81R34437 JKB-D
By: Edwards H.R. No. 2602
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, Tilman Fertitta has proven himself to be a valued
supporter of the Juneteenth celebration in Galveston; and
WHEREAS, An official state holiday since 1980, Juneteenth
celebrates an important milestone in human rights in Texas, the
first reading of the Emancipation Proclamation in Galveston on June
19, 1865, by Union general Gordon Granger, which effectively freed
the 250,000 slaves in Texas at the end of the Civil War; and
WHEREAS, A Galveston native, Mr. Fertitta is the chief
executive officer of Landry's Restaurants, overseeing operations
for the well-known dining corporation; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Fertitta has provided a complimentary brunch for
the 500 attendees of the annual Juneteenth celebration at the
historic Ashton Villa in Galveston for many years, and that
tradition continues in 2009; and
WHEREAS, Through his dedication, Tilman Fertitta has helped
to heighten awareness of the history of Juneteenth for visitors and
residents of Galveston alike; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 81st Texas
Legislature hereby commend Tilman Fertitta for his outstanding
efforts in behalf of Juneteenth activities in Galveston and extend
to him sincere best wishes for continued success and happiness;
and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for Mr. Fertitta as an expression of high regard by the
Texas House of Representatives.