MERCEDES: Mercedes promoting centennial celebration

Committees meeting, planning

By CLARISSA MARTINEZ/VALLEY MORNING STAR
MERCEDES - In a little more than three months, the city will celebrate its centennial.
Committees are meeting to organize and spread the word about the three-day celebration scheduled for Sept. 28-30.

Several local businesses such as Bunton Auto Supply, Coach's Pharmacy and Borderland Hardware, have started selling commemorative items to promote the centennial.

Baseball caps in red, white and blue and medallions with a picture of the city landscape behind a sunset can be purchased for $5 and $10, respectively.

A centennial book that will include photos and historical stories is being organized by the Mercedes Memorial Library and Chamber of Commerce.

Brian Bunton, manager at Bill Bunton Auto Supply, said along with promoting the event, he is involved in the planning process.

At least 38 residents have participated in committees, each assigned a different task for the event.

A Pioneer Day will launch the three-day event, Benton said.
Residents will have a chance to learn about the history of the city and share their own personal stories at Pioneer Day, Benton said.

Afterward, bands are expected to perform at a concert.
"It's 100 years," Bunton said.

"It's a landmark for Mercedes."
On Saturday, Sept. 29, the time capsule that is at the Mercedes Memorial Library will be opened and a new one will be put in its place.

Benton said residents are encouraged to bring items to be put into the time capsule, which will be opened in 25 years, or 2032.

The Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show grounds will be the site for the weekend festival, Benton said. Carnival rides for the children, vendors, a car show and hopefully, Disney characters, will be some highlights, Benton said.

"Because of the Disney store at the outlet mall, we're hoping to bring the characters," Benton said.

Approximately 10,000 people are expected to participate in the centennial celebration, Benton said. But the city is still planning to promote it with street banners placed around the city.

"We want it to be reminiscent of RioFest," Bunton said.
And for Bunton, the centennial has a personal meaning for his family's business.
"They're excited about it," Bunton said. "My family has a lot of history here, so they're very proud of that."