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78R5132 MDM-D
By: McClendon H.R. No. 258
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, On March 1, 2003, Vernon Owen "Spot" Barnett, the
legendary Texas saxophonist, is being inducted into the Counting My
Blessings Hall of Fame; and
WHEREAS, Born in San Marcos, Mr. Barnett graduated from
Phillis Wheatley High School in the Alamo City; he attended St.
Philip's College on a music scholarship while keeping up a busy
schedule performing in clubs around the city and throughout South
Texas; and
WHEREAS, In the late 1950s and early 1960s, Mr. Barnett
gained renown as the band leader at San Antonio's Ebony Club; he
also began recording his own music, achieving hits with
compositions such as "Ebony Shuffle," "Pony Race," and "20th
Century"; during his career, he traveled and performed with many
notable artists, including Ike and Tina Turner, Sam and Dave, and
Bobby Bland; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Barnett returned to San Antonio in 1997 with
plans to retire; instead, he wound up forming his own band and also
joining the West Side Horns, who have served as featured background
musicians for Doug Sahm, Augie Meyers, the Texas Tornadoes, Flaco
Jimenez, and the Lucky "13" Group, led by Anthony "Lucky" Tomblin;
and
WHEREAS, Revered for his exceptional talent and his longtime
contributions to the world of music, Mr. Barnett has received an
Outstanding Achievement Award from the Texas Legislative Black
Caucus and has been honored as one of 100 Living Legends by the San
Antonio Express-News; and
WHEREAS, Now retired, this esteemed gentleman is a devoted
member of Childress Memorial Church of God in Christ; and
WHEREAS, Spot Barnett's contributions to Texas music--as
saxophonist, band leader, composer, and the inspiration he has
provided to numerous younger players--have immeasurably enriched
the culture of the Lone Star State, and it is indeed a pleasure to
honor him at this time; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 78th Texas
Legislature hereby congratulate Vernon Owen "Spot" Barnett on his
induction into the Counting My Blessings Hall of Fame and extend to
him its deep appreciation for the lasting legacy of his magnificent
musicianship; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for Mr. Barnett as an expression of high regard by the
Texas House of Representatives.