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R E S O L U T I O N
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WHEREAS, April 3, 2009, marks the sixth annual observance of |
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National Walk to Work Day, and the city of Edinburg will celebrate |
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this occasion with its Healthy Living Festival and the kickoff to |
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its Walk or Bike to Work and School Week; and |
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WHEREAS, Endorsed by the United States Department of Health |
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and Human Services, National Walk to Work Day reminds Americans of |
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the many benefits of commuting on foot; walking saves money and gas, |
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a finite natural resource; it also reduces traffic congestion and |
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greenhouse gas emissions; and |
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WHEREAS, Walking is an excellent form of exercise that |
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strengthens the cardiovascular system, helps manage weight, and |
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lowers the risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and |
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other chronic illnesses; walking also has beneficial effects on |
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mood and sleep; and |
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WHEREAS, Sponsored by the city of Edinburg, the Edinburg |
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Environment Advisory Board, the Edinburg Cool Cities team, and Los |
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Caminos del Rio, the Healthy Living Festival is bringing together |
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public and private organizations to promote walking and bicycling, |
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and to support improvements in the quality of life and |
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sustainability of the community, as well as in the overall health of |
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its citizens; the event will highlight the pedestrian and bicycling |
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facilities that are available to residents, including bike lanes |
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and hike and bike trails; and |
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WHEREAS, Edinburg adopted the U.S. Conference of Mayors |
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Climate Protection Agreement in 2008 and is working to address such |
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key goals as creating a compact, walkable urban community and |
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promoting alternatives to automotive transportation; and |
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WHEREAS, Walking to work offers numerous financial, |
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environmental, and health benefits, and National Walk to Work Day |
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and Edinburg's Walk or Bike to Work and School Week are helping make |
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Texans more aware of these important advantages; now, therefore, be |
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it |
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RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 81st Texas |
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Legislature hereby recognize April 3, 2009, as National Walk to |
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Work Day and recognize the week of April 3-10, 2009, as Walk or Bike |
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to Work and School Week in Edinburg and congratulate all those who |
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are enjoying a healthier commute. |