Starr County Judge Eloy Vera speaks at SCIF 50th Anniversary celebrations

RIO GRANDE CITY, Texas - Starr County Judge Eloy Vera has praised the work of Starr County Industrial Foundation.Vera spoke at a dinner held to celebrate group’s 50th Anniversary. It was held at Julabe Reception Hall in Rio Grande City on November 21.“It is truly an honor and privilege to be here to speak to such an outstanding group of people, and also to welcome you to the 50th Anniversary celebration of the Starr County Industrial Foundation,” Vera said, as he kicked off the event. “It is truly amazing to see how the Industrial Foundation has evolved into the go-to industry for economic growth and economic development. These people have done an outstanding job, and it shows. You can drive around Starr County and, over the last ten years, the change is drastic.”Vera said the change in Starr County’s fortunes did not happen by accident.“I want to thank Rose and Nilda, because the Industrial Foundation, with very limited resources and a very small staff, has been able to accomplish miracles,” Vera said.He was referring to Rose Benavides, SCIF’s president, and Nilda Elizondo, public relations and marketing coordinator for the group.“You know, they compete with all the bigger cities, the bigger counties, and yet they've been successful in getting some of the businesses to look our way,” Vera said.“I cannot thank Rose enough for the work that she has helped myself, personally, and the Commissioners Court with. It is her that has really been an instrument helping us, me and the Commissioners Court, in negotiating all the contracts and abatements with all the Green companies that have a footprint in our county.”Vera concluded his remarks by thanking those in the audience for attending.“I do want to thank you all for being here this evening,” Vera said. “Have fun, enjoy yourselves, and welcome to the celebration. And welcome to Starr County. Thank you all for coming.”Go to www.riograndeguardian.com to read the latest border news stories and watch the latest news videos.