[Page S5171]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




SENATE RESOLUTION 138--DESIGNATING JULY 23, 2005, ``NATIONAL DAY OF THE 
                           AMERICAN COWBOY''

  Mr. THOMAS (for himself, Mr. Burns, Mr. Inhofe, Mr. Dorgan, Mr. 
Crapo, Mr. Salazar, Mr. Enzi, Mr. Allard, Mr. Baucus, Mr. Allen, Mr. 
Stevens, Mr. Martinez, Mr. Bingaman, and Mr. Craig) submitted the 
following resolution; which was considered and agreed to:

                              S. Res. 138

       Whereas pioneering men and women, recognized as cowboys, 
     helped establish the American West;
       Whereas that cowboy spirit continues to infuse this country 
     with its solid character, sound family values, and good 
     common sense;
       Whereas the cowboy embodies honesty, integrity, courage, 
     compassion, respect, a strong work ethic, and patriotism;
       Whereas the cowboy loves, lives off of, and depends on the 
     land and its creatures, and is an excellent steward, 
     protecting and enhancing the environment;
       Whereas the cowboy continues to play a significant role in 
     America's culture and economy;
       Whereas approximately 800,000 ranchers are conducting 
     business in all 50 of these United States and are 
     contributing to the economic well being of nearly every 
     county in the Nation;
       Whereas rodeo is the sixth most-watched sport in America;
       Whereas membership in rodeo and other organizations 
     surrounding the livelihood of a cowboy transcends race and 
     gender and spans every generation;
       Whereas the cowboy is an American icon;
       Whereas to recognize the American cowboy is to acknowledge 
     America's ongoing commitment to an esteemed and enduring code 
     of conduct; and
       Whereas the ongoing contributions made by cowboys to their 
     communities should be recognized and encouraged: Now, 
     therefore, be it
       Resolved, That the Senate--
       (1) designates July 23, 2005, 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.

                          ____________________