SHAPIRO SWORN-IN AS PRESIDENT PRO-TEMPORE

(Austin)--Following a 160-year tradition, State Senator Florence Shapiro was sworn in today as President Pro-Tempore of the Texas Senate. She is the first President Pro-Tempore from Collin County in more than 40 years.

"I am honored to serve as President Pro-Tempore and have the opportunity to serve as Governor when needed," Shapiro said. "My tenure as President Pro-Tempore will be a commemoration not only for my family and myself, but for my constituents in Senate District 8. Serving them these last 11 years has been an awesome responsibility that I take very seriously."

As President Pro-Tempore, Shapiro is third in line for the Governor's seat and will be given the responsibility for 2005 to serve in that capacity in the event that Gov. Rick Perry and Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst are out of the state.

"The Texas Senate is known for its bipartisan spirit and collegial bond," Shapiro said. "Today we gather for more than a swearing-in ceremony. Since 1845, the people of this state have looked to this body for leadership, principle and vision. They have given us their votes. Now we must give them our very best."

Shapiro spoke of the time-honored tradition and regard of the office of President Pro-Tempore, as well as her appreciation of the many friendships she has forged during her tenure in the Senate.

"To outsiders looking in, today's ceremony may seem like pomp and circumstance," she said, "but to those of us who serve in this austere body, we know that this event transcends party or ideology, or geographic region or background. This is not just a Senate...this is a family...a family of public servants."

"Each time I enter this great chamber, I am reminded of the great minds who stood here before us; of the reverence and respect that are held within these historic walls; and of the representative picture we form of our great State--from North to South to East to West, conservative, liberal, a combination of race, color, religion and creed. This body as a whole, is greater than any one of us individually."

Shapiro closed the ceremony by dedicating the 79th Legislative Session to the children of Texas.

"As freedom expands around the globe, let's make sure that freedom expands here in Texas, too; and what provides greater freedom than an education. There is no greater civil right today," she said. "Our children deserve the best education we can provide. Our children deserve the best health care we can offer. And our children deserve the best Texas we can imagine.

"This session let's ask ourselves, 'How does what we are doing help improve the lives of our children?' If all of us will ask the right question, I am certain we will find the right answer. After all, our future demands it and our children deserve it," she said.

Senate tradition calls for the President Pro-Tempore to be sworn is as Governor for a Day, a 50-year-old practice that gives the member an opportunity to showcase Texans from his or her district. Shapiro's formal Inauguration will take place on Saturday, April 9, 2005 in Austin. All citizens are invited to attend.

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