2025 Royalty Candidates
Meet The Candidates for Our Next River Walk Royal Court
The future of River Walk Royalty is shining bright! Take a moment to meet the candidates for our upcoming River Walk Royalty Court. Each member's royal title will be awarded based on the funds they raise for the San Antonio Hospitality Foundation. You can contribute to each candidate's donation pool through the link provided below.
Curious about the impact of larger donations? View our Donor Guide!
How It Works
- Click the "Make Your Donation Today" button below.
- Scroll down to "Support a Candidate" and select your candidate from the drop-down menu.
- Fill out the "Donor Information" and "Billing Information" fields.
- Click Donate!
Now, let's meet the candidates!
Karsen Maldonado
Karsen is a mother, wife, and San Antonio native. She has a background in public service, marketing, and public relations. Her passion for philanthropy is matched only by her love for San Antonio, where she strives to make a difference in the community through meaningful action.
Kristi Waters
Kristi Waters, a drag performer for over 17 years and show director at Let's Be Honest, is running for River Walk Royalty. Named Best Drag Performer in San Antonio for four consecutive years, Kristi aims to inspire the LGBTQIA+ community and promote inclusivity and events on the River Walk.
Annette Champion Flores
Annette Champion Flores, a third-generation Flamenco dancer and artistic director at Teresa Champion Dance Academy, is a passionate advocate for the San Antonio River Walk. Born and raised in San Antonio, she continues her family's legacy while supporting the city's cultural and hospitality industries. #annetteforriverwalkroyalty #royalforhospitality
Melissa Gonzales
Melissa, CEO/founder of Project Permitting of Texas, specializes in expediting building construction plans. She earned her degree in Public Relations from Our Lady of The Lake and is involved in Latina Leadership 9, DisAbilitySa, and various committees. Melissa is dedicated to education, community service, and fundraising for hospitality scholarships.
Millisa Picazo
Millisa Picazo, a proud native of south San Antonio, is an award-winning local business owner with over a decade in esthetics. Passionate about education and philanthropy, she is pursuing EMT studies to enhance community well-being. As a single mother of two, Millisa is dedicated to creating a brighter future and inspiring others through her relentless pursuit of success.
Kristy Ward
Kristy Ward, with the San Antonio Pets Alive as the Marketing Director, is a dedicated community advocate championing local businesses. Originally from Corpus Christi, she raised her two kids in San Antonio, inspired by family trips to the vibrant Riverwalk and its local vendors, making a lasting impact on the community.
Jason Rene Silva
My name is Jason “Rene” Silva, but my friends call me Rene. I’m a 37-year-old born and raised San Antonian. I work as a sand miner on the outer city limits of San Antonio. I’m also a dog and plant dad who loves to cook and entertain!
Sam Hernandez
I am a born and raised San Antonian that loves what our city has to offer. I serve the city as a full-time firefighter/paramedic and a part time airline agent. I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling, and watching any sports.
Julian Tovar
Julian and his fiancé, Marco, live, work, and play in San Antonio, often seen spending time on the River Walk. Julian is a DE&I practitioner and a dedicated leader in the fight for equal rights. He actively lobbies for the advancement of education, immigration rights, disabled persons, and underserved communities. Julian believes in thinking globally and acting locally to uplift and unite our community.
David Martinez Jr.
David Martinez Jr. is a co-owner of Texas Sugar Daddies Catering and Baking company, a local small business located in San Antonio’s Southside. He is a Business Administration graduate from Our Lady of the Lake University. David is married to his college sweetheart, Andie, and they have two beautiful children: Matthew and Isabella.