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Ribbon Cutting   May 21, 2004  Big Spring Refinery - 75 Years

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The morning is cool, thanks to an overcast sky and a steady breeze.  Preparations are coming to a head to celebrate 75 years of service since the opening of the Big Spring Refinery.  That name was only recently applied.  It was Cosden refinery under ownership of Josh Cosden, its founder, opened in 1929; then it remained under that name under W. R. Grace Co.  The name changed to Fina refinery when the Fina Company bought it.  Under Total (French), the Fina name was continued.  The new owners, Alon USA, have named it the Big Spring Refinery, as a statements of its character.
Some of the volunteers of Heritage Museum have about finished the preparations, and are awaiting the actual event of the ribbon-cutting.  The "opening" is of a permanent exhibit inside the museum, where the story of the past, present, and projected future of the refinery will be displayed.
The 11:00 AM hour is nearing, and the people are gathering.
Another angle.
Joe Concienne, who heads up the Big Spring Refinery for Alon USA, also heads  up the days activities, introducing several dignitaries present and outlining the weekend.

From the website of Alon USA
Joseph (Joe) A. Concienne, was named Vice President of Refining and Transportation in February 2001, and brings more than 30 years of experience in refining and petrochemicals to ALON USA. His primary role is to serve as site manager for the company's refinery in Big Spring, Texas, which was acquired by ALON USA in August 2000.

One of those introduced is Mayor Russ McEwen, in the gray suit. His wife Laura is to his left in the picture. Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors are awaiting the ribbon cutting.
Heritage Museum Board Vice-President Janell Davis explains what is awaiting inside.
Mayor McEwen and Mr. David Weissman are set for the cutting.  Next to Mr. Weissman is his wife, and next is  Nancy Raney, Heritage Museum Director.
The ribbon is cut.  The exhibit is officially open.
To identify Mr. Weissman (from Alon USA website):

"David Wiessman is Chairman of the Board of Directors of ALON USA, a Dallas-based, fully integrated refining and marketing enterprise that operates throughout the Southwest. The company was formed in August 2000 after ALON Israel Oil Co., LTD purchased FINA Inc.'s downstream assets."
Mr. Weissman and his wife Bruria  leave the ribbon cutting to greet the people.

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