The Honorable Tano E. Tijerina - Webb County Judge & 2024 Bridge Speaker

A native of Webb County, Tano E. Tijerina currently serves as the 15th County Judge, a position he has held since 2015. Judge Tijerina’s life has been shaped by core values of hard work, dedication and community service. Judge Tijerina began his career in professional sports, when he was drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers in 1993. After several successful seasons as a baseball player, Judge Tijerina decided to retire from baseball and continue his education, obtaining his degree from Texas A&M International University.

Currently, in his third term as Webb County Judge, he has helped to redefine the role of county government in our region, while maintaining his commitment to improving public safety and health. He has also been a staunch advocate for important causes such as mental health, domestic violence, safeguarding the environment, and inspiring young students to take an interest in their local government. He recently was appointed by the Supreme Court of Texas, to sit on the State Commission on Judicial Conduct, a board responsible for investigating allegations of judicial misconduct and judicial disabilities amongst all Judge’s in Texas. Judge Tijerina is a supporter of missionaries around the world in countries such as India, Thailand, Panama, Central America, Mexico and in the United States.

He has been instrumental in sending missionaries to aid sex trafficking victims, provided relief supplies, translators, and has equipped missions for underserved populations around the world. His work has been recognized by dozens of organizations, including Laredo Chamber of Commerce, Angel of Hope, United Way of Laredo, The Autism Awareness and Education Foundation, LULAC, Laredo Latin American International Sports Hall of Fame, Rio Grande International Study Center and others. Judge Tijerina lives by the words of his grandfather “Lo dificil lo puedo hacer lo imposible me tardo un rato” His proudest accomplishment is marrying the love of his life, Kimberly Tijerina, and his most important role as father to his four children.

Judge Tijerina’s selection as the Bridge Speaker not only honors his substantial contributions to the community and beyond but also symbolizes the unity and collaborative spirit of the WBCA Celebration.

Porter S. Garner III - Mr. South Texas Honoree

The Washington’s Birthday Celebration Association (WBCA) has announced their selection of Porter S. Garner III as their honoree for the prestigious Mr. South Texas Award for the 126th Washington’s Birthday Celebration.

“Porter S. Garner III, a true native son of Laredo and South Texas, embodies the spirit of leadership, dedication, and community impact. Through his transformative leadership at The Association of Former Students, he has tirelessly championed higher education for young people in the region. With his unwavering commitment, remarkable fundraising achievements, and contributions to Texas A&M University and the Aggie Network, Porter Garner deserves the honor of being selected Mr. South Texas,”

said Rochelle Gonzalez 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. Garner for being selected as the 2024 Mr. South Texas Honoree as part of the 126th 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.

“I am honored beyond words to be named Mr. South Texas. As a proud native of Laredo, I well know the significance and stature this recognition represents and I never imagined even being considered, much less ever being selected. I am humbled to be among the many great Texans who have received this revered award over the years,”

said Garner.

Porter S. Garner III is a true native son of Laredo and South Texas. He attended Ryan Elementary School, Lamar Junior High, and graduated from J. W. Nixon High School in 1975. During those years he was heavily involved in 4H and FFA, all the while enjoying ranching and raising animals. Porter also worked at the Cadillac Bar, was a lifeguard at the Webb County pool, and attained the position of head lifeguard at the Elks Lodge pool. Upon graduation from high school, Porter attended Laredo Junior College for one year before moving to College Station and attending Texas A&M University, where he earned his BBA in marketing in 1979. He started his career with Hughes Tool Company before joining The Association of Former Students as Field Director in 1981. After nearly eighteen years of service, Porter was unanimously elected by the Board of Directors to lead the organization, making him only the seventh Chief Executive in The Association’s 144-year history.

“I have loved South Texas my entire life. I routinely look for opportunities to travel the unique and beautiful brush country and visit the wonderful people who make it so special. Most of all, I am so very thankful for the many lifelong, genuine friends I enjoy in Laredo and throughout South Texas. I want to express my sincere thanks and appreciation to all involved in my selection as Mr. South Texas. I am forever grateful,” Porter said.

Over the last twenty-three years as President and CEO, he has inspired innovation and led initiatives to achieve The Association’s vision to become the premier alumni association in the world. Under Porter’s leadership, The Association has enhanced its programs and services and broadened its reach and relevance to the worldwide Aggie Network. Porter serves as a non-voting member of The Association’s Board of Directors and Executive Committee, working closely with the Board to ensure that donated funds are used in the most efficient and effective ways to benefit Texas A&M and the Aggie Network. He is very passionate about helping young people from Laredo and South Texas succeed, and during his more than forty-year career with The Association has helped countless students from South Texas achieve their goals by gaining a higher education.

Under Porter’s leadership, The Association of Former Students’ total assets have grown from $55 million to $218 million, and the organization has raised over $450 million impacting Texas A&M and Texas Aggies worldwide. He led the brand development of The Association and has driven significant growth in the Aggie Ring Program, including Aggie Ring Day, and unprecedented fundraising. Porter led the creation of the Bonfire Relief Fund which was used to assist victims of the Bonfire tragedy on November 18, 1999, and in 2017, he helped to secure financial assistance and support for victims of Hurricane Harvey. His vision led to the development of Aggie Park, which is now the premier green space on the Texas A&M campus, regularly bringing the Aggie Network together for celebration, relaxation and inspiration. To celebrate the grand opening of the park in 2022, Porter was instrumental in organizing a free concert for the public, at which Robert Earl Keen ’78, Max Stalling ’89, The Barn Dogs (Classes ’23 – ’25), and Julianna Rankin ’18 all performed.
In 2022, Porter was recognized as an Outstanding Alumnus of the Mays College of Business. The highest award bestowed upon a Mays graduate, the Outstanding Alumni Award recognizes recipients for leading lives of distinction and embodying the Aggie core values of excellence, integrity, leadership, loyalty, respect and selfless service.

Porter serves on the board of Baylor Scott & White Hospital – College Station Region and is only one of two individuals to have been honored with a lifetime membership in the Brazos County A&M Club. He and his wife, Lisa West Garner, who was born at the Laredo Air Force Base and is a proud Aggie, Class of ’91, are Endowed Century Club donors to The Association of Former Students, Eppright Distinguished Donors and members of the Texas A&M Legacy Society.

Porter is the son of the late Porter S. Garner Jr. and the late Wanda Mae Bessan. With longstanding family roots in Laredo, his grandfather, Porter Sr., owned several businesses in Laredo and was an educator with Laredo Independent School District. The central kitchen was named in his honor. Porter’s maternal grandfather, Achille Mehault “Mayo” Bessan, started the world-renowned Cadillac Bar in 1925. His son-in-law, Porter S. Garner Jr., took the reins in the 1950’s and in 1979 turned it over to his employees. Porter Jr. was also President of the Laredo Border Olympics and a founding member of the Laredo A&M Club. Wanda Mae was involved with the Celebration, serving as President of The Society of Martha Washington in 1969 and portraying Martha in 1970. Both of Porter’s sisters, Wanda Garner Cash and Clay Garner Berry, were presented with the Society and Porter served as an escort in 1975.

While Porter lives in College Station, his heart is never far from South Texas. Over the years, he has spent considerable time in Laredo where his family ranch is located. He is very grateful to have so many wonderful and genuine friends in Laredo and throughout south Texas. His biggest hobbies include a lifelong love of hunting and fishing the brush country, quail hunting, and entertaining family and friends at the ranch, better known to many as The Lodge. Porter often hosts events there promoting South Texas and the brighter promise of higher education, specifically through Texas A&M and the Aggie Network. Porter and Lisa have three children, all Aggies: Claire ’21, Callie ’23, and Porter IV ’26.

“Porter S. Garner III’s unwavering dedication to education, transformative leadership at The Association of Former Students, and impact in South Texas make him a standout choice for Mr. South Texas. With a passion for his roots and a vision for the future, Porter’s impact resonates far beyond the University, embodying the spirit of excellence and service that defines what this honor bestows,” said D. Matthew Gibson, Chairperson for this year’s Mr. South Texas Selection Committee and WBCA Immediate Past President.
Together with the Mr. South Texas designation, Ambassador Garner 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 17, 2024, 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 126th Washington’s Birthday Celebration, which takes place January 13 – March 2, 2024.

Richard and Alison Haynes - George Washington & Martha Washington

Alison White Haynes

Alison White Haynes has been an active member of the Society of Martha Washington since 2006. She has served on the executive board for multiple terms and as committee chair for the last 10 years. Her daughter, Madison, was presented as a debutante in 2017, and her son, Trey, was an escort in 2019 and 2020.
Alison is a 1992 graduate of Texas A&M University and a 1995 graduate of St. Mary’s University School of Law. She has been happily married to Richard “Dicky” Haynes for 25 years and his law partner for 20 years. Although Dicky is the reason for her relocating to Laredo, Alison considers Laredo her hometown of choice. Together, she and Dicky raised two Aggies and have been members of the Texas A&M Chancellor’s Century Council despite Dicky’s prior misguided affinity for the Texas Longhorns.
As a licensed attorney, Alison has received recognition as one of the Nation’s Top 100 Attorneys in Business, a Texas Super Lawyer, Texas Bar Foundation Fellow and Litigation Counsel of America Fellow. She has been appointed a member and chair of various federal committees for the Southern District of Texas. Alison has authored and served as a guest speaker for multiple bar, legal and professional associations on topics ranging from civil litigation to transportation.
Locally, Alison has served as a member of Voz de Niños Board of Directors, Mary Help of Christians school Advisory Board and Mary Help of Christians Athletic Board. She cherishes years of fond memories with her daughter along with other Mary Help students and their parents as a volleyball coach. Alison has been a devoted supporter of local Laredo families adversely affected by childhood cancers, the Catholic Missions in Nuevo Laredo and scholarships for minority students.

Richard “Dicky” Haynes

Richard Dicky Haynes is a native Laredoan. He is the son of Rosa Imelda and the late Richard “Dicky” Haynes. His mother joined the Society of Martha Washington in 1984. In addition to Dicky’s father previously portraying George Washington, his sister was presented as a debutante in 1994 and his brother an escort in 1991 and 1992.
Dicky earned an accounting degree from St. Mary’s University in 1990 as well as his law degree in 1995. He has been married to Alison White Haynes for 25 years and is the proud father of Madison, WBCA’s youngest poster artist ever, and Trey, a member of the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets – Squadron 17.
After graduating law school, Dicky served as an Assistant Webb County District Attorney for the newly established drug court and later, a felony prosecutor. He has been a private law practitioner with a focus on real estate matters since 1999 and a partner in the law firms of Wilson, Treviño, Freed, Valls & Haynes; Treviño, Valls & Haynes; and, Treviño Haynes. Dicky’s professional affiliations include the Texas Bank Lawyers’ Association and Chair of the Texas Bar Association’s Grievance Committee.
Dicky is a sports and fitness enthusiast on all levels. He spent a decade coaching elementary and junior high sports such as flag football and basketball for Mary Help of Christians School as well as serving as member of its Athletic Board. Even though he was a life-long fan of the UT Longhorns, Dicky became a Texas Aggie convert in 2017 and thereafter, a member of the Texas A&M Chancellor’s Century Council. He is a staunch supporter of the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets. His charitable efforts include St. Judge Children’s Hospital, American Cancer Society, Make-a-Wish Foundation, and scholarships for deserving minorities in both the United States and Mexico.

Arianna Rebecca Torres and Roberto Oscar Hale - Princess Pocahontas & Chief

Arianna Rebecca Torres, age 17, is the daughter of Mr. Paul Torres Fox and Mrs. Adrianna Gaona Torres. Arianna is a senior at St. Augustine High School and a member of the National Honor Society, League of United Latin American Citizens , and Co-Captain of the Varsity Cheerleading team. She is also President of the Interact Club, President of the Model UN, and President of the Student Mentoring Club. Arianna has attended multiple leadership seminars such as the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards, Seed of Hope Conference and George Mason Journalism & Media Conference . Her hobbies include horseback riding, cheer, gymnastics, and reading. Arianna is proud to continue a family legacy of service within the Princess Pocahontas Council, which started with her maternal grandmother. She is honored to be part of the 126th Washington’s Birthday Celebration festivities and is excited to represent the City of Laredo as an official WBCA Ambassador by portraying Princess Pocahontas in the 2024 Princess Pocahontas Court.

Roberto Oscar Hale is the son of Mr. Roberto Castillo and Mrs. Doreen Hale. He is a senior at J.B. Alexander High School where he is an active leadership crew member of the award winning Alexander High school band, indoor performance ensemble, honors band and choir. Roberto is a part of the national student scholar society, he is a graduate of the Tex Prep High School Engineering Program at TAMIU. Rob enjoys staying active by playing piano, guitar and other percussion instruments, he enjoys spending quality time with his family and does volunteer work serving the veterans. Roberto is honored to Escort Ariana Rebecca Torres who portrays Princess Pocahontas for 2023-2024 as Chief Mystic Wolf.

Roberto González - 126th Poster Artist

Roberto Gonzalez, was born in Sabinas Hidalgo, Nuevo Leon, Mexico to parents Manuel and Aurora Gonzalez. He was one of 10 children. When he was only 4-years-old, his family immigrated to Laredo, Texas and Roberto has lived here ever since. Early on, Roberto’s parents recognized their son had an innate artistic talent and encouraged him to nurture this gift whenever possible throughout his youth.

Roberto credits his middle school art teacher, Ms. Duvina Moran and his oil painting teacher, Ms. Maria Tejada, for helping to further expand his artistic talent as a young man. After graduating from Martin High School in 1969, he attended Laredo Community College and then the University of Texas at Austin, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Architecture in 1974. While attending UT, he met his wife Teresa Ramos Gonzalez, who is also an artist and talented Architect. They married in 1977.

After graduating from UT Austin, Roberto worked for a commercial architectural firm for two years in Austin, before moving back to Laredo to branch out on his own. Together with his wife, they formed Ramos-Gonzalez Design, a design and construction firm. Together, they designed and built beautiful homes in Austin, Kerrville, San Antonio, Encinal, Zapata, San Ignacio, Corpus Christi, Nuevo Laredo, and Monterrey. The two also took on interior design, restoration, and other artistic projects.

In Laredo and the surrounding areas, their work can be seen in various spaces of worship. They designed and constructed the chapel for the Congregation of St John in Laredo, the sanctuary of San Martin de Porres, the chapel of Rosa Mistica, the bell tower of The Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Encinal, and lastly, a retreat center for the Carmelite Nuns in Salvador De Bahia, in Brazil.

Among his many artistic projects, Roberto, also created a life-size Virgen de Guadalupe (carved and painted in Bulto style on mahogany wood), proudly displayed and worshipped at Holy Family Catholic Church. He later carved a second image of the Virgen de Guadalupe for his wife Teresa, and this statue is proudly displayed right here, at “The Laredo Mansion.” Among his other notable art projects include a Mural at Villa Serena in Austin; the entrance design to JSJ Estates Subdivision in Laredo, and the Diocesan Coat of Arms. His hand-molded ceramics were also famously featured as part of a one-man show at the Arboretum in Austin, Texas.

Roberto is also well-known in Laredo for opening up the “Laredo Gallery.” The Laredo Gallery featured art exhibits for the community to enjoy and a rare opportunity for international artists to highlight their work. He was recently awarded a distinctive recognition by the Consulado General de Mexico for his contribution to the Arts. Roberto was also recently recognized by Texas Monthly for the restoration of the “Laredo Mansion” –From the stained-glass windows, and Corinthian-style capitals, to the decorative moldings and floors – every inch of the design and restoration project was carefully thought out and executed. It is clear that Roberto is multi-faceted and multi-talented and takes great delight in creating art in numerous mediums, whether they be oil painting, painting on glass and wood, wood sculptures or clay figures. His artistic influences come from his travels, love of architecture, and deep appreciation of nature. It is clear Roberto views the world with a keen artistic eye and finds art and beauty in everything he sees – particularly so, when it comes to his beloved hometown. He describes Laredo as a city that unites two countries, two languages, and two traditions that reflect the unparalleled majesty and diversity that is the United States of America, a country founded by George Washington, whom we illustriously honor with these celebrations. This place he calls home, serves as his greatest canvas, where he has forever left an indelible and permanent imprint.

But what Roberto is MOST proud of, of course, is his family. Roberto and his wife Teresa have a son, Roberto David Gonzalez, a daughter-in-law Janice De La Viña Gonzalez and three (3) beautiful grandchildren, Venice, Zoey, and Lucas.

Scarlett Emma Gonzalez - Abrazo Child, Representing the United States

Scarlett Emma Gonzalez, age 11, is the daughter of Mr. Rodolfo Gonzalez III and Mrs. Erica Luna. Scarlett is a sixth grader at St. Augustine Middle School. She is a member of the National Junior Honor Society, Laredo Junior Golf Association, the Courtesy Club and the Rosary Club. Her hobbies include golf, gymnastics, track, tennis, ice skating, volleyball and going to the beach. She especially loves spending time with her family and friends and hunting at the family ranch.

Scarlett’s mother has volunteered, and continues to volunteer, in multiple capacities with the Washington’s Birthday Celebration Association and its affiliate organization, the International Good Neighbor Council in Laredo, and has also served in multiple capacities on both boards. Scarlett is honored to follow in her family’s footsteps and continue this legacy as the 2023-2024 Abrazo Child representing the United States.

Jackson Alexander Peregoy - Abrazo Child, Representing the United States

Jackson Alexander Peregoy is 9-years-old and the son of Mr. Bobby Peregoy and Mrs. Margaret Peregoy. He is a fourth-grade student at Colonel Santos Benavides Elementary School. In his free time, Jack enjoys the challenges of raising livestock through his work with the Wrangler 4H Club and is excited about starting his next project in a few months. Jack also loves playing basketball and spends time polishing his skills at the KJ Athletics Basketball Club. As an avid outdoorsman, Jack spends as much time as he can hunting the South Texas brush country and has proven to be quite the marksman behind his rifle. His love for the outdoors doesn’t end with hunting, as he proudly completed his first Spartan Kids race in 2022 and is looking forward to running many more.

Jack continues a long family legacy of community involvement. His father, Bobby, served on the WBCA Board of Directors and on the WBCA Executive Committee. He was elected WBCA President in 2020 and currently serves as a WBCA Lifetime Director and as a Member and Officer of WBCA’s Affiliate Organization, Los Caballeros de la Republica del Rio Grande. Jack also follows in the footsteps of his sister, Riley Olivia Peregoy, who was presented as an Abrazo Child in 2019.
Jack is honored and excited to represent the City of Laredo and the United States as the 2023-2024 Abrazo Child as part of the 126th Washington’s Birthday Celebration.

Estefania Ramirez Richer - Abrazo Child, Representing Mexico

Estefania Ramirez Richer is 8-years-old and the daughter of Mr. Emmanuel Ramirez and Mrs. Stephanie Richer de Ramirez. Next week, she will be starting 3rd Grade at Mary Help of Christians School. She is a proud member of Grupo NET. An avid gymnast at heart, Estefania also loves participating in sports such as volleyball, basketball, track and tennis. Among other hobbies she enjoys are Ballet and Jazz. Estefania follows a family legacy of community involvement that began with her grandmother, Adriana Mounetou de Richer, who represented Mexico as an Abrazo Child back in 1969. Estefania is honored to represent Mexico, as the 2023-2024 Abrazo Child, during the 126th Washington’s Birthday Celebration festivities.

Jorge Eduardo Gutierrez Gonzalez - Abrazo Child, Representing Mexico

Jorge Eduardo Gutierrez Gonzalez, is 9-years-old and the son of Mr. Jorge Gutierrez Alexander and Mrs. Andrea Gonzalez de Gutierrez. He’s in 4th grade at United Day School and is a proud member of the UDS basketball team. His favorite NBA team is the Golden State Warriors and he admires Stephen Curry. When he grows up, he would like to be an NBA Player. Moreover, he enjoys learning math, playing tennis, traveling abroad, and eating tacos.

Efrain Alvarado - Don Miguel Hidalgo 2024

Alberto Esquivel III - Order of the Red Men

Every year the Texas Red Men Foundation in partnership with the Washington’s Birthday Celebration Association, honors one candidate for their exemplary dedication and effort in promoting and preserving the goals and ideals of the Washington’s Birthday Celebration. The Texas Red Men Foundation also presents the current WBCA President with a special award in appreciation for his or her dedicated efforts all year long to promote the Washington’s Birthday Celebration Association and for preserving the historic significance of this grand celebration of patriotism and friendship. The 2024 honoree is Alberto Esquivel III.

As the 2024 recipient of the Order of the Red Men Spirit Award, Alberto Esquivel, III will serve as a WBCA Ambassador for the 126^thWashington’s Birthday Celebration.   A former veteran, Esquivel served in the United States Marine Corps Active Duty from 1992 through 1996.  Most recently, Esquivel serves as a Fire Inspector, Plan Examiner, Fire Investigator and Honor Guard with the City of Laredo Fire Department, positions of which he has held for more than 24 years.  Esquivel has also worked with the Sames Auto Arena since it first opened, as an arena Fire Marshal, a position he has held for more than 20 years.   He is happily married to his wife of more than 17 years, Leticia Esquivel and has plans to retire from the City of Laredo in December of 2023.  His involvement with the Washington’s Birthday Celebration Association spans almost as long.  Esquivel has been instrumental in assisting WBCA with ensuring the events are safe for all festivalgoers who attend.  He has gone above and beyond to assist WBCA for more than 20 years.  Although Esquivel has participated in many events and served in multiple capacities to ensure the events are as safe as they are fun, his most favorite events to assist with included the IBC/Commerce Bank International Youth Parade Under the Stars and the Anheuser-Busch Washington’s Birthday Parade.  Esquivel will be presented with the Order of the Red Men Spirit Award on Friday, February 16^th at 12 noon at the San Agustin Ballroom, during the WBCA/La Posada Hotel Welcome Luncheon, as part of the 126^th Washington’s Birthday Celebration.

Luis “Big Lou” Ramirez - I Love Laredo

“I Love Laredo,” is a non-profit organization established in 2019. The founder Luis “Big Lou” Ramirez was seeking to make a positive change in his own life and decided not only to make changes in his personal life but also make a meaningful impact on his Laredo community which he calls home. The organization began with only four volunteers who used social media to spread the awareness of keeping Laredo beautiful and clean. Along with this awareness, he also invoked the spirit of volunteering, encouraging physical activity, and inspire people and other non-profit organizations to give back to their community. Ramirez encourages volunteers to help beautify the Laredo community and at the same time volunteers experience all the beauty Laredo has to offer. I Love Laredo holds over 40 cleanups a year and, on average, collect more than 30 bags of trash per clean up. The organization hosts and executes their own event, “Walk with Da Block” every Sunday. Each walk is hosted in a different public location such as parks and Laredo streets. While cleaning the areas, they also share life experiences and add some physical activity. Through social media platforms, especially Facebook @walkwithdablock and @iloveltx they have documented involvement and engagements with a number of organizations that include: The Rio Grande International Study Center, The City of Laredo, Webb County, Keep Laredo Beautiful, The Lamar Bruni Vergara Environmental Science Center, Rotarians, numerous schools in both the Laredo and United ISD, various local chapters of the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), Lake Casa Blanca International State Park (Texas Parks and Wildlife), Smiles from Heaven and numerous other organizations, and individuals. I Love Laredo and its founder, Luis “Big Lou” Ramirez have demonstrated the importance of caring and beautifying our community and it is why He and I Love Laredo are the 2024 Parade Marshals for the IBC/Commerce Bank Youth Parade Under the Stars.

Gigi M.E. Garza - Volunteers Serving the Need (VSTN)

Gigi Garza is the Founder/CEO of Volunteers Serving the Need (VSTN.) The mission of VSTN, a non- profit, tax exempt organization, is to serve Webb County Veterans and their surviving spouses. The primary service VSTN provides to eligible families is two bags of groceries, frozen meats/vegetables/fruits and personal hygiene products monthly at no cost to the participants.
Ms. Garza was born in Rio Grande City, Texas into a military/lawenforcement family. Gigi’s grandfather served in the Army Fort Ring Gold 12th Cavalry Unit E, father with the Army-Navy, and mother with the Marines. Gigi was the eldest of six sisters raised in Seal Beach, California. Three enlisted and one served in the U.S. in southern California.
Ms. Garza had been married to one of seven brothers, all of whom voluntarily served in the Armed Forces. Gigi has two daughters, the oldest with a Master of Business from TAMIU and the youngest is a registered nurse (graduating from LCC.) Learning volunteerism through her Dad and Mom, Gigi began looking for volunteer opportunities in Laredo’s local churches shortly after moving here in the ninety’s. Gigi has served the following organizations: Templo Cristano Piedra Angular (Manos De Ayuda), First United Methodist Church (Angel Food Ministry), Laredo Stepping Stone, Christ Church Episcopal (New Leven), Joseph Warehouse for the Nation, Habitat for Humanity, and Grace Bible Church. Ms. Garza received the 2009 Jefferson Nomination Award for Public Service in Webb County TX and was 1 of 3 honorees in the 2017 Unsung Heroes Award by the Laredo Next Generation Rotary for her extraordinary service to our community.
Gigi was a member of several Rotary’s in Laredo and Newcomers Friends of Laredo until COVID.
Gigi has developed VSTN to serve local heroes with devout devotion, boot strap financing and recycled discards since 2009. VSTN has grown into a resource for local heroes to obtain the assistance and support they need to survive the perils and remnants of their service to our country.
Ms. Garza has dedicated her life to Making a Difference in the lives of those that have made such a Difference in Ours. As the 2024 Parade Marshals, VSTN, represented by her, will lead more than 200 entries that participate in the parade every year.

Rob Lowe - Air Show Marshal

Southwest Region Regional Administrator for the Federal Aviation Administration