H.R. No. 2847
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, The Great Texas Balloon Race is being held from July
10 to 12, 2009, in Longview; and
WHEREAS, This world-class event dates back to 1978, when a
hot air balloon pilot, Dr. Bill Bussey, advertised the opening of
the Longview Mall by draping a banner over his balloon, and he began
gaining support from local residents and business leaders for the
establishment of a balloon race; in 1980, Dr. Bussey helped create
the first-ever balloon glow, an evening attraction that showcased a
number of tethered balloons illuminated in a radiant display of
light, and from then on, these events became increasingly popular
and drew many new visitors to the city; and
WHEREAS, Affiliated with the North American Balloon
Association, the Great Texas Balloon Race attracts pilots from
across the United States and beyond to the East Texas Regional
Airport, where they vie for the Texas State Championship; it
features 80 sport and special-shaped hot air balloons engaged in
such competitions as the Controlled Navigational Trajectory Event,
or the "Key Grab," which is a crowd favorite; the weekend
festivities also include live concerts, arts and crafts, and
children's activities; and
WHEREAS, For more than three decades, the Great Texas Balloon
Race has remained a cherished tradition for many residents of the
Lone Star State, and it is indeed a pleasure to join the citizens of
Longview in celebrating this noteworthy occasion; now, therefore,
be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 81st Texas
Legislature hereby commemorate the 2009 Great Texas Balloon Race
and extend to its sponsors and attendees sincere best wishes for a
memorable and successful event; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for the organizers of the Great Texas Balloon Race as an
expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives.
Merritt
______________________________
Speaker of the House
I certify that H.R. No. 2847 was adopted by the House on June
1, 2009, by a non-record vote.
______________________________
Chief Clerk of the House