R E S O L U T I O N
 1-1           WHEREAS, The untimely passing of Joel "Joey" Jesus Martinez
 1-2     of La Joya, at the age of 16, brought an irreplaceable loss to the
 1-3     family and many friends of this esteemed young man, and it is most
 1-4     appropriate that we honor his memory at this time; and
 1-5           WHEREAS, An outstanding athlete at La Joya High School,
 1-6     Mr. Martinez was the victim of an alcohol-related accident on
 1-7     February 14, 1996, in McAllen; and
 1-8           WHEREAS, He was the inspiration for "Joey's Law," or House
 1-9     Bill 870, which was created to reduce the incidence of teenage
1-10     drinking in Mexico by Texas youths who then return across the
1-11     border; passed by the 75th Texas Legislature, the law permits
1-12     United States Customs Service agents, Immigration and
1-13     Naturalization Service agents, and Border Patrol officers to detain
1-14     drivers they suspect are intoxicated, then transfer them to local
1-15     law enforcement for processing; and
1-16           WHEREAS, Mr. Martinez was known for his gentle spirit and his
1-17     quick smile; during his short time here, he reminded us that the
1-18     ability to give and inspire love is not limited by age or time; and
1-19           WHEREAS, Although it is painful to say good-bye to one so
1-20     young and full of promise, it is fitting to remember that while
1-21     Mr. Martinez's time here was all too brief, his life profoundly
1-22     affected  those around him, and he will long be remembered as a
1-23     young man of honor and integrity by the many people who knew and
1-24     admired him; now, therefore, be it
 2-1           RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 76th Texas
 2-2     Legislature hereby pay tribute to the life and legacy of Joel
 2-3     "Joey" Jesus Martinez and extend deepest sympathy to his many loved
 2-4     ones; and, be it further
 2-5           RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
 2-6     prepared for the members of his family and that when the Texas
 2-7     House of Representatives adjourns this day, it do so in memory of
 2-8     Joel "Joey" Jesus Martinez.
                                                                   Gutierrez
                                             _______________________________
                                                   Speaker of the House
               I certify that H.R. No. 309 was unanimously adopted by a
         rising vote of the House on April 23, 1999.
                                             _______________________________
                                                 Chief Clerk of the House