SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 680

WHEREAS, Fiesta San Antonio is an occasion in which over three million visitors enjoy more than 100 events during a 10-day period each April; it is the biggest festival held in the City of San Antonio and one of the largest events in Texas, with an economic impact of more than $254 million; and

WHEREAS, Fiesta San Antonio, which takes place this year April 20 through 29, commemorates the Battles of the Alamo and San Jacinto and thus the birth of the State of Texas; the festival celebrates the rich cultural and multiethnic heritage of the Alamo City, and the 97 local nonprofit organizations that stage Fiesta events include churches, schools, arts groups, health organizations, athletic associations, and many others; local army, navy, air force, and marine units also put on their own Fiesta events and give their support to other events; and

WHEREAS, The noteworthy events those organizations produce include the Battle of Flowers Parade, the "grandmother" of Fiesta events; the Fiesta Flambeau Parade, the world's largest illuminated night parade; the Texas Cavaliers River Parade, where the floats really float; and A Night in Old San Antonio, celebrating San Antonio's heritage with food and live music; the civilian nonprofit organizations that participate in Fiesta give back to their community throughout the year, and the military organizations defend our nation around the clock; and

WHEREAS, The success of Fiesta depends on the efforts of more than 75,000 volunteers who donate their time and talents; special recognition is deserved by the officers and staff of the Fiesta San Antonio Commission, including President Jorge Gonzalez, President-elect John Steen, Jr., Vice President Tom Sineni, Vice President Susie Martin, Treasurer Mary Begia, Secretary Charles Barrett, Presidential Appointee Susan Reed, and Executive Director Chuck Blische; and

WHEREAS, Fiesta San Antonio brings together city residents of all ages and backgrounds and visitors from around the state, nation, and world for 10 days of celebration, commemoration, education, and excitement; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 80th Legislature, hereby honor Fiesta San Antonio and commend the many outstanding groups and individuals who make Fiesta the biggest and most memorable festival in the state; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared in honor of Fiesta San Antonio.

Wentworth

Uresti

Van de Putte

Zaffirini

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on April 12, 2007.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate

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Member, Texas Senate

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Member, Texas Senate

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Member, Texas Senate