Senate Concurrent Resolution 508

(As Adopted by Senate and House)

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION DESIGNATING THE 4TH SATURDAY IN JULY OF EACH YEAR AS "NATIONAL DAY OF THE COWBOY."

WHEREAS, the 4th Saturday in July of each year is designated by national cowboy organizations as "National Day of the Cowboy" in recognition of the cowboy culture as well as its ground-breaking heritage; and

WHEREAS, whether you're cowboy country or city slicker cool, you've gotta check out the Dixie National Rodeo held annually at the Mississippi Coliseum in February. This is a good ole Southern rodeo that's the largest this side of the Mississippi River, which has a $7 Million economic impact to the local economy according to the Jackson Convention and Visitors Bureau. Billy Orr, Executive Director of the Fair Commission says, "There are cowboys and cowgirls here from all the lower 40, Canada, and even Brazil." The Quarter Horse Show currently has over 2,660 horses and is expecting more. There are 85 vendors participating with more on a waiting list. Folks can shop for clothes, boots, saddles, and even horse trailers at the booths. The Dixie National Rodeo has thrilling bull rides, calf roping, and great family-style entertainment; and

WHEREAS, pioneering men and women known as cowboys, helped establish America's 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; and

WHEREAS, the cowboy Vaquero spirit exemplifies patriotism and strength of character; and

WHEREAS, the cowboy is an excellent steward of the land and its creatures; and

WHEREAS, the core values expressed within the Cowboy Code of Conduct continue to inspire the pursuit of the highest caliber of personal integrity; and

WHEREAS, cowboy and ranching traditions have been a part of the American landscape and culture since 1523, and today's cowboys and cowgirls continue to strive to preserve and perpetuate this unique element of America's heritage; and

WHEREAS, annual attendance at rodeos exceeds 30,000,000 fans worldwide; and

WHEREAS, membership and participation in the National Day of the Cowboy Organization, Single Action Shooting Society, Working Ranch Rodeo Association, Cowboy Mounted Shooting Association, American Quarter Horse Association, Pro Rodeo Cowboys Association, Championship Bull Riding, Working Ranch Rodeo, Women's Pro Rodeo, United States Team Roping, the Western Music Association, and other organizations that encompass the livelihood of the cowboy, continues to expand both nationally and internationally; and

WHEREAS, the cowboy and his horse are a central figure in literature, art, film, poetry, photographs and music; and

WHEREAS, the cowboy is a true American icon occupying a central place in the public's imagination:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES CONCURRING THEREIN, That we do hereby designate the 4th Saturday in July of each year as "National Day of the Cowboy" and encourage the people of the State of Mississippi to observe the day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That this resolution be forwarded to the Governor and the Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce and made available to the Capitol Press Corps.