Bill > SR67

This resolution honors the memory of Jose Maria Longoria Sr., a distinguished public servant from Starr County, Texas, who made significant contributions to his community through various roles and achievements. Born in 1906 in La Grulla, Longoria was an educated professional who graduated with honors from the Texas College of Arts and Industries, earned a law degree, and served in the U.S. Army during World War II as an instructor. Throughout his career, he held multiple impactful positions, including county commissioner from 1949 to 1972, editor of the Starr County Democrat, and owner of Valley Distributing Company. As a dedicated public servant, he was instrumental in educational advancement, serving on school boards and helping secure funding for school construction by ensuring oil companies paid appropriate taxes. Longoria was recognized for his contributions by professional organizations like the International Platform Association and National Historical Society, and he played a notable role in local history, even welcoming President Eisenhower and Mexican President Ruiz Cortines during the Falcon Dam dedication in 1953. The resolution specifically pays tribute to his memory and requests that a copy be prepared for his family, reflecting the Texas Senate's respect for his lifelong service and community impact.