TITLE: Recognizing Andy Veliz for his achievements as an educator and musician.

SUMMARY: Recognizing Andy Veliz for his achievements as an educator and musician.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to recognize Andy Veliz for his outstanding achievements as an educator and a musician; and WHEREAS, Andy Veliz is a native of the Rio Grande Valley and a longtime resident of Weslaco; a 1961 graduate of Lyford High School, he earned a bachelor's degree from Texas A&M University--Kingsville and a master's degree from The University of Texas at Austin, and he has enjoyed a long and distinguished career as a teacher and administrator; and WHEREAS, He began performing at the age of five and was soon appearing at venues across the area, notably the Moulton "Ty" Cobb live television show on KRGV; in 1980, he recorded "Lonely Nights Without You," a breakout hit that received airplay on radio stations across the state and led to a tour of Texas with his band, during which he met such famed Texas musicians as Willie Nelson, Freddy Fender, and Johnny Canales; and WHEREAS, Through the years, Mr. Veliz continued to pursue his musical career while serving as an educator, and he became known as the Singing Principal; he has released four albums and been active in a range of professional and civic organizations, including the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers, the Association of Texas Professional Educators, and the Weslaco zoning board; and WHEREAS, Andy Veliz has had a positive impact on the lives of countless young people, and he has inspired many to explore their talents and to follow their dreams; it is truly fitting that he receive special recognition for his many accomplishments; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 86th Legislature, hereby commend Andy Veliz on his achievements as a musician and educator and extend to him best wishes for continued success in all his endeavors; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for him as an expression of high regard from the Texas Senate. Lucio President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on March 12, 2019.