H.C.R. No. 72 HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION WHEREAS, Each year, Big Spring celebrates the holiday season with a spectacular display featuring more than 100 lighted poinsettias, and this much-anticipated event has become well known throughout the Lone Star State and beyond; and WHEREAS, The Comanche Trail Festival of Lights draws more than 20,000 visitors annually to view the giant lighted poinsettias, some up to 150 feet tall, that are placed throughout Comanche Trail Park; the display includes over one million lights in total, and guests can view the splendid decorations by car or from a walking trail; and WHEREAS, Launched in 1997, the festival was founded by Big Spring resident Pat Simmons; over the years, the celebration has enjoyed the support of the city and many dedicated Howard County volunteers, and it has grown steadily in size and popularity; and WHEREAS, Enthusiasm for the festival has prompted local residents to expand the event throughout the city; every December, many private homes are decorated with illuminated poinsettias, further contributing to the magical holiday ambiance; and WHEREAS, Since its inception, the Comanche Trail Festival of Lights has become a West Texas tradition, and citizens of Big Spring have embraced their community's reputation as a special place to experience the joys of the season; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the 85th Legislature of the State of Texas hereby designate the city of Big Spring as the Lighted Poinsettia Capital of Texas; and, be it further RESOLVED, That, in accordance with the provisions of Section 391.003(e), Government Code, this designation remain in effect until the 10th anniversary of its designation. Darby ______________________________ ______________________________ President of the Senate Speaker of the House I certify that H.C.R. No. 72 was adopted by the House on May 4, 2017, by the following vote: Yeas 142, Nays 6, 2 present, not voting. ______________________________ Chief Clerk of the House I certify that H.C.R. No. 72 was adopted by the Senate on May 24, 2017, by the following vote: Yeas 31, Nays 0. ______________________________ Secretary of the Senate APPROVED: __________________ Date __________________ Governor