R E S O L U T I O N 1-1 WHEREAS, Many proud citizens of our state are with us today 1-2 at the State Capitol in connection with the biennial Austin visit 1-3 sponsored by the Texas Midwest Community Network (TMCN); and 1-4 WHEREAS, An alliance of 42 communities in 23 counties 1-5 surrounding Abilene, TMCN was created in 1994 to promote regional 1-6 identity and to foster cooperation on economic development, tourism 1-7 development, regional promotion, and political action; and 1-8 WHEREAS, In addition to organizing activities to further 1-9 these goals, TMCN also helps to identify emerging community 1-10 leaders, to develop their skills and deepen their understanding of 1-11 regional issues, and to facilitate communication and networking 1-12 among them; and 1-13 WHEREAS, On the agenda for this notable delegation are visits 1-14 to the house of representatives and senate, as well as a stop at 1-15 the Governor's Mansion, now the home of the Honorable Rick Perry, 1-16 whom the delegation is proud to claim as a native son of the Texas 1-17 Midwest; and 1-18 WHEREAS, The day will also offer these public-spirited 1-19 citizens an opportunity to meet with elected officials from their 1-20 districts to discuss concerns pertinent to their area; and 1-21 WHEREAS, TMCN is playing a vital role in strengthening the 1-22 Lone Star State, and it is most appropriate that it be commended 1-23 for its efforts to provide a strong voice for rural Texas, 1-24 encourage civic participation in the legislative process, and draw 2-1 attention to matters of importance to the region; now, therefore, 2-2 be it 2-3 RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 77th Texas 2-4 Legislature hereby recognize February 21, 2001, as Texas Midwest 2-5 Day in Austin and honor the Texas Midwest Community Network for its 2-6 outstanding service. Counts Junell Hunter Turner of Coleman Keffer _______________________________ Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 256 was adopted by the House on February 21, 2001, by a non-record vote. _______________________________ Chief Clerk of the House