MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE

1998 Regular Session

To: Rules

By: Senator(s) Carter, Robertson, Burton

Senate Resolution 11

(As Adopted by Senate)

A SENATE RESOLUTION TO COMMEND ALEX TAYLOR, 1997 CITGO MALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR. 

WHEREAS, the spirit of amateur athletics is alive and well in Mississippi, with Mississippians involved in a wide range of sporting activities; and

WHEREAS, in just six years, the State Games of Mississippi have become a showcase for Mississippi's amateur athletes, providing an avenue for camaraderie, positive personal development and achievement through athletic competition; and

WHEREAS, during the last two weekends in June, the State Games of Mississippi bring together amateur athletes from across Mississippi to compete, complete with opening ceremonies, lighting of the torch, and a parade of athletes, with winners being awarded gold, silver and bronze medals; and

WHEREAS, in 1997, athletes ranging in age from 4 to 84 numbered more than 4,400 and competed in 22 sports; 80% of the competitors were under the age of 18; and

WHEREAS, the Games strive to instill pride in personal achievement, physical fitness and teamwork, and positive role models impart positive attitudes to all those who are a part of the endeavor; and

WHEREAS, the 1997 State Games of Mississippi were held in Meridian June 21-22 and June 27-29; and

WHEREAS, Alex Taylor, a 17-year-old from Quitman, competed in powerlifting events in his weight class, winning a gold medal for the individual, and a silver medal in the team events; and

WHEREAS, he has participated in the last three State Games, winning a total of six gold medals and two silver medals; and

WHEREAS, Taylor is a senior at Quitman High School, where he is a member of the football, powerlifting and track and field teams; and

WHEREAS, he was recognized as fifth in the state in his weight class in powerlifting his freshman year, and second in the state his sophomore year, and this year placed first in the super heavy weight class at the national competition held in St. Louis where he was recognized as best heavy lifter in his age group; and

WHEREAS, the CITGO Athlete of the Year program was developed by the National Congress of State Games to honor the foremost male and female athlete from each member state; and

WHEREAS, Alex Taylor was chosen Male Athlete of the Year not only for his winning participation, but also for his sportsmanship, effort and positive attitude; and

WHEREAS, Alex Taylor and Erin Sims will have the opportunity to be the official torch runners in the 1998 State Games opening ceremonies and work with the State Games of Mississippi throughout the year to promote athletics for all Mississippians; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of this Senate to commend excellence in achievement when exhibited by the youth of this state, who are her future:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby commend and congratulate Alex Taylor of Quitman for his achievement as the 1997 Male Athlete of the Year, and wish him success in all his future endeavors.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That a copy of this resolution be presented to Mr. Taylor and to his parents, Mr. and Mrs.

Alex Taylor, Sr.