Thalia Muñoz and Maria Lydia Garza 50 Years of Service at Starr County Memorial Hospital
For five decades, Thalia Muñoz and Maria Lydia Garza have dedicated their lives to serving the community with unwavering commitment and compassion.
As healthcare professionals, they have witnessed the evolution of medicine, cared for generations of families, and played a vital role in shaping the hospital’s legacy. Their 50 years of service stand as a testament to their passion for patient care and their deep-rooted connection to the people of Starr County. This article celebrates their remarkable journey, emphasizing the impact they have made and their legacy.
Thalia Munoz “dreamed of becoming a nurse from an early age”. When she earned her nursing degree, she was “eager to return to her roots and work in Starr County”. Her first cousin, Doctor Mario Ramirez, owned a hospital in Roma, Texas. Sharing a passion for healthcare, Dr. Mario Ramirez asked Thalia to continue
Thalia offers valuable advice for individuals starting a career in healthcare. She emphasizes the importance of being passionate about your work. Pursue a career in healthcare not only for the salary it offers but also because you genuinely care about helping others and have a love for the profession.
Maria Lydia Garza returned to her hometown after receiving an offer to work as the Laboratory Director at Starr County Memorial Hospital. Although she had some hesitation about transitioning from a larger hospital to a smaller one, she ultimately decided that Starr County was where she needed to be. She has now been with Starr County Memorial Hospital for 50 years and “truly loves it here” she states.
County and working here. Being involved with patients and their cases makes my work rewarding. She hopes that this facility will continue to serve the community for many years to come.
The contributions of these two remarkable women will always be remembered as a cornerstone of healthcare in Starr County. Their journey is a testament to the power of service, dedication, and genuine passion for caring for others. Happy 50th Anniversary!
Working with the doctors here has been a wonderful experience. The environment feels much more personal compared to my time at McAllen Medical. I appreciated the opportunity that Dr. Ramirez, gave me, and working with Dr. Roberto Gonzalez, and Thalia, who was the director of nurses at the time, were especially supportive. With the support of the hospital board, the lab has significantly expanded and now features state-of-the-art equipment. Compared to larger hospitals, we are very wellequipped. I have formed great friendships here, and I take pride in the advanced equipment that contributes to our success.
be possible.
San Isidro ISD School Board selects Elsa V. Morris as Superintendent
The San Isidro Independent School District approved the hiring of Mrs. Elsa V. Morris as the Superintendent during a special called board meeting on February 11, 2025.
Elsa Morris had recently served as the Interim Superintendent at Rio Grande City Grulla CISD where she spent a span of three decades serving in various administrative roles during her tenure including leading Curriculum and Instruction as Assistant Superintendent.
A graduate of the University of Texas-Pan American, she received a Bachelor of Arts in English, a Master’s in Education: Counseling & Guidance, as well as her Mid-Management Certificate. In 2017, she received her Superintendent Certificate from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Elsa Morris is mother to four children: Gabriela, Felix, Richie, and Mariely, and she is married to Victor Morris.
The San Isidro ISD School Board conducted a comprehensive Superintendent Search with the assistance of Region One Education Service Center that led to the selection of Mrs. Morris.
“We welcome Ms. Morris to our Tiger Family! We are looking forward to working with such a dynamic leader in education,” said David Garza, President of the San Isidro ISD School Board.“Her experience and background are a great fit for our school community.”
Mariachi Grulla De Plata earns Division I at the UIL State Solo and Ensemble Contest
Starr County Memorial Hospital feels like my second home. My children grew up in this community, and my youngest son is now a doctor at Starr County Memorial Hospital. I have no regrets about moving back to Starr
Congratulations to Mariachi Grulla De Plata for earning a Division I at the UIL State Solo and Ensemble Contest held on Thursday February 20, 2025 at Seguin High School Performing Arts Center. In addition, every member of Mariachi Grulla De Plata earned a metal for Outstanding Performance. Once again congratulations and way to represent Gator Nation!!!!
Empowering Veterans Middle School Students: Say Something Week!
The
and the
Through
session,
learned how to recognize warning signs, speak up, and support a safe and inclusive school environment. Together, we can make a difference by looking out for one another and fostering a culture of kindness, awareness, and action.
PUBLIC NOTICE
Thank you to VMS counselors for leading this meaningful conversation and to the students for their engagement and commitment to making our community a safer place.
Remember: If you see something, say something!
Cellco Partnership and its controlled affiliates doing business as Verizon Wireless (Verizon Wireless) is proposing to collocate microwave antennas on the associated equipment shelter for an existing 295-foot tall self-supporting lattice telecommunications facility at an approximate centerline height of 20 feet above ground level. The site location is located 6186 North FM 755, Rio Grande City, Starr County, Texas (26° 26’ 9.5” N, 98° 44’ 48.2” W).
HISTORIC PROPERTIES EFFECTS
Public comments regarding potential effects on historic properties may be submitted within 30 days from the date of this publication to: to Environmental Corporation of America, ATTN: Annamarie Howell, 1375 Union Hill Industrial Court, Suite A, Alpharetta, GA 30004 or via email to publicnotice@eca-usa.com. Ms. Howell can be reached at (770) 667-2040 x 108 during normal business hours. 25-000177 DMG
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
South Texas College is accepting competitive proposals for the following: RFP Number Description Date Due Time 24-25-1051 Purchase of LED Lamps March 13, 2025 2:00 PM
Request for Proposals packages may be obtained at the Purchasing Department located at 3200 W Pecan Blvd Bldg N Ste 145, McAllen, TX 78501 (Corner of Quince & 31st St) or by calling 956-872-4681. Responses received after the specified time and date will not be considered and will be returned unopened. Email or Facsimile responses will not be accepted. All responses must be submitted in a sealed envelope. Responses need to be clearly marked on the envelope with the RFP number.
The successful respondent will not be determined on the opening date.
Questions regarding this RFP or requests for additional information should be addressed to Deyadira Leal, Director of Purchasing, 956-872-4681 daleal@southtexascollege.edu, or Gil Cisneros, Senior Buyer-Construction, 956-872-4671 gacisneros@southtexascollege.edu
Responses to the RFP must be submitted to South Texas College, 3200 W Pecan Blvd Bldg N Ste 145, McAllen, TX 78501.
South Texas College is an equal education and equal employment opportunity/affirmative action employer. As an equal opportunity employer, the College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, disability, genetic information, or veteran status.
Vendors are encouraged to visit the South Texas College’s Purchasing Department website to complete the 2-part Bonfire vendor registration for receiving solicitations at: https://southtexascollege.bonfirehub.com/login
ACBE 4th grade science students learn about natural resources
‘Spring Forward’ Sunday, March
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
South Texas College is accepting competitive proposals for the following:
Request for Proposals packages may be obtained at the Purchasing Department located at 3200 W Pecan Blvd Bldg N Ste 145, McAllen, TX 78501 (Corner of Quince & 31st St) or by calling 956-872-4681. Responses received after the specified time and date will not be considered and will be returned unopened. Email or Facsimile responses will not be accepted. All responses must be submitted in a sealed envelope. Responses need to be clearly marked on the envelope with the RFP number.
The successful respondent will not be determined on the opening date.
Questions regarding this RFP or requests for additional information should be addressed to Deyadira Leal, Director of Purchasing, 956-872-4681 daleal@southtexascollege.edu, or Billy Langley, Senior Buyer, 956-872-4682 welangle@southtexascollege.edu. Responses to the RFP must be submitted to South Texas College, 3200 W Pecan Blvd Bldg N Ste 145, McAllen, TX 78501.
South Texas College is an equal education and equal employment opportunity/affirmative action employer. As an equal opportunity employer, the College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, disability, genetic information, or veteran status.
Vendors are encouraged to visit the South Texas College’s Purchasing Department website to complete the 2-part Bonfire vendor registration for receiving solicitations at: https://southtexascollege.bonfirehub.com/login
Alberto & Celia Barrera Elementary 4th grade science students learned about natural resources (renewable and non renewable resources) and ways to conserve the environment. They recycled newspaper to create their own personalized piñatas, students enjoyed this hands-on activities and loved the beautiful creations!
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Veterans Middle School students participated in an important and impactful presentation led by the counselors about Say Something Week
Sandy Hook Promise.
this
students
Roma High School Mighty Lady Gladiator Powerlifting Team competed
CONGRATULATIONS
to the Roma High School
Mighty Lady Gladiator Powerlifting Team on an amazing showing at the Region 5 Championships in Edinburg!
1st Place Medalist and Region 5 Champion
Kayleen Perez heads back to the State Championships to see if she can be a 3-peat State Champ!!
4th Place Medalists - Ana Gonzalez and Yanelly Garza, 5th Place Medalist - Janie Lopez, 7th Place - Kamila Acosta, 8th Place
at the Region 5 Championships
- Rimberlyn De Anda, and 11th Place - Jessica Barron.
THE COUNTY OF STARR SHERIFF’S OFFICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION
Notice is hereby given, pursuant to Chapter 263.153 of the Texas Local Government Code & 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 County of Starr Sheriff ’s Office, Rio Grande City, Texas will hold a public auction on Saturday, March 29 , 2025, 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: 2101 I-69C, Edinburg, TX 78542. Registration to bid live will be from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. and will require a picture identification or register online at www.bondauctioneers.com. 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 14%, Internet Buyer’s Premium 16%. 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 3.50% processing fee. Cashier Checks accepted, No personal or business checks. For additional information, please contact the County of Starr Sheriff ’s Office, at (956) 4875571. AUC#17532 - Jose A. Camarillo
F. J. Scott Elementary School Battle of the
Books
Team 1st Place in the Regional Battle of the Books Competition
Congratulations to the F. J. Scott Elementary School Battle of the Books Team for winning 1st Place in the Regional Battle of the Books Competition!! Way to go Knights!!!! (Thanks to Principal Diana Perez for sharing this great news.)
The Gladiator Nation is super proud of these awesome student athletes and looks forward to cheering on Kayleen at state!!! (Thanks to Coach Mario Arce for the report.)
Strategies to manage and tame stress
Stress is a part of life. In small doses, stress can have a positive effect. But when stress is chronic, it can take its toll on the body and mind.
Stress can make people irritable and cause them to lash out at others. Stress also can contribute to high blood pressure and adversely affect sleep. When confronting chronic stress, individuals may have to take action to find relief. These stressbusting strategies can help.
· Engage in physical activity. The Mayo Clinic says any form of exercise can help relieve stress. Physical activity boosts chemicals in the brain and endorphins that help a person feel good. Exercise also can refocus attention so a person is not preoccupied with a stressful thought or situation.
· Listen to music. Music can be calming and serve as a distraction
from stressful feelings. Simply listening to music can be a quick fix for a stressful situation and a bad mood.
· Review your lifestyle. It’s easy to take on too much, but doing so can lead to feelings of being overwhelmed, says the Mental Health Foundation. Prioritizing some things over others and delegating when possible can tame stress.
· Practice mindfulness.
Breathing and mindfulness exercises can be practiced anywhere. Research has shown that mindfulness can reduce the effects of stress and anxiety. Deep breathing and being in a quiet moment when stress peaks may help to reduce stress.
· Talk it out. Sometimes connecting with others and sharing experiences can help to relieve stress. Keeping feelings in and fixating on a situation may exacerbate feelings of stress. Social situations that encourage talking and laughing can lighten a person’s mental load, says the Mayo Clinic.
· Don’t turn to substances. Alcohol and drugs may temporarily relieve stress, but this approach can lead to addiction and even worsen the physical and mental toll stress takes on the body.
Stress is a part of life, but finding ways to manage chronic stress is vital to long-term health.
· Step away for a few minutes. If possible, step away from a stressful situation, whether it is a difficult project at work or a loud room with a lot of activity going on. Many people find commuting stressful. Changing the route to one that avoids busy roads, even if it takes a bit longer to get from point A to point B, might help.
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE TERMS AND PROVISIONS OF THE TEXAS ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CODE THAT, AYVAZ PIZZA, LLC HAS FILED AN APPLICATION FOR A WINE AND MALT BEVERAGE RETAIL DEALER’S ON PREMISE PERMIT, TO BE ISSUED TO PIZZA HUT #39228, LOCATED AT 229 E GRANT ST, ROMA, STARR COUNTY, TEXAS 78584
SHOUKATALI DHANANI – MANAGER/MEMBER
PUBLIC NOTICE
JOB OPENING
Position: Full Time/Part-Time Bookkeeper
Qualifications:
• Proficient typing, computer, and office management
• Effective organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Bilingual: English and Spanish
• Income tax preparation experience (preferred)
• QuickBooks software experience (preferred)
• Bookkeeping experience required
• Knowledge in payroll and sales tax reports preferred but not required
Please email resume to mario@mendezandrobles.com
NOW HIRING Full-Time Social Worker
Job qualifications: Responsible for identifying medically related social and emotional needs of patients. The social service worker will be responsible for implementing discharge planning, as well as following through on multi-disciplinary patient care planning. She/he will also be responsible for communicating with families, making the community aware of the facility’s social services, and encouraging staff to become more aware of the patients’ psychosocial needs.
Experience: Prior Work Experience 1 to 2 years. Student practice provided as required to obtain degree in Social Work.
Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work
Starr County Memorial Hospital Attn: Diana Garza, Human Resources 128 N FM 3167
Rio Grande City, Texas 78582-6211 (956) 370-6016
Apply on line at www.starrcountyhospital.com or send resume to HR Department: diana.garza@starrcountyhospital.com Starr County Memorial Hospital is an equal employment opportunity employer.
