By Joel Langton
The 830 Times
Community leaders, businesses and service members were recognized for their contributions to Del Rio and Laughlin Air Force Base during the Del Rio Chamber of Commerce and Military Affairs Association awards program Thursday night at Enchanted Jardin.
“This is our chance to recognize all of the good in our community,” said Blanca Larson, CEO and executive director of the Del Rio Chamber of Commerce. “There are people who are doing amazing things, working hard, and this is our night to say thank you to a few of them because this is just the tip of the iceberg of the people doing amazing things here.”
After dinner, Chief U.S. District Judge Alia Moses shared what she described as a “civics lesson,” drawing several rounds of applause when she discussed the need for civility in the nation’s political and cultural climate.
Oscar San Miguel, owner of Med-Pro and a local auctioneer, served as master of ceremonies for the event.
Outgoing Chamber President Nanca Rodriguez and incoming Chamber President Abram Rodriguez (no relation) then presented the chamber awards. Nanca Rodriguez is a team member at H-E-B, while Abram Rodriguez serves as marketing manager at Border Federal Credit Union.
The first award presented was the Good Neighbor Award, which went to Pla-Mor Entertainment for its commitment to local youth. The
business offers free bowling games to students each Monday and discounted bowling nights on Fridays, working to provide a safe and positive activity for young people in the community.
The Maverick Award was presented to Carmen Cantu, owner of Amistad Life magazine and RC Taxidermy, for her creativity and initiative in producing publications that celebrate Del Rio’s culture and way of life.
Don Beeson, owner and operator of Del Rio’s Sirloin Stockade, received the Golden Spur Award, honoring his consistent service and dedication to the chamber and to the military community.
The Heart of the West Award went to CASA of Val Verde, recognized for its advocacy on behalf of children in Child Protective Services custody. CASA volunteers represent children in court and work with community partners to ensure they receive support and resources.
Big Air Del Rio received the Trailblazer Award, recognizing businesses that have invested in the community and demonstrated a commitment to innovation and growth.
The Frontier Award was presented to Money Concepts – Money Link Financial Services, recognized for leadership and programs designed to help individuals build financial stability and opportunity.
The “We Are One” Award went to First Command, a financial services company that works with military members and families connected to Laughlin Air Force Base.
The evening also included recognition of leadership within the chamber itself. Nanca Rodriguez received the Visionary Leadership Award for four years of service as chairman of the chamber board and for her continued work helping develop future leaders through Leadership Del Rio.
In addition to the chamber awards, leadership from Laughlin Air Force Base’s 47th Flying Training Wing recognized several military and civilian personnel for outstanding service during the past year. The awards were presented by Military Affairs Association President Eddie Amezcua — co-owner of Wings and Rings, Teriyaki Madness and Skillet’s with his family — along with Col. Tyler Ellison, commander of the 47th Flying Training Wing.
Laughlin award winners
Airman of the Year: Senior Airman Benjamin Carpenter, 47th Mission Support Group
Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year: Tech. Sgt. Elizabeth Butler, 47th Operations Group
Senior Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year: Master Sgt. Laura Claypool, 47th Wing Staff Agencies
Company Grade Officer of the Year: 1st Lt. Kathryn Martemucci, Laughlin Medical Group
Field Grade Officer of the Year: Maj. Gary Young, Laughlin Medical Group
Instructor Pilot of the Year: Capt. Pierce Pluemer, 434th Flying Training Squadron
Civilian Non-Supervisory Category I of the Year: Ines Torres-Wong, 47th Mission Support Group
Civilian Non-Supervisory Category II of the Year: Brooke Sands, 47th Mission Support Group
Civilian Non-Supervisory Category III of the Year: Jesus Valdez, 47th Mission Support Group
Civilian Supervisory Category I of the Year: Yvonne Anguiano, 47th Mission Support Group
Civilian Supervisory Category II of the Year: David Mercer, 47th Maintenance Directorate
Civilian Supervisory Category III of the Year: Antionette Trevino, 47th Mission Support Group
Honor Guardsman of the Year: Senior Airman Samuel Nieto, 47th Operations Group
Volunteer of the Year: Senior Airman Che Washington, 47th Mission Support Group
Team of the Year: T-6 Operations Team, 47th Operations Group
First Sergeant of the Year: Master Sgt. Todd Hughes, 47th Student Squadron
Key Spouse of the Year: Koreanna Collins, 47th Operations Group
The awards program highlighted the strong partnership between the Del Rio community and Laughlin Air Force Base, recognizing individuals whose service and leadership continue to strengthen the region.
