HR1579.html

Commending the mayor, council, municipal staff, and citizens of Lavonia, Georgia; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, comfortably nestled in northeast Georgia, the City of Lavonia is steeped in history and described as the "Gem of the Piedmont"; and

WHEREAS, visitors are mesmerized by the simple country lifestyle in the historic downtown, adorned by gazebos and murals; and

WHEREAS, the town is dotted with restored mansions depicting an inviting mixture of traditional southern hospitality yet easy access to the south's largest cities; and

WHEREAS, Lavonia boasts opportunities for adventuresome recreation alongside Lake Hartwell and profits from the formation and activities of the Lake Hartwell Marketing Alliance; and

WHEREAS, the town is ably led by its long-time mayor, Ralph M. Owens, and the city councilmembers, Thomas E. Cole, Kay McGlennen, W. Freddie Lee, and Don Canady; and

WHEREAS, the restored downtown city park and railroad depot attract tourists and is the setting for the romantic exchange of wedding vows; and

WHEREAS, Lavonia was recently recognized as a most desired community for retirement and participates in the Better Hometown program; and

WHEREAS, the City of Lavonia has been named as one of ten "Cities of Excellence" by Georgia Trend magazine.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that the members of this body recognize the intrinsic beauty, appeal, and value of the City of Lavonia and wholeheartedly endorse its selection as a "City of Excellence."

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized and directed to transmit an appropriate copy of this resolution to the Honorable Ralph M. Owens, mayor of the City of Lavonia.