SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 549 WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to recognize the Premont mariachi band, which recently took second place at the state 1A mariachi competition; and WHEREAS, The students of Premont displayed exceptional talent and a remarkable sense of timing in securing this hard-earned achievement; in a close competition, they followed behind the Ben Bolt-Palito Blanco band, which took the top prize; and WHEREAS, Now in its fourth year, the state mariachi meet is both a friendly competition and a unifying event for young musicians; the tradition of mariachi is a hybrid art form steeped in overlapping histories; it combines elements of Spanish, Native American, and African cultures, cross-pollinating the rhythms, melodies, and storylines that define each culture; and WHEREAS, The outstanding student musicians of Premont demonstrated their true competitive spirits in performing in this unique discipline; members of a mariachi group play various instruments and sing complex lyrics and melodies in Spanish while executing synchronized dance steps; and WHEREAS, Mastering this unique art form is indeed an accomplishment; performing it in competition is an extraordinary achievement; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 83rd Legislature, hereby commend the Premont mariachi band for its impressive second-place finish in the state 1A competition; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for these fine young musicians as an expression of esteem from the Texas Senate. Hinojosa ________________________________ President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on March 26, 2013. ________________________________ Secretary of the Senate ________________________________ Member, Texas Senate