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H.C.R. No. 88
HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, On November 21, 2002, the Permian Basin lost a man of
integrity and generosity, and the passing of John Lance Foster at
the age of 60 has left a void in the lives of the friends, family,
and colleagues of this esteemed gentleman; and
WHEREAS, Born January 22, 1942, in Bridgeport, Connecticut,
Mr. Foster came to Texas at an early age, attending Crockett Junior
High and Odessa High School before moving to Harlingen, Texas,
where he finished his schooling; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Foster began an illustrious career in
broadcasting in April 1959, when he was hired as a studio camera
operator at KMID-TV; by the age of 26, he was promoted to production
manager, and within a few years he became manager of the station;
and
WHEREAS, In 1991, he embarked on a new challenge, joining
KWES-TV as general manager; with a seemingly natural gift for
broadcasting and marketing, he took both stations to the pinnacle
of their markets; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Foster was a pioneer in broadcasting for the
Spanish-speaking population of West Texas, creating innovative and
entertaining shows like Mexico Tejano Colores Del Barrio and
Telemusica, which featured Hispanic entertainment as well as
educational programming; his appreciation of the broadcast
interests of many Hispanic viewers led him to launch an affiliate of
Telemundo, a Spanish-language television network, which offered
the first Spanish newscast in West Texas; and
WHEREAS, This beloved gentleman was committed to the
betterment of his community, supporting such worthy organizations
as the Permian Basin AIDS Coalition, the Salvation Army, and the
Rape Crisis Center; he was also the founding sponsor of the Golden
Apple Awards, which recognize teachers who work with at-risk
students; and
WHEREAS, A tireless advocate for those in need, Mr. Foster
selflessly donated hundreds of volunteer hours to the United Ways
of Midland and Odessa; under his leadership, the television
stations he managed presented telethons for the Muscular Dystrophy
Association, Children's Miracle Network, and Easter Seals; he was
also the first in the nation to produce a telethon benefiting the
Ronald McDonald House; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Foster's enthusiasm for life was exemplified by
his love of rodeos and race cars; he played an instrumental role in
bringing the SandHills Stock Show and Rodeo and the Top Gun
Bullrides to West Texas, and in developing the Chaparral Wing of the
Permian Basin Petroleum Museum, which will house Jim Hall's race
cars; and
WHEREAS, Citizens of the Permian Basin have recognized Mr.
Foster's efforts in their behalf, awarding him the Heritage of
Odessa Community Statesman Award for excellence in community
service; one week before his passing, he was honored by the Muscular
Dystrophy Association with the John Foster Humanitarian Award,
which will be presented to future recipients who exemplify his
commitment to helping others; and
WHEREAS, John Foster's devotion to his community was
surpassed only by his love of family; he cherished his wife, Linda,
and his sons, Matt, Sean, and Johnny; and
WHEREAS, The life of John Foster serves as an inspiring
example to all, for he worked hard, loved his family, helped his
neighbor, and celebrated life; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the 78th Legislature of the State of Texas
hereby honor the life of John Lance Foster and extend sincere
sympathy to the members of his family: to his wife, Linda; to his
sons, Matt and Sean Clements; to his daughter-in-law, Sarah; to his
sister, Nancy Mettler; to his nephew, Anthony Mettler; and to his
other relatives and many friends; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for the members of his family, and that when the Texas
House of Representatives and Senate adjourn this day, they do so in
memory of John Lance Foster.
Craddick
West
______________________________ ______________________________
President of the Senate Speaker of the House
I certify that H.C.R. No. 88 was unanimously adopted by a
rising vote of the House on April 10, 2003.
______________________________
Chief Clerk of the House
I certify that H.C.R. No. 88 was unanimously adopted by a
rising vote of the Senate on April 29, 2003.
______________________________
Secretary of the Senate
APPROVED: __________________
Date
__________________
Governor