78S20192 KMP-D

By:  Casteel                                                      H.R. No. 72 



R E S O L U T I O N
	WHEREAS, In August 2003, the city of Bandera celebrates its 
150th anniversary, and this significant milestone presents a 
welcome opportunity to recognize this vibrant community for its 
myriad contributions to the Lone Star State's economic and cultural 
development; and
	WHEREAS, Located 50 miles northwest of San Antonio in a 
cypress-lined bend of the Medina River, the city of Bandera was 
created in the 1850s by John James, Charles DeMontel, and John 
Herndon, and it quickly became a thriving settlement, thanks to the 
success of the founders' water-powered lumber mill; in the years 
that followed, local farmers and ranchers prospered, supplying 
products to U.S. Cavalry troops at Camp Verde, raising and ginning 
cotton, and raising cattle, sheep, and goats; and
	WHEREAS, Today this charming town remains a living testament 
to the courage, talent, and vision of the men and women who shaped 
the Old West; Bandera, which once served as the staging area for 
early cattle drives up the Western Trail, has been home to countless 
champion cowboys and is considered by many to be the Cowboy Capital 
of the World; since 1920 the community has been a popular tourist 
destination, each year drawing visitors from around the state and 
beyond to attractions that include area resorts, dude ranches, 
rodeo venues, and hunting and camp grounds; and
	WHEREAS, With its breathtaking scenery and hospitable 
residents, the city of Bandera is truly a jewel in the crown of the 
Texas Hill Country, and its sesquicentennial celebration is certain 
to be a joyous occasion that will be remembered for many years to 
come; now, therefore, be it
	RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 78th Texas 
Legislature, 2nd Called Session, hereby recognize August 30, 2003, 
as Celebrate Bandera Day in Texas and commend the town's citizens 
and officials on the occasion of Bandera's 150th anniversary.