SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 776
	WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to 
recognize Willie Nelson, one of our nation's most beloved 
songwriters, on the grand occasion of his 70th birthday; and
	WHEREAS, Fondly known by all as the "redheaded stranger," 
Willie Hugh Nelson was born April 30, 1933, in Abbott, Texas; he 
was raised by his grandparents, William Alfred and Nancy Nelson, 
who inspired him to play the guitar; growing up in the midst 
of a farming community, he picked cotton as a child; his early 
experiences made him empathetic to the plight that family farmers
have endured in recent years and inspired him to organize 
numerous Farm Aid concerts to bring attention to their struggles
and needs; and
	WHEREAS, One of the world's most acclaimed performers, 
Willie Nelson bought his famous and now well-worn guitar, 
"Trigger," sight unseen in 1969, and it remains his most precious
possession; and
	WHEREAS, He is considered a uniquely gifted and original 
American songwriter, whose lyrics are known for their grace, 
sensitivity, and compassion and whose music reaches all types 
of people; his many accolades throughout his career include his 
selection as a 1998 Kennedy Center Performing Arts Honoree; and
	WHEREAS, A great musical ambassador for Austin and the 
State of Texas, Willie Nelson has taken Texas country music to 
the world, gaining fans everywhere through his inimitable style, 
voice, melodies, and themes; and

	WHEREAS, He has been blessed with two families; he is the 
father of six, the grandfather of six, and the great-grandfather 
of four; his other family, known as "the Family," consists of his 
very dedicated, longtime band members; and
	WHEREAS, Known for his trademark red bandana headbands, 
braids, and running shoes, Willie takes great pleasure in living 
his nomadic life to the fullest, playing for his legions of fans 
in every corner of our nation; now, therefore, be it
	RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 
78th Legislature, hereby proclaim Willie Hugh Nelson a treasure 
of Austin and the State of Texas and extend congratulations and 
best wishes to him on his 70th birthday; and, be it further
	RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for 
him as a memento of this special day.
                                                                      Barrientos




________________________________ 
    President of the Senate
 
    I hereby certify that the 
above Resolution was adopted by 
the Senate on May 7, 2003.



________________________________ 
    Secretary of the Senate



________________________________ 
     Member, Texas Senate