HR0424 97TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0424 LRB097 12143 KXB 56250 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, Pioneering men and women from Illinois, cowboys such as Charles Goodnight, Wyatt Earp, John Dean Gillette and many others, the stockyards at Chicago, and "the devil's rope" barbwire all played integral roles in the establishment of America's western frontiers; and

WHEREAS, The cowboy archetype transcends gender, generations, ethnicity, geographic boundaries, and political affiliations; and

WHEREAS, The cowboy embodies honesty, integrity, courage, compassion, and determination, the core values expressed within the Cowboy Code of Conduct, which inspires a pursuit of the highest caliber of personal integrity, patriotism, and strength of character; and

WHEREAS, The cowboy is a respectful steward of the land and all its creatures; and

WHEREAS, Today's cowboys strive to preserve and perpetuate this unique element of America's heritage; and

WHEREAS, The cowboy continues to be an important part of the economy, working on approximately 656,500 ranches in all 50 states; and

WHEREAS, Membership and participation continue to expand in organizations that encompass, re-create, and celebrate the life of the cowboy, both nationally and internationally; and

WHEREAS, The cowboy and his horse are central figures in literature, art, film, poetry, photography, and music; and

WHEREAS, The cowboy is a true American icon, occupying a central place in the public's imagination; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINETY-SEVENTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we express our support for the designation of July 23, 2011 as "National Day of the Cowboy"; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we encourage the people of the State of Illinois to observe the day with appropriate ceremonies and activities; and be it further

RESOLVED, That suitable copies of this resolution be delivered to the Governor of Illinois and the members of the Illinois Congressional delegation.