SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 644

WHEREAS, Fiesta San Antonio is a celebration held every April in which some 3.5 million visitors enjoy more than 100 events; it is the biggest festival held in the City of San Antonio and one of the largest events in Texas, with an economic impact of more than $254 million; and

WHEREAS, Fiesta San Antonio, which takes place this year April 18 through 28, commemorates the Battles of the Alamo and San Jacinto and thus the birth of the State of Texas; the festival celebrates the rich cultural and multiethnic heritage of the Alamo City, and the 100 local nonprofit organizations that stage Fiesta events include churches, schools, arts groups, health organizations, athletic associations, and many others; local military units also put on their own Fiesta events and give their support to other productions; and

WHEREAS, The noteworthy events organized for Fiesta San Antonio include the Battle of Flowers Parade, the "grandmother" of Fiesta events; the Fiesta Flambeau Parade, the world's largest illuminated night parade; the Texas Cavaliers River Parade, where the floats really float; and A Night in Old San Antonio, a celebration of San Antonio's heritage with food and live music; the civilian nonprofit organizations that participate in Fiesta give back to their community throughout the year, and the military organizations defend our nation around the clock; and

WHEREAS, The success of Fiesta depends on the efforts of more than 75,000 volunteers who donate their time and talents; special recognition is deserved by the officers and staff of the Fiesta San Antonio Commission, including President Marilyn Eldridge, President-elect Jack Hebdon, Senior Vice President Fernando Reyes, Vice President Vonzetta Hickman, Vice President Marcie Ince, Treasurer Erwin De Luna, Secretary William Mitchell, President Appointee Rhonda Calvert, and Chief Executive Officer John Melleky; and

WHEREAS, Fiesta San Antonio brings together city residents of all ages and backgrounds and visitors from around the state, nation, and world for more than a week of celebration, commemoration, education, and excitement; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 83rd Legislature, hereby honor Fiesta San Antonio and commend the many outstanding groups and individuals who make Fiesta the biggest and most memorable festival in the state; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared in honor of Fiesta San Antonio. Van de Putte

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on April 15, 2013.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate