A JOINT RESOLUTION honoring the founders of the town of watha on the occasion of the town's one hundredth anniversary.
Whereas, the Town of Watha celebrated 100 years of incorporation on February 26, 2009; and
Whereas, Watha was settled in Pender County along the Washington Creek near the Northeast Cape Fear River but moved to its present location after the railroad was constructed in the area; and
Whereas, Watha, formerly known as "South Washington," served as the first county seat of Pender County; and
Whereas, Watha's first officers were Mayor J. H. McGowan, Commissioners R.W. Rivenbark, A. K. Parsons, and J. G. Black, and Constable W. J. Garriss; and
Whereas, many of Watha's citizens have contributed to the character of the Town throughout its existence; and
Whereas, Watha has continued to prosper through the continued dedication, insight, and planning of the Town's concerned leaders and citizens; and
Whereas, Watha served for three weeks of February 2008 as the scenic filming location for the major motion picture, "The Secret Life of Bees," based on the best‑selling book by Sue Monk Kidd for three weeks during February of 2008; and
Whereas, Watha's citizens are very proud of their heritage and "small town" friendly atmosphere; and
Whereas, Watha's historic anniversary is worthy of recognition and should be enjoyed and supported by all North Carolinians; Now, therefore,
Be it resolved by the Senate, the House of Representatives concurring:
SECTION 1.  The General Assembly of North Carolina honors the memory of the founders of the Town of Watha for their contributions to the State of North Carolina and recognizes the residents of the Town of Watha on the one hundredth anniversary of the Town's founding.
SECTION 2.  The Secretary of State shall transmit a certified copy of this resolution to the Mayor of the Town of Watha.
SECTION 3.  This resolution is effective upon ratification.