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2015 SESSION

15100697D
HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 507
Offered January 14, 2015
Prefiled November 26, 2014
Designating the fourth Saturday in July, in 2015 and in each succeeding year, as the National Day of the Cowboy in Virginia.
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Patrons-- Wright and Fariss; Senator: Ruff
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Referred to Committee on Rules
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WHEREAS, pioneering men and women commonly known as cowboys helped establish 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, and the cowboy or vaquero spirit exemplifies patriotism and strength of character; and

WHEREAS, the core values of the traditional Code of the West, expressed in the Cowboy Code of Conduct of the National Day of the Cowboy, continue to inspire the pursuit of the highest caliber of personal integrity; and

WHEREAS, the cowboy is an excellent steward of the land and its creatures and illustrates the importance of protecting and preserving the nation’s natural resources; and

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

WHEREAS, the cowboy and his horse are a central figure in literature, art, film, poetry, photography, and music; annual attendance at rodeos exceeds 30 million fans worldwide; and

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

WHEREAS, the cowboy is a true American icon, occupying a central place in the public imagination; state legislatures and governors throughout the country have recognized the National Day of the Cowboy, and annual celebrations take place around the world; and

WHEREAS, communities and organizations throughout the Commonwealth celebrate the National Day of the Cowboy, and all Virginians are encouraged to observe the day with appropriate ceremonies and activities; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly designate the fourth Saturday in July, in 2015 and in each succeeding year, as the National Day of the Cowboy in Virginia; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates transmit a copy of this resolution to National Day of the Cowboy Corporation so that members of the organization may be apprised of the sense of the General Assembly of Virginia in this matter; and, be it

RESOLVED FINALLY, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates post the designation of this day on the General Assembly’s website.