By Counts                                              H.R. No. 256
         77R6243 MMS-D                           
                                 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.