Los Fresnos News | August 18, 2021

WEEK OF August 18, 2021 THROUGH AUGUST 24, 2021 The only Community Bank with locations in Cameron, Hidalgo and Willacy Counties

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Los Fresnos, Tx 78566

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All Packed for Los Fresnos Back to School Superheroes

Ask Our Dentists

Page 2

Falcons Change in 2021

Page 4

The Pet Ghost Part 7: Final Chapter

Page 5

Spot the Difference

Page 6

On Thursday, August 5 the Los Fresnos community came together to hold its annual Back to School Community Fair. This year the fair had a Superhero theme. All were encouraged to dress as their favorite Superhero! The event was held at the Los Fresnos Fire and EMS Station. Many parents and children braved the heat to have a chance to come out and get free backpacks, school supplies, and information on health and safety for the upcoming year. Free backpacks and supplies were distributed only while supplies lasted. There were several sponsors who made the event possible. They were the City of Los Fresnos, Los Fresnos CISD Family Engagement Office, Los Fresnos Community Development Corporation, Los Fresnos Police Department, Cameron County Health Department, BCFS Health, and Human Services, and Su Clinica among others in attendance. The Los Fresnos Interact Club also came together and donated 1,000 boxes of crayons to help out in the Back-to-School event. The Los Fresnos Pharmacy was also on hand to offer Moderna and Pfizer Vaccines to the public at no cost. They were there to vaccinate anyone 12 years of age and older and also gave out school supplies to children who received a vaccination.

5 Campus Essentials for CollegeBound Students

TSTC unveils plaque in recognition of...

Page 8 PHOTO SOURCE: (c) SeanZeroThree / iStock via Getty Images Plus

LOOK INSIDE Classified................. pg 3 Sports...................... pg 4 Puzzles.................... pg 5 Activity Page........... pg 6

StatePoint

College bound this fall? Let this round-up be your guide for a smooth start to the fall semester: 1. Easy reading. Eliminate the need for lugging heavy textbooks between the dorm, the classroom and the library by opting for an eReader.

This Space AVAILABLE CALL 956-264-7720

Look for a model offering a large display, tons of storage and a long battery life. Prefer to get studying done on the quad? Be sure to prioritize a glare-free screen.

2. Synced schedules.

The right timepiece will help keep scholars on top of classes, club meetings

and other appointments. An Edifice Watch from Casio that uses Bluetooth to link to a smartphone, offers minuteby-minute coordination of daily schedules. Its Auto Time Zone feature updates automatically, ensuring timekeeping is accurate, whether students are studying on campus or studying abroad. Also, a featured Schedule Timer links with a smartphone’s calendar and shows appointment start times and end times on the watch display. Wearers can even configure settings to have an alarm sound to alert them of these important reminders.

3. Dorm design. Peeland-stick wall decals can instantaneously turn a humdrum dorm room into a place that feels like home.

From floral and tropical patterns to inspirational messages, they’re easy to

apply at the start of the year and easy to remove when it’s over.

4. Crunching numbers.

Both those majoring in STEM fields as well as liberal arts students fulfilling key credits need an advanced graphing calculator. Get equipped with one designed for education, like the FX-CG500Prizm.

Jam-packed with features, including three-dimensional graphing, programming and a computer algebra system, this non-traditional graphing calculator has a double sized screen for easier number-crunching and concept visualization. USB connectivity offers students the option of dropping their results directly into classwork.

5. Making music.

Musicians of all levels need equipment and instruments that are right for campus

living. Enter the Casio CDP-S150, a lesson-ready compact digital piano delivering an authentic piano sound and playing feel in a sleek chassis that’s not much bigger than the keys themselves, making it the perfect fit for any dorm room or off-campus apartment.

Packed with 10 great sounds and educational features, the CDP-S150 brings music to life. And because it’s equipped with a newlydesigned scaled and weighted hammer-action keyboard and has the response of an acoustic grand piano, it’s a solid choice for students who need to rehearse when the piano practice lab is closed.

As you do your back-tocampus shopping, consider tools and products that can help a student begin the fall term with academic confidence and personal style.

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2 • August 18, 2021 • LOS FRESNOS NEWS

Ask Our Dentists

by DR. ADAM LALONDE

Q: Why do my gums seem to be receding?

ANSWERED by DR.ADAM LALONDE:

Many people brush too hard or use a toothbrush that is too hard; a “soft” toothbrush actually cleans best. Vigorous brushing is not necessary, in fact, it can be harmful. After years of hard brushing, erosion of the enamel and gums can result.

This can also cause teeth to become stained more Dr. Adam Lalonde easily. Their appearance, in general, takes on a yellow or darkened look.

Also, the gums can become prone to infection.

So, lighten up on that toothbrush! After you have flossed thoroughly, brush gently with a soft- bristled toothbrush, and ease up on your handle-grip. The trick is to concentrate on becoming more aware of the amount of pressure you’re exerting. Slow down and give your teeth and gums the attention they need and gentleness they deserve. Also, be sure to replace your toothbrush when it first shows signs of wear, and schedule regular visits with your dentist and dental hygienist.

They will help you to monitor the health of your teeth and gums. Our patients receive a complimentary new toothbrush and floss on every check-up appointment! If you have any questions about brushing techniques and/or toothbrushes we’d be happy to answer them for you.

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Although the Los Fresnos News Staff strives for excellence in all stories and advertising, spelling or typographical errors can occur.

If you find any confirmed factual or other type of error, please call 956-233-9928 during business hours or leave a message.

WEEKLY COLUMNS printed in the Los Fresnos News contain the opinions of the Authors. They may or may not be the opinion of the Newspaper.

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HOW TO SUBSCRIBE: 1 year subscription delivered by U.S. Postal service...$27.95 or can be purchased at several convinent locations through out the cities of Los Fersnos and Brownsville for 50¢. The Los Fresnos News is mailed and delivered Tuesday, August 17, 2021, and published weekly by Los Fresnos Publishing, LLC. Periodical Postage Rates paid at Los Fresnos, TX. Post Office. Advertising deadline is noon Thursday at the office at 203 N. Arroyo, Los Fresnos, TX 78566. (POSTMASTER send address changes to Los Fresnos, P.O. Box 990, Los Fresnos, TX 78566.)

August 18, 2021 • LOS FRESNOS NEWS • 3

Public Notice

Great Classifieds... List Yours Today by Calling 956-233-9928 or 956-797-9920.

REMEMBER: Deadline is Thursday at NOON for ads to be published in the following week’s edition.

HELP WANTED Los Fresnos News is seeking a motivated Commissioned Advertising Sales Representative Must have your own dependable, economical, insured transportation and be able to cover large sales areas. Must be knowledgeable and fluent in electronic communications, website navigation and social media platforms. Must understand and be able to work within deadlines, coordinate and manage daily/weekly sales and operations tasks.

Please call (956) 264-7720 for appointment

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We supply the Rio Grande Valley and South Texas with Secure Mobile Document Destruction.

2021-DCL-00602 Leonel G. Garza

§

IN THE 107TH DISTRICT COURT

VS

§

OF

The Known and Unknown Heirs of

§

CAMERON COUNTY, TEXAS

Beatrice G. Garza (Deceased) TO:

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PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF 2021 TAX YEAR PROPOSED PROPERTY TAX RATE FOR CITY OF INDIAN LAKE A tax rate of $0.765000 per $100 valuation has been proposed for adoption by the governing body of TOWN OF INDIAN LAKE. This rate exceeds the lower of the effective or rollback tax rate, and state law requires that two public hearings be held by the governing body before adopting the proposed tax rate.

The governing body of TOWN OF INDIAN LAKE proposes to use revenue attributable to the tax rate increase for the purpose of ROAD MAINTENANCE. PROPOSED TAX RATE PRECEDING YEAR'S TAX RATE EFFECTIVE TAX RATE ROLLBACK TAX RATE

$0.765000 per $100 $0.765000 per $100 $0.753151 per $100 $0.779511 per $100

The effective tax rate is the total tax rate needed to raise the same amount of property tax revenue for TOWN OF INDIAN LAKE from the same properties in both the 2020 tax year and the 2021 tax year.

The rollback tax rate is the highest tax rate that TOWN OF INDIAN LAKE may adopt before voters are entitled to petition for an election to limit the rate that may be approved to the rollback rate.

YOUR TAXES OWED UNDER ANY OF THE ABOVE RATES CAN BE CALCULATED AS FOLLOWS: property tax amount= (rate) x (taxable value of your property)/100 For assistance or detailed information about tax calculations, please contact: Tony Yzaguirre Jr. Cameron County Assessor-Collector 835 E Levee 1st Flr; Brownsville TX 78520 (956) 544-0800 assessor_collector@co.cameron.tx.us www.townofindianlake.com You are urged to attend and express your views at the following public hearings on the proposed tax rate: August 18, 2021 at 6:00 PM AT 62 S. Aztec Cove Dr. Indian Lake, Tx 78566 August 20, 2021 at 6:00 PM AT 62 S. Aztec Cove Dr. Indian Lake, Tx 78566

The Known and Unknown Heirs of Beatrice G. Garza (Deceased) DEFENDANT – GREETINGS:

NOTICE TO DEFENDANT: "You have been sued. You may employ an attorney. If you or your attorney do not file a written answer with the clerk who issued this citation by 10:00 am on the Monday next following the expiration of 42 days after the date this citation was issued, a default judgment may be taken against you. In addition to filing a written answer with the clerk, you may be required to make initial disclosures to the other parties of this suit. These disclosures generally must be made no later than 30 days after you file your answer with the clerk. Find out more at TexasLawHelp.org." " You are hereby commanded to appear by filing a written answer to the Plaintiff's Original Petition at or before 10:00 o'clock A.M. on the Monday next after the expiration of 42 days after the date of issuance of this citation before the Honorable 107th District Court of Cameron County, at the Courthouse in said County in Brownsville, Texas. Said Plaintiff's Original Petition was filed in said court on the 1st day of February, 2021 in the above entitled cause.

A brief statement of the nature of this suit is as follows, to-wit: Trespass to Try Title and Adverse possession concerning the following property: Tract I: Parcel A: A tract, piece or parcel of land described as and being Two (2) acres of land, more or less, out of Blocks Sixty-Nine (69), SAN CARLOS ESTATES SUBDIVISION, SHARE 27, ESPIRITU SANTO GRANT, Cameron County, Texas, as shown on map or plat thereof said subdivision recorded in Volume 8, Page 37, of the Map Records of Cameron County, Texas.

Parcel B: Being 1.11 acres net out of Block Sixty-Nine (69), SAN CARLOS ESTATES SUBDIVISION, SHARE 27, ESPIRITU SANTO GRANT, Cameron County, Texas, as shown on map or plat thereof said subdivision recorded in Volume 8, Page 37, of the Map Records of Cameron County, Texas.

Tract II: All of Block Seventy-Five (75), SAN CARLOS ESTATES, out of Share No. 17, of the Espiritu Santo Grant, Cameron County, Texas, as per map or plat thereof recorded in Volume 8, Page 37, and in Volume 8, Page 68, Map Records, Cameron County, Texas as is more fully shown by Plaintiff's Original Petition on file in this suit.

Issued and given under my hand and seal of said Court at Brownsville, Texas, on this the 28th day of May, 2021.

Laura Perez-Reyes District Clerk of Cameron County 974 E Harrison Street Brownsville, Texas 78520

ATTORNEY: C. FRANK WOOD 24028136 (956)546-3731 3505 Boca Chica Blvd Ste 100 Brownsville TX 78521-4064

By:________________________________________ Christina Hernandez, Deputy Clerk

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR ANNEXATION OF ROADWAYS INTO THE TOWN OF INDIAN LAKE The Town of Indian Lake proposes to Annex a portion of Old Alice Road (FM 1575) as follows: Being 9.318 Acres of land, more or less, out of Blocks 9,10,15,16,18,17,23 and 24, Thompson Tract (Volume 4, Page 24, Map Records) and out of an unsubdivided portion of Share 22, Espiritu Santo Grant in Cameron County, Texas; said 1.006 Acre Tract being the 80 ft. r.o.w. of Old Alice Road (F.M. 1575) from the north right-of-way line of Stanford Road to the north right-of-way line of Whipple Road.

The Town of Indian Lake also proposes to Annex a portion of East Henderson Rd. as follows: Being 1.006 Acres of land, more or less, out of Blocks 22 and 23, Thompson Tract (Volume 4, Page 24, Map Records) in Cameron County, Texas; said 1.006 Acre Tract being the south one-half of Henderson Road right-of way located east of the Town of Indian Lake; said 1.006 Acre Tract.

-

The Town of Indian Lake also proposes to Annex a portion of West Henderson Rd. as follows: Being 1.494 Acres of land, more or less, out of Blocks 20 and 21, Thompson Tract (Volume 4, Page 24, Map Records), Block 20, Fresnos Land and Irrigation Company Subdivision (Volume 3, Pages 9 and 9A, Map Records) and out of an unsubdivided portion of Share 12, Espiritu Santo Grant, Cameron County, Texas; said 1.494 Acre Tract being a portion of Henderson Road right-of-way located west of the Town of Indian Lake; said 1.494 Acre Tract.

THESE PROPOSED ANNEXATIONS WILL NOT AFFECT YOUR RESIDENCE, PROPERTY, OR YOUR PROPERTY TAXES BUT WILL ENABLE THE TOWN OF INDIAN LAKE TO PLACE BETTER POLICE COVERAGE TO THE AREA. A full description on the proposed annexations is available at Town Hall located at 62 S Aztec Cove Dr.

You are urged to attend and express your views at the following public hearings on the proposed annexations: August 18, 2021 at 5:00 PM AT 62 S. Aztec Cove Dr. Indian Lake, Tx 78566 August 20, 2021 at 5:00 PM AT 62 S. Aztec Cove Dr. Indian Lake, Tx 78566

PUBLIC NOTICE

To Whom It May Concern Pursuant to the provisions of Article V of the Texas Abatement Act. V.C.S. 447-9a, Sec. 5.05, We hereby notify you that we took custody of the Following described motor vehicles: DECLARING MOTOR VEHICLES ABANDON VEHICLE: 1986 FORD F150 VIN: 1FTEF14YXGPB94483 VEHICLE: 1970 FORD F100 VIN: F10AKD46474 The registered owner of the lienholder has the right to claim the motor vehicle within ten (10) days from the date of this publication by payment of all towing, notification, preservation and storage charges, and a release for the impounding law enforcement agency.

Unclaimed vehicles will be turned over to the Police Department to be declared abandoned, and sold at Public Auction to satisfy the charges against the said vehicle.

By: RAMIRO SANCHEZ ALL VALLEY WIDE TOWING LLC Phone: 956-233-4840

4 • August 18, 2021 • LOS FRESNOS NEWS

(956) 797-9920 • email: riosportsmagazine@gmail.com

New Look Falcons Looking to Change it up in 2021 Los Fresnos Falcons

2021 Varsity Football Schedule Date

Opponent

Time

Site

Scrimmage

Thur, 8/19

Edinburg Vela Sabercats

7 pm

Away

Week 1

Fri, 8/27

+Edcouch Elsa Yellowjackets 7pm

Home

Week 2

Fri, 9/3

#Gregory Portland Wildcats

7pm

Home

Week 3

Fri, 9/10

Calallen Wildcats

7:30pm

Away

--BYE WEEK--

Week 4 Week 5

Fri, 9/24

*San Benito Greyhounds

7pm

Away

Week 6

Fri, 10/1

*^Donna North Chiefs

7pm

Home

Week 7

Sat, 10/9

*Rivera Raiders

7pm

Away

Week 8

Fri, 10/15 *%Weslaco Panthers

7pm

Home

Week 9

Fri, 10/22 *Harlingen Cardinals

7pm

Away

Week 10

Fri, 10/29 *Brownsville Hanna Eagles

7pm

Away

Week 11

Fri, 11/5

7pm

Home

#Parents Night

*Harlingen South Hawks

*District Game

^Homecoming

%Middle School FB Night

Kevin Narro Los Fresnos News

LOS FRESNOS-Once again the Los Fresnos Falcons are in one of the toughest districts in the Rio Grande Valley. While the Falcons have had a hand in the rugged 32-6A, this year they will have a new look.

The Falcons are led by their new head coach David Cantu. The former

Brownsville Veterans head coach will return to his alma mater and will also dial up the spread offense.

Over the last two years, Los Fresnos relied heavily on the Flex-Bone offense under coach Patrick Brown.

Prior to the Flex-Bone, the Falcons were known for their passing attack and look to rekindle that offense with Cantu at the helm.

With a shortened season

last year, the Falcons missed the playoffs and went 2-4 and 1-2 in 32-6A. This year the Falcons will open up against Edcouch-Elsa, a team who won a playoff game last year and ironically enough, the Jackets run a Slot-T. The next two weeks will be interesting as the Falcons host GregoryPortland in Week 2 and the following week they will travel to Calallen to take on the Wildcats.

After their Coastal Bend two-step, the Falcons will have a bye in Week 4 then will kickoff district play at San Benito. The final four games of the season will be a challange and could determine the playoff race.

Their final four games are against Weslaco, Harlingen, Brownsville Hanna and Harlingen South.

+Band Night

Photos taken by Kevin Narro during Spring Ball back in May at the Los Fresnos High school.

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August 18, 2021 • LOS FRESNOS NEWS • 5

The Next Chapter The Pet Ghost

By Nandy Ekle Chapter 7 The Last Chapter

I had never been part of a séance before and felt excited. But I couldn’t shake the horrible cold that had settled deep in my bones from the walk through in my bedroom.

When I entered the living room carrying a glass of water, they had everything all set. My coffee table now rested against the wall like a bench and a card table covered with a black cloth and lit candles sat in the middle of the room, tiny little flames dancing in the

air. I thought the whole scene looked deliciously spooky and took my place next to Leslie, opposite Barry.

The bright light came back on and she addressed the public, explaining what was about to happen. We would all hold hands and Dr. Simon would attempt to speak with the entities in my house. He would ask them who they were and what they wanted and what we could do to help them move on.

Leslie blinked and nodded at lighting man who then turned out his bright light. No one spoke. Our hands touched the hands of the

persons on each side of us and Emily sat on the couch against the wall.

Silence for about 90 seconds. Then the sound of a throat clearing.

“Is anyone here?”

Barry asked quietly.

Nothing happened that I could sense. “I know someone is here. Please speak with us.”

I thought about how boring this was going to be, so I blinked a puff of energy into the pad of paper Emily held.

She squealed a little and Barry looked at me. “We just want to visit with you. Please speak with us.” I sent another little blink into the curtains, watching them sway.

“Will you speak with us?” At that moment the curtains began to open and shut—without my help.

Barry looked at me and I looked at Emily.

A wave of fear ran up my spine feeling like an electric current. I sucked in a breath and fought the feeling to run. Emily gasped and I realized her hand holding the pencil was moving across the paper.

“N-O-T-S-A-F-E” she read.

“Not safe? That’s ridiculous.” Goosebumps rose on my arms and my eyes stung with tears. “I don’t really –“ “Please, Ms. Mason.”

Barry looked back at the curtains. “What do you mean, not safe? Who’s not safe?”

Emily’s hand and pencil moved again.

“D-O-R-A. W-A-N-TS-H-E-R” I jerked my hand away breaking the circle, but Emily’s pencil kept moving. “Look, I don’t know what’s going on here,” I said. There COULDN’T be a real ghost here! I didn’t believe ghosts existed.

“H-E-W-A-N-T-S-HE-R” “Who are you? Who is ‘he?’”

“W-A-N-T-S-H-E-RP-O-W-E-R.” My cheeks flamed with heat. Wants my power?

“W-A-N-T-S-A-LF-R-E-D.” I felt shock move over my entire body, starting with my crawling scalp. It draped my shoulders, liquefied my stomach, and froze

my feet.

“Who is Alfred?” I think Leslie asked, but I was so confused I couldn’t be sure.

“C-O-M-I-N-G. B-EC-A-R-E-F—“ Her pencil flew from her hand, bounced off the wall, and landed in my lap. I felt like I ice cubes floated in my veins.

“Dora?” Barry’s eyes bored through mine and I thought I felt fingers inside my head.

He knew! He knew I hadn’t told the whole truth.

a local author. You can submit your own original story for publication at our Facebook Page.

(956) 233-9928 (956) 797-9920

LAST WEEK’S SUDOKU ANSWERS

LAST WEEK’S CROSSWORDS ANSWERS

ACROSS 1. *Sports analyst, exwide receiver Randy 5. Dashboard acronym 8. *Depth of an end zone, in yards 11. Fencing blade 12. Weight not charged for 13. Young hog 15. Witnessed

► CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

This story continues next week. The Next Chapter is a column featuring a serialized continuing short story from

203 N. Arroyo Blvd P.O. Box 990

16. Aroma 17. Nary a soul 18. *Line of ____ 20. Spanish earthen pot 21. Pinocchio and the like 22. Bean house 23. Antonym of descent 26. Cycle taxi 30. Greek “t” 31. 50-50 34. Not happening

I placed the pencil on the table, but refused to touch it again.

“A-L-F-R-E-D.” The letters appeared on the black tablecloth made from the melted wax from the candles.

I jumped to my feet and the folding chair under me fell backward with a loud crash.

Emily yelped and the cameraman let out a

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THEME: FOOTBALL

“Alfred’s my name for the ghost,” I sort of lied in a whispered tone.

35. Newbies 37. Bert Bobbsey’s twin 38. Like a neon sign 39. “Clueless” catch phrase 40. Not a desktop 42. Metal-bearing mineral 43. “Chim Chim Cheree” setting 45. Relating to nose

47. Actors’ group 48. Sink hole 50. Golf club handle 52. *3-point score 56. Make a canyon, e.g.

57. Not written 58. Racing sled 59. *”Purple People ____” song, inspiration for Vikings defensive line name 60. Like H. C. Andersen’s duckling 61. Poet Pound 62. *AFC counterpart 63. Dreaming stage of sleep 64. Daytime entertainment DOWN 1. Hodgepodge 2. Oil cartel 3. Palm reader, e.g.

4. Old and mentally infirm 5. Weather-related Doppler tool 6. Programs, for short 7. Insignificant 8. Hammer or sickle 9. Europe’s highest volcano 10. Born, in bio 12. Marinara fruit 13. Ornamental hair net 14. *Grabbing penalty 19. Breath freshener 22. *Pre-game encouragement 23. Rose oil 24. One’s assertion 25. Collectible in a cabinet 26. *Fourth down option 27. Colonoscopy tract 28. Ancient assembly area 29. B in IBS 32. *Start of a football play 33. Goo on a trunk 36. *Scrimmagerelated penalty 38. Plant louse 40. Yule firewood 41. By word of mouth 44. Candle shape 46. English in Spanish 48. Mourner’s song 49. Camelot, to Arthur 50. Tennis great Steffi 51. College officertraining prog.

52. *Number of downs to get a first down 53. Anis-flavored aperitif 54. Site of Taj Mahal 55. *Lambeau Field jump 56. Poetic “even”

6 • August 18, 2021 • LOS FRESNOS NEWS

28th Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival October 15 & 16 2021 Featuring 13 of the best conjunto bands in Texas!

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► CONTINUED from page 5 Pet Ghost

squawk of his own.

“Ladies and gentlemen –“ Leslie began “Look, I don’t know what’s happening.” I backed up from the group.

Barry’s hand shot out and grabbed mine. A candle fell over and the flame began gobbling up the cloth. My shocked fear turned to terror.

Emily headed for the door and the cameraman looked longingly in that direction. Leslie screeched, “Don’t you dare stop recording! We need to get this!”

Barry’s grip on my wrist was strong. I reached for my glass of water with my other hand but couldn’t touch it. He continued to hold me.

Emily’s pad of paper flew from her hand and circled the room. The cameraman sat in the chair next to the front door and his camera followed the pad around the room.

“Let go of me.” I screamed at him as I twisted my wrist in his hand but he held it firmly. “The table is on fire! You have to let me go!”

Barry’s eyes changed from steel gray to gold and his pupils shrank to pinpoints. His mouth went up in a wide smile and then opened. A snake’s tongue licked

out. “You have power and I want it.”

“What are you talking about? Let me go!” I continued to struggle against his grip.

Leslie grabbed the glass of water and began to pour it on the fire, but Barry blinked his eyes and the glass flew from her hand and smashed on the wall.

She looked at him, then at the cameraman who had moved to stand next to the door. He still held the microphone up in the air, but terror covered his face. Emily had long since run and squatted in the corner of the room behind the door.

“Barry, Dr. Simon, let me go. It’s not something I can give you. It just started after my wreck. I don’t know how to give it away.” Tears ran down my cheeks as his hand twisted the skin on my wrist.

His snaky tongue lashed out of his mouth again. “I know how to get it from you.” His eyes blinked again and a strong force pushed my head toward the fire on the table.

“No!” I screamed.

“No!” Leslie ran to the corner of the room where Emily cowered whimpering on the floor.

“Don’t you dare stop recording!” She shouted in the direction of the cameraman.

“If you die, I will

August 18, 2021 • LOS FRESNOS NEWS • 7

absorb your power.” His laugh sounded deep and demonic.

“No! No, don’t do this!” My neck hurt fighting back against the force pushing it toward the flame. I didn’t think I could withstand it much longer. My right cheek was scorching.

“Give it to me,” he demanded and the force pushing me doubled.

“I can’t—“ I’m not sure what happened next. All I remember is about a gallon of water flowed from the air, past my head to the fire on the table. Steam shot up scalding my face and stinging my eyes. The smell of burned cloth filled my nose and the steam made a huge hissing noise. The force disappeared from the back of my head and I ran to Leslie and Emily.

For the rest of my life, every time I close my eyes I will see the next events. The shimmery image of a little old lady floated in the air over the table holding a clear pitcher. I saw tentacles fly from the back of the Barry-thing’s body and swipe at the apparition.

Mrs. Carnes’ ghost looked down at me then pointed to the door. I didn’t need to be told twice. I grabbed Leslie’s hand and she grabbed Emily and we ran out the front door, followed by the cameraman and the light man. The four

of them went directly to the van in my driveway, but I stayed on the front lawn in the dark watching and listening to the sounds of the fight going on inside.

A loud roar came from the open door and I ran back up the steps to peek inside. The Barrything reached for the shimmery old woman with its tentacles, but she was too fast for him.

As she spun around the room he lashed at her and roared every time he missed her.

At long last, he caught her. She didn’t make a sound as the tentacle holding her see-through body brought her to his mouth. I sucked in a deep breath when he swallowed her.

“NO!” I screamed through the screen door at the horror I had just seen. The Barrything turned to see me standing there. He grinned a huge toothy grin and his snaky tongue rolled across his upper lip. I thought I would vomit when I saw that he had something leaking out of his nose.

I watched while I tried to keep my dinner in my stomach. The slime dripping from his nose took shape and I realized it was Ms. Carnes escaping the inside of the monster.

One of the other candles tipped over and the tablecloth ignited again. Another candle

flew into the curtains I had ruffled earlier in the evening. When another candle flew across the room, I watched my beautiful sofa ignite.

The last candle fell to the floor and my carpet, unstained by wine those months ago, burst into flame. I knew my house was gone.

The Barry-thing swiped at the old woman image again and she sailed to the front door. I reached for the handle to pull the screen open, but she floated out through the little holes in the screen like smoke.

I backed up, mindful of the steps behind me and she sailed out to the lawn, shimmering with her own light. Leslie and her crew watched as she flew past them and disappeared into the night.

Flames shot through the door and I ran to the street. Just as I reached the curb a screech came from my burning house.

Sirens wailed two blocks away and Leslie ran to me. I shooed her away and dropped to the sidewalk in front of my burning house.

our collective mission: Above all else, we are committed to the care and improvement of human life.”

About HCA Houston Healthcare

centers, 11 freestanding emergency centers and numerous freestanding diagnostic imaging facilities in the greater Houston area. It also includes a regional transfer center that provides one-phone-call access and support for patient transfers into and out of HCA Houston Healthcare facilities as well as access to ground and air transportation within a 150-mile radius.

As one of the region’s largest healthcare systems,

*** My house did not burn to the ground, but the living room and my bedroom and bathroom sustained extensive damaged. The insurance labeled it an accident due to candles on the

tablecloth and they arranged for contractors to begin repairs. I stayed with my daughter, her husband, and my sweet granddaughter while the builders worked.

Finally, they called me and announced that the house was as good as new. I could move back in immediately.

As I walked through inspecting the repairs and looking for some forgotten burnt baseboard or a charred piece of whitewall, I couldn’t help shivering.

All this trouble. I realized that the whole thing had started to keep me out of the limelight, and that’s exactly where I ended up. And I enjoyed my little practical joke, until it became real.

I walked into my bedroom and took a deep breath. There was still a slight smoky smell in the walls. I supposed it would be that way forever more to remind me of the dangers of lies. I walked around the bed and stopped at the little bathroom door. A cool breeze flowed from the room chilling me through my heavy coat.

The smell of the fire was stronger here. I blinked a ball of energy and the shower curtain moved away. No evil Barrything jumped out at me, but I heard a voice whisper, “Alfred.”

Valley Regional Medical Center Announces New Brand Logo

Valley Regional Medical Center (VRMC) BROWNSVILLE, TEXAS (Tuesday, Aug. 10. 2021) – Valley Regional Medical Center (VRMC) announced today a new brand identity and launched the “Sand Dollar” logo as a part of the larger strategic planning process to unify its sister hospitals, Rio Grande Regional Hospital (McAllen) and Corpus Christi Medical Center, and its reach in South Texas. The logo change is a rebranding and links all three hospitals and HCA Healthcare, the nation’s leading healthcare provider.

“The new logo identity for Valley Regional Medical Center better mirrors what we do and who we serve while unifying us in South Texas and to HCA Healthcare, one of the nation’s leading providers of healthcare services,” said Art Garza, CEO of Valley Regional Medical Center. “The Sand Dollar’s elements connect our mission, our brand and our commitment to providing quality care to the patients we serve throughout our communities.”

VRMC’s logo and identity originates from South Texas environmental and cultural influences. The

### icon reflects the Sand Dollar, frequently seen in the Coastal Bend. The Sand Dollar’s multiple facets, which represent VRMC’s complement of services, encircle the center diamond with care and nurturing. The diamond represents VRMC’s patients, who are always at the center of our commitment to the care and improvement of human life.

In addition, VRMC is investing $4.5 million in the renovation of its intensive care unit, its emergency rooms, and the construction and installation of the first hybrid operating room in Cameron County to better serve the community of Cameron County.

The hybrid operating room combines the capabilities of a cardiac catherization lab and the disinfected environment of an operating room, enhancing patient safety, cost savings, and efficiency.

“Our focus is first and foremost on our patients and we are committed to delivering superior, patient-centered care to every patient on every visit,” said Garza. “And because we are a part of HCA Healthcare, we are able to improve more lives in more ways. We’re proud to be a part of HCA Healthcare, driven by

About Valley Regional Medical Center Valley Regional Medical Center is a full-service, 214-bed acute care hospital that provides a wide range of quality services including advanced diagnostic imaging, interventional cardiac catheterization, open-heart surgery, neurosurgery, orthopedics, robotic-assisted surgery, and women’s and children’s services.

Serving Brownsville and the surrounding Rio Grande Valley communities for over 45 years, Valley Regional Medical Center is a nationally accredited Primary Stroke Center, its emergency department is a designated Level III Trauma Center, its Cath Lab is the only accredited Cath Lab in south Texas, and is the only Breast Center of Excellence accredited by the American College of Radiology in south Texas. Valley Regional Medical Center is part of the HCA Healthcare Gulf Coast Division.

For more information on Valley Regional Medical Center’s programs and services, visit alleyregionalmedicalcenter. com.

HCA Houston Healthcare is the leading provider of healthcare in the Houston area, where excellent trained physicians, nurses and allied health professionals treat almost a million patients annually.

With an employee base of 15,000, HCA Houston Healthcare’s comprehensive network includes 13 hospitals, 10 outpatient surgery

HCA Houston Healthcare recognizes the importance of giving back to the communities we serve.

A strong advocate for the next generation of healthcare professionals, HCA Houston Healthcare also is a major supporter of the University of Houston College of Nursing and the new University of Houston College of Medicine. For more information, visit HCAhoustonhealthcare. com

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8 • August 18, 2021 • LOS FRESNOS NEWS

TSTC recognizes Southwest Aerospace Technologies with plaque unveiling TSTC (WACO, Texas) - The TSTC Foundation unveiled a plaque on Texas State Technical College’s Waco campus Tuesday, August 10, 2021, in recognition of contributions to TSTC from Southwest Aerospace Technologies LLC totaling $6.6 million.

On hand for the ceremony, which took place at TSTC’s Col. James T. Connally Aerospace Center, were several TSTC aviation students and faculty members; TSTC administrative officials; Kurt Encinias, founder, president and CEO of Southwest Aerospace Technologies; and Shelly Verlander, senior district manager and project coordinator for state Sen. Brian Birdwell, R-Granbury.

TSTC Board of Regents chair Curtis Cleveland and member John K. Hatchel, as well as TSTC

Foundation board member Harold Rafuse, were also in attendance.

Edgar Padilla, provost of TSTC’s Waco campus, started the proceedings.

“TSTC strives to provide a skilled workforce for the state of Texas,” he said. “With the help of industry partners, TSTC and The TSTC Foundation continue to open doors for both student and employer success. Today’s recognition is for an extraordinary gift of hightech equipment that will strengthen our ability to train the next generation of technicians for the aviation industry.”

Mike Reeser, TSTC’s chancellor and CEO, noted the importance of the gift to the college’s ability to provide the best possible training for future aviation technicians.

“As generous as the state of Texas is to us in our annual funding, there’s always a need that exceeds the means,” he said. “And

when corporate partners step forward and fill that need with extraordinary gifts, we’re able to maintain our position as the leading technical provider in the state of Texas. Today we’re here to commemorate that.”

Encinias spoke about the aviation industry’s aging workforce and the need for skilled technicians to replace them as they retire.

Addressing the assembled aviation students directly, he said, “It’s students like you that are going to be the future, and our goal is to make sure that you’re the best (trained) possible to get ready for the future of aviation.”

Beth Wooten, CEO of The TSTC Foundation, read aloud the plaque’s inscription, which concludes: “This generous contribution ensures that TSTC continues to train best-in-class technicians.”

The plaque, now on permanent display in

TSTC Biology Students Flourish in Texas A&M Citrus Center Experiences TSTC (HARLINGEN, Texas) Halfway into their 12-week internships at the Texas A&M University-Kingsville Citrus Center, TSTC Biology students Paloma Gallardo and Sammy Huerta are thriving.

Gallardo uses DNA extraction and PCR -polymerase chain reaction -in the leaf tissues of a plant to identify citrus greening disease.

Huerta, working on an entomology project, examines pest insects that have managed to survive the extreme Rio Grande Valley heat -- and this year’s freeze.

“It’s exactly the kind of process that I enjoy,” Huerta said. “The fact that you can see progression through your experiments with the insects -- it still fascinates me with

how the life cycle changes. I really, really do enjoy it.”

With a love for science discovered in childhood, Huerta intends to pursue his lifelong dream of becoming a paleontologist.

“Everything around us is a product of science in some kind of study,” he said. “In terms of biology, you could physically see things grow in that natural progression.

It was just a natural step (for me) to focus on biology and living science.”

Huerta has appreciated one-on-one learning opportunities at the Citrus Center and encourages other TSTC students to apply for the internship.

“In terms of the practices, some of them we study in a biology course where you go over your methods,” he said “It’s real-world applied, here. You see the steps, you

TSTC Biology student Sammy Huerta, top, uses a microscope to sort insects he collected from his project greenhouse, while TSTC student Paloma Gallardo, above, sets up a DNA extraction during their internships July 28, 2021, at the Texas A&M University-Kingsville Citrus Center. (Photos courtesy of TSTC.)

understand the experiments that you’re doing and you understand why.”

Gallardo developed her passion for science during her classes at TSTC -particularly microbiology.

“I think biology is such a great degree to pursue because it’s so broad -- you can do a lot of things in biology,” she said. “You can be anything if you have a biology degree.”

Gallardo has been so inspired by her internship and TSTC Biology experience thus far that she wants to share it with her former high school, Harlingen School of Health Professions.

“When I got to the Citrus Center, I was like, why don’t more people know about this? There’s so many things you can do in the Valley.

You can save money and invest here,” Gallardo said.

“What I’m doing right now my old classmates are doing, but they’re paying 25 grand.”

TSTC offers an online Associate of Science degree in Biology designed to help students get a head start on a bachelor’s degree, pursue a path to medical school, or work in medical or science fields.

“TSTC is a really good stepping stone,” Huerta said.

“There’s no reason not to be a part of TSTC.” The Citrus Center internship is accepting applications for fall 2021, spring 2022 and summer 2022, with the funding extension available, TSTC Academic Core lead instructor Jena Campbell said. Students who are interested in applying should contact Campbell, TSTC associate professor of academic science Paul Leonard or TSTC academic science instructor Michael Gay. Registration for the fall semester at TSTC is underway. For more information, visit tstc.edu.

Photo caption: (L-R) Beth Wooten, CEO of The TSTC Foundation, Kurt Encinias, CEO of Southwest Aerospace Technologies, Mike Reeser, chancellor and CEO of TSTC, and Curtis Cleveland, chair of the TSTC Board of Regents, were among those who gathered Tuesday, August 10, 2021, at TSTC to unveil a plaque in recognition of contributions to TSTC from Southwest Aerospace Technologies LLC totaling $6.6 million. (Photo courtesy of TSTC.) the aerospace building’s main lobby, or “terminal,” commemorates Southwest Aerospace Technologies’ recent donation of a large inventory of Global Express parts that will be used in TSTC’s aviation curriculum.

The college offers

Associate of Applied Science degrees and certificates of completion in Aircraft Airframe Technology and Aircraft Powerplant Technology at its campuses in Abilene, Harlingen and Waco.

Southwest Aerospace Technologies is a

certified FAA/EASA 145 Repair Station and parts supplier headquartered in Georgetown, Texas. For more information, visit www.southwestaerospace. com.

For more information about TSTC, visit tstc.edu.

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