SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 561

WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to recognize April 2, 2009, as Rusk Day at the State Capitol; and

WHEREAS, Founded on April 13, 1847, Rusk has a rich and vibrant 162-year history, and it is the seat of Cherokee County; the city is home to Rusk State Hospital and to the oldest Texas weekly newspaper, The Cherokeean Herald; and

WHEREAS, The Herald was published for many years by Emmet H. Whitehead, a longtime civic leader who also served the Rusk community as mayor for 14 years, as a county judge for four years, and as a member of the Texas House of Representatives for eight years; he was also instrumental in the establishment of the Texas State Railroad in Rusk, a popular historic and recreational attraction; and

WHEREAS, Rusk has an abundance of historic homes and sites and a host of family-owned businesses that have been serving its citizens for over 50 years; prisoners of the old Rusk Penitentiary once mined the iron ore that was used to build and cast the columns that support the State Capitol; and

WHEREAS, Rusk's city leaders, the Rusk Economic Development Corporation, the Rusk Chamber of Commerce, and civic organizations in Rusk have been careful to preserve the city's natural beauty and its rich heritage and have consistently strived to enhance the quality of life of its citizens; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 81st Legislature, hereby declare April 2, 2009, Rusk Day at the State Capitol and extend to the residents of Rusk congratulations on their city's long and successful history and best wishes for a memorable celebration; and, be it further

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

Nichols

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on April 2, 2009.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate