R E S O L U T I O N
 1-1           WHEREAS, On February 24, 1999, many proud residents of Balch
 1-2     Springs will be in Austin to celebrate Balch Springs Day at the
 1-3     State Capitol; and
 1-4           WHEREAS, The history of this fine community dates back to
 1-5     1877, when John Balch and his family settled in this North Texas
 1-6     region; Mr. Balch bricked up one of the three freshwater springs on
 1-7     his property to ensure a constant source of fresh water for the
 1-8     area, and local settlers soon began to gather at this oasis to
 1-9     collect water during the hot, dry summer months; and
1-10           WHEREAS, A veteran of the struggle for Texas' independence
1-11     from Mexico, Mr. Balch fought in the Battle of San Jacinto, and
1-12     Balch Springs has the distinction of being the only city in Dallas
1-13     County that is named for a veteran of that historic conflict; and
1-14           WHEREAS, Since its incorporation on June 13, 1953, Balch
1-15     Springs has continued to prosper, thanks in part to its excellent
1-16     location and the commitment and dedication of its citizens; this
1-17     beautiful city features abundant trees and many public parks where
1-18     residents can relax and exercise with their families; and
1-19           WHEREAS, Rodeo and horseback riding are popular pastimes
1-20     among the city's nearly 19,000 residents, and the citizens of Balch
1-21     Springs are fortunate to have access to several excellent venues,
1-22     including the  nationally recognized Mesquite Rodeo and the Balch
1-23     Springs Saddle Club; and
1-24           WHEREAS, Balch Springs is served by both the Dallas and
 2-1     Mesquite Independent School Districts and boasts four outstanding
 2-2     schools; the city's business and government leaders have pledged
 2-3     themselves to continuing the economic development of the community,
 2-4     and with the help of the local chamber of commerce, they have
 2-5     attracted many new businesses and industries to the area; and
 2-6           WHEREAS, The people of Balch Springs are justifiably proud of
 2-7     their city, for this unique community and its exceptional citizens
 2-8     have played a significant role in Texas' development, and their
 2-9     many contributions to the Lone Star State are truly worthy of
2-10     special legislative recognition; now, therefore, be it
2-11           RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 76th Texas
2-12     Legislature hereby recognize February 24, 1999, as Balch Springs
2-13     Day at the State Capitol and extend a warm welcome to the fine
2-14     residents who have journeyed to Austin to celebrate this grand
2-15     event.
                                                                     Tillery
                                             _______________________________
                                                   Speaker of the House
               I certify that H.R. No. 150 was adopted by the House on
         February 24, 1999, by a non-record vote.
                                             _______________________________
                                                 Chief Clerk of the House