The Washington’s Birthday Celebration Association (WBCA) selected Webb County Judge Tano E. Tijerina as Bridge Speaker for the WBCA/IGNC International Bridge Ceremony Sponsored by La Posada Hotel to be held Saturday, February 17, 2024.
“I am honored to have been selected as the 2024 International Bridge Speaker. I have a full and grateful heart knowing that I am amongst a group of distinguished speakers that have a mutual love and appreciation for our community. The abrazo ceremony is my favorite event of the year, because it beautifully captures the essence of unity. The symbolism of walking the bridge from two different countries and meeting in the middle to exchange one language, LOVE, is powerful and evocative. I want to thank Rochelle Gonzalez, W.B.C.A President and all of W.B.C.A. for this enormous honor, my heart swells with pride.”
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.
“WBCA is delighted to have Judge Tijerina as our Bridge Speaker,” said Rochelle V. Gonzalez, WBCA President. “As we gather to celebrate the 126th Washington’s Birthday Celebration, we are reminded of the enduring legacy and unity that this Celebration represents, particularly with the WBCA/IGNC International Bridge Ceremony Sponsored by La Posada Hotel. Judge Tijerina has led an extraordinary life of service and he is also a lifelong friend. I am beyond honored to have him be such an important part of the Celebration during my tenure as WBCA president.”
The Washington’s Birthday Celebration is not just an event but a cornerstone of cultural pride and economic vitality for Laredo, attracting nearly half a million participants each year and significantly contributing to the local economy.
Judge Tijerina’s voice will resonate at the Bridge Ceremony, reinforcing the event’s theme of international friendship and collaboration, mirroring the event’s importance as a symbol of bi-national unity and celebration.
With this designation as the official 2024 Bridge Speaker, Judge Tijerina becomes the newest WBCA Ambassador for the 126th Washington’s Birthday Celebration.
