By JACQI LEYVA-HILL
Special to the PRESS
The Town of Laguna Vista formally recognizes Jacob Baker Proclamation Day, honoring a resident whose life reflects perseverance, faith, and a steadfast commitment to serving others. The proclamation, authorized by State Representative Janie Lopez of District 37, designates December 20, 2025, as a day of recognition in celebration of Baker’s birthday and his many contributions to the community.
The proclamation was read aloud during the December 9 Town Council meeting, ahead of the actual presentation, which was planned as an early birthday celebration. During the meeting, Mayor Carter emphasized the importance of the recognition, stating, “It is an important occasion to recognize somebody who has spent their entire life overcoming and still giving.” Council members were asked to help keep the proclamation a surprise until the celebration, noting Baker’s well-known habit of arriving early to events. The early timing allowed the community to honor him in a meaningful setting alongside the people he regularly serves.
According to the proclamation, Baker’s life has been shaped by significant medical and personal challenges from an early age. He was diagnosed with cerebral palsy during infancy and entered the foster care system at six months old, but was later adopted. After his adoptive mother fell ill, Baker became a ward of the State of Texas and eventually relocated to Laguna Vista. A man of deep faith, he joined a local church and remained active until its closure, forming lasting bonds with fellow congregants Gary and Ellen Snyder, whom he describes as his “church family.”
After a period away from Laguna Vista, Baker returned and made a home for himself in the community. In May 2019, he faced further adversity when he was seriously injured in a hit-and-run accident. He later experienced a deeply meaningful milestone when he was reunited with his birth mother. Despite these challenges, the proclamation notes that Baker has consistently demonstrated resilience and positivity, continuing to engage actively in community life.
Today, Baker is a devoted member of his church in Laguna Vista, where he generously gives his time and talents. His service includes welcoming visitors, ushering, organizing and stocking materials for services, assisting with special events, and helping in the parking lot. He has also served as a character actor in the church’s Easter event. In addition, Baker volunteers with BiG Heroes of Brownsville, which provides programs and activities for individuals with disabilities.
By proclaiming December 20 in his honor, Laguna Vista highlights not only Baker’s personal perseverance, but the broader values he represents: compassion, faith, inclusion, and service. Jacob Baker Proclamation Day serves as a reminder that the strength of a community is often reflected in the quiet dedication of those who continue to give, uplift others, and inspire through their actions.
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