Elsa M. De León, electa Miss Roma 2010

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1 Announcing their Candidacy for the November 2, 2010 RGCCISD School Board Elections Cesar Gonzalez, Leo Lopez and Basilio (Bacho) Villarreal, Jr. Unidos para los niños Cesar Gonzalez I am a current member of the RGCCISD Board of Directors, and very proud to have served in this District for the last eight years and witnessed the countless accomplishments our District has been able to achieve. I shall continue to stand behind our District and support all our teachers, administrators and staff so that they continue to reach all the necessary academic levels our students need to succeed. Cesar Gonzalez, page 10 Leo Lopez Leo Lopez is running for the position of R.G.C.C.I.S.D School Board Trustee Place 6. A Rio Grande City native, Leo Lopez holds a strong grasp on his roots, being raised in Rio Grande. Mr. Lopez comes from humble beginnings, building fences, selling roasted corn, and working in sanitation early on in his life to support his family. He went on to attend the University of Texas Pan American and South Texas Leo Lopez, page 10 Basilio (Bacho) Villarreal, Jr. Mr. Basilio (Bacho) Villarreal, Jr. announces his candidacy for school board place 7 Basilio is a graduate of the Rio Grande City High School and the University of Texas at Austin. He is the son of the late Basilio Villarreal and Socorro Villarreal. He is married to Maria Adelina Villarreal and has three children Basilio, Dominique and Rene Eloy Villarreal. Basilio strives to believe what his mother and father instilled in him, that Basilio Villarreal, Jr., page 10 General Ricardo Sanchez Elementary Receives Exemplary Rating Two Years in a Row We are pleased to report that General Ricardo Sanchez Elementary has received an Exemplary ratingwhich is the highest rating a campus can receive from the Texas Education Agency. This makes it two years in a row for this campus. This Exemplary designation is based primarily on the scores the students received on their Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) Test and the rating was achieved without Texas Projection Measure (TPM). Thank you students, staff and parents for your dedication and commitment towards our goal: Excellence. Dr. Raymond P. Mussett Parade Marshall 2010 In their regular session held on Aug. 13th the Roma Chamber of Commerce by unanimous vote selected Dr. Mussett to lead the 2010 parade. The parade will be on Oct. 3, 2010 which will leave the Roma Citizens State Bank parking lot at 3:00 P.M. to finish in the Riverview Shopping Center. All citizens of Starr County are invited to join us in this event. On which we will be honored with the presence of our Veterans, three Roma bands, and other floats. We also extend an invitation to the Starr County schools to participate in the parade. The theme is open. For more information call Elsa M. De León, electa Miss Roma 2010 Miss Roma 2010 From: Left to Rigth: Elsa De Leon (Miss Roma 2010 Elected), Clarisa Treviño, Cinthia Gonzalez, Mariela L. Barrera and Paula Garza. Miss Roma 2010, page 10 RGCCISD POLICE DEPARTMENT HOLDS SWEARING IN experience in Law Enforcement. He was employed at the Starr County Sheriff s Office for the past nine (9) years. He began his law enforcement career in 2001 as a patrol officer and was promoted within two years to Night Supervisor and later became an Investigator. Officer Garcia is married to Miriam Garcia and they have three children; Nenci (17 yrs.), Nayeli (14 yrs.) and Andres (7 yrs.). Garcia is a dedicated individual who will undoubtedly be an asset to the RGCCISD Police Department. Officer Juvencio Garcia, Jr. was sworn in on September 8, 2010 by R G C C I S D School Police Chief Hernan Garza. Officer Garcia brings to the school d i s t r i c t e x t e n s i v e Pictured are Garcia and Chief Garza. (RGCCISD Photo).

2 STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, SEPTEMBER 29, 2010, PAGE 2 John & Olive Hinojosa Elementary students and staff dressed up in traditional Mexican attire and feasted on different assortments of Mexican food in celebration of 16 de septiembre. We would like to thank the parents for supporting their child s education and helping to promote cultural awareness CLASS OF Class of 1980 will have a class reunion on Oct ,2010. For more information call Julie Briseno , Hilda Lozano Garza , or Nelly Gonzalez Aristotle: What is a friend? A single soul dwelling in two bodies. Local Resident Graduates During Honorary Parade and Graduation Ceremony Held Aboard Marine Military Academy Camper Hunter Cozad Olivarez son of Ms. Carla Cozad Yzaguirre and Mr. Uvaldo Homero Olivarez of Rio Grande City, TX has completed all requirements of introductory training as a plebe at Marine Military Academy in Harlingen, Texas. Camper Olivarez was presented his certification by MMA Commandant SgtMaj Ford Kinsley, USMC (Ret) and his Drill Instructor during the end-oftraining ceremony held Saturday, July 31 st. Should Camper Olivarez enter the Academy for the academic year, he will be exempt from the four week introductory training session and will enter as a full-fledged member of the Academy s Corps of Cadets. Marine Military Academy (MMA) is a one-of-a-kind college preparatory boarding and U.S. Marine Corps militarystyled academy for young men years of age, with one year optional postgraduate study. The school was founded in 1963 by William A. Gary, rancher and retired U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) Reserve Captain, who believed USMC concepts of leadership and discipline are adaptable to prep school education. In 1965, he and a group of retired Marines opened the school in Harlingen, TX on a 142-acre site of a former Air Force navigation school. MMA is unique among all military secondary institutions, its very foundation framed from the desire to emulate those tried and true Marine traditions and values that have earned the respect and gratitude of our great nation. In a world where many prefer to take shortcuts and offer less than their personal best effort, the Marine Military Academy challenges each cadet to strive for excellence and his highest potential. The goals for personal excellence extend through academics, athletics/physical activities, moral and other personal endeavors. This past academic year approximately 300 cadets enrolled in grades 8 through 12 with one year available for postgraduate study.

3 General Ricardo Sanchez and Congressman Henry Cuellar with local Army Reserve personnel, many who are Iraq War Veterans, present at the enrollment fair. Veterans Participate in Enrollment Fair Patriot Day served as more than a day to commemorate the victims of 9/11, it was a day to honor those that have answered our nation s call of duty. It was a day to pay tribute to those that have defended the freedom and privileges we value, but that often we take for granted. In order to ensure that our Starr County Veterans are taking full advantage of the benefits they deserve, the Starr County Industrial Foundation and the Office of Congressman Henry Cuellar coordinated a Veterans Enrollment Fair that took place at the South Texas College Starr County Campus. Partners for the event included: South Texas Health Systems, VA Texas Valley Coastal Bend, Starr County Memorial Hospital, South Texas College, Cantare Community Youth Choir, Veterans Alliance of Hidalgo and Starr County, Border Region MHMR, Workforce Solutions and Telemundo 40. Laura Cavazos, Telemundo 40 News Anchor, served as Mistress of Ceremonies for a program that included the presentation of colors by the RGC High School ROTC, a special rendition of the National Anthem by Starr County s very own Cantare Community Youth Choir, followed by a harmonica performance by Zenon Yracheta honoring fallen soldier Diego Montoya. Participating as guest speakers were Congressman Henry Cuellar, General Ricardo Sanchez, VA Director Jeff Milligan, STC Campus Administrator Ruben Saenz and STC Board of Trustees Vice- Chair, Rose Benavidez. General Sanchez, keynote speaker, was emphatic in asking all the veterans in attendance to encourage every veteran they knew, especially those skeptical about the benefits, to come in and get registered. Congressman Cuellar encouraged everyone to maintain their advocacy efforts for the construction of a hospital in our area and to continue to enroll veterans into the system in order to promote the extensive unmet needs. Rose Benavidez, expressed, Veterans we thank you for your service, today is an attempt to give back to each of you a small token of what you have so selflessly given us and to make certain that the same dedication and commitment with which you served our country is the same dedication and commitment every veteran receives upon their return. If you missed the fair, but would like to register for any of the programs offered, please call and you will be directed to the corresponding agency. For more photos of the event, please visit STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, SEPTEMBER 29, 2010, PAGE 3 Paola Bazan Awarded Child Care Credential Paola Bazan of Garciasville has been awarded a Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential in recognition of outstanding work with young children. The credential was awarded by the Council for Professional Recognition in Washington, DC, which represents the early childhood education profession. CDA is the only major national effort to improve early childhood education and care by evaluation and recognition the skills of individuals providing care. The first Credential was awarded over 30 years ago, and now 49 states plus the District of Columbia include CDA in their childcare licensing regulations. Parents who use early education and care are especially concerned today about their children s welfare. With this in mind, as part of the CDA assessment process, every candidate for the CDA Credential is observed working with young children or families by an early childhood profession-al. In addition, the candidate must demonstrate the ability to work with families to develop children s physical and intellectual capabilities in a safe and healthy learning environment. The CDA Credential is having a positive effect on the quality of early childhood education and care. Its impact is evident in center-based and home visitor programs as well as family child care, the most common form of care for children under 5 years old. Child care staff and parents wanting information on CDA should write to the Council for Professional Recognition at th Street, NW, Washington, DC , or call the Council at (202) or (800) *** Samuel Johnson: There can be no friendship without confidence, and no confidence without integrity.

4 STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, SEPTEMBER 29, 2010, PAGE 4 Voter registration deadline is October 4 AUSTIN Texas Secretary of State Hope Andrade is reminding Texans the deadline is approaching if they need to register for the Nov. 2 general election. The deadline to register to vote is Oct. 4. Registering to vote is easy, says Andrade. The voter registration application only has nine questions, including one which asks for your name. Voter registration applications are available online at the Secretary of State s website, or at county elections offices, and many post offices and libraries. To register to vote in Texas, you must: Be a U.S. citizen; Be a resident of the county; Be at least 17 years and 10 months old (You must be 18 years old by Election Day.) Not be a convicted felon (unless your sentence is completed, including any probation and parole); and Not be declared mentally incapacitated by a court of law. If a person moves or changes their name after they are registered, they must notify the local voter registrar in their home county of the new information. registration status at VOTEXAS. To complete a voter registration application, a person must provide a Texas Driver s License number or Texas Personal I.D. number issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety. If a person has neither of those numbers, the applicant is asked to provide the last four digits of their Social submitted by the applicant is verified before a voter registration If none of the required numbers are provided on the application, the person can still be registered, but they must show a proper form of identification at the polling location before they can receive a Texans can check their org. Security Number. The number certificate is issued. ballot. ORACIÓN A SANTO EXPEDITO Si tienes algún problema de difícil solución y necesitas ayuda urgente, pide esta ayuda a San Expedito que es el Santo de los Asuntos que precisan Pronta solución y cuya invocación nunca es tardía. ORACIÓN: Mi Santo Expedito de las Causas Justas y Urgentes. Socórreme en esta hora de aflicción y desespero, intercede por mí, junto a Nuestro Señor Jesucristo. Vos que sois un Santo Guerrero, Vos que sois el Santo de los Afligidos, Vos que sois el Santo de los Desesperados, Vos que sois el Santo de las Cosas Urgentes. Protégeme, Ayúdame, Dame Fuerza, Coraje y Serenidad. Atiéndeme mi pedido (Haz tu pedido) Ayúdame a superar estas horas difíciles, protéjeme de todos los que puedan perjudicarme. Proteje a mi familia, atiende mi pedido con urgencia. Devuélveme la paz y tranquilidad. Seré agradecido el resto de mi vida y llevaré tu nombre a todos los que tienen fé. GRACIAS. Reza un Padrenuestro, un Ave María y haz la Señal de la Cruz. En agradecimiento, difunde la Oración a todas las personas que lo necesiten. L. S.

5 Op-ed : America s Bounty It s officially fall the time of year when the weather starts to cool, leaves begin to change and, for America s farmers, harvest is in full-swing. For the 98 percent of American s who are not directly involved in the agriculture industry, the 24/7 life of a farmer or rancher may go unnoticed. But, if you are reading this article, thank a tree producer for the paper and a soybean producer for the ink. If you are enjoying a cup of coffee, glass of milk, a bite to eat while you read, thank a farmer or rancher. When you dress for work or play you guessed it thank the 2.2 million Americans involved in production agriculture. It s because of these individuals that we enjoy the basic necessities LETTER TO THE EDITOR of life food, clothing and shelter in abundance and at a lower percentage of our expendable income than anywhere else in the world. Nowhere, but in the United States, is such a wide variety of food available to everyday consumers. It s important to consider the farmers, ranchers and growers who work day in and day out to produce a plentiful, safe, affordable supply of food, fiber and fuel. To bring the perspective closer to home, Starr County s 1104 farms comprised of 652,760 acres of land produce agriculture products with a market value of more than $64 million contributing significantly to the county s economic infrastructure. Farms and ranches in Starr County produce grain sorghum, corn, vegetables, hay and livestock. So this week, as you visit the grocery store, a restaurant, farmer s market or sit down to a meal with family and friends, I ask that you join my colleagues and me at the U.S. Department of Agriculture in thanking America s farmers and ranchers. I m certain they will be grateful to know that their fellow citizens appreciate their role in making America a truly great nation. Respectfully submitted, John J Hinojosa County Executive Director Starr County Farm Service Agency Attention Roma Class of 1985!!! Our 25th year reunion will be October 23, If you are planning to attend please Yvonne Bona Ramirez at romahsclassof1985@yahoo.com or call STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, SEPTEMBER 29, 2010, PAGE 5 Starr County Council of Beta Sigma Phi Installs Leadership --- Starr County Council of Beta Sigma Phi met on Sunday, Sept. 19, at Denny s, where the officers and all chapter representatives were installed and plans were made for the upcoming chapter year. Installed as officers were Lori Perez, president; Lilly Olivarez, vicepresident; Penny Molina, secretary; and Anna Wagner, treasurer. The installation ceremony was conducted by Publicity Chairman Tissa Peterson. Each chapter of Beta Sigma Phi has two representatives on the council, which coordinates activities shared by the chapters, such as the annual Sweetheart Dance and Founder s Day celebration.

6 STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, SEPTEMBER 29, 2010, PAGE 6 First Days of School Bring Out the Best in General Ricardo Sanchez Students The first days of school stir excitement and fear in many students and parents. However, these first days, students at General Ricardo Sanchez Elementary exhibit compassion and loyalty towards siblings and friends making first days of school a rewarding memory. Thank you staff and parents for working together to mold and guide tomorrow s leaders. (E.Perez). Patient s Bill of Rights Begun September 23rd Washington Congressman Henry Cuellar announced that several important consumer protection features of health reform were into effect, September 23rd, six months after Affordable Care Act was signed into law. Better known as the Patient s Bill of Rights, these provisions seek to end insurance company abuses. Starting September 23rd, key patient rights and protections begin to take effect. This new Patient s Bill of Rights is designed to put you and your doctor not the health insurance companies -- back in charge of your health care. Up until now, insurance companies have often left patients without coverage when they needed it most -- causing them to put off needed care, thereby compromising their health and driving up the cost of care when they got it. As a father, one of the major issues for me was denying children coverage for pre-existing conditions, like asthma. If your child is ill, please know that these reforms will ensure your child can get the help he or she needs. Here is what the Patient s Bill of Rights will mean for you: THEN: Insurance companies were able to retroactively cancel your policy when you became sick, if you or your employer had made an unintentional mistake on your paperwork. NOW: The new law prohibits insurance plans from rescinding your coverage when you get sick, except in cases of fraud or an intentional misrepresentation of facts. (Applies to all insurance plans.) THEN: Every year, thousands of families have been denied insurance for their children just because they were born with a health condition or they have become sick. NOW: The new law prohibits insurance plans both from denying coverage and limiting benefits for children based on a pre-existing condition. (Applies to all employer plans and new individual plans.) THEN: Over 100 million Americans have been enrolled in insurance plans that impose lifetime limits on coverage meaning when a catastrophic illness strikes, they were in danger of bankruptcy when their health costs exceed the limit. NOW: The new law outlaws lifetime limits; no longer will a family go broke or lose their home just because a loved one has an accident or becomes ill. (Applies to all insurance plans.) THEN: Even more aggressive than lifetime limits are annual dollar limits on what an insurance company will pay for health care. The insurance plans of millions of Americans have had such annual limits. NOW: The new law phases out the use of annual limits; ensuring that the coverage of hundreds of thousands of Americans will no longer be cut off right when they need it most. (Applies to all employer plans and new individual plans.) THEN: Most insurance companies did not allow parents to keep their young adult children on their plan, as the children worked to launch their careers. NOW: The new law requires Anthony s Home Health Care Durable Medical Equipment For all your medical equipment & supply needs! Wheelchairs, Ostomy Care, Enternal Nutrition, Lift Chairs, Scooters, Hospital Beds, Dressing Supplies, Diabetes Aides, Orthopedic Equipment, Walking Aides, Incontinence, Mobilty Aides (956) W. Main St., Suite B, RGC insurance plans that offer family coverage to allow young people up to their 26th birthday to remain on their parents insurance plan, at the parent s choice. (Applies to young people who do not have access to their own employersponsored coverage.) THEN: Insurance companies didn t always make it easy to see the doctor you choose. NOW: Patients are guaranteed their choice of primary care doctor within their plan s network of doctors, including OB-GYNs and pediatricians without a referral. (Applies to new plans.) THEN: Each year, thousands of Americans have gotten hit with exorbitant charges from their insurance company when they got sick or injured when they were away from home and used an out-of-network emergency room. NOW: Under the new law, insurance plans will not be able to charge higher cost-sharing for emergency services that are obtained out of a plan s network. (Applies to new plans.) THEN: Millions of Americans did not have the right under their insurance plan to have an external appeal of insurance company decisions. NOW: The new law prohibits insurance companies from denying coverage for needed care without a chance to appeal to an independent third party. (Applies to new plans.) All of these provisions take effect for the next plan year starting on or after today. That means that they ll be in effect during your next open season in your employer plan or the next time you re-enroll in or purchase a policy from an insurer. Many of these reforms will be expanded over time. For example, once the Exchanges come into operation in 2014, the prohibition against denying coverage for preexisting conditions for children will be extended to adults and annual limits on coverage will be prohibited. Starting next year, insurance companies will be required to put more of your premium dollars into health care, and less into their profit margins and CEO pay. I am proud that these reforms are a reality and making a difference in people s lives today. To learn more about these provisions and other ways that health reform will help you, please visit the healthcare reform page on my website: Issue/?IssueID=3834

7 STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, SEPTEMBER 29, 2010, PAGE 7 Alto Bonito Elementary Celebrates 16 de septiembre Roque Guerra, Jr. Elementary Students of the Week The following students have been selected as students of the week: Standing: Julio Cesar Alaniz, Jr. (3rd Grade), Dominique Michelle Garcia (5th Grade), Melvin Peñate, Jr. (4th Grade), Cynthia Sifuentes (All Stars), Karina Reyes (2nd Grade). Seated: Wilber Barrientos (Kinder), Emily Guerra (Pre-Kinder), and Aylin A. Gonzalez (1st Grade). This is what their teachers had to say about each of the student: Julio is a well behaved student that is always attentive in class. Dominique is a model student who exhibits excellent behavior and follows all rules. Melvin is a star student with outstanding behavior and shows self-motivation in school related activities. He is very helpful and is willing to share with others. Cynthia has shown a great determination to succeed socially and academically. Karina is an excellent student! Wilber is an excellent student with great behavior skills. Emily is a well behaved student and great listener. Aylin is an extremely bright student with excellent behavior. Congratulations and continue doing your best! INMIGRACIÓN Abogado Jose M. Martinez, P.C. (956) El Grito de Dolores: In the early hours of September 16th, 1810, Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, a priest in the small town of Dolores, Guanajuato, rang the church bell to gather the townspeople. He called for the people of Mexico to rise up against the Spanish Crown, thus initiating Mexico s War of Independence, also known as El Grito de la Independencia. The country did not achieve independence until 1821, but it is this event, known as the Grito de Dolores which is commemorated every year in town squares across Mexico. Diez y siez de septiembre becomes a school wide lesson at Alto Bonito Elementary. Every year teachers include a lesson on the historical significance of Mexico s War of Independence as well as the cultural impact that this moment had in history. Some classes start the day with El Grito De Dolores, and some dress up for the occasion and have traditional dances. Pictured above are: Yamilex Gazca, Koraima Garcia, and Carolina Alamillo, they are dressed for their annual diez y sies de septiembre classroom activity. Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked for many favors. This time I ask you this very special one (mention favor). Take it Dear Jesus, and place it within your own heart, where your Father sees it. Then, in your merciful eyes it will become your favor, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for three days, promise publication and favor will be granted. Never known to fail. A. P. R. * Ayuda con Deportaciones/ Detenciones/Fianzas (Bonds) * Peticiones Familiares/ (Greencard) Ayuda con Residencia Permanente * Visas de Trabajo (H2A) (H2B) * Visas de Inversionistas/Empresas (E-2, & L1-A) PLAN DE PAGOS 3235 N. McColl McAllen, Texas * Casos Criminales/ Federales/ Estatales * Divorcios * Adopciones * Accidentes Automovilísticos * Aplicación para Ciudadanía/Naturalización Not Certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization

8 STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, SEPTEMBER 29, 2010, PAGE 8 Your yard should have a birdbath! by Jim Seeden President, Rio Grande Wilderness Society On September 2, 2010, Roque Guerra, Jr. Elementary hosted their annual Meet the Teacher Night. Parents were invited to visit their children s teacher to learn about classroom expectations and procedures. Thank you parents for your support...let s make this school year the best ever! During the past year or two, I ve become increasingly fond of birdbaths. The very hot and mostly dry weather we re having makes life difficult for wildlife and I ve observed that birdbaths aren t just for birds. A surprising diversity of wildlife is attracted. This was made emphatically clear to me when, in the early morning a few weeks ago, I looked through my bedroom window and observed a bobcat sitting beside my ground-level birdbath having a long, leisurely drink. He looked up occasionally, apparently having heard something. I got a clear look at the white spots behind his ears, and the short, barred tail with its tip black above and white below. Overall he was tannish brown, streaked and spotted with black, an attractive animal. After a few minutes he sauntered off looking for breakfast and I noted, as I have before, that for a cat, he has rather long legs. While seeing the bobcat was exciting, it wasn t the only mammal to use the birdbath. Eastern cottontail rabbits and Mexican groundsquirrels are visitors. An armadillo comes several nights each week for a mud bath. I don t see him but the tracks and mud he leaves are signs enough. It s not uncommon to discover a giant toad soaking in the birdbath when I arise in the morning. Now and then a Texas toad is to be found. On several occasions this past summer, very large Texas indigo snakes have stopped by for a drink. They re about 6 or 7 feet long, awesome but not poisonous. I like having them around because they like to eat rattlesnakes. Most recently, on a very hot day, a western coachwhip snake stopped by for a drink and to slither its body through the cooling water. There are a few blue spiny lizards living nearby in a caliche rock wall I built. They also enjoy the birdbaths. Mostly because the water attracts a few flying insects which they like to eat. Of course the birdbaths also attract birds. Dozens of species have visited. Most notably, the hooded orioles, Audubon s orioles and green jays enjoy frequent and long baths. So, if you want to attract interesting wildlife to your yard, install a birdbath or two. Most garden centers have birdbaths for sale, or just a plastic, oil drip pan will do. You can also use a large, round, plastic plant tray. Birdbaths can be as fancy or simple as you like, the wildlife won t care. I have three birdbaths. One is on a pedestal about 2 1/2 feet tall; two are on the ground. All are near or beneath overhanging branches of bushes and trees. The shade keeps the water cooler and provides escape for birds along with a place to preen their feathers after bathing. Place the birdbaths so you can see them through a window. If you have birdbaths, you should clean and fill them almost daily. You can use a garden hose to squirt them clean. Just as we get thirsty, so do the wild inhabitants of our Valley. You can help them survive and be repaid by interesting and, sometimes, exciting observations.

9 Congress to tackle taxes after August recess With election season just around the corner and Bush tax credits nearing expiration, Congress has much to tackle coming back from their summer recess, according to Ronnie Zamora, Starr County Farm Bureau president. Taxes will top the session s agenda, as major changes could impact states and businesses operations and significantly cut budgets. With the soaring federal budget, lawmakers will look for ways to boost capital and make up ground. What they do in Washington really affects us in the field. We trust our representatives are listening to how these tax cuts help our day-to-day operations, Zamora said. Many farmers and ranchers favor the Small Business Jobs and Credit Act of 2010, which would have enacted several tax provisions and lifted the Form 1099 reporting requirements all of which Farm Bureau supported. However, the legislation did not pass in a vote on Sept. 15. The Form 1099 reporting requirements add mounds of tedious paperwork, said Zamora. Eminent domain: Texas needs more reform As legislators prepare to head back to Austin, their constituents should make sure eminent domain reform remains top-of-mind and at the top of their representative s agenda. Last year we made good strides to protect Texans private property by passing Proposition 11, said Ronnie Zamora, Starr County Farm Bureau president. But there are still gaps in legislation that need to be filled so that landowners receive fair treatment during the eminent domain process. Proposition 11, which Texas Farm Bureau supported, prevents the government from using eminent domain to take private property for another entity for the purpose of economic development or enhanced tax revenues. Voters passed the proposition with 80 percent approval well over the majority. Private property owners recognize improvement brought by Proposition 11, but they say more reform is needed to adequately protect their rights. To make sure landowners are compensated fairly, Texas law should penalize condemners for not negotiating fairly and give adequate compensation for loss of access. Landowners also should be able to buy back their land if it is unused after 10 years, said Zamora. To show support of continued eminent domain reform, Texans may visit land.com to sign an online petition created by Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples, which he will present to legislators when the new session convenes in January. The reporting requirements will dictate more of a producer s time, money and resources, which are already scarce. Current policy for both estate and income taxes will expire on Dec. 31, Until that date, there is not an estate tax and stepped-up basis is limited. Farm Bureau would rather Congress permanently eliminate the estate tax. Until that time, Farm Bureau supports a $5 million exemption with a 35 percent top rate, which has been proposed by Sen. Blanche Lincoln (D-Ark.) and Sen. Jon Kyl (R-Ariz.). An estate tax with a low exemption and high top rate could financially devastate a family farm and put them out of business, Zamora said. It s critical that Congress understand how the estate tax impacts American agriculture. NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING TO DISCUSS ROMA INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT S State Financial Accountability Rating Roma ISD will hold a public meeting at 5:45 p.m., Thursday, October 14, 2010, in the Manuel Guerra Auditorium, 608 N. Garcia St, Roma, TX The purpose of this meeting is to discuss Roma ISD s rating on the financial accountability system. STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, SEPTEMBER 29, 2010, PAGE 9 Starr County Farm Bureau to Meet Thursday The Starr County Farm Bureau annual meeting of its entire membership is set for this Thursday, September 30, at 6:00 p.m. at the Multipurpose Center. Members have received their invitations in the mail. Dinner will be served (no takeout plates), and a guest speaker will inform members of issues in the Texas legislature concerning agriculture and agricultural communities. Door prizes will be given out throughout the evening. Pictured are members of the Starr County Farm Bureau Board of Directors, who will conduct the meeting and who hope to see all members there. Special appreciation will be given to the family of the late Roger H. Williams.

10 STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, SEPTEMBER 29, 2010, PAGE 10 GLADIATORS FINISH STRONG IN WIN OVER RATTLERS By Kenneth Roberts, Freelance Writer The Roma Gladiators used a 21-point second quarter scoring flurry and a strong fourth quarter finish to defeat the Rio Grande City Rattlers in a District 16-4A battle at Roma on Friday evening, Sept. 24. Friday s game was the first played between the Rattlers and Gladiators in five or six years and the first time the two teams have ever faced each other as district opponents. The Gladiators gained momentum by scoring three touchdowns in less than seven minutes in the second quarter as they started each drive with excellent field position. The Rattlers caught fire with two third quarter touchdowns, but the Gladiators regained control when Orlando Cantu, Jr. returned an interception 23 yards for a touchdown early in the fourth quarter. The Rattlers responded by driving to the Roma 5, but the Gladiator defense stopped them on a fourth down play at the 9. The Gladiators then unleashed a long scoring drive that concluded with a 23-yard scoring run by Jassiel Pena with less than three minutes remaining. Jassiel Pena was Roma s most effective runner as he rushed for three scores of 8, 8 and 23 yards. The Rattlers gained the first scoring opportunity by returning a short punt to the Roma 29. Moments later, a Roma defender knocked the ball loose and the Gladiators recovered the fumble at their 9. A few minutes later, the Rattlers tried to convert a fourth RIO GRANDE CITY CISD Vacancy Announcement School Year POSITION: QUALIFICATIONS: High School Diploma/G.E.D. Ability to meet physical and instructional needs of individual students with disabilities inside and outside classroom, including transferring them to and from wheelchairs, lifting and positioning them Ability to take care of physical needs and personal care including feeding, bathroom needs and personal hygiene CAMPUS: CONTACT: and two play in Roma territory, but were stopped inches short at the Roma 34. Moments later, a punt took a Roma bounce and rolled dead at midfield after covering 20 yards. Jassiel Pena scampered to the Rio 29 for a 15-yard gain. Three plays later, Jassiel Pena powered through several defenders and lunged across the goal line for an eight-yard scoring run with 9:39 left in the second quarter. Irving DeLeon booted the extra point to give Roma a 7-0 lead. The Gladiators were soon in business again when they recovered a fumble at the Rio 40. Quarterback Exiquio Gonzalez connected with Isaac Martinez for a 30-yard completion to the 10. Two plays later, Jassiel Pena bulldozed his way through right tackle for an eight-yard scoring run with 7:53 left in the second period. DeLeon s extra point kick expanded the Gladiators margin to On their next possession, the Rattlers tried to convert a fourth and one play at their 49, but quarterback Erick Diaz was tackled in the backfield for a two-yard loss at the 47. Gonzalez threw a pass across the middle that was nearly intercepted, but Diego Pena made a spectacular catch just off the ground for a 22- yard completion to the 6. On the next play, Nestor Garcia romped into the end zone for a six-yard scoring run with 2:51 left until halftime. DeLeon s extra point kick sailed through to give Roma a 21-0 lead, and the score remained the same going into halftime. Housing Authority of the City of Roma The Housing Authority of the City of Roma has a position open for a: Part Time Public Housing/ Section 8 Inspector Individuals must have knowledge with work experience in the field, residential and multi-family building inspection. Able to establish and maintain working relationships with residents and landlords. Knowledge of Tenants Rights and Leasing Documents. Valid Driver s License. An application and job description will be available at the Roma Housing Authority office at 469 Canales Circle, Roma Texas, Monday thru Friday for all applicants interested in applying. The Roma Housing Authority is an equal opportunity employer. Office phone: (956) Fax Resume: (956) Attn: Zulma P. Castillo Position open until filled Special Needs Aide REQUIRED: Two (2) Letters of Recommendation Dr. Mario Ramirez Elem. School Adela P. Trigo, Principal Joseph Ellert, Director of Special Education Early in the third quarter, the Rattlers executed a 58-yard scoring drive. Diaz connected with Edio Estrada for a 42-yard completion to the Roma 5. Daryl Lopez then lunged across the goal line for a two-yard scoring run with 6:29 left in the third quarter. The extra point kick cut Roma s lead to The Rattlers got more momentum when they recovered a fumble at the Roma 31. Four plays later, Diaz ran a sprintout around left end and scampered into the end zone standing up for a 12-yard scoring run with 4:19 left in the third quarter. A bad snap messed up the extra point attempt, leaving Roma with a advantage. The Rattlers soon took over at the Roma 40 after a sevenyard punt sailed out of bounds. Three plays later, a running play through right tackle apparently achieved a first down, but the ball was knocked loose and the Gladiators recovered at their 30. A 50-yard run by Roma running back Ruben Salinas to the Rio 20 was largely nullified by a block-in-the-back penalty. The drive reached the Rio 37, but a deep pass was intercepted by a Rattler defender and returned to the Rio 22. Two plays later, Diaz rolled to his right and threw a short pass BID NOTICE Rio Grande City C.I.S.D. is requesting proposals on the following: High School Boys Basketball Supplies 10:00 A.M. Bid Specifications and further information may be obtained from the Rio Grande City C.I.S.D. Purchasing Office at the address below. Sealed bids must be received by the Rio Grande City C.I.S.D. Purchasing Office, Fort Ringgold, Rio Grande City, Texas on Tuesday, October 19, 2010 and will be opened and read aloud at the above-mentioned time. Rio Grande City C.I.S.D. reserves the right to refuse and reject any or all proposals and to waive any or all formalities or technicalities, or to accept the proposal considered the best and most advantageous to the school district. Joe D. Smedley Purchasing Agent RFP NOTICE that was intercepted by Orlando Cantu, Jr. and returned 23 yards for a touchdown with 11:02 left in the game. The successful extra point kick boosted the Gladiators margin to The Rattlers responded by driving deep into Roma territory, with Cesar Alaniz breaking free on a reverse play for a 39-yard gain to the Roma 16. Javi Lozano then hammered out an 11-yard gain to the 5. Diaz was sacked, however, at the 14 for a nine-yard loss. On fourth and goal at the 9, Diaz threw a pass into the end zone that was batted away by Roma defender Orlando Tamez, giving the Gladiators the ball on downs. The Gladiators then executed a long scoring drive as Jassiel Pena and Exiquio Gonzalez scampered for gains of 17 and 13 yards. With 2:42 left in the game, Pena darted through a big hole at right tackle for a 23-yard scoring run. The successful conversion gave the Gladiators their final victory margin of The Rattlers, now 1-2 in district play, will have an open date before hosting Weslaco East on Friday evening, Oct. 8. The Gladiators, now 1-1 in district and 2-2 overall, will face a strong Weslaco East team on the road on Friday evening, Oct. 1. SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY INCOME Question: I am trying to save up for a station wagon. I have $900 in the bank now and need a little more. How much cash can I have in the bank without affecting my SSI eligibility? Answer: The resource limit is $2,000. Unless you have other valuable resources, this means you could save up to $2,000 before you would become ineligible for SSI. We generally do not count your primary car, the home you live in or certain amounts set aside for burial expenses as resources. In some cases, if the vehicle you re saving for is part of a plan to return to work, you can have higher resources but Social Security would need to approve your plan in order to exclude those resources. For more information, visit our webpage at gov/ssi. Or you can call Social Security s toll-free number at (TTY ) and ask for the publication, Supplemental Security Income. Rio Grande City C.I.S.D. is requesting proposals on the following: Request For Proposal #11-23 Remodeling Of The Ringgold Middle School Cafeteria The school district is requesting sealed proposals for Remodeling Of The Ringgold Middle School Cafeteria and further information may be obtained from the Rio Grande City C.I.S.D. Purchasing Department at the address below or call Mr. Joe D. Smedley, Purchasing Agent at A Proposal Conference will be held at the MultiPurpose Center, 1 South Fort Ringgold, Rio Grande City, Texas at 10:00 A.M., Wednesday, October 6, Sealed proposals must be received by the Rio Grande City C.I.S.D. Purchasing Office, 1 South Fort Ringgold, Rio Grande City, Texas by 10:00 A.M. Tuesday October 19, 2010, and will be opened and read aloud at the mentioned time. CESAR GONZALEZ Continued from Front Page As a member of this community and President a local banking institution since 1982, I feel honored to have been welcomed here. All of my three children Eli, Sara, and Karina were products of this School District and I am proud to say that the fundamental education they received here was second to none. All three have since successfully graduated from college and have started their own careers. My wife Nelda was a teacher in this District for over 30 years and found it to be very rewarding. The elections will be held on November 2nd, College. He held the position of president for the Rio Grande City Economic Development Corporation. While raising three children, seeking healthcare for his wife during her 13 year battle against cancer, working multiple jobs, Leo Lopez over came the adversity to become co-founder and Vice President of Starr Telecom. A family owned business, Starr Telecom installs commercial data and telecommunication among other things. He flourished as a business man and has played a vital role in the advancement of the company for over a decade. He has displayed qualities of integrity and honor, presiding as Rio Grande City s Municipal Judge for the past two years. He currently sits on the Rio Grande City Consolidated Independent School District Board as well. Mr. Lopez is a passionate advocate of education. Aside from his leadership positions, he finds time for his most important priority, his family. El pasado jueves 16 de Septiembre, La Cámara de Comercio de Roma, Texas, llevo a cabo el certamen para elegir a la señorita Miss Roma 2010, evento que fue todo un éxito en cuanto a su organización, ya que la ganadora fue quien mas puntuación acumulo através de las calificaciones durante las tres etapas del evento, los cuatro jueces fueron muy estrictos en cuanto el desempeño de cada una de ellas, al calificar durante la primera etapa, belleza y desempeño en el baile, segunda etapa, auto presentación y gustos personales y finalmente la tercera etapa, respuestas a preguntas generales, cabe mencionar que todas las participantes lucieron muy hermosas, donde la juventud, belleza y la magnifica participación de cada una de ellas quedo de manifiesto durante el evento que se llevo a cabo en el edificio que alberga el centro comunitario de esta ciudad. Las participantes en el orden de presentación fueron: Elsa De León, Clarisa Treviño, Cinthia Gonzáles, Mariela L. Barrera y Paula Garza, quienes lucieron una coordinación en el bailable, e invitaron al público asistente a participar, en cuanto al LEO LOPEZ Continued from Front Page MISS ROMA 2010 Continued from Front Page RFP NOTICE BASILIO VILLARREAL, JR. Continued from Front Page inheritance a parent can leave a child. He believes that greatness in Education can be achieved when we become a family of one, when parents, students, community and the entire RGCCISD staff becomes one. Our effort to make education for children a way of life. Many years ago Basilio ran on a simple slogan, that kids come first. Today he can honestly say children s education has been taken to new In conclusion, Basilio would like to thank the entire Education Family education was the greatest heights. for making kids Education and Dreams a Reality. Mr. Lopez has been married to his wife Leticia Lopez for 23 years. Mr. Lopez can truly evaluate, empathize with and provide for not only the people of Rio Grande, but of La Grulla as well, as his wife Leticia served as an administrator and principal of La Grulla Elementary for the past six years. Together they have raised three children, Leo, Luis, and Lisandro. two of his children are currently attending college, and Mr. and Mrs. Lopez look to guide their youngest son to a higher education in the near future. As a strong supporter of education, a family man, a leader, and a proud citizen of Rio Grande City, Leo Lopez has proven that he is more than capable to serve the people of this district. Mr. Lopez s morals are soiled deep in perseverance, hard work, and dedication. He always says that honesty and hard work, along with education, are the keys to the future. He is the quintessential example of how a strong work ethic can lead to success. vestuario la galanura de cada una de ellas se lucio al máximo. La responsabilidad en calificar cada movimiento de las participantes, fue parte esencial del grupo de jueces, siendo ellos: Dagoberto Sarabia, Debbie Chávez, Tyler Zimmerman (Miss South Texas Teen USA) y Ramiro Rodríguez, la encargada de recopilar los resultados de los jueces recayó en la Sra. Mary Pilon, en la conducción y presentación el Sr. Jesús Correa y las señoritas Morgan Martínez (Miss Rio Grande Valley USA) y Vanessa Garza (Mis Río Grande Valley Teen USA) quien lo manejaron (ellas) muy profesional. El comité para este evento fue conformado por la Sra. Mary Pilon, Sra. Leticia Cadena, Sra. Leticia Garza, Sra. Imelda Pérez, Sr. Dagoberto Sarabia y el Sr. Ramiro Rodríguez. Finalmente se dio a conocer la ganadora del evento Miss Roma 2010 siendo la Srita. Elsa M. De León, y la suplente Srita. Clarisa Treviño. La Camara de Comercio agradece a la Sra. Imelda Perez quien fue la responsable de los bonitos diseños en el peinado, quien es propietaria de Jazmin Beauty Shop & Supply. Rio Grande City C.I.S.D. is requesting proposals on the following: Request For Proposal #11-25 Integrated Web-Based Student Information System (SIS) The school district is requesting sealed proposals for Integrated Web-Based Student Information System (SIS) and further information may be obtained from the Rio Grande City C.I.S.D. Purchasing Department at the address below or call Mr. Joe D. Smedley, Purchasing Agent A Proposal Conference will be held at the MultiPurpose Center Conference Room, Fort Ringgold, Rio Grande City, Texas at 10:00 A.M. on Tuesday, October 12, Sealed proposals must be received by the Rio Grande City C.I.S.D. Purchasing Office, 1 South Fort Ringgold, Rio Grande City, Texas by 10:00 A.M. Wednesday October 20, 2010, and will be opened and read aloud at the mentioned time. DEADLINE: October 5, 2010 Applications are available at the Office of Human Resources located at the Multi-Purpose Center, Fort Ringgold, Rio Grande City, Texas. For additional information, call the Office of Human Resources at All applications should be submitted to the Office of Human Resources. Rio Grande City CISD is an EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. Rio Grande City C.I.S.D. reserves the right to refuse and reject any or all proposals and to waive any or all informalities or technicalities, or to accept the proposal considered the best and most advantageous to the school district. Mr. Joe D. Smedley Purchasing Agent Rio Grande City C.I.S.D. reserves the right to refuse and reject any or all proposals and to waive any or all informalities or technicalities, or to accept the proposal considered the best and most advantageous to the school district. Mr. Joe D. Smedley Purchasing Agent

11 STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, SEPTEMBER 29, 2010, PAGE 11 Dr. Mario E. Ramirez Elementary Students of the week: Pre K- Daniela Lopez, Kinder- Lizeth Rodriguez, 1st Grade- Daniel Alanis, 2nd Grade- Ana Karen Hinojosa, 3rd Grade- Brianna Flores, 4th Grade- Melissa Cortes, and 5th Grade- Ashley Garza. WILD festival has something for all The students from South Texas College s Writers in Literary Discussion (WILD) are doing it again. The WILD Poetry Reading and Music Festival is coming back to South Texas College. WILD s festival is the only festival that takes a little bit everything and rolls it into one to make the senses overload. The variety show-like lineup includes bands, poets, comics and artists. Paintings from local artists will be hung all around in order to surround the audience. For years, this festival has attracted a variety of various local arts, eclectic poets and other talented Valley-ites. The festival takes place Thursday, Sept. 30 from 7 to 10 p.m. at South Texas College s Pecan Campus, Building H Student Lounge located at 3201 West Pecan Blvd. in McAllen. Admission is free and the event is open to the public. For more information regarding the festival contact Tom Fuschetto at or tomf@southtexascollege.edu. Rio Grande City High School Class of 1981 is in search of it s classmates for their 30th Class Reunion, scheduled for October 21-24, If you have ANY information or questions, please send information to: Sonya Hinojosa at aafairy@aol.com or call NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING TO DISCUSS SAN ISIDRO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT STATE FINANCIAL ACCOUNTABILITY RATING San Isidro Independent School District will hold a public meeting at 6:30 p.m.,october 20, 2010 in the San Isidro I.S.D. Cafetorium, 5 FM 1017, San Isidro, Texas The purpose of this meeting is to discuss San Isidro Independent School District s rating on the State s financial accountability system. Our Lady of Refuge Catholic Church 2010 Jamaica Father Richard Philion, OMI, and the 2010 Jamaica Committee of Our Lady of Refuge Catholic Church in Roma and its missions in Los Saenz, Fronton, Salineno, and Falcon Heights wish to invite all to the annual Father Keralum, OMI, Fall Festival scheduled for October 3, 2010 at the historic Roma Plaza at 5 PM, immediately following the city and school parade. The entertainment for the night includes a variety of musical enjoyment: the nationallyrecognized Mariachi Santander and other school mariachi groups, music from Roma s own Grupo Tremendo, and Grupo Super Odisea, the YB Escobar Guitar Students, as well as local folklorist dancers, Roma cheerleading performances, Zumba Kids, and Jr. ROTC Marching presentations. The games and food booths will be other exciting highlights of the evening with carnival rides for the children, a Spooky House, games such as darts and balloons, the duck and fish ponds, tic, tac, toe, the bean and nickel toss, cake and plant roulettes, and the very popular Chalupa Bingo. The scrumptious and delicious food booths will include tacos colorados, menudo, enchiladas, tacos bistek and tacos al carbon, frito pies, popcorn, cotton candy, tacos de fajitas, hotdogs, hotdogs with bacon on a stick, chicharrones prensados with chile and cheese, tostadas, and other treats. This family-oriented event will also include raffle announcement of eighteen prizes of hundreds of dollars in gift cards donated by area banks and businesses, and others prizes which will lead to the culmination of the grand prize announcement: a 2010 Chevrolet Silverado Crew Cab Truck. Everyone is invited to join in the fun of this annual celebration!

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14 STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, SEPTEMBER 29, 2010, SECTION II, PAGE 2 Estafadores al acecho de las buenas intenciones de los texanos mayores de edad Los adultos mayores son admirados con toda razón por su tendencia a ser agradables, de buen corazón y generosos. La mayoría de nosotros respondemos a estas virtudes con respeto y con el esfuerzo de seguir su ejemplo. Desafortunadamente, los estafadores responden a estas virtudes con un sin número de estafas usualmente por teléfono o por Internet. Esto convierte las valiosas virtudes de los adultos mayores de Texas en desventajas. Laura Albrecht del Departamento de Servicios para Adultos Mayores y Personas Discapacitadas de Texas (DADS) dijo que algunas personas mayores consideran de mala educación cuestionar las buenas intenciones de un extraño que parece ser agradable. Estas personas fueron criadas en una era cuando con la cortesía podía ganar la confianza y era sumamente incómodo decirle a una persona que sonaba agradable: No le voy a dar esa información o Nunca hago este tipo de negocios por teléfono, explicó Albrecht. No existe un centro de información de estadísticas sobre fraude contra los adultos mayores, pero las encuestas de la AARP sugieren que los representantes de telemercadeo la mayor parte del tiempo tratan de captar a víctimas de 50 años de edad y mayores al intentar estafarlos. Estas estafas aumentan de acuerdo a las edades de las personas. Algunas de las estafas telefónicas más comunes y que han sido identificadas por las autoridades y grupos de defensores del consumidor incluyen: Ventas, muchas veces de CITATION BY PUBLICATION CAUSE NO. DC THE STATE OF TEXAS TO: THE UNKNOWN HEIRS OF FEDERICO SOLIS AND JUANA T. SOLIS Defendants in the hereinafter styled and numbered cause: DC You are commanded to appear by filing a written answer to the Plaintiff s Petition at or before 10:00 o clock a.m. on the first Monday after expiration of 42 days from the date of issuance of this citation that being the 27 day of September, 2010, in the 381st District Court of Starr County, Texas at the County Courthouse, 401 N. Britton Avenue, in the City of Rio Grande City, Starr County, Texas. The Case is No. DC , styled DAN A. HUGHES COMPANY, L.P. VS. FEDERICO SOLIS ET UX and the petition was filed on September 27, 2010, the Attorneys for the Plaintiffs are ATLAS & HALL C/0 JOHN A. POPE, 200 N. BRITTON AVENUE, RIO GRANDE CITY, TEXAS The nature of the Suit is as follows: Petitioners are seeking the District Court to appoint a receiver to lease a mineral interest owned by the Defendants Federico Solis and wife, Juana T. Solis or the Unknown Heirs of Federico Solis and wife, Juana T. Solis, affecting Share No. 111, Tract No. 117, Porcion No. 95, Camargo Jurisdiction, Starr County, Texas. 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 a.m. on the first Monday after the expiration of 42 days from the date of issuance of this citation, that date being Nov. 8th, 2010, this case will proceed without you. Issued and given under my hand and seal of the Court at Rio Grande City, Texas this the 27 day of September, paquetes de viajes y de loterías que comienzan con la frase: Ya es un ganador! pero que requieren pagos por adelantado para manejo y franqueo u otros cargos. Necesita hacerlo ahora es otra de las frases que usan regularmente. Mensajes telefónicos en los cuales la persona que llama demanda que le devuelvan la llamada para discutir algo urgente que tiene que ver con su tarjeta de crédito. Nunca llame al número que le dejen en el mensaje. En vez de llamar a ese número, llame gratis al número de teléfono de servicio al cliente que está en la factura de su tarjeta de crédito y pregunte si hay problemas con su cuenta. Cualquier llamada que no espere en la que le piden que les dé su número de tarjeta de crédito o fecha de expiración, fecha de nacimiento, número de su cuenta de banco, número de seguro social o cualquier contraseña de una de sus cuentas. Ofertas especiales de vitaminas, medicinas o productos de atención médica con súper descuentos. Agencias sin fines de lucro que le piden que les dé donativos por teléfono. Albrecht señaló que los adultos mayores deben ser especialmente cuidadosos con las llamadas de agencias sin fines de lucro que le llaman en el momento después de desastres naturales mayores como los huracanes. Este es un momento clásico en que aparecen muchas llamadas y mensajes que juegan con las emociones, dijo Albrecht. Algunas llamadas pueden ser legítimaspero es mejor ser el doble de precavido y no responder directamente la llamada. Averigüe información sobre esta compañía primero. Esto también es un buen consejo para cualquier llamada en la que le pidan un donativo. NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS OF PROPOSED TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (TxDOT) CONTRACTS Sealed proposals for contracts listed below will be received by TxDOT until the date(s) shown below, and then publicly read. CONSTRUCTION/ MAINTENANCE/BUILDING FACILITIES CONTRACT(S) Dist/Div: Pharr Contract for POTHOLE AND PAVEMENT REPAIR in HIDALGO County, etc will be opened on October 22, 2010 at 1:00 pm at the State Office for an estimate of $2,153, Plans and specifications are available for inspection, along with bidding proposals, and applications for the TxDOT Prequalified Contractor s list, at the applicable State and/ or Dist/Div Offices listed below. If applicable, bidders must submit prequalification information to TxDOT at least 10 days prior to the bid date to be eligible to bid on a project. Prequalification materials may be requested from the State Office listed below. Plans for the above contract(s) are available from TxDOT s website at and from reproduction companies at the expense of the contractor. NPO: State Office Constr./Maint. Division 200 E. Riverside Dr. Austin, Texas Phone: Dist/Div Office(s) Pharr District District Engineer 600 W U.s. 83 Expwy Pharr, Texas Phone: Minimum wage rates are set out in bidding documents and the rates will be part of the contract. TXDOT ensures that bidders will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, sex, or national origin. No acepte dar el donativo por teléfono y verifique si la agencia sin fines de lucro está en el listado del Better Business Bureau ( antes de dar su donativo. Aunque las estafas por Internet que fijan como objetivo a los adultos mayores aún no tienen tanta fama en el mundo del fraude, están creciendo rápidamente. La creatividad de los estafadores de Internet muchas veces compite con los cerebros legítimos de Apple y Google. Sin embargo, sus intrigas más comunes tienden a enfocarse en fraude de tarjetas de crédito, robo de identidad, cobros fraudulentos, farmacias ilegales (las que venden medicamentos sin receta) y mercancía que nunca les llegará. Debido al riesgo físico y financiero que esto representa, los consumidores deben tener cuidado al comprar medicamentos por Internet. Nunca compre medicamentos de distribuidores que no tienen licencia o de los que venden los medicamentos sin receta. Si sus medicamentos se ven diferentes a los que ha estado tomando o se ven sospechosos en cualquier otro aspecto muéstreselos a un farmacéutico o doctor antes de tomárselos. El fraude de tarjetas de crédito por Internet suele concentrarse en estafas de phishing con el fin de obtener su número de tarjeta de crédito u otra información personal. Nunca responda correos electrónicos que no son conocidos y que requieren que dé o verifique su información. Los estafadores usualmente le envían un correo electrónico con un enlace falso (aunque puede parecer muy real) a una página web. Si ordenó mercancía por Internet y nunca la recibió o fue víctima de cualquier otra estafa por Internet, vaya al sitio web del FBI s Internet Crime Complaint Center en (sólo en inglés) y haga una búsqueda con las palabras Internet Fraud. En este sitio web puede encontrar información sobre el Complaint Center, así como información de contacto y consejos sobre fraude por Internet. Otro buen recurso para los consumidores de Texas es la página web de la Unidad de Protección de Consumidores de la Oficina del Procurador General de Texas en tx.us/consumer/complain_span. shtml. PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE THE STATE OF TEXAS C O U N T Y O F S T A R R NO. NOTICE is hereby given that a hearing will be held on the 12TH day of OCTOBER, 2010 at 10:00 A.M. in the County Courthouse of the above named County in RIO GRANDE CITY, Texas on the application of the hereinafter named owner for a license to sell beer at retail at a location not heretofore licensed. The substance of said application is as follows: 1. Type of license or permit WINE AND BEER RETAILERS OFF- PREMISE PERMIT 2. Exact location of business 5449 HWY 83 E SUITE 4, RIO GRANDE CITY, TEXAS 3. Name of owner or owners ISMAEL CANTU AND ROSY CANTU 4. Assumed or trade name THE ROCK SNACK 5. Corporation name 6. Name and title of all officers of corporation Any person shall be permitted to contest the facts stated in said application and the applicant s right to secure said license or permit upon giving security for costs as provided by law. WITNESS MY HAND this the 24TH day of SEPTEMBER, DANI L. GARCIA EXTRA FUNDS AVAILABLE TO SOME FLOOD INSURANCE POLICYHOLDERS Flood insurance policyholders whose structures were damaged by Hurricane Alex and the subsequent flooding may be eligible for up to $30,000 in coverage in addition to their claims for damages. Property owners can use the extra money to make their homes or businesses safe from future floods The benefit is called Increased Cost of Compliance (ICC) coverage because it helps pay for the increased cost of complying with the building code. It is a part of most National Flood Insurance Program policies. To qualify for Increased Cost of Compliance, a building must be: Covered by a National Flood Insurance Program standard policy; Located in a Special Flood Hazard Area, also known as a regulatory floodplain; Below the base flood level; and Either substantially damaged or a repetitive loss property. Substantial damage has occurred when the cost of restoring a structure to its pre-damage condition equals PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE THE STATE OF TEXAS C O U N T Y O F S T A R R NO. NOTICE is hereby given that a hearing will be held on the 1ST day of OCTOBER, 2010 at 10:00 A.M. in the County Courthouse of the above named County in RIO GRANDE CITY, Texas on the application of the hereinafter named owner for a license to sell beer at retail at a location not heretofore licensed. The substance of said application is as follows: 1. Type of license or permit MIXED BEVERAGE PERMIT AND MIXED BEVERAGE LATE HOURS PERMIT 2. Exact location of business 2734 HWY 83 EAST, ROMA, TX 3. Name of owner or owners ALBAR HINOJOSA 4. Assumed or trade name TEKILAS RESTAURANT 5.Corporation name 6. Name and title of all officers of corporation Any person shall be permitted to contest the facts stated in said application and the applicant s right to secure said license or permit upon giving security for costs as provided by law. WITNESS MY HAND this the 17TH day of SEPTEMBER, or exceeds 50 percent of the structure s pre-damage market value. To qualify for Increased Cost of Compliance, which is part of a flood insurance policy, the damage must be due to flooding. A repetitive loss property is one that has suffered two or more flood losses during 10 years with the cumulative cost of repairs equaling or exceeding 50 percent of the value of the structure. Increased Cost of Compliance for repetitive loss structures is available only in communities that have repetitive loss provisions in their floodplain management ordinances. A policyholder seeking Increased Cost of Compliance funding needs to file a claim that is separate from the basic claim for flood damages. The money can be used to elevate, demolish or relocate the damaged structure. For non-residential structures, the funds can also be used for flood proofing. In some cases, owners may have the opportunity to assign their Increased Cost of Compliance payments to their communities for inclusion in communitysponsored acquisition programs primarily funded by state and The total insurance payout exceed $250,000 for a residence or $500,000 for a non-residential available from local floodplain administrators, the National Flood 4661), and insurance companies and agents. Information is also available at and Insurance agents can provide policies. Names of agents who sell policies are available at For more information on the Hurricane Alex disaster recovery, browse the features on this gov/ hazard/ hurricane/ 2010/ alex/index.shtm. Users of smart phones and other mobile devices can visit m.fema.gov. Texans tx.us/dem for more information on this disaster and preparation federal agencies. including Increased Cost of Compliance coverage cannot structure. Answers to general flood insurance questions are Insurance Program ( information about purchasing FEMA Web site at should also visit for future disasters. JUST A SIMPLE CALL TO FEMA CAN FIX REGISTRATION ERRORS To err is human - especially during the stressful time following a disaster. But making a mistake during the registration process and not correcting it could prove costly on more than one level. The Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) remind disaster aid applicants they should provide honest, accurate information when they register. Failure to do so could bring unwanted consequences. The last thing a disaster survivor needs is to become the subject of a fraud inquiry, said State Coordinating Officer Ben Patterson. We urge Texans to double check their registration information and make any needed corrections. During the stress of a disaster, people may not accurately report their damage or loss, said Federal Coordinating Officer Brad Harris. Just be honest and candid during registration. Most importantly, if you make a mistake, correct it as soon as possible. All disaster funds received by survivors must be used for disaster recovery. Auditors use a variety of methods to crosscheck data from FEMA, the state, partner agencies and insurance companies. Additionally, FEMA inspectors check applicants homes to verify claimed damage and loss. Survivors who use their funds improperly may find their cases referred to the Office of the Inspector General (OIG). That office may then refer the cases to the U. S. Department of Justice. Those wishing to correct an error after submitting a claim can contact FEMA at FEMA (3362) or (TTY) The lines are open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. (CDT) daily. Anyone with knowledge of fraud, waste or abuse involving FEMA contracts, programs or personnel may call the FEMA OIG Fraud Hotline at The hotline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You may also send an to DHSOIGHotline@dhs.gov. For more information on the Hurricane Alex disaster recovery, browse the features on this FEMA website at www. fema.gov/hazard/hurricane/2010/ alex/index.shtm. Users of smart phones and other mobile devices can visit m.fema.gov. Texans should also visit tx.us/dem for more information on this disaster and preparation for future disasters.

15 STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, SEPTEMBER 29, 2010, SECTION II, PAGE 3 Starr County Cancer Support Group For the month of September, we were very fortunate to have new comers involved with The Starr County Cancer Support Group. We will be celebrating the month of October s meeting with a Halloween costume party, October 5th, For more information contact: Elena and Fred Villarreal (956) Let us also remind everyone that The Starr County Relay For Life is just around the corner too! Saturday November 6, Let s all come join Starr County Cancer, celebrated with lots of fun, food, and games throughout the night. For more information contact: Lynda Davila (956) or Lille Olivarez (956) State Grants for Renewable Energy Available to Rural Communities The Texas Department of Rural Affairs (TDRA) is offering grants through two programs that help rural communities use renewable energy to cut energy costs and develop new sources of drinking water. The agency anticipates having up to $681,500 available through its Renewable Energy Demonstration Pilot Program (REDPP). Priority for these grants is given to projects that use wind power or solar power to help provide electricity for water treatment or wastewater treatment plants. TDRA also anticipates having up to $3 million available in its Desalination Fund for projects that use wind power for desalination of brackish groundwater. The deadline for applications to the Desalination Fund is December 17, The deadline for applications for the REDPP is January 28, Application forms and guides will be posted on the TDRA Web site by October 12. See TDRA will hold two workshops regarding these grants: one in Austin on October 12 and one in Sweetwater on October 14. Applicants for both grant programs must be cities with populations of less than 50,000 or counties with populations of 200,000 or less. For more information or to register for the workshops, contact Travis Brown, TDRA renewable energy program manager, at or at travis.brown@tdra.state.tx.us

16 ) STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, SEPTEMBER 29, 2010, SECTION II, PAGE 4 Concealed Handgun Licensing Español Disponible Compro Carros Viejos Pago $150 a $250 por su carro y truckas hasta $300. Con o sin titulo NOW HIRING RE SUPPLIES PART TIME CLERK Apply at location: 512 E Main St. RGC CASINOS TRIPS Oklahoma to Winstar $65. Oct. 02, 03, 04 Oct. 22, 23, 24. Gracie Rosy NAVARRETE S JOYERIA REPARACION Y VENTA DE ANILLOS, ESCLAVAS, CADENAS, DIJES, ARETES Y GRABADOS, FABRICACION DE LETREROS, CADENAS T. CHINA Y ESCLAVAS Horario: Lunes a Viernes 9:30 am a 7:00 pm CAMBIO Sabado 9:30 am a 3:00 pm DE LOCAL Corona s Plaza W. Main, Ste. B, RGC Unlimited Income Potential New company expanding in Texas. Work your own hours from home. For more info call Jaime: Se Compran Carros viejos con o sin titulo. De $100 a $300 por su carro. Se compra fierro y lamina. Cell Radio 145*132583*3 CAR FOR SALE 2005 Monte Carlo, en muy buenas condiciones, A/C, CD, $5,900. Llame a Robert al: LOTS FOR SALE Across from General Sanchez Elem. In Mountain View Subd. 80x150 for more call Se Vende Solar Entre La Casita y La Puerta. Para mas información llamar a Noelia al: Rocking a Subdivision 1/2 Acre Lots. Utilities available. Also available Land for Sale. 6 miles N. FM 755/Left on La Carla Rd., RGC. Owner Finance Available Horses For Sale HERITAGE DEVELOPMENT Lots, Ranchettes and Ranch Land Available Call Romeo or Lynda or TRAVEL TRAILER FOR SALE 95 Alumina Lite XL 30ft in good condition new A/C $3,500. For more info call For Sale Trailer Home 2 rec., 2 baños muy amplia, ref. y estufa, lavadora y secadora incluida en muy buenas condiciones Se Vende o Se Renta Terreno comercial en orilla del Hwy. 83, La Puerta. Para mas información llamar al: LOT FOR SALE 100x140 Kennedy St. RGC For more info call: House For Sale 3bdrm., 2ba., 2car garage, 400sq. ft., living area 1785sq. ft., granite countertops, central air. Pete Diaz Subdivision behind Pizza Patron. Nice & quiet neighborhood. For more info.: FOR RENT COMMERCIAL BUILDING 70X40 IN RGC. ACROSS COMET CLEANERS FOR MORE INFO. CALL BUILDING FOR LEASE 40 X 50 EMBASSY ST. (LAS LOMAS). IDEAL FOR CHILD OR ADULT DAY CARE CENTERS. FOR MORE INFO CALL (956) V.F.W. Hall Rental Info CORN ROTISSERIE ON WHEELS FOR SALE CAPACITY ABOUT 300 CORNS GREAT FOR CORN, TURKEY LEGS CHICKEN ETC. GOOD MONEY MAKER FAIR, SPECIAL EVENTS ETC. Call Mike Diaz Apartamentos (En El Refugio) 2 recamaras 1 baño, incluye hielera y estufa. $350 por mes, dep. $200 para mas info For Rent Large apt. 2bdrm., 2ba., all appliances included. RGC Rent $550mo. + $200dep Story House for Rent 3 bedrooms, 1-1/2 bath, big yard, satellite dish. 776 N. Ebony Ave., Roma, Tx San Roberto Apartments BRAND NEW 2 bedroom, 2 bath, granite kitchen counter top, all appliances, included washer & dryer, free garbage pick-up, alarm system, Free Cable. Right behind STC and High School. $595/mo., $500 deposit Customer Service Representative CONSOLIDATED FINANCE has an immediate opening for a full time employee in Rio Grande City. Inside/Outside collections. Experience a plus, but will train. PHONE: Elisa Gonzalez (956) E.O.E. Earn $30-35,000 a year!! Drivers are in Demand Companies offer good equipment, pay, & benefits. VALLEY WIDE 3 LOCATIONS!!! MCALLEN, WESLACO, & RIO GRANDE If you are 21 yrs. Or Older with a Valid TX Driver s license and good driving record, the Trucking Industry needs you! SECURE your future today! CALL: (800) STATEMENT OF EQUAL OPPORTUNITY No person shall be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or be subject to discrimination under any program or activity sponsored or conducted by South Texas Community College on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, veteran status, or disability. Lots For Sale Adams Garden Subdivision phase 3 Owner Financing Available with $1,000 down Close to Elementary & High Schools on Eisenhower rd. City Fire and Police protection For more info call or PRICE REDUCED! MOTIVATED SELLER acre Ranches Native Brush with Excellent Hunting 3 Miles South of El Sauz Owner Finance, No Credit Check (956) or (956) *****LOT FOR SALE***** VACANT RESIDENTIAL LOT Lot Country Estates Unit # 1 Rio Grande City Texas Located on Mockingbird St. Contact Mr. R. Salinas or Mr. L. Gonzalez Citizens State Bank

17 Rural dust subject to EPA rules The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is accused of splitting hairs or rather, particles a tenth of the width of a strand while evaluating the standard for course particulate matter under the Clean Air Act. The EPA classifies course particulate matter, or dust, under the same guidelines for both urban and rural areas. No distinction currently exists to allow for rural exemptions. Out in the field, dust is a sign of hard work, said Ronnie Zamora, Starr County Farm Bureau president. In rural Texas, you re going to drive on dirt roads and till soil every once and a while, and you re probably going to kick up some dust. That s just Fall enrollment increases as students seek hands-on training, skill upgrades South Texas College s fall 2010 enrollment hit a record 29,054 students, a seven percent increase over the college s fall 2009 enrollment. The college s Technology Campus in McAllen saw its biggest enrollment increase in history with an increase of 31 percent over fall We are seeing heavy demand for those gold collar careers that are essentially high-wage, highskill jobs, said Dr. Shirley A. Reed, STC president. Students are seeking training in welding, precision manufacturing, diesel, building technology, culinary arts, and all fields related to computers and computer systems. These are the jobs of tomorrow that are going to help keep America s economy strong. Our students are very smart and they are preparing now for the trends of tomorrow. The college also saw a large increase in enrollment at its Mid- Valley Campus in Weslaco, which is expanding hands-on training in welding, manufacturing and other technical professions. Its Dual Enrollment Program saw a nine percent increase, supporting the message that the road to college begins well before high school. Additionally, the college witnessed an 11 percent increase in enrollment in online classes, which does not surprise me because we have made a commitment to expanding our course offerings to allow our busy students to learn at the time and location of their choosing, added Reed. We are here to provide opportunities and it s more imperative than ever, with the state of the economy, to allow our students every possible venue to learn and earn a college degree. We have made a commitment to expanding the college to include a full virtual campus by fall 2011 and so online enrollment will continue to increase rapidly. And to meet demands of its increasing enrollment, STC has been busy expanding facilities at many of its campuses, including 900 parking spaces and 14 new portable buildings at the Pecan Campus in McAllen. Portable buildings are also present at several of the college s other campuses to provide much-needed classroom a fact of life out here. The Clean Air Act specifies a limit of particles 10 microns or smaller in diameter to pass regulation standards. Common culprits include dust, ash and chemical pollutants. The dust we have in rural Texas is different from pollution found in a busy city. It doesn t make sense to penalize farmers and ranchers for a byproduct of our way of life, Zamora said. Federal law requires the EPA to review air quality standards every five years and revise them if needed. The agency is expected to release updated standards, along with how they will be enforced, this fall. space. The Nursing and Allied Health and Technology campuses in McAllen and the Mid-Valley Campus in Weslaco each received three portables. At the Mid-Valley Campus, the college has completed renovations to increase the size of several classrooms, doubled the size of the campus nursing lab, and expanded the labs for the Welding, Computer Aided Drafting and Design and Precision Manufacturing Technology programs. STC s Associate Degree Nursing Program has expanded faculty and lab space in Weslaco to increase access to training close to home for many Mid-Valley students. At its Starr County Campus in Rio Grande City, the college renovated space so that the Precision Manufacturing Program can offer new classes to meet the needs of the area s business community. The college has added teaching locations to create more learning opportunities, including a teaching site at Jimmy Carter High School in La Joya. STC has partnered with The University of Texas-Pan American to use the Main Place Site close to La Plaza Mall to offer students a variety of day classes to ease commutes to and from work. And with the addition of classes at all campus location from 10 p.m. to midnight, the college is working overtime to make attending class convenient. I know that many more students hope to make STC the launching pad for their educational journey in the future and we promise to do everything possible to make their dreams a reality, Reed concluded. I want to thank our current students for continuing their commitment to higher education, and I also want to thank our faculty and staff who all work very hard to make this college a reality. No one ever dreamed STC would be at this enrollment level even two years ago. Now that it s a reality, it s very exciting to have a hand in positively changing so many lives in our communities. For more information about South Texas College call or visit www. southtexascollege.edu. Nuevo Año Escolar En tres Sitios: John & Olive Hinojosa Elementary School Lunes a Miércoles de 4:00-7:00 p.m. Maestra: Gloria Garcia / Maricela Garcia Grulla Elementary School Lunes a Miércoles de 4:00-7:00 p.m. Para registrarse y mas información. Llame al: con la directora Adelina Villarreal, Leonor Rodríguez North Grammar Elem. Para registrarse y mas información llame al: con: Directora Adelina G. Villarreal, Minerva Perez al or Reymundo Alvarez al Porque vienen los Adultos a la escuela? Para aprender a mejorar sus STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, SEPTEMBER 29, 2010, SECTION II, PAGE 5 APRENDA INGLES GRATIS!!! habilidades de leer, escribir, y hablar en ingles. Para mejorar su habilidad de el ingles Para repasar y estudiar materias de secundaria Para calificar para la entrada del programa vocacional y educación de alto nivel Para saber más sobre nuestro gobierno local y nacional. Para estar mas preparado/a para poder ayudar a sus niños en la tarea de la escuela Para mejorar el hogar y la vida familiar Para obtener habilidades en su trabajo futuro En el programa de educación de Adultos puede aprender a Poder atender sus clases en su ciudad Matricularse a cualquier hora El programa de educación para adultos es de 16 años para arriba, ya sean ciudadanos o residentes legales. ESL Ingles como segundo idioma Aprende a leer a escribir, y hablar el ingles ABE-Educación básica para Adultos - Grados 0-8/ Haciendo énfasis en leer, y escribir el ingles. También incluye matemáticas, ciencias, estudios sociales, y ciudadanía. 16 años en adelante Si eres un niño/niña que acabas de inscribirte en la escuela y quieres seguir practicando el ingles, para que no se te olvide, o para ayudarte ha Tomar el TAKS. TODO GRATIS! Les cuidaremos a los niños gratis, tenemos niñeras. Las horas de instrucción serán Lunes a Jueves en las dos escuelas: John & Olive Hinojosa Elementary & Grulla p.m. 4:00-7:00p.m. Estamos matriculando Diciembre 2010 también Todo Gratis! Las clases comenzaron el Diciembre

18 STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, SEPTEMBER 29, 2010, SECTION II, PAGE 6 Attention Rio Grande City Class of 2001!!! Our 10 year reunion will be Oct. 21, 22, & 23. If you are planning to attend, please RGCclassof 2001@yahoo.com or call Alex Mosca Gutierrez at (956) Reunion Weekend will be Oct , 2010 HOROSCOPE SEPT OCT. 2 ARIES - Mar 21/Apr 20 TAURUS - Apr 21/May 21 Aries, your selftaurus, changes have confidence and left you thinking enthusiasm have of ways to make a made you a naturaldifference. If you born leader. Embrace each of these attributes and this week will want to volunteer, there are many organizations that need help. belong to you. GEMINI - May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, lots of changes are waiting to unfold in your personal life. Take the time to work through these changes and you re bound to be better for having done so. CANCER - Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, you are very good at bringing people together and socializing. Use this trait to create a social forum this week, where everyone can have an ideas exchange. LEO - Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, don t let others make decisions for you. This week, take back control of your life and be more assertive in all the things that you want to accomplish. VIRGO - Aug 24/Sept 22 This week you are very interested in technology, Virgo, especially how emerging technology can have an impact on your life and career. Seek the advice of others for purchases. LIBRA - Sept 23/Oct 23 You re generally a selfless, altruistic person, Libra. Friends will be surprised to hear all the demands and desires you have this week, Libra. It s okay to want things sometimes. SCORPIO - Oct 24/Nov 22 This week you will have to come up with the answer to an important question, Scorpio: What do you really want? If it is stability, then you will have to make big changes. SAGITTARIUS - Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, use this week to show others you are a thoughtful person who has a lot of life experience. Assert yourself in a calm but effective way. That will get your point across. CAPRICORN - Dec 22/Jan 20 Trust the people you love, Capricorn. They are growing weary of dealing with your flipflopping personality and air of anxiety. You need to give in a little. AQUARIUS - Jan 21/Feb 18 It isn t always easy to think and act differently from others around you, Aquarius. However, as an eccentric person, you will have to accept the fact that it s commonplace. PISCES - Feb 19/Mar 20 Pisces, someone close to you is having problems that he or she cannot express. Your intuitiveness will save the day.