MAY 19, 2021 by Starr County Town Crier

STARR VISION CENTER

487-2440

300 East Main St. R.G.C.

Dr. Angie Ramirez Therapeutic Optometrist

CASTAÑEDA Auto Insurance & Bail Bonds

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

The Law Ofﬁce Of

J.M. “Chema” Garza Vol. 36, No. 20 WEEKLY WEDNESDAY • MAY 19, 2021 Ofﬁce (956) 487-6544 - Fax (956) 487-6165 - E-Mail: sctc78582@aol.com - www.starrcountytowncrier.com

Criminal Cases (Federal/State) Car Accidents/ 18 Wheeler Divorces • Real Estate/Deeds

956-317-1167 206 N. Britton Ave. Ste.B, R.G.C. jmchemagarza@gmail.com

Rio Grande City Accepted into RGV The City of La Grulla sworn 487-2596 Metropolitan Planning Organization in a new leadership team 4343 E. Hwy. 83 R.G.C.

Installment Loans 311 E Main St Rio Grande City TX 78582-4448

Phone (956) 487-3925

Rio Grande City Mayor Joel Villarreal and Roma Mayor Jaime Escobares Jr. were present to receive acceptance into the Rio Grande Valley Metropolitan Organization on behalf of all cities in Starr County at a meeting in April.

Rio Grande City Mayor Joel Villarreal, as well as other Starr County ofﬁcials, attended the April meeting of the Rio Grande Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization to accept membership to the group on behalf of the City. The RGVMPO is a federally

Dr. Raymond Cruz Best

funded program that works with Rio Grande Valley communities and the Texas Department of transportation to plan for the region’s future transportation needs. The MPO also serves as a collaborative structure of committees and organizations that creates partnerships to

address this region’s needs. This will allow the Valley and Rio Grande City to plan for future development in transportation needs, especially with border crossings in mind. This also allows planning to take place with Starr County cities offering localized feedback.

Mayor Patricia Solis, Commissioner Andy Hernandez and Commissioner Lorena Solis. The new team was sworn in by the 229th District Attorney Gocha Allen Ramirez on May 11, 2021. In front of a jubilant and enthusiastic crowd of over a hundred people, each leader thanked the Lord and the community for trusting them with the new responsibility. Mayor Patricia Solis thanked the previous administration for

their contributions to the City of La Grulla during their tenure. The Mayors of Sullivan City and Rio Grande City also attended the ceremony. Mayor Alma Salinas wished the new administration the best and said she and the City of Sullivan City are ready to help. Mayor Joel Villarreal of Rio Grande City also congratulated them and said that we need to ﬁnd common areas to work together in collaboration.

Roma Police Ofﬁcers received a dinner in honor of Police Appreciation Week

FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Dental Insurance, Medicaid and Chip Accepted

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

Roma Police Ofﬁcers received a well deserved dinner organized by Chief of Police Garza and Assistant Police Chief Garcia in honor of Police Appreciation Week. This event was made possible with the help of sponsors that donated for the event and made it very special for Roma Police Ofﬁcers. 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

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317-1124

CHUY Alvarez ATTORNEY AT LAW

El abogado con mas de 34 años de experiencia

501 N. Britton Ave • Rio Grande City, Texas

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STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MAY 19, 2021, PAGE 2

2,500.00 FULLWITH FUNERAL SERVICE SILVER $

WEDNESDAY MAY 19TH - I.C.C. 6:00 P.M. PRO POPULO - MASS SAID FOR THE PEOPLE THURSDAY MAY 20TH - I.C.C. 6:30 A.M. †ESTEBAN & PAULA GARCIA by Family †EXIQUIO & TERESA CREMAR by Family FRIDAY MAY 21ST - I.C.C. 6:00 P.M. †ENRIQUE & CELIA GARZA by Family SATURDAY MAY 22ND - I.C.C. 5:00 P.M. †LOLITA & PEDRITO FERNANDEZ by Fernandez Family †SILVESTRE GONZALEZ by Alma Gloria T. Gonzalez & Family

†DANNY GOMEZ, JR. by Mom & Dad †ARMANDO SOTO by Su Familia †APOLONIA GARZA by Maria Paz & Rosa Cristina Gonzalez SUNDAY MAY 23RD - I.C.C. 9:00 A.M. †ABEL N. GONZALEZ, SR. by Ana Maria Gonzalez †NOELIA LONGORIA by Husband & Family †MARIA RODRIGUEZ by Su Familia SUNDAY MAY 23RD - I.C.C. 11:00 A.M. †BONIFACIO & ANTONIA BARRERA by Daughter Quela & Sylvia †ARTURO GALVAN (1ST AN.) by Wife & Sons †GUADALUPE PEÑA by Josie Guerra

(Oración Al Espíritu Santo)

I. N. G. G.

Funeral Home

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

(956) 487-2525

Melissa Y. Hernandez

DIVINO NIÑO JESÚS 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.

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

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Governor Abbott Announces End to Federal Pandemic-Related Unemployment Beneﬁts

TUESDAY MAY 25TH – I.C.C. 6.30 A.M. †HUGO HINOJOSA by Family FOR BENEFACTORS OF BISSA FOUNDATION by Ana Maria Barrera

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

Sanchez

MONDAY MAY 24TH– I.C.C. 6:00 P.M. †ELIAS CHAPA VILLARREAL by Wife & Children

“You never know how strong you are, until being strong is your only choice.” ~Bob Marley

RESPIRA EN MÍ

Respira en mi, Oh Espíritu Santo, para que mis pensamientos puedan ser todos santos. Actúa en mí, Oh Espíritu Santo, para que mi trabajo, también pueda ser santo. Dibuja mi corazón, Oh Espíritu Santo, para que sólo ame lo que es santo. Fortaléceme, Oh Espíritu Santo, para que defienda todo lo que es santo. Guárdame, pues, Oh Espíritu Santo, para que yo siempre Pueda ser santo.

5:00 P.M. †JOSEIAS SEPULVEDA by Family †ROSENDO ROSAS by Su Esposa e Hijos ACCION DE GRACIAS PARA SAN JUDAS TADEO by Maria Hernandez ACCION DE GRACIAS PARA SAN EXPEDITO by Maria Hernandez

On May 17, 2021 Governor Greg Abbott informed the U.S. Department of Labor that Texas will opt out of further federal unemployment compensation related to the COVID-19 pandemic, effective June 26, 2021. This includes the $300 weekly unemployment supplement from the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation program. “The Texas economy is booming and employers are hiring in communities throughout the state,” said Governor Abbott. “According to the Texas Workforce Commission, the number of job openings in Texas is almost identical to the number of Texans who are receiving unemployment beneﬁts. That assessment does not include the voluminous jobs that typically are not listed, like construction and restaurant jobs. In fact, there are nearly 60 percent more jobs open (and listed) in Texas today than there was in February 2020, the month before the Pandemic hit Texas.”

The current job openings are good paying jobs. According to the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC), nearly 45 percent of posted jobs offer wages greater than $15.50 per hour. Approximately 76 percent pay more than $11.50 per hour. Only 2 percent of posted jobs pay around the minimum wage. At this stage of opening the state 100 percent, the focus must be on helping unemployed Texans connect with the more than a million job openings, rather than paying unemployment benefits to remain off the employment rolls. Another reason why today’s action is needed is the high level of fraudulent unemployment claims being filed. Fraudulent unemployment claims rob taxpayer money and do nothing to help the unemployed. Federal law requires the effective date of this change to be at least 30 days after notification is provided to the Secretary of Labor. As a result, the effective date will be June 26, 2021.

Job Announcement For a Public Works Crewmen Rio Grande City Public Works Department

Job Title & Classification: Crewman, Rio Grande City Public Works Department. The position is a non-exempt, permanent, full-time position. Jon Description: General maintenance work to include street repairs, brush pickup, grass mowing. Requirements: High School Diploma or GED, valid drivers’ license. Applicant must pass a thorough background check (employment & criminal) and a pre-employment drug test. Salary & Compensation: Salary commensurate with experience. Benefits include retirement, health insurance, holiday, sick and vacation leave. Application Deadline: Until filled. Application may be picked up at City Hall 5332 E US HWY 83 Rio Grande City, TX 78582 Valerie Brown-Garza, Personnel Director 956-487-0672 www.cityofrgc.com City of Rio Grande City is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Job Announcement Code Enforcement Officer Rio Grande City JOB TITLE & CLASSIFICATION: Code Enforcement Officer, Rio Grande City Planning Department. Regular Full-Time Position. JOB DESCRIPTION: General work consists of enforcing applicable city codes and ordinances including weedy lots, abandoned vehicles and street vendors. Perform other duties as assigned. This includes, but not limited to, the Texas Health and Safety code, sending notices of violations, issuing citations, typing, preparing purchase order, monthly reports, making copies, fax etc. Prepare case files to present to municipal court. REQUIREMENTS: High school diploma or GED. Code Enforcement certifications required or must be attained within one year or less. Applicant must have a valid Texas drivers license. SALARY & COMPENSATION: Salary commensurate with experience. Benefits include retirement, health insurance, holiday, sick and vacation leave.

Job Announcement For a Parks Crewmen Rio Grande City Parks & Recreation Department

Job Title & Classification: Crewman, Rio Grande City Parks & Recreation Department. The position is a non-exempt, permanent, full-time position. Job Description: Manual labor and general maintenance work to include, brush/ trash pickup, grass mowing Requirements: High School Diploma or GED, valid drivers’ license. Applicant must pass a thorough background check (employment & criminal) and a pre-employment drug test. Salary & Compensation: $ 9.00 p/hour. Benefits include retirement, health insurance, holiday, sick and vacation leave. Application Deadline: Until filled.

Application may be picked up at City Hall Valerie Brown-Garza, Personnel Director 5332 E Hwy 83 Rio Grande City, TX 78582 956/487-0672 www.cityofrgc.com

Application may be picked up at City Hall 5332 E US HWY 83 Rio Grande City, TX 78582 Valerie Brown-Garza, Personnel Director 956-487-0672 www.cityofrgc.com

City of Rio Grande City is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MAY 19, 2021, PAGE 3

Register now for RGC Public Library’s Virtual Summer Reading Program “Tails & Tales” (SRP)! Online orientation will be on June 2, 2021. This SRP will be a mix of online videos, crafts activities, and virtual Fun Friday programs to keep your whole family engaged and having fun. RGC Library have added many FREE digital resources to the website to foster the love of reading and learning.

Roma High Soccer Player Selected for All-Star Showcase Congratulations to Roma High School Mighty Gladiator Israel Barrera, the Mighty Gladiator Soccer Team Goalkeeper, who was selected for the RGV Soccer All-Star Showcase! Way to go Israel!

Veterans Memorial Elementary Honors AR Super Reader Congratulations to Veterans Memorial Elementary School patriot Ailani Ramirez on being an AR Program Super Reader! A 5th graders in Mrs. Cantu’s Class, she read more than 1 million words this school year! Awesome job Ailani!!

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MAY 19, 2021, PAGE 4

Cómo mantenerse seguro al asistir a eventos deportivos A medida que los estadios deportivos vuelven a abrir después de cerrar el año pasado debido al COVID-19, no es de extrañar que los fanáticos estén ansiosos por ver jugar nuevamente a sus equipos favoritos. Los expertos de Baylor College of Medicine ofrecen formas de mantenerse seguro si decide asistir a los juegos deportivos en persona. Use una máscara y distancia

social La Dra. Jill Weatherhead, profesora asistente de pediatría medicina tropical y enfermedades infecciosas en Baylor, dijo que es esencial seguir usando una máscara y practicando la distancia social, especialmente si el evento deportivo está lleno de gente, se lleva a cabo en interiores o involucra gritos y cantos. “Si está en contacto cercano con

otras personas en el interior o en un lugar abarrotado al aire libre, es importante continuar con estas estrategias de mitigación hasta que más personas hayan sido vacunadas y haya una menor transmisión viral en la comunidad”, dijo. El Dr. Irvin Sulapas, médico de atención primaria en medicina deportiva y profesor asistente de medicina familiar y comunitaria en Baylor, aconseja sentarse solo con

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS South Texas College is accepting competitive proposals for the following: RFP Number 21-22-1002

Description Childcare Services

Date Due June 18, 2021

Time 3:00pm

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 Street) or by email request at stcpurchasing@southtexascollege.edu. Responses received after the speciﬁed time and date will not be considered and will be returned unopened. 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 opening date. Responses will be studied and be taken into consideration by the Board of Trustees. South Texas College reserves the right to reject any and all responses submitted and to request additional information if necessary, to waive any formalities or technicalities, and to accept the proposal considered to be the best and most advantageous to South Texas College. Questions regarding this RFP or requests for additional information should be addressed to Becky Cavazos, Director of Purchasing 956-872-4681 beckyc@southtexascollege.edu, or Billy Langley, Senior Buyer of Purchasing, 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. Purchases made as a result of this solicitation will be funded through a grant from the United States Department of Education and passing through the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

personas que conoce y con las que se siente cómodo. “Cuando asista a eventos deportivos con un grupo, trate de sentarse o pararse junto a familiares o amigos en su propia burbuja”, dijo Sulapas. “Todavía tenemos que ser inteligentes al asistir a eventos deportivos mediante el distanciamiento social y alentando a todos a vacunarse”. Si bien algunos recintos deportivos tienen aplicaciones que le permiten pedir comida sin levantarse de su asiento, Sulapas dijo que recuerde cumplir con las pautas de distanciamiento social cuando haga ﬁla para comer o beber. Recuerde lavarse y desinfectarse las manos antes y después de comer. Vacunarse La mejor manera de protegerse y proteger a los demás el día del juego es vacunándose contra el COVID-19 antes de asistir al

evento. “La vacunación es lo más importante que puede hacer para protegerse a sí mismo, a su familia y amigos, así como a su comunidad, cuando asiste a eventos”, dijo Weatherhead. “Asegúrese de tener inmunidad total, que es dos semanas después de su última dosis de vacuna”. “Hasta que se vacune un mayor porcentaje de la comunidad y disminuya la transmisión viral en la comunidad, queda la oportunidad de infectarse incluso si se vacuna”, dijo. Si alguien está vacunado contra COVID-19, Sulapas explica que es posible seguir siendo portador del virus y contagiarlo a alguien que no tenga la vacuna. “No todo el mundo tiene la vacuna todavía y hay algunos casos de personas con la vacuna que todavía dan positivo”, dijo. “Sus

síntomas son escasos o nulos, pero alguien sin la vacuna podría no tener tan buenos resultados como alguien que ha sido vacunado. Es por eso que todavía necesitamos usar máscaras y distancia social, pero a medida que aumenten las tasas de vacunación, los casos disminuirán ”. Eventos al aire libre versus eventos en interiores Los eventos en interiores con poca ventilación que incluyen muchos gritos y cantos son de mayor riesgo, mientras que los juegos al aire libre con mucho espacio a la distancia social son de menor riesgo. Aunque la transmisión es menor al aire libre, se recomienda usar una máscara si el evento está lleno de gente. Si asiste a un evento deportivo, controle los signos de COVID-19 durante dos semanas después y recuerde hacerse la prueba si presenta síntomas.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS South Texas College is accepting competitive proposals for the following: RFP Number 20-21-1052 21-22-1001

Description Student Insurance Property and Casualty Insurance

Date Due June 11, 2021 June 11, 2021

Time 2:00pm 3:00pm

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS South Texas College (STC) hereby requests sealed qualifications for the following: STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS FOR ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES For REGIONAL CENTER FOR PUBLIC SAFETY EXCELLENCE • FIRE TRAINING AREA • CANOPIES FOR STUDENTS AND INSTRUCTORS • CANOPY FOR SAFETY TRAINING VEHICLES Sealed responses to this Request for Qualifications will be received until 4:00 p.m., June 02, 2021 at the South Texas College Purchasing Department located at 3200 W. Pecan Blvd., Bldg. N, Ste 145, McAllen, Texas 78501. Request for Statement of Qualifications packets may be obtained at the STC Purchasing Department located at 3200 W. Pecan Blvd., Bldg. N, Ste. 145, McAllen, Texas or by calling (956) 872-4681. Any informational questions for the Request for Statement of Qualifications may be directed to Ricardo de la Garza, Director of Facilities Planning and Construction, at (956) 872-3737 or email at rickdlg@southtexascollege.edu. Responses received after the aforementioned deadline shall not be considered. The College will evaluate responses on the basis of the technical ability, experience and ability to perform the work. A pre-qualifications conference will be held on May 27, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. at the STC Pecan Campus, Building N Suite 142, located at 3200 W. Pecan Blvd., McAllen, Texas. All interested parties are encouraged to attend. 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. Response packages must clearly show the following: RFQ No. 20-21-1051 Request for Statement of Qualifications Architectural Services

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MAY 19, 2021, PAGE 5

Roma High Mighty Lady Gladiator Softball Team Enjoys History-Making Performance

Texas Delta Theta Master to Present Scholarships

Texas Delta Theta Master of Beta Sigma Phi made plans at a recent meeting to present three scholarships for 2021. Recipients will be Marco Alonzo Santistevan from Roma High School, and the top scoring math students from Rio Grande City High School and the RGCCISD Preparatory for Early College High School. The sisters enjoyed a program on Friendship following the business session, with Tissa Peterson presiding. In May, the sorority will celebrate the 90th annual Founder’s Day of Beta Sigma Phi with a ﬁnal meeting of the club year and installation of new ofﬁcers.

The Roma High Mighty Lady Gladiator Softball Team made history this year with the team’s FIRST EVER playoff appearance! Enjoy some photos of these ladies at their playoff send off lunch for their playoff games.

Lopez-Tijerina Complex Office Spaces Available mo 1st

nth

FRE

ile *wh tion mo pro sts la

Start ups wanted! in Historic Downtown Rio Grande City

For more information, call City of Rio Grande City at 956-487-0672.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MAY 19, 2021, PAGE 6

Be Insurance Ready in Five Steps for Hurricane Season The American Property Casualty Insurance Association (APCIA) is sharing how residents in hurricane-prone states can be insurance ready in five easy steps. Although the 2021 Atlantic Hurricane Season officially begins June 1, pre-season storms are not uncommon, so it is critically important to prepare early. “Being insurance ready is a crucial step in preparing for hurricane season and it can help prevent you from being underinsured,” said Jeff Brewer, vice president of public affairs for APCIA. “Having the right amount and the right types of insurance coverage, such as windstorm and a flood insurance policy, helps individuals, families, and businesses financially recover

if their property is damaged or destroyed in a storm.” Last year’s hurricane season was the most active on record with 30 named storms and six hurricanes making landfall in the U.S. This year’s hurricane forecast indicates another above-average year is likely. Researchers at Colorado State University predict 17 named storms, eight hurricanes, and four major hurricanes in the Atlantic basin this season. “Before hurricane season ramps up, take time to call your insurer or insurance agent to review your policy in detail. You should also evaluate your flood risk and keep in mind that your home can flood even if you live outside a designated flood risk zone,” added Brewer.

Five Steps to Being Insurance Ready: 1. Review your insurance policy. Call your insurer to review your policy, understand how it works, and make sure you have enough coverage. If you have recently completed a renovation or remodel, let your insurer know. Make sure you are comfortable with your deductible amounts, which is what you will pay out of pocket if you have to ﬁle a claim, and ask if your policy pays replacement cost or actual cash value. Actual cash value takes depreciation into account and replacement cost is the amount necessary to rebuild your home with materials of like kind and quality. 2. Evaluate your need for ﬂood insurance. Flood damage

is typically not covered under a standard homeowners policy. Flood insurance is available as a separate policy through the National Flood Insurance Program or the private market, although some insurers may offer it as an endorsement to the homeowners policy. More instances of record-setting rainfall associated with storms are increasing the likelihood of flooding in areas that are typically outside the flood zone. New flood policies typically take 30 days before they go into effect so do not delay in obtaining flood insurance. 3. Make a home inventory. Use your smartphone to take photos or videos of your belongings, including furniture, appliances, clothes, jewelry, and

art. Save your inventory to a place you can easily retrieve it, such as the cloud, or email a copy to yourself. Many insurers also offer specialized apps to help policyholders create their own home inventory and the National Association of Insurance Commissioners also launched a new home inventory app. 4. Gather copies of your insurance policies. Keep copies of your insurance policies (home, ﬂood, and auto) in a safe, dry, and accessible location. 5. Save your insurer’s contact info. Save your insurer’s toll-free claims number to your phone’s contacts so you can easily start the claims process if your home is damaged or destroyed in a storm. APCIA has a list of insurer’s tollfree numbers.

Additional APCIA Resources for the 2021 Atlantic Hurricane Season: •APCIA’s Hurricane Headquarters •What to Do Before a Hurricane •What to Do After A Hurricane •Flood Insurance: What You Need to Know •How to Avoid Contractor Fraud & Abuse •How to Save Money on Homeowners Insurance APCIA) is the primary national trade association for home, auto, and business insurers. APCIA promotes and protects the viability of private competition for the beneﬁt of consumers and insurers, with a legacy dating back 150 years.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MAY 19, 2021, PAGE 7

Deaths Of Texans Not Wearing Seat Belts Spiked 16% In 2020 TxDOT’s Annual “Click It or Ticket” campaign urges Texans to always wear a seat belt Despite a drop in the number of trafﬁc crashes throughout the year, 2020 saw a spike in the number of fatalities overall and deaths of people in Texas from not wearing a seat belt. That’s why TxDOT is reminding everyone that buckling up is the best defense in a crash. Last year, the simple act of buckling up saved many Texans from death or serious injury in crashes. Unfortunately, in 2020 there was a 16% increase in deaths of unbuckled motorists. There were 1,073 fatalities in 2020 and 926 fatalities in 2019 due to people not wearing seat belts. Putting on a seat belt only takes a few seconds and doing so reduces the risk of dying by up to 45% for people in the front seat of passenger cars and up to 60% for people in pickup trucks. “This past year we have all been reminded of the simple acts we can take to protect our lives and those of our loved ones,” said TxDOT Executive Director James Bass. “Wearing a seat belt is the most important step we can take to protect ourselves from serious injury or even death in a trafﬁc crash. Instead of putting yourself and others in danger, remember: buckle up day and night, every rider, every ride.” Research shows pickup truck drivers and passengers continue to lag in seat belt use. Close to half of all pickup drivers killed in crashes last year in Texas were not wearing a seat belt. Additionally, people driving at night wear their seat belt less often, even though it’s a more dangerous time to drive. Last year, 59% of all crashes in which unbuckled drivers or passengers died occurred at night. From May 24 to June 6, as the summer driving season starts and

families head out to celebrate Memorial Day, Texas officers and deputies will step up enforcement of the state’s seat belt and child car seat laws. Texas law requires everyone in a vehicle to be properly secured in the front or back seat or face fines and fees up to $200. Children younger than 8 years old must be restrained in a child safety seat or booster seat unless they are taller than 4 feet 9 inches. If a child isn’t secured, the driver faces fines of up to $250. From 2002 to 2019, the Click It or Ticket initiative in Texas is estimated to have saved more than 6,000 lives, prevented more than 100,000 serious injuries, and resulted in $23.6 billion in economic savings, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The Click It or Ticket campaign is a key component of #EndTheStreakTX, a broader social media and word-of-mouth effort that encourages drivers to make safer choices while behind

the wheel such as wearing a seat belt, driving the speed limit, never texting and driving, and never driving under the inﬂuence of alcohol or other drugs. La campaña anual “Click It or Ticket” de TxDOT insta a los tejanos a usar siempre el cinturón de seguridad A pesar de un descenso en la cantidad de accidentes de tránsito durante todo el año, en 2020 se registró un aumento en la cantidad de muertes en general y muertes de personas en Texas por no usar el cinturón de seguridad. Es por eso que TxDOT les recuerda a todos que abrocharse el cinturón es la mejor defensa en un choque. El año pasado, el simple hecho de abrocharse el cinturón salvó a muchos tejanos de la muerte o lesiones graves en accidentes. Desafortunadamente, en 2020 hubo un aumento del 16% en las muertes de automovilistas desabrochados. Hubo 1,073 muertes en 2020 y 926 muertes en 2019 debido a personas que no usaban cinturones de seguridad.

Ponerse el cinturón de seguridad solo toma unos segundos y hacerlo reduce el riesgo de muerte hasta en un 45% para las personas en el asiento

delantero de los automóviles de pasajeros y hasta en un 60% para las personas en camionetas. “Usar el cinturón de seguridad es el paso más importante que

LEGAL NOTICE

An application has been made with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission for a General Distiller’s License by Ancestral Craft Spirits Corp, to be located 702 Portscheller St, Roma, TX 78584, Starr County Texas. The ofﬁcers of said company are Guillermo Enrique Hayaux Du Tilly and Eduardo Ocampo Gayon. President & Director respectively.

GET YOUR GMC TODAY!

2021 GMC TERRAIN SLT

2021 GMC ACADIA SLE

MSRP PRICE REDUCTION BELOW MSRP SPECIAL VALUE PRICE 1 CUSTOMER CASH 2

STK# 22932

SALE PRICE

STK# 23108

$34,365 -$ 3,000 $31,635 -$ 4,000

SALE PRICE

$27,635

OTHER AVAILABLE OFFERS YOU MAY QUALIFY FOR: -$ 500 Buick/GMC Loyalty Cash Allowance3 -$ 500 GM Financial Cash Allowance4

podemos tomar para protegernos de lesiones graves o incluso de la muerte en un accidente de tráﬁco,” dijo el director ejecutivo de TxDOT, James Bass.

27,635

$3 7,10 0 -$ 3,000 $34,100 -$ 5,000 $29,100

OTHER AVAILABLE OFFERS YOU MAY QUALIFY FOR: -$ 500 Buick/GMC Loyalty Cash Allowance3 -$ 500 GM Financial Cash Allowance4

1 Not

29,100

available with special finance, lease or some other offers. 2 Not available with special financing, lease and some other offers. 3 Must show proof of current lease or ownership of a 2007 model year or newer Buick or GMC vehicle at least 30 days prior to the new vehicle sale. 4Cash Allowance when financed w/GM Financial. Not available with leases and some other offers. See Dealer for details. Residency restrictions apply. All prices plus tax, title and license. Take new retail delivery by 06/01/2021.

“No Matter Where You Live, Come Home!” (956) 487-2596

1-800-509-0003 • www.riomotors.com

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MAY 19, 2021, PAGE 8

AUTO REPAIR SHOP

FOR SALE 2-120X45 Lots 1-48x24 Bldg

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

For More info. Call Javier Canales

956-345-8159

V.F.W. HALL RENTALS

TAROT ESPAÑOLA

Guzman Bookkeeping and Income Tax Inc.

FORForPARTIES AND EVENTS info. call or text - Cell Phones:

NOTARY PUBLIC Walk-ins welcomed after 5:00pm (Monday-Friday) After 2:00pm (Saturday and Sunday)

735-3295 • 487-5050 • 422-8771

AMARRES, CONTROL, LIMPIAS, DESPOJOS, ABRE CAMINOS, TODO TRABAJOS ESPIRITUALES Y MAS

Looking forward to seeing our regular customers and new customers.

SAN ROBERTO APTS.

301 N. FM 3167 Suite B, Rio Grande City, Tx. 78582

Please call to schedule appointments with

Spacious 2 Bdrm, 2 Bath with appliances including washer & dryer in units. Walking distance from schools at 399 San Roberto Rd.

en McAllen, Tx.

Mrs. Stephanie Guzman or Mrs. Sylvia Menchaca

956-907-5155

956-317-1117 • 956-735-9298

WHOLESALE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

(956)454-1043

www.riograndecityapartments.com

Sonita’s FLOWERS

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

AL POR MAYOR ABIERTO AL PÚBLICO

NOW HIRING

DIESEL MECHANIC & CDL DRIVER Grande Garbage Collection Co. is currently seeking an experienced Diesel Mechanic and CDL Driver For an application: Call 956-487-4234 to collect and deliver at 505 E. Main Street, Rio Grande City, Texas 78582 or e-mail at grandegarbageco@yahoo.com.

NOW HIRING!!!

•A/C TECHNICIAN •INSTALLERS •HELPERS

(SULLIVAN CITY)

956-252-5676 •956-257-7044

2019 Nissan Altima SL

$ NICE! Leather, Sunroof STK# P2370

ONLY 16K MILES!!!

2017 Nissan Maxima SR

$21,995

19,995

$ LEATHER SEATS STK#22967A

$28,995

25,995

2021 Chevy Colorado

STK# 23067A LIKE NEW!

2018 Nissan Sentra SV

STK# 22647B

LIKE NEW!

$19,995

16,995

2020 Cadillac XT5 Premier

$31,995

28,995

STK# P2373 FULLY LOADED!!

2020 Ford Explorer XLT

STK# P2379

Like New!!!

34,995

2019 GMC Canyon

$39,995

36,995

$36,995

STK# 23188A LIKE NEW!

$28,995

25,995

People across the Valley come home to Rio Motor Co. for big savings and family-friendly service!

No Matter Where You Live, Come Home! Paco Cantu Ramiro Barrera 956-208-1821 956-573-6526

Rolando Flores 956-416-8945

(956) 487-2596 · 1-800-509-0003

www.riomotors.com

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, MAY 19, 2021, PAGE 9

Thistledowns are full of surprises T h e thistledowns I’m surprised by are not part of a thistle ﬂower. It is May and Benito Trevino, owner of Rancho Lomitas, has brought me a cell phone video he took while in his greenhouse. It shows a scampering, antlike critter covered with white hairs. He’d like an identiﬁcation. In twenty years at Rancho Lomitas I ’ v e n e v e r seen a furry, white ant. A bit of subsequent research has revealed that it is a thistledown velvet ant. The scientists call it Dasymutilla gloriosa. I’d like to tell you about this surprising species. I’ll refer to them as TVAs. The species is dimorphic, that is, the two sexes look very different. If you didn’t know it, you’d think they were two different species. The specimen TVA in the video was a female. They are covered with white hairs which are called

setae. The female looks like a creosote seed but the likeness is not to confuse predators. Studies show that the hairs evolved to help cool their body temperature. They inhabit deserts and hot environments. Females are wingless but for defense can sting which, while not dangerous to humans, is very painful. Males aren’t hairy and do have wings which are their defense. They don’t sting and are most active at night. They look like winged ants. Both sexes are 1/3 to 1/2 inch in length and can dig quickly into loose, sandy soil if threatened. I need to tell you that TVAs, in terms of scientiﬁc classiﬁcation

and despite the common name, are more closely related to wasps than ants. Males always have wings. T h e i r adult diet consists of drinking nectar from ﬂowers, especially cacti; they aid pollination. For the larval stage the parasitic diet is the larvae of ground nesting bees and wasps into whose nests the female has laid her eggs. The range for this surprisingly complex species is the southeast from California to Texas. I never cease to be amazed by the diversity of wildlife in our Rio Grande Valley. Get out and enjoy it!

Housing Authority of Starr County 1988 N Charco Blanco Rd Rio Grande City, TX 78582 956-487-3216

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS South Texas College (STC) is accepting Competitive Sealed Proposals for the following project: PROJECT NAME:

District Wide Automatic Door Openers – Phase IV PROJECT No. 20-21-1042

PRE-PROPOSAL CONFERENCE TIME & LOCATION:

May 27, 2021 @ 11:00 am STC Purchasing Department 3200 W. Pecan Blvd, Bldg. N, Ste. 142 McAllen, Texas 78501

PROPOSAL DEADLINE & SUBMITTAL LOCATION:

June 02, 2021 @ 2:00 pm STC Purchasing Department 3200 W. Pecan Blvd, Bldg. N, Ste. 145 McAllen, Texas

Job Opening for Maintenance Position The Housing Authority of Starr County is accepting applications to ﬁll a maintenance position. We currently have 78 units located at 2 properties. Qualiﬁcations/experience in applicant selection include: • Knowledge of electrical, plumbing, HVAC, apartment make ready and ability to perform all task to ensure facility is Decent, Safe and Sanitary.

ORACIÓN PARA LA SANTÍSIMA VIRGEN DE GUADALUPE Afligida se vio la Virgen a los pies de la cruz, afligido me veo Madre de Dios. Confió en Dios con todas mis fuerzas, por eso te pido que ilumines mi camino concediéndome la gracia que tanto deseo. (PETICIÓN) (RECE 3 AVE MARÍAS). Gracias Madre Mía por estar a mi lado en los momentos de mas necesidad, ayudarme a tomar decisiones acertadas para no cometer ningún error. Gracias Mi Dulce Virgen de Guadalupe.

S. G.

• Ability to work well with co-workers, elderly/disabled resident, family units, stay organized, take inventory, receive/ document service request and wiliness to learn new skills. • Ability to work on call hours when needed. • Must be a U.S. Citizen or National of the U.S. with a valid Driver’s License. • Pass background check and drug test. • Able to read, write, speak, and understand the English language, (Bilingual in Spanish a plus) must be able to use a computer.

Cut oﬀ Date: Friday, June 4, 2021

RFP packages will be available beginning on May 19, 2021. RFP packages may be obtained from RGV Reprographics located 519 S. Broadway, McAllen, Texas (PH: 956-686-1525) upon the deposit of a refundable check in the amount of $100.00 payable to South Texas College. The deposit check will be returned if project plans are returned, in good condition, within 10 days after the proposals deadline. Proposals shall be accompanied by a Certified or Cashier’s Check or acceptable bidder’s bond, payable to South Texas College, in an amount not less than five (5%) percent of the proposed project amount. Proposals received after the specified time and date will not be considered and will be returned unopened. Facsimile responses will not be accepted. All proposals must be submitted in a sealed envelope. Responses need to be clearly marked on the envelope with the RFP number and name of the project. 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.

FIND THE PERFECT CHEVY TO TAKE YOU ANYWHERE! People across the Valley come home to Rio Motor Company! 2021 CHEVROLET BLAZER RS

2021 CHEVROLET TRAX LT

STK# 22655

MSRP PRICE REDUCTION BELOW MSRP SPECIAL VALUE PRICE 1 CUSTOMER CASH 2 SALE PRICE

$24,645 -$ 1,2 14 $23,431 -$ 4,436 $18,995

18,995

23% OFF MSRP

STK# 22624

MSRP PRICE REDUCTION BELOW MSRP SPECIAL VALUE PRICE 1 CUSTOMER CASH 2 SALE PRICE

$49,065 -$ 3,000 $46,065 -$ 4,906 $4 1 , 1 5 9

16% OFF MSRP

1 Not available with special finance, lease or some other offers. 2 Excludes L models. Not available with special financing, lease and some other offers.

All prices plus tax, title and license. Take new retail delivery by 06/01/2021.

“No Matter Where You Live, Come Home!” (956) 487-2596 1-800-509-0003 www.riomotors.com

41,159

¿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.

HABLEME: CONSULTA GRATIS

OMAR REYES (956) 533-9001

Cristina Vargas (956) 500-0101

MAY 19, 2021 PAGE 10

You’re in good hands.

Auto • Home • Business • Life Hablamos Español

956-488-0160

103 W. 2nd Street Rio Grande City, Tx 78582

SPACE AVAILABLE FOR MORE INFO. CALL 956-487-6544

3G’s

AIR CONDITIONING

$AVE ON YOUR ELECTRIC BILL!!! UP GRADE TO MORE EFFICIENT UNITS

10 YEARS PARTS WARRANTY - IN ALL NEW INSTALLATIONS

2 TON-$2,300 3 TON $2,600 2 1/2 TON $2,500 3 1/2 TON $2,700 4 TON $3,000 • 5 TON $3,300 HURRY PRICES GOOD FOR A LIMITED TIME

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

SERVING STARR COUNTY SINCE 2003

YOUR ONLY STARR COUNTY RHEEM PRO PARTNER

Your Rheem Pro Partner in Rio Grande City

FINANCING AVAILABLE

INTEREST

FOR 36 MONTHS WITH APPROVED CREDIT

FREE ESTIMATES • ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARD ACCEPTED

NOW HIRING TECHNICIANS AND HELPERS

(956) 317-1099 • (956) 263-1770 EPA Certified Technicians • Lic#TACLB023317C