SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 210

WHEREAS, Proud residents of Rockwall County are gathering in Austin on February 17, 2009, to celebrate Rockwall County Day at the State Capitol; and

WHEREAS, Situated on the gently rolling Blackland Prairie of North Texas, the region was originally inhabited by the Caddo and Cherokee; the first European resident, John O. Heath, settled on the East Fork of the Trinity River in 1846; Rockwall County was established in 1873, taking its name from an underground rock formation discovered by farmers who were digging a well; and

WHEREAS, An important center for cotton production for many years, Rockwall County today boasts a population of nearly 70,000 people who enjoy being in close proximity to the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex while savoring the relaxed and comfortable way of life in the county's many thriving communities; and

WHEREAS, The City of Rowlett, on the shore of Lake Ray Hubbard, is emerging as an important regional center and will be the site of the intersection of the eastern extension of the President George Bush Turnpike and the new Blue Line Extension of DART Commuter Rail; another prosperous lakeside city is Heath, which has recently revised and adopted a comprehensive plan that reaffirms its commitment to service, orderly growth, transportation, development, and the preservation of the time-honored values cherished by its residents; and

WHEREAS, In 2008, voters in the City of Fate passed a home rule charter by an overwhelming majority; this development promises to make that community an even more important component of the county's economy; positive change and preparation for the years ahead are also taking place in the City of McLendon-Chisholm; this is the newest city in Rockwall County but was formed from two of the oldest area communities, McLendon and Chisholm, both of which date back to the mid-1800s; and

WHEREAS, Rockwall, which is being designated as a Main Street City in 2009, is a fast-growing suburban community that continues its dedication to preserving its heritage and its pleasant, family-friendly atmosphere; as part of that effort, the city's Historic Preservation Advisory Board has worked with residents and civic leaders to develop a preservation plan for the Old Town Rockwall Historic District, which will help the district to remain the vibrant heart of the city; and

WHEREAS, Residents of Royse City are also making it a priority to carry forth the small-town way of life that has long characterized their community; designated as a Main Street City in 2008, the town has established a Heritage Committee and ordinance and design guidelines in order to revitalize the historical district, and it also benefits from a strong chamber of commerce that supports local businesses; and

WHEREAS, Throughout Rockwall County, citizens have done an outstanding job of maintaining long-cherished hometown values and an inspiring sense of community even as they look forward to the opportunities of the future, and their ongoing success in these endeavors has made the county an exceptional place to live, work, and raise a family; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 81st Legislature, hereby recognize February 17, 2009, as Rockwall County Day at the State Capitol and extend to all those residents here today best wishes for a memorable and enjoyable visit.

Deuell

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on February 17, 2009.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate