78R4381 MW-D

By:  Ritter                                                       H.R. No. 185



R E S O L U T I O N
	WHEREAS, The South East Texas Regional Planning Commission 
honored Richard Courville of China, Texas, at its annual gathering 
in January 2003 when it named him the recipient of the Don Kelly 
"South East Texan of the Year" award for 2003; and
	WHEREAS, Given annually to an individual who has made 
significant contributions to the growth, cooperative spirit, and 
prosperity of the region, the Don Kelly "South East Texan of the 
Year" award this year recognizes Mr. Courville for his 
long-standing record of commitment, volunteerism, and generosity 
to the community; and
	WHEREAS, A valued member of the China community since 1990, 
Mr. Courville at one time served as fire chief for the town; in that 
capacity, he helped to acquire training and equipment, such as a new 
radio system; he was also instrumental in the department's 
acquisition of a new fire engine; and
	WHEREAS, Mr. Courville owns Courville's Red Rose Express 
Special Events Catering, and he has regularly provided catering 
free of charge to fund-raisers and other special events that 
benefit such worthwhile organizations as Buckner Children and 
Family Services, Girls' Haven, and Boys' Haven; and
	WHEREAS, For the past six years, he has taken care of the food 
service at the China Elementary School PTO's largest fund-raiser, 
the annual Auction and Gumbo, enabling the school to purchase new 
computer and playground equipment; and
	WHEREAS, Through his countless hours of cooking and 
volunteering and his generous donation of goods, Mr. Courville has 
greatly benefited a host of worthy organizations in his community, 
and his fellow citizens are grateful for his service; now, 
therefore, be it
	RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 78th Texas 
Legislature hereby congratulate Richard Courville on his receipt of 
the Don Kelly "South East Texan of the Year" award and extend to him 
sincere best wishes for continued success and happiness; and, be it 
further
	RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be 
prepared for Mr. Courville as an expression of high regard by the 
Texas House of Representatives.