March 6, 2024

Benavidez Announces Re-Election Campaign for South Texas College Board of Trustees - District 1

February 16, 2024 (Starr

(STC) Board of Trustees District 1 seat. “It has been an honor and privilege to serve my community and with your support, I look forward to continue to build and strengthen the collaborative success that ensure that our students’ educational needs are met and our community’s economic prosperity thrives,” said Benavidez. “Together, we have created transformational and generational change that has been vital to the progress of our region, but our work is not done.” She added.

As a native of Starr County and serving as the President of the Starr County Industrial Foundation (SCIF), Benavidez has witnessed the challenges involved in overcoming high unemployment and poverty

levels. To that end she has devoted her professional career to developing the local economy, while improving access to education and creating job opportunities. Her economic and workforce development background has allowed her to bring a unique voice to STC and has served as an asset in developing practical programs that complement the area’s employment forecasts. She currently serves as Chair of the board, a position that has helped her ensure that the needs and concerns of Starr County remain a priority. As the first Latina elected to lead the national Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) she has been able to share our local successes nationally and across the globe while exploring innovative ideas that can be beneficial to our region.

During her tenure, she has championed projects and

RGC Percussion Studio Participated in U.I.L Solo and Ensembles

initiatives that have extensively grown the college’s campus facilities footprint, improved the lives of the nearly 34,000 Jaguars that attend per semester and saved families over $300MIL in tuition costs in just the last ten years. “The impact we have collectively made has systematically advanced our regions competitiveness and the economic outlook of our residents, but we cannot rest until every single person is afforded the right to dream and provided the tools that can make them a reality,” Benavidez stated.

In communities like Starr County economic challenges are compounded by limited federal and state funding, despite that the very essence of economic vitality is driven by an educated workforce. It is only in great part through the partnerships between STC and the local school districts that this community continues to create a college going culture and

produce college ready students. Benavidez remains committed to expanding free dual enrollment and increasing the level of program offerings in Starr County, because she believes that achievement remains closely tied to the opportunities in higher education provided to our residents. “It remains true today, that in a global economy where knowledge is power, excellence in education is not just a mere advantage, but a fundamental necessity that our community deserves,” Benavidez stated.

To join the effort and strengthen the movement or to learn more about the campaign, you can attend one of the upcoming townhalls (date and locations to be announced) or you may visit rosebenavidez.com.

Dalinda Guillen Joins Texas Regional Bank

On behalf of the Rio Grande City Rattler Band we would like to extend a congratulations to all the members of the RGC Percussion Studio who participated in U.I.L Solo and Ensembles. The following students earned a Division 1 on their Class 1 Solos and as well for their class 1 Ensembles: Dennis Gonzalez, Emma Veloso, Esmeralda Garza, Carolina Flores, Laurel Cantu, Sophia Cepeda, Idany Lopez, Arora Cantu, and Jaime Garcia. The following students earn a Division 1 on their Class 1 Ensemble: Angel Lopez, Angel Villarreal, and Camila Bazan. The following students earn a Division 1: Juan Zorola - on a Class 2 Solo, Joseph Romero - on a Class 2 Solo, Deseny Aguirre - on a Class 3 Solo. 24 medals in total. Thank you for representing our school and the district in this U.I.L Competition. Keep up the GREAT work!

Dalinda Guillen has joined Texas Regional Bank (TRB) as its Market Manager for Starr and Hidalgo County. She will hold a dual role where she will help grow commercial banking relationships as well as support the economic development division in the region, including helping with TRB’s public policy efforts at the federal, state, and local legislative levels. Guillen’s career has led her to hold various positions both in the public and private sector where she has garnered an array of skills ranging from public relations in the healthcare sector to navigating various levels of government from city halls to our state’s capital. “Dalinda has a unique skillset that we are very excited about, not to mention, a wealth of experience in the region and throughout the state. As we worked with her to expand into the Rio Grande City area, it became clear that she was someone who aligned well with TRB’s culture

and mindset. We are excited to have her on our team,” said Brent Baldree, President, Commercial Banking.

Dalinda previously served, for nearly a decade, as the Executive Director of the Rio Grande City Economic Development Council where she worked alongside the Mayor, City Council, and the City Administration to develop and advance economic development strategies that helped to attract, DALINDA GUILLEN, page 2

Congratulations to RGCHS Women’s Powerlifting Team!

On February 15, 2024 the Girls Last Chance Qualifier was held at Rio Grande City High School, at the weight room. It was a successful event thanks to all the staff, coaches, volunteers, and table workers/ spotters/loaders. On behalf of RGCHS we greatly appreciate all your help and support.

The meet results are as follows: Britney Gonzalez (114lbs) 3rd place, Danna Ruiz (123lbs) 3rd place, Camila Bazan (165lbs) 2nd place, Maya Magallanes (242lbs) 1st place, and Perla Ortiz (242lbs) 2nd place.

Congratulations to Junior Danna Ruiz (123lbs), Sophomore Perla Ortiz (242lbs) and Junior Maya Magallanes (242lbs) they advanced to Regionals (February 28, 2024 at the Bert Ogden Arena).

Rio Grande City High School

commend all the hard-work and dedication of the ladies that competed this season. They consistently pushed their limits, upheld the sport’s rules and ethics, supported fellow lifters, celebrated each others victories, and gracefully accepted defeat. These ladies set a shining example for aspiring powerlifters everywhere. RGCHS couldn’t be more proud!

Full team roster: Sandy Aguilar (114), Britney Gonzalez (114), Danna Ruiz (123), Melanie

Again Rio Grande City High School recognize these amazing athletes and their accomplishments throughout their season, and wish all the seniors good luck on their future endeavors. Once a Rattler always a Rattler!

CITY OF ROMA POLICE DEPARTMENT

NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION

Notice is hereby given, pursuant to Chapter 59 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure and Transportation Code 683, Subsection B, 683.012, of the Texas Department of Transportation that the City of Roma Police Department, Roma, Texas will hold a public auction on Saturday March 23, 2024, at 10:00am for said vehicles, equipment & property items. Location: 2101 I-69C, Edinburg, Texas 78542. Registration to bid will be from 8:00am to 10:00am and will require a picture identification. Items to be auctioned are vehicles, equipment, and property items. All items will be sold “As Is-Where Is” to the highest bidder. Onsite Buyer’s Premium for weapons is 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 3.99% processing fee. Checks accepted day of auction only with certain conditions. For additional information, please contact Bond and Bond Auctioneers (956) 283-0422 Jose A. Camarillo AUC#17532.

Portillo (132), Amanda Garza (148), Mariely Alaniz (148), Mia Garcia (148), Violet Vela (148), Camila Bazan (165), Kia Gutierrez (165), Perla Ortiz (242), and Maya Magallanes (242).

Rio Grande City PD Engages Students at RGCGISD Career Day

The Rio Grande City Police Department took part in the Rio Grande City Grulla Independent School District’s Career Day, offering students a unique opportunity to gain insight into the daily operations of law enforcement professionals. This collaborative event served as an invaluable platform for students to explore potential career paths and learn firsthand about the responsibilities and challenges faced by members of the police department.

During the Career Day event, representatives from the Rio Grande City Police Department engaged with students in interactive sessions, providing them with a comprehensive overview of the department’s functions and responsibilities.

Students had the chance to learn about various aspects of police work, including patrol duties, criminal investigations, community outreach initiatives, and specialized units. “Events like Career Day offer us an opportunity to connect with students and inspire them to consider careers in law enforcement,” stated Rio Grande City Police Dept. Chief Noe Castillo. “By providing students with a glimpse into our daily work, we hope to cultivate a sense of trust and understanding between the police department

and the community we serve.”

The Rio Grande City Police Department remains dedicated to engaging with the community and inspiring the next generation of law enforcement professionals. Through initiatives like Career Day, the department continues to foster positive relationships and promote career awareness among students in the Rio Grande City Grulla ISD.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given that the Planning and Zoning Commission for the City of Roma will hold a Public Hearing on Monday, March 18, 2024, at 5:30 P.M. at the Roma City Council Chambers, located at 201 W. Convent Ave, Roma, Texas to consider the following case(s):

1) The City of Roma has proposed an Amendment to the City of Roma Code of Ordinances, Chapter 95 – Zoning (Article II, Article III, Appendix A, B, and C).

2) The City of Roma has proposed an amendment to the Official Zoning Map to reflect the most current Zoning Ordinance Amendments.

The City Council for the City of Roma will be holding a Public Hearing for the case(s) on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, at 5:30 p.m., at the Roma City Council Chambers, located at 201 W. Convent Ave., Roma, Texas.

Congratulations to Roma High School’s Mariachi Nuevo Santander on earning a Division 1 at the State UIL Mariachi Festival! In addition, all members of Mariachi Nuevo Santander earned “Outstanding Performer Medals”. We would like to acknowledge these hardworking students and directors for their dedication and commitment to the excellence of the mariachi program, and also congratulate their parents!!! (Thanks to PAC Director Daniel Renteria for the report.)

On February 28, 2024, Governor Greg Abbott announced that Texas is extending postpartum coverage to 12 months for eligible Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) recipients through the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC), effective March 1, 2024.

“Working with partners in the Texas Legislature last year— including Senator Lois Kolkhorst and Representative Toni Rose— we delivered critical bipartisan legislation to extend postpartum coverage for Texas mothers from two months to one year,” said Governor Abbott. “By extending postpartum Medicaid and CHIP coverage, we will help ensure new mothers and the most vulnerable young Texans receive critical healthcare resources they need to care for their families and thrive.”

“Extending postpartum coverage will help new mothers access

needed healthcare services,” said HHS Executive Commissioner Cecile Erwin Young. “HHSC is proud to continue supporting Texas families.”

Last year, Governor Abbott signed House Bill 12 into law, extending Medicaid and CHIP postpartum coverage from two to 12 months. Anyone enrolled in Medicaid or CHIP who is pregnant or becomes pregnant is eligible for the extended coverage. In January, the Governor and HHSC announced that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services approved Texas’ request to make this extension of postpartum coverage.

Coverage will be automatically reinstated for individuals who were enrolled in Medicaid or CHIP in Texas while pregnant and are still within their 12-month postpartum period, as long as they still live in Texas. Coverage will

be reinstated for the remainder of their 12-month postpartum period.

Women who transitioned from Medicaid or CHIP to Healthy Texas Women after their pregnancy ended and are still within their 12-month postpartum period will be transitioned back to full-coverage Medicaid or CHIP for the remainder of their 12-month postpartum period.

Among the numerous services covered by Medicaid and CHIP are: Regular medical checkups, Prescription drugs and vaccines, Hospital care and services, X-rays and lab tests, Vision and hearing care, Access to medical specialists and mental health care, Treatment of special health needs and preexisting conditions.

Find more information on Medicaid and CHIP postpartum coverage on HHSC’s Women and Children webpage. To apply call 2-1-1 and choose Option 2 or visit YourTexasBenefits.com.

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS FOR ENGINEER

The City of Roma, Texas (the “City”) requests the submission of qualifications statements, which will lead to the possible award of contracts to provide services for a project involving the City’s waterworks system.

Scope of Work

Services to be provided by Engineer: professional engineering services associated with proposed (a) planning, permitting, environmental, design and construction management phase services and other additional services associated with the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) Water System Improvements Project Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF); and (b) assistance in application preparation and documentation to federal, state, and other possible funding sources.

Guidelines for Content of Qualification Statements

DO NOT INCLUDE COST INFORMATION with the qualification statement. Responses that include cost or pricing information will be rejected and will not be considered by the City.

Detailed instructions on preparation of the qualification statement must be obtained from the City. For more information on preparing and submitting the qualification statement, contact City Manager Alex Barrera, at (956) 849-1411 or abarrera@ cityofroma.net. This information should be requested as soon as possible to allow time to prepare the document and comply with the procedures.

Submittal Deadline

One (1) copy of the qualifications statement must be received by the City by no later than 4:00 PM (Central) on March 29, 2024, at the offices of the City of Roma, 201 W. Convent Blvd., Roma, Texas 78584, Attn: Alex Barrera, City Manager.

Minimum Qualifications and Selection Criteria

The City will evaluate the proposals to determine which firm has the best qualifications.

Contract Terms and Negotiation Schedule

Consultants for Bond Counsel, Financial Advisor, Engineering services are expected to negotiate an agreement for services which is acceptable to the City. If an acceptable contract cannot be negotiated, the City may formally end negotiations and begin negotiating with the next highest qualified person or firm.

Contracts are contingent upon release of funds from the TWDB. Any contract awarded under the Requests for Qualifications (RFQs) are expected to be funded in part by a loan from the TWDB. Neither the State of Texas nor any of its departments, agencies, or employees are or will be a party to the RFQs, or any resulting contract. These RFQs are issued in accordance with Section 2254 of the Texas Government Code (Professional Services Act) and Title 40 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 31 (Uniform Administrative Requirements for Grants and Cooperative Agreements to State and Local Governments).

This contract is subject to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program, which includes EPA-approved fair share goals toward procurement of Minority and Women-owned Business Enterprise (M/WBE) firms. EPA rules require that applicants and prime contractors make a good faith effort to award a fair share of contracts, subcontracts, and procurements to M/WBEs through demonstration of the six affirmative steps. For more details of the DBE Program and the current, applicable fair share goals, please visit www.twdb.texas.gov/dbe.

Equal Opportunity in Employment - All qualified Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, handicap, or national origin. Bidders on this work will be required to comply with the President’s Executive Order No. 11246, as amended by Executive Order 11375, and as supplemented in Department of Labor regulations 41 CFR Part 60. Small, minority, and women-owned business enterprises are encouraged to respond.

Prime contractors are required to comply with EPA’s good faith effort policy when awarding sub-agreements for construction, supplies, equipment, and services. A complete version of TWDB document, “Guidance for Utilization of Small, Minority, and Women-Owned Businesses in Procurement”, is available at: www.twdb.texas. gov/financial/instructions/doc/TWDB-0210.pdf

Now Hiring Ranch Hand Se Solicita Trabajador de Rancho

General ranch work: feeding, fence work, tractor (mowing, shredding, farming, road work)

Maintenance skills a plus.

Location Guerra Tx.

Full Time Employment

Pay Based on Experience.

For more info. call (956) 735-6628

Trabajo general en el rancho: alimentación, trabajo de cercas, tractor (corte, trituración, agricultura, trabajo en caminos) Las habilidades de mantenimiento son una ventaja. Ubicación Guerra Tx. Empleo de tiempo completo: pago basado en la experiencia. Para más información. llame al (956) 735-6628

Code & Chapter 59 of

Texas Code

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 23rd, 2024, 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 will be from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. and will require a picture identification. Examples of items to be auctioned are cars, trucks, heavy equipment, personal computers, electronics, office furniture, surplus, etc. All items will be sold “As Is - Where Is” to the highest bidder. Onsite Buyer’s Premium 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 3.99% processing fee. Checks accepted “day of auction” only with certain conditions. For additional information, please contact the County of Starr Sheriff ’s Office, at (956) 487-5571. AUC#17532 - Jose A. Camarillo

Advertisement and Invitation for Bids

Request for Proposal - Construction Skill Instructor Contract #7219013

The Starr County Self Help Center is inviting qualified and experienced individuals to submit bids for the Construction Skill Instructor contract. We are seeking a skilled Instructor to conduct 10 classes at the Starr County Self Help Center.

· Project Overview:

We invite proposals from qualified and experienced individuals to provide Construction Skills Classes. The selected bidder will be responsible for conducting 10 classes, with a focus on repairing or building a home and/or installing necessary residential infrastructure.

· Scope of Work:

The Construction Class Instructor will be required to:

1. Develop a curriculum for 10 classes covering basic concepts of carpentry, tile installation, door installation, home repairs, masonry or other.

2. Conduct classes in a classroom in a bilingual setting.

3. Instruct students on the usage and safety of all power tools.

4. Teach participants to comprehend and execute carpentry, basic tile installation, door installation, masonry tasks, and other.

5. Include all necessary supplies and materials for the classes in the bid proposal.

6. Instruct students with hands-on training.

· Qualifications:

Bidders must possess the following qualifications:

1. Experience as a Construction Class Instructor must be bilingual.

2. Knowledge and experience of construction principles, skills training and practices.

3. Ability to communicate complex concepts to participants.

· Proposal Submission Requirements:

Interested bidders should submit the following documents:

1. Cover Letter: Introducing the bidder and expressing interest in the project.

2. Proposal: Outlining the bidder’s approach to conducting the classes and providing a detailed curriculum.

3. Resume highlighting relevant experience and qualifications.

4. References: Contact information for at least three professional references.

· Evaluation Criteria:

o Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

1. Qualifications and Experience.

2. Proposed Curriculum.

3. Cost Competitiveness.

4. References.

· Cost Details:

1. Cost for a class to include materials and supplies: $____________

2. Total Bid Amount for 10 classes, including materials, hands-on training, and supplies: $_______________

· Submission Deadline:

All proposals must be submitted by March 20, 2024. Late submissions will not be considered.

Bid Submission Requirements:

Bid Packets and statement of qualifications must be received by the Self Help Center no later than 10:00 a.m. on March 20, 2024.

Address for Submission: Starr County Self Help Center, c/o Esmeralda Zarate –Director, 100 N. FM 3167, Rio Grande City, Texas 78582.

Bid Opening: March 21, 2024, at 3:00 p.m.

Location: All submitted bids will be gathered and taken to the Starr County Annex Conference Room to be publicly opened and read aloud. Any bid received after the closing time will be rejected and returned to the bidder unopened. The sealed envelope shall be marked with the following on the lower left-hand corner: Starr County Self Help Center Construction Class Instructor.

Contact Information:

For inquiries and submission of proposals, please contact:

Esmeralda Zarate, Director

10 Mayorga St. Rio Grande City, Texas 78582 (956) 488-2025 or (956) 488-2395.

Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer:

The Starr County Self Help Center and the County of Starr are committed to Affirmative Action and are Equal Opportunity Employers.

Request for Bid –

Project Overview:

The Starr County Self Help Center (SCSHC) is soliciting proposals for Contract #7219013 to provide essential public services in the Starr County Self Help Center Target Areas. This bid invitation is for

Solid Waste Removal services.

Scope of Work:

The selected subcontractor will undertake waste removal activities, in five key colonias (Mesquite, Victoria, Venecia, Share52, and Treviños) including:

1. Large item trash pick-up

2. The objective is to remove approximately 100,000-lbs.in total of solid waste, ensuring proper disposal.

3. Weight tickets are an important requirement.

Bid Packet Contents:

Cover Letter:

1. Introduction and purpose of the bid packet.

2. Contact information for inquiries.

Bid Submission Form:

Company details, contact information for inquiries, and representative signature.

Project Overview and Scope of Work:

Detailed description of project objectives and tasks under solid waste removal service.

Company Profile:

1. Overview and experience in solid waste removal.

2. References (if available).

3. Experience in solid waste removal services.

Technical Proposal:

Approach, methodology, equipment/resources, timeline, safety measures, and environmental considerations.

Financial Proposal:

1. Cost breakdown, total project cost, payment terms.

2. Qualifications and Certifications:

3. Documentation of relevant licenses, certifications, and key personnel qualifications.

Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Statement:

Confirmation of compliance with policies.

Submission Requirements:

Bid Packets and qualifications statements must be received by 10:00 a.m. on March 20, 2024, at:

Starr County Self Help Center

C/o Esmeralda Zarate - Director

100 N. FM 3167

Rio Grande City, Texas 78582

Bid Opening:

Date: March 21, 2024, at 3:00 p.m.

Location: Starr County Annex Conference Room.

Contact Information:

For additional information, contact Esmeralda Zarate, SHC Director, at (956) 488-2025 or (956) 4882395.

Thank you for your interest in serving our community.

Note: Proposals must be received by the County no later than 10:00 am on March 20, 2024, to be considered. The County of Starr reserves the right to negotiate with any and all individuals.

Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity Employer:

The Starr County Self Help Center and the County of Starr are committed to Affirmative Action and are Equal Opportunity Employers. Thank you for your interest in serving our community.