89R23616 EME-D
By: Plesa H.R. No. 856
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, Panther Pride is hosting its 10th annual Special
Needs Community Awareness Day event on April 12, 2025; and
WHEREAS, Founded in 2007, Panther Pride is the official
Special Needs Athletic Program for Plano East Senior High School
and other campuses in the Plano Independent School District;
originally known as the Special Olympic team for Plano East, the
organization was established to promote inclusivity and
opportunity in athletics; each year, Panther Pride provides a
platform for special-needs students in the district to showcase
their talents and join other students, faculty, parents, and
community members for friendly competition and camaraderie; since
2014, Coach Anthony Ruttenburg has served at the helm of the
program; and
WHEREAS, This year's Special Needs Community Awareness Day is
taking place at the Plano East Gymnasium and includes live
entertainment, concessions, bounce houses, and a variety of
vendors; the event also features a Panther Pride basketball game,
with the team squaring off against the Plano Police Department; and
WHEREAS, Panther Pride has made a lasting and positive
difference in the lives of numerous young Texans, and it is indeed a
pleasure to honor the organization on this special occasion; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 89th Texas
Legislature hereby commemorate the 10th annual Special Needs
Community Awareness Day hosted by Panther Pride and extend to all
those in attendance sincere best wishes for an enjoyable and
memorable event; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for Panther Pride as an expression of high regard by the
Texas House of Representatives.