SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 558

WHEREAS, Many proud residents of Parker County are traveling to Austin on March 22, 2011, in celebration of Parker County Day at the State Capitol, and their visit provides a fitting opportunity to reflect on the history and contributions of their fine community; and

WHEREAS, Established in 1855 from Bosque and Navarro Counties, Parker County is named for Isaac Parker, who brought 224 settlers to the region in that same year; and

WHEREAS, The county's population and economy continued to expand during most of the late 19th century, spurred by the construction of three railroads in the area; over the decades, Parker County has undergone many changes, and today it benefits from a diverse market centered around commercial and agribusiness, with local farms and ranches raising beef cattle, dairy cows, and horses and growing pecans and peaches; and

WHEREAS, Located at the western edge of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, Parker County has experienced tremendous growth in recent years; it offers an attractive rural setting among gently rolling plains and close proximity to urban amenities; and

WHEREAS, Weatherford serves as the county seat and is home to such notable attractions as the Doss Heritage and Culture Center, the Museum of the Americas, Chandor Gardens, and the Parker County Courthouse, which was recently restored to its original splendor; other towns in the county include Aledo, Annetta, Cool, Springtown, Willow Park, and portions of Azle and Mineral Wells; and

WHEREAS, Area residents uphold the county's heritage with the annual Frontier Days each June and also enjoy the Parker County Peach Festival in July; and

WHEREAS, Residents of Parker County take great pride in the rich history of their county; they have made it an exceptional place in which to live, work, and raise a family, and they can look forward confidently to a bright and promising future; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 82nd Legislature, hereby recognize March 22, 2011, as Parker County Day at the State Capitol and extend sincere best wishes to all involved for an enjoyable stay in Austin; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared as a memento of this special day. Estes

________________________________

President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on March 22, 2011.

________________________________

Secretary of the Senate

________________________________

Member, Texas Senate