STATE News:

SANTA FE – House Speaker Don Tripp released the following statement on the passing of former Sergeant-At-Arms Gilbert Lopez:

“Gilbert Lopez dedicated his life to serving the people of New Mexico. Including his tenure as the sergeant-at-arms, Lopez served in the State Capitol for 23 years before retiring in 2014. He is a man of great honor. Our prayers go out to his family and friends.”

Memorial honoring House Sergeant-At-Arms Gilbert Lopez at his retirement following the 2014 legislative session:

WHEREAS, after twenty-three years of working at the state capitol, Gilbert Lopez, the sergeant-at-arms of the house of representatives, is retiring at the end of the 2014 legislative session; and

WHEREAS, Gilbert was elected house sergeant-at-arms in 2005; and

WHEREAS, Gilbert is in constant attendance while the house of representatives is in session and enforces the order on the floor of the house, as well as in the lobbies, galleries, passages and rooms connected to the house floor; and

WHEREAS, the sergeant-at-arms also ensures that only people who have permission are allowed on the house floor; and

WHEREAS, the sergeant-at-arms is responsible for the preparation of bill packages for the house of representatives; and

WHEREAS, Gilbert, who himself is a snappy dresser, is also responsible for enforcing the house dress code, which requires ties, including bolo ties, and a jacket for men and “professional dress” for women; and

WHEREAS, always the consummate problem solver, Gilbert keeps spare coats and ties on hand for members and visitors who need assistance with adhering to the dress code; and

WHEREAS, Gilbert always ensures in a courteous and professional manner that protocol is followed; and

WHEREAS, Gilbert’s patience, understanding and fairness as a boss has generated the fierce loyalty of his staff; and

WHEREAS, Gilbert is described as a “great mentor” by his staff and exemplifies what makes a good leader; and

WHEREAS, Gilbert is credited with always giving his staff credit for the professional way in which business is conducted in the house of representatives; and

WHEREAS, Gilbert has a reputation as an excellent singer and dancer and enjoys visits to the local casinos; and

WHEREAS, Gilbert credits his outstanding team with making the many-faceted, complicated business of session work run seamlessly; and

WHEREAS, Gilbert has looked forward to coming to work each session and especially appreciated the camaraderie of his colleagues; and

WHEREAS, Gilbert is dedicated to his family and looks forward to spending more time with his wife, children and grandchildren; and

WHEREAS, Gilbert has served as house sergeant-of-arms with dedication, professionalism and dignity;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO that gratitude be extended to Gilbert Lopez for his years of exemplary service as the house sergeant-at-arms; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that best wishes be extended to Gilbert in his retirement; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this memorial be transmitted to House Sergeant-at-Arms Gilbert Lopez.