SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 138

WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to join the citizens of Jacksonville and members of the Leadership Jacksonville Institute and Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce in celebrating February 28, 2017, as Leadership Jacksonville Day at the State Capitol; and

WHEREAS, The City of Jacksonville was founded in 1847 along the banks of Gum Creek, and in 1872, the city moved to its current location to be closer to the railroad; in its early years, the city was a center of peach production, and later, its residents shifted their focus to tomato production; today, the city is still known as the "Tomato Capital of the World"; and

WHEREAS, Over the years, Jacksonville has grown to become the largest city in Cherokee County; it boasts an economy that is based on such diverse industries as basket-making, plastic manufacturing, and health care, and it serves as a center for major retail shipping outlets; and

WHEREAS, Jacksonville takes pride in its many outdoor attractions; Lake Jacksonville is noted for its beauty, and Love's Lookout Scenic Park is a destination that offers expansive and breathtaking views and has recently been revitalized with the addition of a 5,500-square-foot facility and new picnic areas; and

WHEREAS, The city is known for a variety of annual community events, such as the Jacksonville Tomato Festival, the five-day Mud Nationals, and the Spooktacular Ball Bash; in addition, Tasting Jacksonville is a community favorite that brings together the talents of local restaurant chefs, caterers, and Jacksonville High School culinary students; and

WHEREAS, Jacksonville is a gem among East Texas cities; its beautiful green spaces, outstanding education system, and robust economy make Jacksonville a wonderful place to live and work; residents can be justifiably proud of their success in preserving the area's stunning landscapes and in promoting a quality of life that will help the city thrive long into the future; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 85th Legislature, hereby welcome the visiting delegation from Jacksonville and recognize February 28, 2017, as Leadership Jacksonville Day at the State Capitol; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared in honor of this special day. Nichols

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on February 6, 2017.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate