SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 153
	WHEREAS, On February 11 and 12, 2003, residents of
Rusk County are assembling at the State Capitol in recognition
of Rusk County Days; and
	WHEREAS, Rusk County, which includes the charming towns of 
Overton, New London, and Mount Enterprise, is situated 120 miles 
southeast of Dallas and 75 miles west of Shreveport, Louisiana;
the area has been graced with some of the state's most picturesque 
landscapes, boasting gently rolling hills, bountiful wildflowers, 
and dense forests; and
	WHEREAS, Formed on January 16, 1843, the county was named 
for Thomas Jefferson Rusk, who had been secretary of war under 
Republic of Texas President Sam Houston; and
	WHEREAS, Rusk County is the site of the great East Texas 
oil field, which proved to be one of the richest oil finds in 
United States history; after the discovery of that important 
natural resource in 1930, the population of the county quickly 
doubled and many new towns were formed; and
	WHEREAS, Today, the diverse economy of the county is 
primarily comprised of oil, lumber, agribusiness, and tourism; 
and
	WHEREAS, Henderson serves as the county seat and is home
to 15 historical markers, including three Texas landmark homes:
the Howard-Dickinson House, the M. Kangerga House, and the
T. J. Walling Log Cabin; the downtown area of Henderson holds the 
prestigious designation of National Register Historic District; 
and

	WHEREAS, A compelling tourist destination, Rusk County 
features many notable attractions, including Lakeforest Park, 
the Gaston Museum, and Harmony Hill Ghost Town; the Heritage 
Syrup Festival, held each November, is a highly anticipated 
event; and
	WHEREAS, Abundant in natural resources and charm,
Rusk County has contributed to the special character of Texas
and is truly an asset to our state; now, therefore, be it
	RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas,
78th Legislature, hereby recognize February 11 and 12, 2003,
as Rusk County Days at the State Capitol and extend to all 
participants best wishes for an enjoyable visit.
                                                                         Ratliff




________________________________ 
    President of the Senate
 
    I hereby certify that the 
above Resolution was adopted by 
the Senate on February 12, 2003.



________________________________ 
    Secretary of the Senate



________________________________ 
     Member, Texas Senate