By Chavez H.R. No. 759 75R13128 JTR-D R E S O L U T I O N 1-1 WHEREAS, On April 30, 1997, El Paso saxophonist Arthur "Art" 1-2 Lewis will celebrate his 61st birthday, and this happy event is 1-3 truly worthy of special recognition; and 1-4 WHEREAS, A native Texan, Mr. Lewis first honed his craft 1-5 while growing up in Houston, and he began his professional career 1-6 in area rhythm and blues bands, performing with such legendary 1-7 musical figures as T-Bone Walker, Albert Collins, Johnny Copeland, 1-8 and Bobby "Blue" Bland; and 1-9 WHEREAS, In 1960 Mr. Lewis resettled in El Paso, and since 1-10 that time he has continued to develop and refine his distinctive 1-11 saxophone playing and vocal ability; a gifted jazz musician, he 1-12 also maintains close ties to his roots in rhythm and blues, and his 1-13 versatility and talent as a performer have made him sought after by 1-14 eager audiences and fellow musicians alike; and 1-15 WHEREAS, Mr. Lewis is also well known as a dedicated mentor 1-16 to aspiring musicians, and a number of his young colleagues have 1-17 benefited from his practical wisdom and broad experience; and 1-18 WHEREAS, Art Lewis has established himself as a gifted 1-19 musical artist and a vital and valued asset to his community, and 1-20 it is indeed fitting to honor him for his many achievements at this 1-21 time; now, therefore, be it 1-22 RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 75th Texas 1-23 Legislature hereby honor Arthur "Art" Lewis on the occasion of his 1-24 61st birthday and extend to him sincere best wishes for continued 2-1 success and happiness in the future; and, be it further 2-2 RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be 2-3 prepared for Mr. Lewis as an expression of high regard by the Texas 2-4 House of Representatives.