R E S O L U T I O N
 1-1           WHEREAS, The Texas House of Representatives is proud to honor
 1-2     Ernesto Pedregon Martinez of El Paso for being named the Texas
 1-3     State Artist for two-dimensional works for 1997-98; and
 1-4           WHEREAS, In reaching its selection, the Texas State Artist
 1-5     Committee considered the merit of his work and its expression of
 1-6     Texas' rich cultural heritage, read reviews of his works, and
 1-7     regarded his life achievement, donation of works to charity or the
 1-8     community, and letters of support; and
 1-9           WHEREAS, Influenced by his upbringing in the humble barrios
1-10     of South El Paso, Mr. Martinez is a self-taught artist whose work
1-11     includes murals that depict people facing challenges of everyday
1-12     life and that adorn churches, hospitals, and schools; and
1-13           WHEREAS, Long respected for his talent, Mr. Martinez was
1-14     named Artist of the Year by the League of United Latin American
1-15     Citizens Number 664 in 1975, was included in Who's Who in American
1-16     Art in 1976 and 1993-1994, and was among the national artists
1-17     invited to exhibit at the esteemed New England Fine Arts Institute
1-18     in Boston, Massachusetts; and
1-19           WHEREAS, Mr. Martinez served with distinction during World
1-20     War II as a member of General Terry Allen's famous "Timberwolf"
1-21     division in Europe; for his valiant efforts, he was awarded the
1-22     Bronze Star in combat, the Combat Infantry Badge, and Battle Stars;
1-23     and
1-24           WHEREAS, Throughout his career, Ernesto Pedregon Martinez has
 2-1     expressed his views and ideals powerfully and passionately; his
 2-2     discipline, insight, and skill are exemplary, and he is truly
 2-3     worthy of special recognition at this time; now, therefore, be it
 2-4           RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 76th Texas
 2-5     Legislature hereby congratulate Ernesto Pedregon Martinez on his
 2-6     selection as the Texas State Artist for 1997-1998, and extend to
 2-7     him sincere best wishes for continued success; and, be it further
 2-8           RESOLVED, That a copy of this resolution be prepared for
 2-9     Mr. Martinez as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of
2-10     Representatives.
                                                                     Telford
                                                                       Crabb
                                                                      Chavez
                                             _______________________________
                                                   Speaker of the House
               I certify that H.R. No. 716 was adopted by the House on May
         8, 1999, by a non-record vote.
                                             _______________________________
                                                 Chief Clerk of the House