By: Smith (Senate Sponsor - Ellis) H.C.R. No. 36

(In the Senate - Received from the House April 11, 2013; April 18, 2013, read first time and referred to Committee on Administration; May 6, 2013, reported favorably by the following vote: Yeas 5, Nays 0; May 6, 2013, sent to printer.)

HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The art of making pies from scratch is a beloved tradition that has stood the test of time for generations of families in Texas and beyond; and

WHEREAS, Historians believe that pie originated with the ancient Greeks, who developed the first pastry shell; later, the Romans published the world's first pie recipe, which included rye-crusted goat cheese and honey, though fillings also included savory ingredients like meat and seafood; the English brought mincemeat pies with them as they crossed the ocean to America and the colonists continued the tradition, using dried fruit, cinnamon, and nutmeg to season the filling; and

WHEREAS, In Texas, bakers often incorporate local produce into their pies, from peaches grown in Central Texas to sweet potatoes grown in the northeastern part of our state; the pecan, the fruit of the state tree, continues to be one of the most well-known native ingredients; and

WHEREAS, For generations, families have come together to create and enjoy the fruits of their labor--an exceptionally American dish, with a special place in our shared culture; by taking the time to bake pies from scratch, older and younger Texans bridge the years between them to create new memories and culinary delights in kitchens across the Lone Star State; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the 83rd Legislature of the State of Texas hereby designate February 16 as Texas Homemade Pie Day; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That in accordance with the provisions of Section 391.004(d), Government Code, the designation remains in effect until the 10th anniversary of the date the resolution is passed.