street. This stop sign will go into effect on Monday, May 21, 2018.

We would like to thank all of our residents for their cooperation. Drive Safely!

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Thursday March 22, 2018 Lopez-Tijerina Courtyard 405 E. Main St. Rio Grande City, TX 6pm - 8pm

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STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MARCH 21, 2018, PAGE 4

Roque Guerra, Jr. Elementary Held Their Career Day Pan American Round Table Held Their Monthly Meeting

Ladies in Red was February’s theme for the Pan American Round Table of Rio Grande CityRoma. Their monthly meeting was held at Tu Casa Salad’s and Students from Roque Guerra, Jr. Elementary enjoyed Career Day presentations from local community More in Escobares, Texas. volunteers who stopped by the campus to share information on various career paths available in today’s society. The Colts would like to thank all who took time out of their day to meet with and encourage our students in reminding them to reach for the stars!

High School Seniors were honored from Roma, Early College, and Rio Grande HS. The student guest were recognized for their academic achievements throughout their high school

years and they shared their future aspirations and career goals.

Two presentations were given by the P.A.R.T. members. Soila Perez presented on Columbia and their Valentine’s traditions and holidays. Hortadelia Barrera presented on Costa Rica. Her guest, Bersave Salazar spoke on her recent trip to Costa Rica and displayed items she brought form that country. The purpose of the Pan American Round Table is to aquaint the members with the language, geography, history, literature, art, culture and customs of the countries of the Western Hemisphere, for through knowledge, understanding is gained and understanding leads to friendship.

Students recognized were: Roma - Jesus Saenz, Joe Henry Doria, and Aaron Fernandez; Rio Grande City - Valeria Valadez; and Early College - Alejandra Fernandez.

Roma Middle School Open House a Success

Juan Garcia Manager

Alejandra Tello Manager

Jocelyn Rodriguez CSR

Roma Middle School held an Open House to highlight student work and strengthen relationships with parents. The event was a great success.

Public Notice Starr County Invitation for Bids March 21, 2018 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: 2734 N. Hwy 83, Roma, TX 78584

Project Type: Reservation System Participant, RSP Agreement #2017-0040; Starr County Contract Number #1002675/1002676.

Bid Documents (Project Manual) 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, April 5, 2018. 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, March 29, 2018. All Perspective Bidders are encouraged to attend.

All Bidders/Contractors must be registered with the Texas Residential Construction Commission. 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.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MARCH 21, 2018, PAGE 5

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 ďŹ ll 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.

Amen.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MARCH 21, 2018, PAGE 6 Register now for summer and fall classes at STC - To enroll in summer classes visit www.southtexascollege. edu/summer. To apply for financial aid go online to https://fafsa.ed.gov/ to start the free application.

For more information, please contact STC Student Financial Services at 956-872-8375.

No�ce of Applica�on for Fluid Injec�on Well Permit Hilcorp Energy Company, 1111 Travis, Houston, Texas 77002, is applying to the Railroad Commission of Texas for a permit to inject fluid into a forma�on which is produc�ve of oil and gas.

The applicant proposes to inject fluid into the Vicksburg and Frio Forma�ons. Slick, T.B. –A- 229 Well No. 177, The proposed injec�on well is located 18.8 miles North East of Rio Grande City, Texas in the Rincon (Vicksburg Sand), Starr County. Fluid will be injected into strata in the subsurface depth intervals from 3800’-5100’ Legal Authority: Chapter 27 of the Texas Water Code, as amended, Title 3 of the Texas Natural Resources Code, as amended, and the Statewide Rule of the Oil and Gas Division of the Railroad Commission of Texas.

Requests for a public hearing from persons who can show that they are adversely affected, or requests for further informa�on concerning any aspect of the applica�on should be submi�ed in wri�ng within 15 days of publica�on, to the Environmental Services Sec�on, Oil and Gas Division, Railroad Commission of Texas, PO Box 12967, Aus�n, Texas 78711 Telephone: 512-463-6792

Register now for summer and fall classes at South Texas College Graduating high school seniors, current South Texas College students and prospective students looking to enhance their skills in the workforce can get a jump on their career goals by enrolling early for summer classes at South Texas College.

Summer I and Summer III semesters begin June 4. Fall classes begin Aug. 27.

South Texas College is ranked among the most affordable colleges in the nation, offering flexible schedules and a host of transfer options.

Summer classes are ideal for students needing to stay within their degree timeline. Many classes can be completed in just a few short weeks.

To enroll in summer classes visit www.southtexascollege. edu/summer.

Students who want to apply for financial aid

are encouraged to go online to https://fafsa.ed.gov/ to start their free application. For more information, please contact STC Student Financial Services at 956-872-8375.

New for the summer, students can take advantage of changes made by the U.S. Department of Education to the Federal Pell Grant that will allow them to receive financial aid during the summer term.

Recent changes will allow current Pell recipients who have exhausted their aid to receive additional aid during the summer.

Current Pell recipients do not have to complete additional paperwork to take advantage of this opportunity because the 2017-2018 FAFSA also includes the 2018 summer semester.

“This change has increased

the Pell Grant from 100 percent to 150 percent, which means that a student that has exhausted their Pell Grant after attending fall and spring full-time now has an additional Pell Grant in the summer as long as they meet certain eligibility requirements,” said Juan Miguel Galvan, Director of Student Financial Services at South Texas College.

Students interested in learning about their eligibility for summer Pell Grants are encouraged to visit the Office of Student Financial Services at the Pecan, Mid-Valley and Starr campuses.

Students who want to apply for financial aid are encouraged to go online to https://fafsa.ed.gov/ to start their free application. For more information, please contact STC Student Financial Services at 956-872-8375.

Mrs. Liliana Olivarez Principal at Grulla Elementary School is proud to announce the 3rd 6-wks Honor Roll for the school year 2017-2018 PRE-KINDER Melissa Bermudez “A” Alessandro Luis Acevedo, Donovan Rene Aguirre, Tony Ayden Alaffa, Mila Bermudez, Sofia Bermudez, Cesar Alberto Corona Vazquez, Juan Manuel Garcia III., Danica Faith Guerra, Israel Lopez, Eden Olivares, Victor Alfonso Rios Jr., Jorge Salinas Jr., Camila Zarazua “A & B” Jose Jonnatan Campos Jr., Aurora Lucero Garza, Sasha Marie Garza, Jesica Sarai Ibarra, Mario Alberto Pena, Adrian Lee Ramirez, Rosa Elvia Resendez, Isaac Rodriguez, Eduardo Salinas Jr., Zoraya Zarate Elvia Estrada “A” Jaquelynn Nicole Andrade, Adriel Isidro Carrillo, James Castillo, Emma Lou Estrada, April Garcia, Anna Elizabeth Garza, Brianna Itzayanie Garza, Maria Liliana Garza, Ezequiel Lopez Jr., Jasmine Monique Lopez, Erik Pena Jr., Alexa Cristal Roman, Breanna Sofia Salinas “A & B” Jorge Luis Adame Jr., Alayna Genesis Garza, Salome Gonzalez IV., Jasmine Gonzalez, Evelyn Guajardo, Joshua Nathan Hernandez, Jeremiah Lopez, Sholanny Rodriguez, Melayne Izeray Ruiz, Derek Joel Villarreal Priscilla Garcia “A & B” Jesus Adrian Martinez Araceli Olivarez “A” Natalia Diaz, Yamilexi Yudith Flores Rubalcaba, Aile Georgette Flores, Kairi Jade Flores, Krystina Yvette Garcia, Fabian Antonio Isaguirre, Danaitzel Lopez, Jzebelle Lopez, Javier Alonso Marroquin, Khloe Yzabella Ramon, Alyson Arleth Ramos, Jesus Emilio Salazar Garza, Delahyla Salinas, Audrey Ava Solis, Jayden Zarazua “A&B” Andy Alaniz Jr., Saul Barrera III., Kenya Nicole Barrera, Ricardo Antonio Diaz, Aneisy Leeann Garcia, Roel Lopez, Aaron Omar Ortiz Jr. KINDER Irma Garcia “A’’ Keyleen Flores, Gerardo Garcia Jr., Susana Amy Garcia, Destiny Dee Gomez, Bella Valentina Gonzalez, Victor Hugo Guerrero, Alani Ixchel Martinez, Jaylah Lamar Ortiz, Dylan Lee Zarate “A & B” Johnathan Matthew Jimenez, David Leal, Issac Jose Reyes Garcia, Emmanuel Jay Rios, Fabian Salinas Lucia Catalina Gonzalez “A” Edenn Lee Benavides, Ayssa Naime Cantu, Samarah Lopez, Analease Yaricxa Martinez, Destiny Faith Quiroz, Lynette Berenice Rodriguez, Pedro Santiago Rosales, Bryan Villarreal, Rogelio Villarreal “A & B” Laylah Monique Avalos, Dayaly Gonzalez Villarreal, Hailey Nevaeh Morin, Regino Pompa Jr. Daniel Martinez Jr. “A” Dante Alberto Alaniz, Julianna Jaylee Andrade, Li-Rey Garcia, Jahaziel Garza, Jovan Javier Garza, Nevaeh Alexandra Garza, Lisa Maree Hasbun, Ethan Oskar Hernandez, Javier Pena Jr.,

Jade Joelle Rivera, Eric Ayden Rodriguez, Everardo Salinas, Damian Jaiel Vergo “A” & B” Elian Rae Farias, Brianda Nelly Hernandez, Yamilex Medina, Elaine Itzel Trevino Mary Lynn Rodriguez “A” Sasha Deleon, Justin David Garza, Jocelyn Marroquin, Madelyn Martinez, Jasleen Lynnette Serna, Abran Vera Jr., Diana Villarreal “A & B” Emiliano Barrera, Renzo Barrera, Maria Guadalupe Garza, Gabriel Issac Garza, Alexandra Yolitza Lopez, Aleina Ramirez, Mario Alberto Salinas III., Idani Gabriel Salinas, Mauricio Zarazua 1ST GRADE Priscilla Garcia “A & B” Ezequiel Isaiah Gonzalez, Javier Ignacio Gonzalez Deyanira Ozuna “A” Jose Maria Barrera Jr., Sergio Contreras Jr., Gloria Margarita Gonzalez, Savannah Gizelle Gutierrez, Jesus Omar Lezama, Liliana Imelda Martinez, Sebastian Resendez, Odalys Rios, Nicole Marie Trujio, Anngella Vazquez “A & B” Jose Sebastian Cantu III., Ethan Anthony Elicerio, Daisy Samai Gonzalez Jennette Pena “A” Meleni Vianey Adame, Lauren Ashley Barrera, Adalnetzy Garcia Cantu, Krystal Lynette Garcia, Luis Lauro Garza Jr., Analee Delia Leal, Michel David Limon Jr., Jayden Pablo Martinez, Ranndy Joan Salinas, Eric Lee Salmon Jr., Victoria Roel Tamez “A & B” Jesus Alberto Corona Vazquez, Nicolas Guel Jr. Nikita Danielle Pena “A” Aaron Garcia, Briceiry Isaguirre, Julie Ann Lopez, Airam Emmanuel Saenz, Kaylee Salinas, Ry-Lee Milez Soliz, Ivan Zarazua “A & B” Daisy Lee Davila, Mia Valeria Gonzalez, Mia Eleyna Rodriguez, Nancy Edith Salinas, Jesus Silva Brenda Salinas “A Carlos Armando Belmares, Devanie Yazmin Diaz, Briella Garza, Liliana Garza, Filiberto David Martinez “A & B” Angela Vianney Alaniz, Yarely Shantal Hernandez, Jacob Lopez, Elijah James Ramirez, Ivan Cristobal Salinas, Maria Adamaris Sarinana 2ND GRADE Nancy Cahue “A” Deyaritzene Aizza Alaniz, Itzel Cruz, Ernesto Nathan Elicerio, Delaney Hernandez Villarreal, Juan Antonio Lopez, Reymundo Lopez, Caitlin Isabella Rucker “A &B” Roel Garcia Jr., Debahni Haleigh Garza, Edie Faith Garza, Roberto Lopez, Anareidy Morales, David Pena, Modesta Kaly Rosales, Emily Elizabeth Yanez Priscilla Garcia “A & B” Sebastian Alvarez Aurora Castillo “A” Ramon Gerardo Barrera Jr., Ernesto Beltran, Joselien Chapa Garcia, Myha Anthonela Garza, Mike’L West Hawkins Cantu,

Job Hernandez, Jocelynn Marie Lopez, Aniela Ramirez “A & B” Anahi Arechiga, Sebastian Ulises Fernandez, Eduardo Flores Jr., Jeison Omar Ibarra, Alyssa Marie Resendez, Guadalupe Saenz III. Marta I Flores “A” Jazlyn Flores, Aryel Alea Gonzalez, Sergio Isaguirre III., Jordyn Alexandra Torres “A & B” Shanehl Lareine Avalos, Rose Mary Hernandez, Naveah Andrea Solis, Lizeth Torres, Emilio Casimiro Villarreal Dania Salinas “A” Janika Kay Flores, Ruben Galaviz Jr., Adrian Garcia, Layla Litzel Lopez, Ruben Eden Lopez, Aurora Mendiola Garza, Kristalynn Mia Perez, Isaiah Eli Salinas “A &B” Esmeralda Galaviz, Makayla Adriana Perez 3RD GRADE Socorro Chavana “A” Gabriella Itzel Banda, Brianna Denise De Leon, Joel Adalberto Gonzalez, Fredie Alexander Martinez, Yarianna Itzel Rios, Thor Rivera, Diego Azael ZendejaDeleon “A & B” Dominic Rene Aguirre, Ana Reyna De Leon Martinez, Brandon Damian De Leon, Leonardo Garza, Dominick Luis Garza, Peyton Raine Garza, Leslie Alexandra Lezama, Jeshua Olivares, Ruby Lee Rios, Ayleen Monserrat Zepeda Carina Guerrero “A & B” Damaris Yamilee Diaz, Naeli Jazbell Farias, Mairany Garcia, Carlos Daniel Ibarra, Sebastian Ortiz, Octavio Alexander RuizGarza, Emmanuel Torres Herrada, Jonathan Zuniga Chavira Priscilla Garcia “A & B” Dante ES Lopez, Osvaldo Pena Jr. Alexandra Hellmund “A” Amber Nichole Garza, Mariely Garza, Sergio Alberto Lopez Jr. “A & B” Kaylani Nevaeh Bazan, Miguel Angel Gonzalez, Manuel Adrian Martinez, Sophie Alexia Nunez, Erik Rivera Janet Zarate “A” Jose Luis Alaffa III., Alexis Isaiah Barrera, Brianna Jasmine Davila, Denessa Alizae Elizondo, Devani Elaine Gonzalez, Kaylynn Ivanna Lopez, Kalinah Montenegro, Alex J Moreno, Loretta Nicole Silva, Skylynn Nevaeh Trevino, Bertha Alicia Zendeja-Deleon “A & B” Fernando Garza, Jonathan Gracia, Ashley Marie Perez, Adelyn Ayleen Salmon, Jaime Isaias Villarreal 4TH GRADE Carisa Bazan Rangel “A” Kassandra Elizabeth Garza, Mia Anahi Martinez, Madison Marie Montalvo, Yailyn Reyna Garza, Julian Andrew Zarate “A&B” Isabella Janeth Campos, Layla Lynn Flores, Jeremiah Anthony Lopez, Matthew Eli Martinez, Ytzel Morin, Nalanie Yvette Pena, Esmeralda Perez, Kendra Eileen Rios, Robert Jerry Ruelas, Adrian Velasquez Jr., Carlos Manuel Villarreal Grulla Elementary School, Next week, March 28, 2018

Grulla Elementary School 3rd 6-wks Honor Roll

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MARCH 21, 2018, PAGE 7

Mariachi Cascabel and Mariachi Grulla de Plata Student Talent on Display at Annual Earned a Superior Rating at the UIL State Competition Roma ISD Music Talent Show Competition

Rio Grande City High School Mariachi Cascabel earned a Superior Rating-Division I and Outstanding Vihuela and Grulla High School Mariachi Grulla de Plata earned a Superior RatingDivision I and Outstanding Trumpet Section at the UIL State Mariachi Solo & Ensemble Competition on February 23, 2018 at the UT-RGV Performance Arts Center. Mariachi Cascabel are under the direction of Daniel Renteria. Mariachi Grulla de Plata are under the direction of Alfonso Rodriguez.

Congratulations to all the participants in the Roma ISD Music Talent Show!! All the students offered tremendous performances. The Gladiator Nation is very proud of your hard work and dedication to your skills!! Also, congratulations goes to the families and coaches for each student who put in long hours of work to help our students grow. A big thanks to the staff at the Roma ISD Performing Arts Center for making this event possible. Following are the results per category. Elementary Division: 1st place Isabella Garza and Valeria Garza, 2nd place - Emma Grace Escobar, and 3rd place - Sivoney Martinez.

Middle School Division: 1st place - Mariely Guadiana, 2nd place - Dayanara Salinas, and 3rd place Jaiela Garza. High School Division: 1st place - Carlos Garza, 2nd place - Perla A. Hernandez, and 3rd place - Melenie Gonzalez and Cesar Martinez.

People across the Valley come home to Rio Motor Company for big savings and family- friendly service! www.riomotors.com

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Artwork for illustration purposes only. All vehicles are subject to pre-sale. All prices plus tax, title and license. Expires 4/02/2018.

“No Matter Where You Live, Come Home!”

(956) 487-2596 1-800-509-0003 • www.riomotors.com

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MARCH 21, 2018, PAGE 8

Grulla High School Hosted a Banquet for Students Who Excelled in Competition

Students Celebrate Dr. Seuss at R. & C. Saenz and R.T. Barrera The R. & C. Saenz Spartans and R.T. Barrera Eagles had a wonderful time celebrating the amazing life and work of Dr. Seuss.

Grulla High School hosted a banquet for their Lady Basketball, Mariachi, Band and Wrestling students who excelled in competition. The students were given encouraging words by their coaches, Principal Mr. Eguia, and Superintendent of Schools Mr. Garcia.

“The Leader In Me” Presenters Lonnie Moore and Tom Osborn RGCCISD hosted Lonnie Moore and Tom Osborn who presented The Leader in Me, at the Leaders Meeting.

The Leader in Me is a wholeschool transformation model that redefines what school greatness means, through three overlapping circles: Leadership, Culture and Academics.

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People is a framework in the leader in me to help teach these skills.

RGCCISD would like to thank Lonnie Moore and Tom Osborn for their presentation.

People across the Valley come home to Rio Motor Company for big savings and family- friendly service! www.riomotors.com

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GM Financial 36 month lease payment of $159.95 per month. $2,000 plus first payment of $159.95 due at signing. 10,000 miles per year, $0.25 per mile over 20,000 miles. Must qualify through GM financial. * Must show proof of ownership or lease of a 1999 model year or newer Toyota, Honda, Hyundai, Mitsubishi, Mazda, Nissan, Subaru or Kia. All prices plus tax, title and license. Residency restrictions apply. See dealer for details. Artwork for illustration purposes only.

All vehicles are subject to pre-sale. Expires 04/02/2018.

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*Must qualify and finance through GM Financial. ** Must show proof of ownership or lease of a 1999 model year or newer Toyota, Honda, Hyundai, Mitsubishi, Mazda, Nissan, Subaru or Kia. ***Offer includes price reduction below MSRP and Cash Allowance (not available with special financing, lease or other offers). Residency restrictions apply.

Artwork for illustration purposes only. All vehicles are subject to pre-sale. All prices plus tax, title and license. Expires 04/02/2018.

“No Matter Where You Live, Come Home!”

(956) 487-2596 1-800-509-0003 • www.riomotors.com

SPACE AVAILABLE CALL 956-487-6544

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Masonic Hope Lodge Day

MARCH 21, 2018 SECTION II, PAGE 1

Rio Grande City Masonic Lodge (Hope Lodge)holds local Masonic Day

On March 5th, Rio’s local Masonic held several events as part of its Masonic Hope Lodge day. The day started with the placing of Hope Lodge’s logo/disk at the entrance to the city’s historic district on intersection of Main and 2nd streets. Several lodge members were in attendance to dedicate the Logo. RGC city commissioners Hernan Garza and Rey Ramirez, city manager Alberto Perez represented the city at the event.

(Local RGC Hope Lodge Members, city commissioners and city manager present lodge logo/disc to Rio Grande City’s historic entrance) The second event was conducted at Fort Ringgold at the Robert E. Lee House.

Mrs. Elia Ramos conducted a short tour of the Lee House to local lodge members.

Mr. Sam Ramos lodge elder gave a short history of the Rio Grande City lodge established in 1877. After the lecture, Hope lodge members presented a historic sign to be placed at the Lee House signifying the lodge’s history and indicating that the Lee House served as the first Rio Grande City Masonic lodge.

(Local RGC Hope Lodge members present historic signage to the Robert E. Lee House. The Lee House served as the RGC’s Hope Lodge first site of the lodge.)

In the evening, Hope lodge hosted an open house to the recently renovated lodge located on main street. Several members of the community attended including local historians Mr. R.C. Salinas and Mr. Joel Garza. Mayor Joel Villarreal also attended the open house.

Guests were given a tour of the lodge enjoyed good food to include a dish of tasty chicken adobo a Philippine dish.

The evening formal event began with recognition of Lodge member Mr. Boone LaGrange. Mr. LaGrange was recognized for his 60 years of service to Hope Lodge. He received a Texas Mason 60 year pin, a certificate of service and a gift bag. His lovely wife Wilma accompanied Boone.

(Lodge member Sabas Chapa presents Mr. Boone LaGrange a 60 year Texas Mason Pin) After the local recognitions, lodge member Nate Fultz treated the guests to a presentation on the life of “Major Samuel Ringgold” who was a mason and the namesake of Fort Ringgold. Members and guest continued the discussions and camaraderie into the evening. It was a successful event that a future open house is planned in the Winter 2018 time frame.

For more information on Hope Lodge please feel free to contact Ross Barrera at 956-735-4790.

(Lodge member Nate Fultz conducts a presentation the life of Major Samuel Ringgold a mason) (Rio Grande City masonic lodge members host open house. Top left to right: Sabas Chapa, Rene Garza, Ruben Saenz, Sam Ramos, B o o n e LaGrange, Nate Fultz, Hernan Garza IV, Eloy Rodriguez.

Ross Barrera.

Lower left to right: Joseph Cervantes, Thomas Rodriguez, Rene Zarate, John Silva, Roque Rivera, Roel Olson III).

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For more information, please contact: Estela Hernandez @ 279-3175 or Patricio Hernandez @ 735-9914 1960 W. U.S. Highway 83 (old Grande Garbage truck yard).

Approximately 1/4 mile on the right before getting to Hospital Road if traveling towards Roma.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MARCH 21, 2018, SECTION II, PAGE 2

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If interested, please email your resume to: officemanager@falconlakenh.com

PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT/NURSE PRACTITIONER NUESTRA CLINICA DEL VALLE (NCDV) has employment opportunity in Rio Grande City/Roma for a Physician Assistant or Nurse Practitioner. Must be credentialed to practice in Texas. Bilingual (English/ Spanish) communication skills preferred. Apply online at www.nuestraclinicadelvalle.org Mail resume to NCDV, P.O. Box 1689, Pharr, TX 78577; in person 801 W. First Street, San Juan, TX 78589. EOE

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• Maintains patient accounts by obtaining, recording, and updating personal and financial information.

• Obtains revenue by recording and updating financial information; recording and collecting client charges; controlling credit extended to patients; filing, collecting, and expediting third-party claims.

• Maintains business office inventory and equipment by checking stock to determine inventory level; anticipating needed supplies; placing and expediting orders for supplies; verifying receipt of supplies; scheduling equipment service and repairs.

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People with disabilities who wish to request a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should contact the property manager. Spanish speakers and those requiring an interpreter should call the office at 956-487-0022. Las personas con discapacidad que deseaen solicitor in acomodo razonable para completer el proceso de solicitud deberan comunicarse con la gerente de la propiedad. Personas que hablan espanol y requieren un interprete favor llamar la oficina 956-487-0022 o manager@grancieloapts.com

HPV Causes Cancer — A Vaccine Can Prevent It More than 30,000 Americans develop one of several kinds of cancer each year caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) — some of which will kill them.

Fortunately, physicians say a tooseldom-used vaccine can protect people from HPV-caused cancers of the cervix, vulva, vagina, penis, anus, and oropharynx (head and neck).

The threat is real: About eight in 10 people in the U.S. will get the potentially deadly HPV virus during their lifetime. HPV is the world’s most common sexually transmitted infection, which also can spread through intimate skinto-skin contact. People in their teens and 20s get most of the 14 million new HPV infections each year. The danger emerges much later.

“These cancers appear about 20 years after the initial infection,” said Jason Terk, MD, a Keller pediatrician and member of TMA’s Be Wise — ImmunizeSM Physician Advisory Panel.

About 79 million Americans currently are infected with HPV, according to the Journal of the National Cancer Institute. That is nearly equal to the total populations of Texas, Florida, New York, and Illinois combined.

However, the vaccine against HPV can prevent 13 of the more than 120 HPV strains that cause cancer — and it’s available for adolescents and young adults. The HPV vaccine has been around for more than a decade, but Texas’ vaccination rate is very low — even lower than the national average, which trails the rate of numerous

other countries. Knowing the power of prevention, the physicians of the Texas Medical Association (TMA) urge parents to get their adolescents vaccinated.

“Make sure you get your kids vaccinated at 11 or 12 years of age, so they don’t have to worry about a cancer 20 years later,” said Dr. Terk.

“Having a vaccine available that can prevent so many different cancers is incredible,” said LiYu Mitchell, MD, a Tyler family physician and member of TMA’s Be Wise — ImmunizeSM Physician Advisory Panel.

The HPV vaccine is 97 percent to 100 percent effective at preventing cancer-causing HPV infections.

HPV shots have no known serious side effects. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends two doses of vaccine six months apart for boys and girls younger than 15, as the shots are most effective if given before people become sexually active.

Older teens and people in their 20s who are sexually active still can benefit from vaccination, however.

The HPV vaccination covers nine strains of the virus, so the vaccine offers protection against any strain to which the person has not been exposed. The agency recommends three doses of the vaccine for those 15 and older.

HPV causes all cervical cancers, which often are lethal. Cervical cancer also is the world’s fourth most common cancer in women (according to the World Health Organization).

Head-and-neck cancer diagnoses

have become more frequent than cervical cancer. Between 2008 and 2012, 11,700 cases of cervical cancer in women and 12,600 headand-neck cancers in males were reported, according to CDC. The agency blames about 70 percent of head-and-neck cancers on HPV. Head-and-neck cancers tend to affect mostly men, usually when they reach their 40s or 50s.

For millions of people with HPV, the virus can be harmless and go away on its own. However, others will contract cancer, and infections from some HPV strains also cause genital warts and warts on the hands and feet.

Even though the shot prevents cancer, HPV vaccination rates in the United States are low. Health reports show in 2015, 40.9 percent of Texas females got the HPV vaccinations, and less than one in four (24 percent) of males received the shots. Conversely, Australia has a 73-percent vaccination rate.

Physicians strongly encourage the shots to prevent unnecessary illness and death.

“As a physician, I have always recommended the HPV series of vaccines to my patients, and, as a parent, my three kids will definitely be getting the shots,” said Dr. Mitchell. “Given the benefits without significant risks, it just makes sense.”

Find more information on HPV and vaccinations on the TMA website.

TMA is the largest state medical society in the nation, representing more than 51,000 physician and medical student members.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MARCH 21, 2018, SECTION II, PAGE 3

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MARCH 21, 2018, SECTION II, PAGE 4

LEGAL NOTICE Application has been made with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission for a WINE AND BEER R E TA I L E R ’ S O F F PREMISE PERMIT by: MI RANCHITO COUNTRY STORE LLC dba M I R A N C H I TO COUNTRY STORE LLC to be located at 784 N. FM 2360, RIO GRANDE CITY, STARR COUNTY, TEXAS. Managers of said LLC are DOROTEO PEÑA & CRISELDA SAENZ.

Hispid cotton rats have amazing fecundity!

Today, as it occasionally happens, while sitting beside my motorhome reading and observing the birds, I saw a hispid cotton

LEGAL NOTICE Application has been made with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission for a WINE AND BEER R E TA I L E R ’ S O F F PREMISE PERMIT by: BELINDA PASTRANO d b a L A T I E N D I TA to be located at 75 N. SAN JULIAN RD., 'B', ESCOBARES, STARR COUNTY, TEXAS.

rat. It sneaked out from the brush to snack on some grain I had scattered on the ground for the birds.

I’ve never seen more than one at a time and they’re always very skittish, disappearing at the slightest disturbance. There’s a bit of a puzzle in that for me as I’ll explain.

Hispid cotton rats are about 10 inches long with the tail being shorter than the head and body.

The fur is a bit stiff and grizzled.

That is, the fur is a mixture of gray, brown and black. They have black eyes and prominent rounded ears.

They prefer to live in grassy areas

where they eat mostly grass stems and, as today, some seeds. I enjoy watching them and, here at Rancho Lomitas, they don’t seem to do any harm. I can’t say the same for the plains wood rats who also live here.

I should mention that hispid cotton rats may be active during the day as well as at night, which is why I get to occasionally watch them.

Now to the puzzle. Hispid cotton rats are amazingly reproductive!

Males are sexually mature by the age of two months; females mature in a month and a half. Females may have two to several litters per year, commonly 5 but the recorded

record is 9, and may mate again within 24 hours after giving birth.

Each litter numbers 2 to 10 and, here in the Valley, hispids mate all year.

At that rate, if there’s a new generation of hispids about every couple of months, a female could be a great-great-great-grandmother at the tender age of 1 year and already be an ancestor of over 15,000 rats. Keep that reproductive rate going for just three years and our female’s chain of offspring could number over 3 million!

Needless to say, there have been a few recorded outbreaks of huge numbers of hispid cotton rats and they have caused agricultural damage but it’s very uncommon.

So the puzzle is, with their fecundity and skittish, protective life style, why do I see so few? Well friends, life can be tough. Predators are many including hawks, owls, coyotes, bobcats, snakes, etc., etc.

Food, mostly grasses, is at times limited by weather conditions; think about our recent droughts.

Most importantly, as populations increase, diseases appear and can spread rapidly through large, dense populations. Life for hispid cotton rats is dangerous, challenging and often short.

I enjoy the few hispids I see and am thankful that our healthy ecosystem keeps everything in balance.

Grulla High School Hosted a South Texas College Department Fair

Grulla High School hosted a South Texas College Department Fair on February 27th and March 6th.

Students from all grade levels were invited to speak with the different departments during their lunch period. Students were given information for admissions, dual enrollment, department highlights and job opportunities in their respective field. Special Thank You to Mayra Lozano, College Connection Specialist, and Dr. Arturo Montiel, Starr Campus Administrator, for setting up the event. Thanks to this program our Gators are more informed of the options available at South Texas College.

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