[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 43 (Thursday, March 13, 2008)]
[Senate]
[Pages S2163-S2164]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




SENATE RESOLUTION 482--DESIGNATING JULY 26, 2008, AS ``NATIONAL DAY OF 
                         THE AMERICAN COWBOY''

  Mr. ENZI (for himself, Mr. Barrasso, Mr. Allard, Mr. Craig, Mr. 
Crapo, Mr. Domenici, Mr. Dorgan, Mr. Ensign, Mr. Bingaman, Mr. Inhofe, 
Mrs. Murray, Mr. Reid, Mr. Salazar, Mr. Stevens, Mr. Martinez, and Mr. 
Johnson) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the 
Committee on the Judiciary:

                              S. Res. 482

       Whereas pioneering men and women, recognized as 
     ``cowboys'', helped establish the American West;
       Whereas the cowboy embodies honesty, integrity, courage, 
     compassion, respect, a strong work ethic, and patriotism;
       Whereas the cowboy spirit exemplifies strength of 
     character, sound family values, and good common sense;
       Whereas the cowboy archetype transcends ethnicity, gender, 
     geographic boundaries, and political affiliations;
       Whereas the cowboy is an excellent steward of the land and 
     its creatures, who lives off of the land and works to protect 
     and enhance the environment;
       Whereas cowboy traditions have been a part of American 
     culture for generations;

[[Page S2164]]

       Whereas the cowboy continues to be an important part of the 
     economy through the work of approximately 727,000 ranchers in 
     all 50 of the United States that contribute to the economic 
     well-being of nearly every county in the Nation;
       Whereas annual attendance at professional and working ranch 
     rodeo events exceeds 27,000,000 fans and rodeo is the 7th 
     most-watched sport in the Nation;
       Whereas membership and participation in rodeo and other 
     organizations that promote and encompass the livelihood of a 
     cowboy span every generation and transcend race and gender;
       Whereas the cowboy is a central figure in literature, film, 
     and music and occupies a central place in the public 
     imagination;
       Whereas the cowboy is an American icon; and
       Whereas the ongoing contributions made by cowboys and 
     cowgirls to their communities should be recognized and 
     encouraged: Now, therefore, be it
       Resolved, That the Senate--
       (1) designates July 26, 2008, as ``National Day of the 
     American Cowboy''; and
       (2) encourages the people of the United States to observe 
     the day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

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