SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 298

WHEREAS, On February 21, 2007, many proud residents of Athens are gathering in Austin to celebrate Athens Day at the State Capitol; and

WHEREAS, First incorporated in 1856, Athens did not begin its steady development until it was reincorporated in 1901; since that time, this charming East Texas town has seen significant growth and the emergence of a dynamic citizenry; and

WHEREAS, The fertile terrain and temperate climate of the area has made Athens a successful agribusiness center; in addition, the city is an outdoorsman's paradise, providing opportunities for scuba diving, picnicking, and many other recreational adventures; Athens boasts a strong claim to being the first home of the nation's favorite food, the hamburger, and the town is known as the Black-Eyed Pea Capital of the World; and

WHEREAS, This delightful city hosts many exciting annual events, including the Athens Fiddler's 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, Several cultural and tourist attractions grace the landscape of the city as well, including 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 aquarium exhibits of 300,000 gallons of water and every major species of freshwater fish found in Texas; educational opportunities are offered at the Trinity Valley Community College; 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, The seat of Henderson County, this lovely city continues to be one of the Lone Star State's unique assets and is 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 Senate of the State of Texas, 80th Legislature, hereby recognize February 21, 2007, as Athens Day at the State Capitol and join the citizens of Athens in paying tribute to one of Texas' finest communities; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared in honor of the City of Athens. Nichols

________________________________

President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on February 21, 2007.

________________________________

Secretary of the Senate

________________________________

Member, Texas Senate