Senator Kevin Eltife of Tyler presides over the Local and Uncontested Calendar early Thursday morning.

Wednesday was Official Bowtie Day in the Senate Chamber. Picture are (L-to-R) Senators Carlos Uresti of San Antonio, Jose Rodriguez of El Paso, Jane Nelson of Flower Mound, Eddie Lucio, Jr. of Laredo, Joan Huffman of Southside Place, and Robert Nichols of Jacksonville.

Lt. Governor David Dewhurst (right) discusses a bill with Houston Senator Mario Gallegos.

Wednesday April 14 was the biennial Former Member's Day, when the Senate invites former members to visit the Chamber as well as remember those former Senators who have passed away since last session. More than thirty former members attended this year's ceremony.

Since 1955, only three individuals have served as Secretary of the Senate. Charles Schnabel (center) served from 1955-1977, the second longest serving Secretary behind only Betty King (left) who served from 1977-2000. They are joined by current Secretary of the Senate Patsy Spaw, who has served since King's retirement.

Senator Dan Patrick of Houston proposes an amendment during session.

El Paso Senator Jose Rodriguez (center) is joined by colleagues Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa (left) of McAllen and Senator Robert Deuell of Greeneville as he listens to a question regarding a proposed bill this week.