82S11101 JNC-D

By: Guillen H.R. No. 169

R E S O L U T I O N

WHEREAS, Dedicated civic leaders enrich their communities in countless ways, and the people of Starr County are fortunate indeed to count Rene G. Smith, Jr., among their fellow residents; and

WHEREAS, A native of Laredo, Mr. Smith was born on August 5, 1948; he earned his associate's degree from Laredo Community College and served his country as a member of the U.S. Army Reserve; and

WHEREAS, This successful entrepreneur has been part owner of COD Auto Parts in Rio Grande City for 37 years and part owner of a real estate business for 31; along with his many professional obligations, he has made time to contribute to the Rio Grande City Economic Development Corporation, the Starr County Appraisal District, and the City Cemetery Project, a worthwhile initiative that he founded; he is active in the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and its school council, the Knights of Columbus, and the Lions Club; and

WHEREAS, In all of his endeavors, Mr. Smith is blessed with the love and support of his family, including his wife of 40 years, Sonja, and his daughters, Sonja Smith Cortinas and Alexis Marie Smith, and he enjoys spending time with his granddaughters, Abbygail and Ella-Renee; he is a history buff who also enjoys refurbishing old homes and vehicles; and

WHEREAS, Rene Smith has demonstrated a commitment to making Starr County a better place in which to live and work, and in so doing, he has earned the respect and appreciation of all who know him; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 82nd Texas Legislature, 1st Called Session, hereby honor Rene G. Smith, Jr., for his contributions to the Starr County community and extend to him sincere best wishes for continued success in all of his endeavors; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for Mr. Smith as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives.