TITLE: Recognizing the Washington's Birthday Celebration Association of Laredo.

SUMMARY: Recognizing the Washington's Birthday Celebration Association of Laredo.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The Washington's Birthday Celebration Association, in conjunction with its affiliated organizations, is presenting Laredo's 127th commemoration of George Washington's birthday from January 11 through March 1, 2025; and WHEREAS, Every year, citizens of Laredo mark the birthday of the Father of Our Country, in tribute to a champion of liberty who is revered in countries throughout the Americas; for more than a century, the observance has been organized by the Washington's Birthday Celebration Association, which is led this year by its president, Fernando Montemayor Jr.; and WHEREAS, Since the celebration's beginning as a two-day affair in 1898, it has gradually evolved into a grand festival encompassing numerous events and drawing some 400,000 people; those attending the festivities enjoy marching bands and parade floats, spectacular fireworks displays, food, games, and performances by entertainers from both sides of the border; additionally, the association annually selects two individuals to portray George and Martha Washington at various celebration events, and this year the honor has gone to Russell Lee Cerda and Minnie Dora Haynes Rodriguez; and WHEREAS, Other 2025 ambassadors include Briseis Alexandra Sauceda and Jeremy Rodriguez, who will portray Princess Pocahontas and Chief Blue Eagle; the parts of the Abrazo children will be played by Zelie Evangelina Martinez and Rodrigo Neira, who are representing the United States, and by Maria Fernanda Garcia and Tiago XFernandez, who are representing Mexico; the role of Don Miguel Hidalgo YCostilla will be played by Ruben Bazan III; and WHEREAS, This much-anticipated celebration exemplifies the spirit and enthusiasm of Laredoans and the pride they take in their city and country; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 89th Texas Legislature hereby recognize the members of the Washington's Birthday Celebration Association for their patriotism and dedication and extend to them sincere best wishes for a joyous 127th Washington's Birthday Celebration; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for the association as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives. Raymond Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 120 was adopted by the House on February 4, 2025, by a non-record vote. Chief Clerk of the House