H.R. No. 2604
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, Harold T. Thomas 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, Mr. Thomas enhances his community through his
contributions as the publisher of the Galveston County Observer
News, the only African American newspaper serving Galveston County;
and
WHEREAS, This public-spirited citizen has provided
outstanding news coverage of the Juneteenth celebrations on
Galveston Island for more than 17 years; as part of that effort, he
has reported on the Ashton Villa Emancipation Prayer Vigil and
Breakfast and the Juneteenth Banquet at the historic Old Central
Cultural Center for the past 12 years, and his work in keeping the
public informed has contributed to increased participation in the
observance; and
WHEREAS, Through his dedication, Harold Thomas 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 Harold T. Thomas for his outstanding
contributions 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. Thomas as an expression of high regard by the Texas
House of Representatives.
Edwards
______________________________
Speaker of the House
I certify that H.R. No. 2604 was adopted by the House on May
31, 2009, by a non-record vote.
______________________________
Chief Clerk of the House