81R4843 JGH-D
By: Raymond H.R. No. 149
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, The City of Laredo is celebrating the life of one of
this nation's most revered leaders when it hosts the 112th
Washington's Birthday Celebration from January 22 to February 22,
2009; and
WHEREAS, Born in Virginia on February 22, 1732, President
George Washington left an indelible legacy as this nation's first
commander in chief and president; admired for his courage, vision,
and integrity, he remains one of the most influential and respected
United States presidents of all time; and
WHEREAS, The special Laredo celebration of Washington's
birthday dates back to February 22, 1898, when the tribe of the
Improved Order of Red Men, a patriotic fraternal organization
descended from the Sons of Liberty, and the defenders of City Hall
staged a spirited mock battle, representing the colonial struggle
against the British; when the Red Men emerged victorious and the
mayor presented the key to the City of Laredo to the "Great Chief
Sachem," "Sachem" being a code name used by George Washington
during the American Revolution, a tradition was born; and
WHEREAS, This monthlong extravaganza combines elements of
both Hispanic and Anglo cultures and features parades, concerts, a
carnival, fireworks, and an air show, as well as such notable events
as the Colonial Pageant and the International Bridge Ceremony; the
largest festival of its kind in the United States, Laredo's tribute
to George Washington attracts approximately 400,000 participants
each year; and
WHEREAS, Overseeing this extensive program is the
Washington's Birthday Celebration Association of Laredo, Inc.,
which was established in 1923; through its support of this popular
yearly attraction, the association strives to foster a greater
understanding between the people of the Americas, to promote Laredo
as one of the state's most patriotic and culturally vibrant cities,
and to encourage a greater sense of civic and national pride within
the community and region; and
WHEREAS, The citizens of Laredo have done much to advance
these worthy goals through their city's celebration of this
legendary founding father, and it is appropriate to take this
opportunity to recognize and commend all who make such an
outstanding event possible; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 81st Texas
Legislature hereby commemorate the 2009 Washington's Birthday
Celebration in Laredo and extend to its organizers and participants
sincere best wishes for another successful and memorable
observance; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for the members of the Washington's Birthday Celebration
Association of Laredo, Inc., as an expression of high regard by the
Texas House of Representatives.