SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 42 WHEREAS, On February 12, 2013, many proud residents of Athens are gathering in Austin to celebrate Athens Day at the State Capitol; and WHEREAS, First incorporated in 1856, Athens did not begin its steady development until it was reincorporated in 1901; since that time, this charming East Texas town has seen significant growth and the emergence of a dynamic citizenry; and WHEREAS, The fertile terrain and temperate climate of the area have made Athens a successful agribusiness center; in addition, the city is an outdoorsman's paradise, providing opportunities for scuba diving, picnicking, and many other recreational adventures; Athens boasts a strong claim to being the first home of the nation's favorite food, the hamburger, and the town is known as the Black-Eyed Pea Capital of the World; and WHEREAS, This delightful city hosts many exciting annual events, including a fiddler's contest, a triathlon, two rodeos, a hamburger cook-off, and a business exposition; and WHEREAS, Several cultural and tourist attractions grace the landscape of the city as well, including the East Texas Arboretum, the Henderson County Historical Museum, the Henderson County Performing Arts Center, the Cain Center, the Henderson County Fairpark Complex, and the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center, which features aquarium exhibits of every major species of freshwater fish found in Texas; educational opportunities are offered at the Trinity Valley Community College; and WHEREAS, The seat of Henderson County, this lovely city continues to be one of the Lone Star State's unique assets and is an outstanding place in which to live, work, and raise a family, and it is indeed appropriate that the citizens of Athens be given special recognition at this time; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 83rd Legislature, hereby recognize February 12, 2013, as Athens Day at the State Capitol and join the citizens of Athens in paying tribute to one of Texas' finest communities; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared in honor of the City of Athens. Nichols ________________________________ President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on January 23, 2013. ________________________________ Secretary of the Senate ________________________________ Member, Texas Senate