[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 87 (Wednesday, May 24, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1108]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


    A TRIBUTE TO MARFA ON THE 40TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE MOVIE ``GIANT''

                                 ______


                           HON. HENRY BONILLA

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                          Tuesday, May 23, 1995
  Mr. BONILLA. Mr. Speaker, 40 years ago the town of Marfa, TX, joined 
with Hollywood to bring to life ``Giant,'' the classic movie etched in 
the minds of so many Americans as a tale of trial and tribulation. This 
May 27, Marfa will have the pleasure of hosting a return engagement of 
this memorable classic with some of the original cast and crew joining 
in the celebration.
  Many of us recall the family saga which features Hollywood greats 
Rock Hudson and Elizabeth Taylor. We especially remember James Dean, a 
young actor who was relatively unknown back in the summer of 1955 and 
had just finished filming another movie ``Rebel Without a Cause.''
  Five years ago, Presidio County Judge Jake Brisbin came up with the 
idea to host a ``Giant'' reunion. Marfa Chamber of Commerce manager, 
Sheila Lujan and many others in the community have been very busy 
planning this exciting event. A few months ago, however, a fire swept 
through the Marfa City Hall, damaging the theater and dampening hopes 
that the reunion would take place. However, the people of Marfa didn't 
stop for a minute and now, their dream will become a reality.
  The reunion will include a barbecue and look-alike contest at the 
Riata Ranch, a screening of ``Giant'' and a roundtable discussion on 
the famous movie. Robert Hinkle, who taught James Dean and actress Fran 
Bennett how to rope for the movie, will serve as a panelist.
  Sponsored by the Marfa Chamber of Commerce, the Big Bend Quarterly, 
and the Cibolo Creek Ranch, the 40th anniversary ``Giant'' reunion will 
truly be unforgettable.
  ``Giant'' brought the spotlight to west Texas and showed America the 
culture and history of this unique area. The movie's plot helped define 
what Americans today perceive as the modern-day oilman. Many Marfans, 
too, still remember that long, hot summer 40 years ago when Marfa took 
center stage and dozens of people from Hollywood descended upon the 
town.
  This reunion will be another historic moment for Marfa. The citizens 
of Marfa have shown faith and resolve in putting together what is sure 
to be a grand event. Congratulations and good luck to the community of 
Marfa.


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