SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 710 WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to join the American Heart Association and Texans across the state in celebrating April 6, 2011, as National Start! Walking Day; and WHEREAS, Cardiovascular diseases, including coronary heart disease and stroke, are the nation's leading cause of death and a primary cause of disability; the total cost of cardiovascular disease, including lost productivity, was estimated to be $444.2 billion in 2010 alone; and WHEREAS, Regular physical activity can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and increase life expectancy, and walking on a consistent basis has many proven benefits for overall health; brisk walking for 30 minutes each day can help reduce blood pressure, control weight, and help manage blood sugar through improved use of insulin in the body; and WHEREAS, One of the best investments a company can make is in the health of its employees; by promoting a culture of physical activity, corporate America can decrease health care costs, increase productivity, and improve the quality of life and the longevity of the United States workforce; and WHEREAS, The observance of National Start! Walking Day calls on Americans to become more physically active by beginning a regimen of regular walking; it is truly fitting that this important day receive recognition for its potential to help improve the nation's health; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 82nd Legislature, hereby commend the American Heart Association on its commitment to improving Americans' health and extend best wishes for a successful National Start! Walking Day; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared in honor of this special day. Nelson ________________________________ President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on April 5, 2011. ________________________________ Secretary of the Senate ________________________________ Member, Texas Senate