Under the bright lights of the Cameron County Commissioners Court, a moment of celebration unfolded as the community gathered to honor a significant milestone. Benavides Driving School, a cornerstone of driver education in the Rio Grande Valley, marked its fiftieth anniversary, a testament to its enduring legacy and commitment to safety and education.

Founded in 1975 by the late Commissioner Pedro Pete Benavides, the school began as the first privately owned driving institution in Brownsville. Over the decades, it has evolved into one of the longest continuously operating local businesses in South Texas, with campuses now in Brownsville, Harlingen, and McAllen. The Benavides family, under the leadership of Mario and Anne Benavides, has played a pivotal role in shaping the lives of thousands of students, emphasizing community service and integrity.

During the meeting, the Commissioners Court issued a proclamation recognizing the school's contributions to public safety and education. The proclamation highlighted the school's adaptability, noting its embrace of new technologies and teaching methods while remaining true to its mission of fostering safe drivers in the community.

In a heartfelt response, Mario Benavides expressed gratitude for the honor, acknowledging the support of his late brother, Commissioner Pete Benavides, and the community that has trusted the school with their families for five decades. He emphasized the importance of family and teamwork in sustaining the school’s mission and looked forward to continuing the legacy of service and education for many more years.

As the meeting concluded, the atmosphere was filled with a sense of pride and accomplishment, not just for the Benavides family but for the entire community that has benefited from their dedication to driver education and safety. The celebration of this milestone serves as a reminder of the impact local businesses can have on their communities, fostering a culture of safety and responsibility on the roads of the Rio Grande Valley.