89R14559 CW-D
By: Smithee H.C.R. No. 87
CONCURRENT RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, Cowboys, ranching, and rodeos are cultural icons
that reflect the identity of the Lone Star State, and Amarillo has
played a significant role in celebrating and preserving this rich
heritage; and
WHEREAS, Competitive rodeo events grew out of the cattle
industry in the American West, and the Texas Panhandle became a
major hub for cattle drives and open-range ranching beginning in
the late 1800s; the region has served as home to some of the most
famous ranches in state history, including the JA Ranch established
in 1876, the XIT Ranch founded in 1885, and the Frying Pan Ranch,
which was created in the 1880s; over time, cowboys from neighboring
ranch operations challenged each other's riding and roping skills
in rodeo competitions, and local contests became annual events; and
WHEREAS, Today, that tradition continues through ranch
rodeos, which feature working ranch hands instead of professional
rodeo athletes; Amarillo serves as a center for these contests,
which draw tens of thousands of spectators to the city each year;
the Tri-State Ranch Rodeo takes place as part of the annual
Tri-State Fair & Rodeo, and the Will Rogers Range Riders Rodeo is
held over the Fourth of July holiday; the Working Ranch Cowboys
Association conducts the World Championship Ranch Rodeo finals, and
Amarillo is also home to the Coors Cowboy Club Ranch Rodeo as well
as the West Texas Ranch Rodeo, which hosts collegiate teams from
around the country; in addition, the Boys Ranch Rodeo sponsored by
Cal Farley's Boys Ranch dates to 1945; and
WHEREAS, Today, ranching remains an important economic
driver for the Amarillo area, and the city's Western traditions are
celebrated through special events, museums, and historic sites that
honor the working cowboy lifestyle; and
WHEREAS, Ranch rodeos are a source of pride and prosperity
for the residents of Amarillo, and the city's reputation as a
showcase for the sport makes it a popular destination for visitors
and competitors from across the Lone Star State and beyond; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the 89th Legislature of the State of Texas
hereby designate Amarillo as the official Ranch Rodeo 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 the date this resolution is
finally passed by the legislature.