Mayor David Pennington was presented the 2012 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Humanitarian Award.

WHEREAS, the City of Dalton and Whitfield County wishes to honor J.R. Martinez for his outstanding accomplishments and deem it an honor and pleasure to acknowledge him as one of our shining stars; and

WHEREAS, the citizens of our area are proud of how J.R. has represented our community and we feel that he has earned and justly deserves this public recognition; and

WHEREAS, Jose Rene “J.R.” Martinez was born in Shreveport, LA and moved to Dalton at the age of 17; but is still proud to call Dalton his hometown because of his love for this community; and

WHEREAS, J.R. embodies the true spirit of a Hometown Hero as an exemplary gentleman of the highest character and integrity, and who is highly regarded for his kindness, sincerity and willingness to help inspire his fellow man; and

WHEREAS, J.R. enjoyed playing football for the Dalton High School Catamounts and has since inspired many young Dalton athletes with his attitude and perseverance; and

WHEREAS, J.R. Martinez honored and served his country in the United States Army as an 11-B Infantryman in Iraq and was wounded while fighting to carry out his mission; and

WHEREAS, J.R. did not allow his injuries to change his outlook on life, he saw that by sharing his experience of perseverance through setbacks with others he could inspire others to overcome setbacks as well; and

WHEREAS, J.R. began traveling the country spreading his message of resilience and optimism and bringing inspiration to so many individuals and organizations and has become a celebrity with the true gifts of heart and encouragement.

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, I, David Pennington, Mayor of the City of Dalton, Georgia in conjunction with Mike Babb, Chairman of the Whitfield County Board of Commissioners, do hereby proclaim January 7, 2012 as “J.R. Martinez Day” in Dalton and Whitfield County and hereby urge all our citizens to recognize the exceptional achievements of J.R. who, in distinguishing himself has brought honor and credit to his family, his friends, and his city and we wish him the best in all his future endeavors.