H.R. No. 2604

R E S O L U T I O N

WHEREAS, Harold T. Thomas has proven himself to be a valued supporter of the Juneteenth celebration in Galveston; and

WHEREAS, An official state holiday since 1980, Juneteenth celebrates an important milestone in human rights in Texas, the first reading of the Emancipation Proclamation in Galveston on June 19, 1865, by Union general Gordon Granger, which effectively freed the 250,000 slaves in Texas at the end of the Civil War; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Thomas enhances his community through his contributions as the publisher of the Galveston County Observer News, the only African American newspaper serving Galveston County; and

WHEREAS, This public-spirited citizen has provided outstanding news coverage of the Juneteenth celebrations on Galveston Island for more than 17 years; as part of that effort, he has reported on the Ashton Villa Emancipation Prayer Vigil and Breakfast and the Juneteenth Banquet at the historic Old Central Cultural Center for the past 12 years, and his work in keeping the public informed has contributed to increased participation in the observance; and

WHEREAS, Through his dedication, Harold Thomas has helped to heighten awareness of the history of Juneteenth for visitors and residents of Galveston alike; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 81st Texas Legislature hereby commend Harold T. Thomas for his outstanding contributions in behalf of Juneteenth activities in Galveston and extend to him sincere best wishes for continued success and happiness; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for Mr. Thomas as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives.

Edwards

______________________________ Speaker of the House

I certify that H.R. No. 2604 was adopted by the House on May 31, 2009, by a non-record vote.

______________________________ Chief Clerk of the House