MERCEDES — Secretary of State Carlos Cascos had a great time in Mercedes at the Chamber of Commerce banquet mingling with its members.
He was chatting with his constituents and talking about his new position, his experiences traveling the state and the importance to get out and vote.
Mayor Henry Hinojosa said Cascos has become a good friend of Mercedes.
“He’s been working real nice with us,” Hinojosa said. “He’s dynamic and his words come from the heart.”
Cascos left his elected position of Cameron County Judge when he was appointed to be Texas secretary of State by Gov. Greg Abbott.
Cascos was the guest speaker at the annual event that highlights the year’s work of the chamber and recognizes members of the community for their contributions to the city.
Chamber past president Raquel Lopez-Gomez said Cascos said it’s very nice to see Mercedes has it together with the city and schools working as a team.
Gomez said Cascos was very impressed with the city, and noted everybody is working in Mercedes together to make it a better community.
The Mercedes Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards Banquet was held on Tuesday at the Frances Cooper Event Center at the Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show grounds.
The banquet sold out and was at full capacity as 266 people were reported in attendance.
The winners of the chamber awards were announced prior to the event. Normally over the years the winners of the awards were announced during the banquet.
Gomez said it allowed for more family members to attend and reserve tables to support their loved ones being recognized by the chamber.
“All the winners are very well deserving and they have made contributions to make our beloved city even better,” Gomez said.
Mayor Hinojosa was awarded the Civic Leader award.
Hinojosa has been involved with the Mercedes Quarterback Club, the Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church and City Hall over the years.
He said the designation of the chamber award validated what he’s worked so hard to accomplish as a public servant for the city.
“It was an honor,” Hinojosa said. “I’ve been honored nine years as commissioner and four years as mayor when the people elected me.”
