The Webb County Heritage Foundation (WCHF) recognized 11 honorees with the prestigious Heritage Award at its Founders’ Day Luncheon on May 21 at the IBC Annex Ballroom.
The Foundation annually recognizes individuals, businesses, organizations, and families that have contributed to the unique architectural and cultural heritage of Webb County.
Hamilton Trophies was recognized with the Historic Business Award for more than 75 years in business
The Jim Parish Award for Documentation and Publication of Local and Regional History was presented to four recipients this year: Elaine A. Peña for her publication, Viva George! – Celebrating Washington’s Birthday at the US-Mexico Border; Wanda Garner Cash for her publication, Pancho Villa’s Saddle at the Cadillac Bar; Philis M. Barragán-Goetz for Reading, Writing and Revolution: Escuelitas and the Emergence of a Mexican American Identity in Texas; and Fernando Piñon for publication of a collection of literary works spanning several decades.
The Historic Preservation Award for Organizations was presented to the First United Methodist Church on its 151st anniversary in Laredo; and to the Salesian Sisters of Laredo in recognition of their 87th anniversary of service to the community.
The Salesian Sisters of Laredo were recognized for their 87thanniversary of service to the community.
The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Dr. Stan Green for his decades-long dedication to the region’s heritage education, as well as his personal support and guidance of the Webb County Heritage Foundation.
The Preservation of Folklore, Customs, and Traditions Award was presented to three recipients who are all muralists: Sandra Gonzalez for her mural on Clark Street; Ricardo Castillon for his mural at the Narvaez City Hall apartments on Convent Avenue; and Abel Gonzalez for his murals at the Joe A. Guerra Laredo Public Library on Calton Rd. and at the Jovita Idar El Progreso Park on Thomas Ave.
Two mainstays of Laredo’s historic, architectural, and cultural preservation — Tomás Yzaguirre and Viviana Frank — enjoyed the WCHF Founder’s Day Celebration.
