H.R. No. 2049 R E S O L U T I O N WHEREAS, Joe Beene of Odessa has overcome tragedy to inspire countless people, and he is being honored for his remarkable accomplishments on May 16, 2009; and WHEREAS, A former linebacker for Permian High School, Mr. Beene was critically injured on the last day of football practice his senior year, causing him to become paralyzed from the neck down; he has since worked hard to re-establish his life, and his many achievements include learning to ride a specialized bicycle on which he has clocked more than 13,000 miles; and WHEREAS, Mr. Beene is pursuing a degree in history with a minor in business at The University of Texas of the Permian Basin, where he is expected to graduate in December 2009; devoted to helping others, he shares his time as a tutor in the AVID program at Bonham Junior High School and as a youth counselor at Life Unlimited Church, and he serves as a motivational speaker at the Ector County Youth Center; and WHEREAS, Known for his healthy glow and playful sense of humor, Mr. Beene enjoys going hunting with his physical therapist and watching the fish in the pond at his house; moreover, in preparation for his desire to enter the ministry, he can often be found studying the Bible; and WHEREAS, Joe Beene has set an outstanding example of perseverance, strength, and generosity to which others may aspire, and his fellow Odessa residents are proud to claim him as one of their own; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 81st Texas Legislature hereby honor Joe Beene for his many achievements and extend to him sincere best wishes for all the good fortune he so richly deserves; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for Mr. Beene as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives. Lewis ______________________________ Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 2049 was adopted by the House on May 13, 2009, by a non-record vote. ______________________________ Chief Clerk of the House