A JOINT RESOLUTION observing the one hundredth anniversary of the historic mitchell county courthouse.
Whereas, construction of the historic Mitchell County Courthouse was completed in 1907, and the year of 2007 marks the 100th anniversary of this important building; and
Whereas, the historic Courthouse has been the landmark and focal point for Mitchell County and a stage upon which was played a myriad of human dramas for the past 100 years; and
Whereas, the historic Courthouse served the citizens of Mitchell County as the seat of county government, a repository of records, a house of justice, and a community meeting place until its closing; and
Whereas, the historic Courthouse is an architectural prominence reflecting the independent spirit of the people of Mitchell County; and
Whereas, the Mitchell County Board of Commissioners has appointed a group of citizens to develop a plan to restore the historic Courthouse for a continuing role as a community hub; and
Whereas, a restored historic Courthouse will honor the people, history, and culture of Mitchell County and will contribute to the County's future through economic development; and
Whereas, restoration of the historic Courthouse will also serve as a fitting testimonial and memorial to the countless people who practiced law, presided over cases, and kept records in the Courthouse over the years, including the late John C. McBee, who spent over 50 years practicing law in Bakersville and trying hundreds of cases in the Courthouse; and
Whereas, the 100th year anniversary of the historic Courthouse will be celebrated by the people of Mitchell County throughout the year of 2007; Now, therefore,
Be it resolved by the Senate, the House of Representatives concurring:
SECTION 1.  The General Assembly recognizes the historic Courthouse of Mitchell County as an important landmark and commends the people of Mitchell County for their efforts to restore it to a prominent role in their future aspirations and hopes.
SECTION 2.  The General Assembly honors the people who worked in the historic Mitchell County Courthouse, including John C. McBee.
SECTION 3.  The Secretary of State shall transmit a certified copy of this resolution to the Chair of the Mitchell County Board of Commissioners and the family of John C. McBee.
SECTION 4.  This resolution is effective upon ratification.