2023S0363-1 04/11/23
By: Birdwell S.R. No. 432
SENATE RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to
join the residents and leaders of Waco in recognizing May 7
through 13, 2023, as Travel and Tourism Week in the City of Waco;
and
WHEREAS, Waco is a thriving cultural hub on the banks of
the Brazos River in the heart of the Lone Star State; over the
years, Waco has become a destination for tourists, and its
economy has benefited from this growing tourism industry;
according to the Texas Economic Development and Tourism 2021
Travel Economic Impact Overview, the Waco metropolitan area has
generated nearly $700 million in travel spending, which has
increased employment and tax revenue related to travel and
tourism industries; and
WHEREAS, With an appealing blend of rural charm and
cosmopolitan flair, this vibrant city features a wealth of
cultural spaces and historical sites for its residents and
visitors; the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum showcases the
history of Texas' original border-protection force and now the
state's primary investigative law enforcement agency, while the
Texas Sports Hall of Fame affords sports aficionados the chance
to browse the memorabilia and tales of the state's most
outstanding sports legends; and
WHEREAS, Baylor University is a prestigious private
Baptist school noted for its outstanding sports programs and
renowned for producing generations of well-educated and
responsible citizens; located in the heart of Waco, its beautiful
campus and splendid gardens complement the school's many
historic buildings; and
WHEREAS, Waco is home to many inviting natural sites and
recreational areas including hiking trails, archaeological
sites, and water parks that attract numerous visitors; the Waco
Mammoth National Monument offers the opportunity to view fossils
of Columbian mammoths, and Cameron Park, adjacent to Cameron Park
Zoo, encompasses playscapes and wildflower fields; in addition,
the picturesque shops in the Magnolia Market at the Silos have
added to Waco's growing popularity; and
WHEREAS, The residents of Waco can take pride in the city's
many cultural, academic, and economic offerings as well as in its
rich heritage and local history; Waco's notable contributions to
the state's economy as a travel and tourism destination total
more than $65 million generated in tax in 2021, and Waco's travel
and tourism industry directly employs more than 5,800 workers; it
is no small wonder that tourists and travelers are drawn to Waco
and its charming beauty, and it is indeed fitting that the city's
leaders and residents join in celebrating Travel and Tourism Week
in Waco; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 88th
Legislature, hereby recognize May 7 through 13, 2023, as Waco
Travel and Tourism Week and extend to the city's residents best
wishes for the week's events and for the future ahead; and, be it
further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for
the city as an expression of esteem from the Texas Senate.