SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 137

	WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to 
recognize the Cortez family of San Antonio as exemplary citizens 
of their city and the State of Texas; and
	WHEREAS, The members of this illustrious family have 
been members of the business community and restaurateurs in 
the Alamo City since 1941, when Pete and Cruz Cortez opened the 
Jamaica Cafe in the old marketplace; the restaurant expanded and 
in 1951 was renamed Mi Tierra Bakery and Cafe; the family later 
opened La Margarita Restaurant in Market Square and Restaurante 
Pico de Gallo; and
	WHEREAS, The Cortez family's Mi Tierra Bakery and Cafe is a 
world-famous landmark where hometown regulars and visitors alike 
enjoy authentic Mexican food served in a friendly atmosphere amid 
strolling musicians; festooned with Christmas lights year-round, 
the restaurant is open 24 hours a day; and
	WHEREAS, On September 30, 2003, the Alameda National 
Center for Latino Arts and Culture in San Antonio announced a 
one-million-dollar gift from the Cortez family; the donation 
will be used to complete the first phase of construction of the 
Museo Americano Smithsonian at Market Square and to support the 
renovation of the Alameda Theater, which opened in 1949 as a 
venue for Spanish-language films and other cultural events; and
	WHEREAS, The members of this distinguished family have 
given generously of their time and energy in working for the 
betterment of the community, and the citizens of San Antonio are 
grateful for their achievements and their many contributions to 
the city; now, therefore, be it
	RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 
78th Legislature, 3rd Called Session, hereby commend the 
members of the Cortez family as outstanding citizens of the 
City of San Antonio and extend best wishes to them for the 
future; and, be it further
	RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared 
for the Cortez family as an expression of esteem from the 
Texas Senate.
                                                                    Van de Putte




________________________________ 
    President of the Senate
 
    I hereby certify that the 
above Resolution was adopted by 
the Senate on October 10, 2003.



________________________________ 
    Secretary of the Senate



________________________________ 
     Member, Texas Senate