By:  Fraser                                            S.C.R. No. 2
         Line and page numbers may not match official copy.
         Bill not drafted by TLC or Senate E&E.
                                CONCURRENT RESOLUTION
 1-1           WHEREAS, The State of Texas traditionally has recognized a
 1-2     variety of official state symbols as tangible representations of
 1-3     the proud spirit and heritage of our state; and
 1-4           WHEREAS, The bluebonnet, the lightning whelk, and the
 1-5     armadillo are examples of some natural specimens that serve to
 1-6     symbolize the great diversity of the Texas landscape, while the
 1-7     state dish, chili, fittingly represents another aspect of our
 1-8     shared culture as Texans; and
 1-9           WHEREAS, One of the state's most universally enjoyed natural
1-10     resources is the pecan; the nut of this majestic tree, which was
1-11     deservedly named the state tree of Texas in 1919, is a delicious
1-12     food product with considerable nutritional and health benefits; and
1-13           WHEREAS, Pecans contain protein, monounsaturated and
1-14     polyunsaturated "healthy" oils, carbohydrates, fiber, iron,
1-15     calcium, phosphorus, zinc, and potassium, as well as Vitamins A, B,
1-16     C, and E and other antioxidants; scientific studies have also
1-17     demonstrated that pecans can lower cholesterol, significantly
1-18     contributing to improved cardiovascular health, while helping to
1-19     reduce the risk of cancer; and
1-20           WHEREAS, A significant boon to the Lone Star State's economy,
1-21     the pecan is grown commercially in more than 70 percent of the
1-22     state's counties and Texas provides over a quarter of the nation's
1-23     pecan crop; and
 2-1           WHEREAS, Nutritious and delicious, the pecan is an enduring
 2-2     and beloved aspect of the Texas landscape, and it is indeed
 2-3     appropriate that it be given special recognition at this time; now,
 2-4     therefore, be it
 2-5           RESOLVED, That the 77th Legislature of the State of Texas
 2-6     hereby designate the pecan as the Official State Health Nut of
 2-7     Texas.