78R5891 JHS-D

By:  Menendez                                                     H.R. No. 415



R E S O L U T I O N
	WHEREAS, Since 1891, San Antonio residents have honored the 
heroes of the battles of the Alamo and San Jacinto by commemorating 
these historic events with a parade that has grown to become the 
largest annual celebration in the Lone Star State; and
	WHEREAS, Fiesta San Antonio 2003 takes place April 19-27 and 
is expected to attract more than 3.5 million people to the River 
City during its nine-day run; the annual festival features more 
than 150 events organized by 90 nonprofit organizations and 
involving 75,000 volunteers; and
	WHEREAS, Among the many notable events are the enduring and 
popular Battle of Flowers Parade, the Fiesta Flambeau Parade, the 
largest illuminated parade in the country, and the Texas Cavaliers' 
River Parade, featuring Fiesta's King Antonio; other events include 
a Mariachi Mass and the four-day-long "Night in Old San Antonio," 
held in the restored 17th-century quarter known as La Villita, as 
well as an array of athletic tournaments, art exhibits, live 
musical performances, and local food favorites; and
	WHEREAS, The success of Fiesta is dependent on the hard work 
and dedication of thousands of individuals in the San Antonio 
community, and particular recognition is deserved by the officers 
and staff of the Fiesta San Antonio Commission, including president 
Irma Flores, president-elect Edward Steves, vice president Jack 
Hebdon, vice president Mary West Traylor, treasurer Samuel Scott, 
Jr., secretary Jorge Gonzalez, presidential appointee Melissa 
Barrett, and executive director Chuck Blische; and
	WHEREAS, Fiesta San Antonio brings together the residents of 
this historic city in a celebration of shared cultural heritage 
that benefits numerous worthy causes, and all Texans can take pride 
in this unique and exciting extravaganza; now, therefore, be it
	RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 78th Texas 
Legislature hereby honor Fiesta San Antonio and commend the many 
outstanding groups and individuals who make Fiesta the biggest and 
most memorable party in the state.