78R4193 JH-D

By:  Brown of Kaufman                                             H.R. No. 239



R E S O L U T I O N
	WHEREAS, On February 25, 2003, many proud residents of Athens 
gather in Austin to celebrate Athens Day at the State Capitol; and
	WHEREAS, Though it was first incorporated in 1856, Athens did 
not begin its steady development until it was reincorporated in 
1901; since that time, this charming North Texas town has seen 
significant growth and the emergence of a dynamic citizenry; and
	WHEREAS, The fertile terrain and temperate climate of the 
area have made Athens an agribusiness center; in addition, the city 
is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, providing opportunities for 
scuba diving, picnicking, and many other recreational adventures; 
and
	WHEREAS, Home of Trinity Valley Community College, this 
unique town features many exciting annual events, including the 
Texas Fiddlers' Contest and Reunion, the Athens Triathlon, and the 
Stampede PRCA Rodeo; several cultural and tourist attractions grace 
the landscape of this city as well, including the East Texas 
Arboretum, the Henderson County Historical Museum, the Murchison 
Galleries, and the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center, which 
features 300,000 gallons of aquarium exhibits and every major 
species of freshwater fish found in Texas; and
	WHEREAS, While visiting the State Capitol, the Athens 
contingent will meet with representatives of various committees and 
state agencies to discuss issues of interest to local residents; 
and
	WHEREAS, This lovely city continues to be one of the Lone Star 
State's great assets and an outstanding place in which to live, 
work, and raise a family, and it is indeed appropriate that the 
citizens of Athens be given special recognition at this time; now, 
therefore, be it
	RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 78th Texas 
Legislature hereby recognize February 25, 2003, as Athens Day at 
the State Capitol and join the citizens of that city in paying 
tribute to one of Texas' fine communities.