SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 213
WHEREAS, Many proud residents of Athens are gathering at the State Capitol to celebrate Athens Day on February 23, 2005; and WHEREAS, The county seat of Henderson County, the City of Athens began its steady development when it was reincorporated in 1901; since then, this charming East Texas town has experienced significant growth and the emergence of a dynamic citizenry; and WHEREAS, The area's fertile terrain and temperate climate have helped to make Athens a thriving agribusiness center; in addition, the city is an outdoor enthusiast's dream, providing opportunities for scuba diving, fishing, and many other recreational activities; and WHEREAS, Dubbed the Black-Eyed Pea Capital of the World, this unique town was once known for its extensive black-eyed pea production and pays tribute to the legume each October with the Black-Eyed Pea Fall Harvest; other exciting annual events include the Athens Fiddlers' Contest and Reunion, the Chamber of Commerce PRCA Stampede Rodeo, the Athens Triathlon, the Smith MDA Benefit Rodeo, the Uncle Fletch Davis Hamburger Cook-off, and the Chamber of Commerce Business Exposition; and WHEREAS, The home of Trinity Valley Community College, Athens boasts a number of cultural centers and tourist attractions, such as the East Texas Arboretum, the Henderson County Historical Museum, the Murchison Galleries, the Henderson County Performing Arts Center, the Cain Center, the Henderson County Fairpark Complex, 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, This lovely city continues to be one of the Lone Star State's great assets, and it is indeed appropriate that the citizens of Athens be given special recognition at this time; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 79th Legislature, hereby recognize February 23, 2005, as Athens Day at the State Capitol and extend to all visitors from that fine city a warm welcome. Staples ________________________________ President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on February 23, 2005. ________________________________ Secretary of the Senate ________________________________ Member, Texas Senate