82R4265 JBA-D
By: Raymond H.R. No. 104
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 114th
Washington's Birthday Celebration, featuring more than a month of
fun-filled events beginning on January 14, 2011; and
WHEREAS, This special tradition dates back to February 1898,
when the Laredo tribe of the Improved Order of Red Men, a patriotic
fraternal organization descended from the Sons of Liberty, staged a
spirited mock battle between the Red Men and the defenders of City
Hall; the contest, which represented the colonial struggle against
the British, ended with the Red Men victorious and the mayor's
presentation of the key to the City of Laredo to the "Great Chief
Sachem"; and
WHEREAS, Combining elements of Hispanic and Anglo cultures,
the Laredo celebration features parades, pageants, and concerts, as
well as a carnival, a family fun fest, and an air show, and is
expected to attract some 400,000 attendees; among its most notable
events are the Noche de Cabaret, Comedy Jam for George, Jalapeno
Festival, the Princess Pocahontas Pageant and Ball, and the
International Bridge Ceremony; and
WHEREAS, George Washington, who was born in Virginia on
February 22, 1732, left an indelible legacy as this nation's first
commander in chief and president; admired for his courage, vision,
integrity, and leadership in the darkest days of early independence
from Great Britain, he remains one of the most influential and
respected United States presidents of all time; and
WHEREAS, The citizens of Laredo can take great pride in their
city's celebration of our legendary Founding Father, and it is
appropriate to take this opportunity to recognize and commend all
who participate in the event; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 82nd Texas
Legislature hereby commemorate the 2011 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 as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of
Representatives.