David Winfield Killam - Mr. South Texas

The Washington’s Birthday Celebration Association (WBCA) has announced the selection of David Winfield Killam as the honoree for the prestigious Mr. South Texas Award for the 127th Washington’s Birthday Celebration.
“David Winfield Killam, a true son of Laredo and South Texas, embodies the spirit of leadership, dedication, and community impact. His deep-rooted connection to Laredo and the South Texas brush country has not only shaped his character but has also inspired him to make a profound difference throughout the region. Through his leadership in business, philanthropy, and civic engagement, David Winfield Killam truly deserves the honor of being selected as Mr. South Texas,” said Fernando Montemayor, WBCA President.
The Mr. South Texas designation is presented to a deserving individual who has made a significant and lasting contribution to the growth and development of Laredo and the South Texas region. The formal announcement was made during a press conference held at Texas Community Bank (TCB) in Laredo. The event is sponsored and hosted by TCB.
“Texas Community Bank is pleased to sponsor the Mr. South Texas Luncheon and we congratulate Mr. Killam for being selected as the 2025 Mr. South Texas Honoree as part of the 127th Celebration,” said Douglas G. Macdonald, President & CEO of TCB. “It is a well-deserved recognition. We’re excited to welcome such a fine and hardworking individual to our community and invite all Laredoans to join us in congratulating him.”
The Mr. South Texas Selection Committee, comprised of past presidents of the WBCA and former Mr. South Texas recipients who reside in Laredo, meet and discuss possible candidates. Committee members take great effort in creating an all-inclusive nominating pool of candidates from all walks of life who have made a significant impact on the area.
“It is a great honor to be named Mr. South Texas and my first reaction was surprise and then I was overwhelmed by a great sense of humility. I would like to thank the Selection Committee and the WBCA for selecting me, and I feel fortunate to join the illustrious list of past honorees,” said Killam.

David Winfield Killam was born and raised in Laredo, Texas, a city he has always called home. He attended the Taft School in Watertown, Connecticut, and later obtained a bachelor’s degree from The University of Texas at Austin, followed by a Certificate in Ranch Management from Texas Christian University. David applied his business acumen to excel in the oil and gas industry, real estate development, and ranching.
David and the Killam family have been instrumental in supporting initiatives that enhance the quality of life in Laredo through education, healthcare, and economic development. One notable contribution is the land donation that led to the establishment of Texas A&M International University’s 300-acre campus, which has significantly contributed to higher education opportunities and regional growth.
In addition to land contributions, the Killam family established scholarship programs at various institutions, including TAMIU, to support aspiring students and improve educational outcomes in Laredo. They were also instrumental in underwriting the University of Incarnate Word Medical Residency Program and the Texas A&M School of Medicine OBGYN rotational program in Laredo, enhancing medical training and healthcare access.
David has also contributed easements and land for essential infrastructure such as waterlines, sewer lines, water towers, roadways, and highways, furthering Laredo’s economic prosperity. His commitment to land stewardship and conservation efforts has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Lone Star Steward Award and the Aldo Leopold Conservation Award.
He is a proud father of two sons and three grandchildren, who serve as cherished sources of joy and inspiration. David’s legacy extends beyond his achievements, serving as a role model for future generations and demonstrating that with hard work, dedication, and passion, anything is possible.
Together with the Mr. South Texas designation, Ambassador Killam becomes a member of a select group of national and international distinguished men and women who are honored for their dedication and countless hours of service and support to the Washington’s Birthday Celebration each year by an official induction ceremony and presentation of the Caballero Medallion.
One of the most celebrated and illustrious WBCA events is the Mr. South Texas Luncheon Hosted by Texas Community Bank, attended each year by dignitaries and honored guests from the United States and Mexico. This year’s luncheon will take place on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at 12 p.m., at the Laredo Country Club. Texas Community Bank generously sponsors the event.
The Mr. South Texas Luncheon Hosted by Texas Community Bank is one of more than 32 events in the Washington’s Birthday Celebration Calendar. Throughout the years, the Celebration has grown to be over a month long and consists of parades, dazzling pageants, fireworks, a carnival, an air show, a sizzling jalapeño festival, and much more.
Save the Date for the 127th Washington’s Birthday Celebration, which takes place January 16 – February 28, 2025.

Ansen Seale - 2025 Poster Artist

I am deeply honored to have been chosen as the poster artist for the 127th Celebration,” said Ansen Seale. “My artwork, ‘Love Letter to the Border,’ is a tribute to the rich cultural heritage of our border region. By fusing technology, digital artistry, and creativity, I aimed to transport viewers back to a simpler time, while celebrating the vibrant and diverse community that we are today. The poster features 25 meticulously selected and scanned stamps from my personal collection, collaged digitally with other images and text. I hope this piece resonates with the people of Laredo and evokes a sense of pride in our shared identity.”

Ansen Seale (b. 1960, Texas, USA) is an artist based in San Antonio, Texas. His time-based works of photographic and sculptural art have been exhibited in museums and galleries internationally and have been collected by corporate, institutional, and private collectors. In 2020, he was named Artist of the Year by the San Antonio Art League and Museum. His work is in the permanent collection of the San Antonio Museum of Art, The Harry Ransom Center at The University of Texas, Austin, The Museum of Contemporary Art, Salta, Argentina, and the University of International Business and Economics, Beijing. Ansen’s ability to merge technology with traditional artistic techniques has made him a standout in the art world, and his work on “Love Letter to the Border” continues to push the boundaries of creative expression.

Minnie Dora Haynes Rodriguez and Russell Lee Cerda - Martha Washington & George Washington

Martha Washington Portrayed by Minnie Dora Haynes Rodríguez

Minnie Dora Haynes Rodríguez is a partner in various South Texas business operations anchored in ranching, mineral exploration, and commercial real estate.
Committed to her family and community, Minnie Dora serves as a director of the Washington’s Birthday Celebration Association and as a board member of United Day School, the elementary school she attended, and her daughter currently attends. She is a board member of the International Good Neighbor Council, an organization she led as President from 2018-2020, a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, and an active and avid tennis player. She served as Captain of the Laredo Country Club 2.5 Tennis Team in 2008, joining her colleagues at the UTSA nationals. She continues playing competitive team tennis. Minnie Dora has been recognized as a Paul Harris Fellow, received the Webb County Heritage Foundation’s Historic Rehabilitation Award for her preservation of the Minnie Bruni and Sheriff J.C. Martin, Sr. home, and was named by the Laredo Morning Times as one of five international women of 2024.
Minnie Dora served as President of the Society of Martha Washington in 2018, was a debutante in 1998, and represented the United States as an Abrazo Child in 1987. Her four-generation legacy and history with the Society dates back to 1939 where charter members included her great grandmother, Minnie Bruni Martin and her grandmother, Dora Martin Bunn. Dora was one of six signatories of the Society’s charter, first Mistress of the Wardrobe, served as President of the Society in 1948, and portrayed Martha Washington in 1967. Minnie Dora’s mother, Minnie Dora Bunn Haynes, was a debutante in 1972, served as President in 1999, and portrayed Martha Washington in 2016. Minnie Dora’s portrayal of Martha Washington marks the first time within the Society’s history that three generations of ladies – grandmother, mother, and daughter – have each served as President of the Society and portrayed Martha Washington.

The daughter of J.J. and Minnie Dora Bunn Haynes, Minnie Dora is a graduate of St. Augustine High School, earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Southern Methodist University, a certification from the SMU Cox School of Business Executive and Management Development Division, Summer Business Institute, and her Master of Arts degree from the University of Texas at San Antonio. She previously worked at BBVA and continues her daily involvement with various family ventures. Minnie Dora’s ranch, Rancho Colorado, is recognized by the state of Texas as a Heritage Ranch given its continuous ownership and operation by the same family for over 150 years, Minnie Dora and her husband Enrique reside in Laredo, Webb County, Texas and are the proud parents of their lovely daughter Minnie Dora Rodriguez. Minnie Dora’s greatest blessing and joy is her family, her daughter, husband and parents.

George Washington Portrayed by Russell Lee Cerda

Russell Lee Cerda was born and raised in Houston, TX but has been a Laredoan his entire adult life. The Union Pacific Railroad brought Russell to Laredo in 1986 as a member of the Special Agent department. As the saying goes, he ate a tortilla and drank the water and never left! He will proudly portray President George Washington during the 2025 Washington Birthday Celebration.
Since moving to Laredo, Russell has worked tirelessly for the Laredo community. In 1988 he, volunteered with Special Olympics and shortly thereafter with the Jalapeno Festival. From 2001 to 2011, he served as a volunteer coach for elementary athletic activities at United Day School, which his children attended. His son’s involvement in Scouting led to volunteering as den leader, cub master and assistant Scoutmaster. In 2013, he led a group of high school boys on a 10 day back country hiking trip to the prestigious Philmont Scout Camp in New Mexico.
Russell was invited to join the board of the Boys and Girls Club of Laredo in 2012, and he proudly served as President in 2017; he continues to participate as a Lifetime Director. Russell joined the board of Ruthe B. Cowl in 2019 and currently serves as President of the Board. “Serving my community has brought me great joy and given me a deep connection to the people that adopted me nearly 40 years ago,” said Russell.
His professional career, which was also spent in service as a police officer, started with the Houston police department and ended with his retirement as Division Manager of the Union Pacific Special Agent department in Laredo in 2017. During his 32-year career with Union Pacific, Russell was selected to serve on many special detail assignments. Among the most exciting was being part of the executive protection service for the Republican National Conventions in Philadelphia and Houston. In 2012, Russell was awarded the Life Saving Award for saving an intoxicated driver from a burning car. A more lighthearted moment of service included escorting the Barnum and Bailey Circus train as it traveled to Laredo complete with elephants and other circus performers.
Russell is married to Christine Holliday Cerda with whom he has 3 children: Alex, Michael and Angelina. He joins them in what has become a family tradition of participating with the Society of Martha Washington and WBCA festivities. Tina was a US Abrazo child in 1973, a debutante in 1984, and Society president in 2019. Sons Alex and Michael served as pages and as escorts. Additionally, Michael was a US Abrazo Child in 2008, and daughter Angelina was presented in 2022.
Russell is looking forward to an exciting year getting to know all the Presentation participants and the many volunteers who work to make the annual festivities such a great success.

Briseis Alexandra Sauceda and Jeremy Rodriguez - Princess Pocahontas & Chief Blue Eagle

Briseis Alexandra Sauceda, age 18, is the daughter of Mr. Enrique Sauceda and Ms. Geanette Madrigal. Briseis is a senior at John B. Alexander High School. Briseis is a member of the National Honor Society, the Rho Kappa Social Studies National Honor Society, and the Art National Honor Society. This past summer Briseis was inducted to the National Society of Leadership and Success that recognizes youth scholars across the nation. Briseis is certified with the Texas Association of Sports Officials where you can find her officiating volleyball games at the elementary and middle school division here in her hometown. In conjunction with being TASO certified, Briseis, a proud and dedicated student, is the Head Team Manager for the mighty Lady Bulldog Volleyball team, President for the 3D Print Club and Vice-President of the Graphic Design Club. Her hobbies include drawing, writing, reading, Cosplay participation, playing old and newly released video games, singing with the youth choir at St. Patrick’s Church and volunteering her time at the Laredo Animal Protective Society. Upon graduation she plans to attend Texas A&M International University and obtain her bachelor’s degree with a double major in Fine Arts and Business and a minor in History. Thereafter, she hopes to apply her education to her career and embark on becoming a video game graphics designer and animator. Briseis is proud and honored to be the 45th Anniversary Princess Pocahontas for 2025, as well as being part of the 127th Washington’s Birthday Celebration festivities and serving as the official WBCA Ambassador for the City of Laredo.

Jeremy Rodriguez is the son of Mr. Leonardo Rodriguez Jr and Jackie A Rodriguez. He is a senior at United High School where he is exceedingly involved in athletics. Jeremy has been a member of the UHS Varsity Track team since his sophomore year. As one of the younger athletes at the time, he still played a key role as the Track Team Captain his sophomore year. Jeremy had the privilege of qualifying to Regional level finals with his Mile relay team for two consecutive years. Aside from running Jeremy is a defensive back for the UHS Varsity Football Team since his junior year. They have received several recognition for their outstanding wins and Area Champs. Jeremy has been an active athlete since his early childhood, where he acquired the nick name “Jett”. When he is not busy with PPC or sports you can find him by the lake or city ponds as he enjoys fishing, family time, nature walks, building or putting projects together, boxing and helping out at his church parish. Jeremy is excited to continue this family legacy as his siblings in past years. He is honored to be portraying Chief Blue Eagle Protector of Peace escorting the 2025 Princess Pocahontas Briseis Alexandra Sauceda as ambassadors for the City of Laredo WBCA festivities.

Ray & Betsy Sanchez - Smiles From Heaven - IBC/Commerce Bank Youth Parade Under the Stars

Smiles from Heaven is a charitable organization founded in 2019 to support children and families affected by cancer.
Inspired by the late Bella Sanchez, the organization spreads hope and kindness, hosting over 10 annual events to raise funds for fuel cards, lodging, and hospital parties for pediatric cancer patients.
Founded by Bella’s father, Ray Sanchez, Smiles from Heaven collaborates with other nonprofits to offer community support and resources. A local 501c(3) non-profit organization, Smiles From Heaven provides a service to local children and families affected by pediatric cancer and blood disorders in a very meaningful way. You can learn more about their programs and how they have impacted our community by visiting www.smilesfromheaventx.org.

Laredo Police Department Represented by Chief Miguel A. Rodriguez Jr. - - Anheuser-Busch Washington's Birthday Parade

The Laredo Police Department will celebrate its 175th anniversary in 2025, marking its rich history of tradition and community service since its founding in 1850. As one of the oldest police departments in the U.S., Laredo PD has adapted to new challenges and grown with the city.

Zelie Evangelina Martinez - Abrazo Child, Representing the United States

Zelie Evangelina Martinez, age 8, is the daughter of Mr. Rafael A. Martinez and Mrs. Bianca Herrera Martinez. Zelie is a third-grade student at M.S. Ryan Elementary School and actively participates in various extracurricular activities and school clubs. She enjoys playing volleyball and is also active in track, cross country, and the Chess Club. Her hobbies include drawing, singing, and dancing, and she especially loves spending time with her family and friends.
Zelie carries on her family’s tradition of community involvement. Her grandfather, Blas M. Martinez, served as WBCA President in 1988, and her father, Rafael A. Martinez, has been a dedicated WBCA volunteer and board member since 2013, and is now serving on the WBCA Executive Committee. Her mother, Bianca, has volunteered her time with its affiliate organization, the International Good Neighbor Council in Laredo, and is a member of The Society of Martha Washington. Zelie is honored to follow in her family’s footsteps as the 2024-2025 Abrazo Child representing the United States.

Rodrigo Neira - Abrazo Child, Representing the United States

Rodrigo Neira, age 10, is the son of Mr. Javier Neira and Mrs. Alice Villanueva Neira. He is a loving older brother to his sister Camila. Rodrigo is a fourth-grade student at Nye Elementary School and takes pride in having Perfect Attendance and LOVES to participate in sports. In his free time, he enjoys playing basketball, football, hunting, and fishing, but his favorite pastime is spending time with his family.

Rodrigo’s mother is also very active in the community. She has volunteered, and continues to volunteer, in multiple capacities within WBCA, having served as a Development Team Member and current WBCA Board Member. She also volunteered her time with its affiliate organization, the International Good Neighbor Council in Laredo, and currently serves as their Treasurer. Rodrigo is proud and honored to be the 2024-2025 Abrazo Child representing the United States.

Maria Fernanda Garcia - Abrazo Child, Representing Mexico

Maria Fernanda Garcia is 9 years old and the daughter of Mr. Roberto Garcia and Ms. Lizette Mora. Maria Fernanda is a fourth-grade student in the Gifted and Talented program at Colonel Santos Elementary School. She likes to stay active in and out of school and enjoys playing basketball and volleyball. Additional hobbies include playing tennis, gymnastics, piano, drawing, and reading. She is also a proud member of the Girl Scouts of America.

Maria Fernanda’s parents are both very involved in the community and have volunteered their time as members of the Consejo Internacional de la Buena Vecindad for eight years and counting. Maria Fernanda is excited to serve as this year’s 2024-2025 Abrazo Child representing Mexico.

Tiago X Fernández - Abrazo Child, Representing Mexico

Tiago X Fernández, is 9 years old and the son of Mr. Horacio Fernandez and Ms. Graciela Ramirez-Fernandez. He is in fourth-grade and attends United Day School. Tiago enjoys playing sports such as basketball, football, tennis, golf, and soccer. In his spare time, he enjoys reading and collecting memorabilia and trading cards.

Tiago’s parents are involved in numerous organizations throughout the community and currently volunteer their time as members of the Consejo Internacional de la Buena Vecindad, the IGNC Nuevo Laredo Chapter. They have been members of the CIBV for five years. Tiago is looking forward to representing Mexico with pride as this year’s 2024-2025 Abrazo Child.