A MEMORIAL

RECOGNIZING THE CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO OF ERNIE MILLS.

WHEREAS, Ernest T. Mills, better known simply as "Ernie" to generations of New Mexicans, began his career as a journalist at the New York Herald Tribune in 1949 and ended it more than half a century and countless accomplishments later in New Mexico in 2003; and

WHEREAS, during his lifetime, Ernie Mills set a standard not easily reached for informed, objective news reporting, for insightful humor and good cheer, for deep and genuine compassion for his fellow men and women and for a tireless work ethic; and

WHEREAS, Ernie's news coverage included two tours as a reporter during the Vietnam War, during which he poignantly told the stories of New Mexicans who had been called to take up arms and for which he was awarded the New Mexico broadcasters association special reporting award; and

WHEREAS, in 1980, while reporting on the deadly riot at the penitentiary of New Mexico, Ernie Mills bravely and selflessly became part of the horrific story when he entered the prison several times while it was under the control of prisoners to successfully negotiate the release of fifteen correctional officers who had been taken hostage; and

WHEREAS, Ernie Mills' awards include the radio newsman of the year, best news coverage for large market radio, best editorial writing and the New Mexico excellence in journalism award; and

WHEREAS, Ernie Mills was well known around the state of New Mexico and was twice recognized as one of the most influential persons in New Mexico; and

WHEREAS, Ernie Mills was granted an honorary doctor of letters degree from New Mexico state university for his efforts to champion and improve education in New Mexico and for the example he set as a journalist; and

WHEREAS, Ernie Mills served as a member of the board of regents at western New Mexico university for three years and in 1980 received eastern New Mexico university's honorary alumnus award; and

WHEREAS, Ernie Mills received an honorary doctorate from the college of the southwest; and

WHEREAS, Ernie had an Irish twinkle in his eye and an unfailing optimism that whatever occurred would be grist for his "mill"; and

WHEREAS, Ernie's presence in the capitol, or the merry roundhouse, as he called it, will be felt for many years beyond the date of his passing; and

WHEREAS, Ernie Mills is survived by his wife, Lorene Carpenter Mills, and their daughter, Joy; three children by a previous marriage, Edmund Mills, Margaret Mills and Kenneth Mills; six grandchildren; and one great-grandchild;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO that Ernie Mills' numerous contributions to the well-being of New Mexico, its residents and its government be recognized; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that sincere condolences be extended to the friends and family of Ernie Mills upon his passing.