1-1 1 1-2 SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 119 1-3 WHEREAS, On February 24, 1999, many proud residents of 1-4 Balch Springs will be in Austin to celebrate Balch Springs Day 1-5 at the State Capitol; and 1-6 WHEREAS, The history of this fine community dates back 1-7 to 1877, when John Balch and his family settled in this North Texas 1-8 region; Mr. Balch bricked up one of the three freshwater springs on 1-9 his property to ensure a constant source of fresh water for the 1-10 area, and local settlers soon began to gather at this oasis to 1-11 collect water during the hot, dry summer months; and 1-12 WHEREAS, A veteran of the struggle for Texas' independence 1-13 from Mexico, Mr. Balch fought in the Battle of San Jacinto, and 1-14 Balch Springs has the distinction of being the only city in Dallas 1-15 County that is named for a veteran of that historic conflict; and 1-16 WHEREAS, Since its incorporation on June 13, 1953, Balch 1-17 Springs has continued to prosper, thanks in part to its excellent 1-18 location and the commitment and dedication of its citizens; this 1-19 beautiful city features abundant trees and many public parks where 1-20 residents can relax and exercise with their families; and 1-21 WHEREAS, Rodeo and horseback riding are popular pastimes 1-22 among the city's nearly 19,000 residents, and the citizens of 1-23 Balch Springs are fortunate to have access to several excellent 1-24 venues, including the nationally recognized Mesquite Rodeo and the 2-1 Balch Springs Saddle Club; and 2-2 WHEREAS, Balch Springs is served by both the Dallas and 2-3 Mesquite Independent School Districts and boasts four outstanding 2-4 schools; the city's business and government leaders have pledged 2-5 themselves to continuing the economic development of the community, 2-6 and with the help of the local chamber of commerce, they have 2-7 attracted many new businesses and industries to the area; and 2-8 WHEREAS, The people of Balch Springs are justifiably 2-9 proud of their city, for this unique community and its exceptional 2-10 citizens have played a significant role in Texas' development, 2-11 and their many contributions to the Lone Star State are truly 2-12 worthy of special legislative recognition; now, therefore, be it 2-13 RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 2-14 76th Legislature, hereby recognize February 24, 1999, as 2-15 Balch Springs Day at the State Capitol and extend a warm 2-16 welcome to the fine residents who have journeyed to Austin 2-17 to celebrate this grand event. 2-18 Carona 2-19 Cain 2-20 ______________________________________ 2-21 President of the Senate 2-22 I hereby certify that the above 2-23 Resolution was adopted by the Senate 2-24 on February 2, 1999. 2-25 ______________________________________ 2-26 Secretary of the Senate 2-27 ______________________________________ 2-28 Member, Texas Senate 2-29 ______________________________________ 2-30 Member, Texas Senate