H.R. No. 715

R E S O L U T I O N

WHEREAS, The annual Belton 4th of July parade is marking its centennial in 2019; and

WHEREAS, The first 4th of July parade in Belton was held in 1850 with local groups and organizations marching through downtown, and it became an annual event in 1919; hosted by the Belton Area Chamber of Commerce, this festive celebration has become one of the most beloved traditions among area residents, attracting over 30,000 spectators each year, and it has garnered acclaim from local and national media, including USA Today, which has named the parade to its list of "10 great places to fly your patriotic colors on July 4th"; and

WHEREAS, In addition to the parade, Belton's annual 4th of July festivities feature a kick-off barbecue at Yettie Polk Park and a festival at Nolan Creek, as well as a rodeo, which was officially added to the chamber's Independence Day celebration in 1924 and has since expanded into a three-day event sponsored by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association; and

WHEREAS, Each year, this highly anticipated event brings together patriotic neighbors to celebrate the freedom that has defined our nation since its birth, and it is a pleasure to join with Belton residents and visitors alike in commemorating this milestone year in the parade's rich history; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 86th Texas Legislature hereby commemorate the 100th anniversary of the annual 4th of July parade in Belton and extend to all those participating in the celebration sincere best wishes for a meaningful and memorable event; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for the Belton Area Chamber of Commerce as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives.

Shine

______________________________ Speaker of the House

I certify that H.R. No. 715 was adopted by the House on March 21, 2019, by a non-record vote.

______________________________ Chief Clerk of the House