Governor Abbott Attends Grand Opening Of Sokol West Gym In West, Texas

November 20, 2015 | Austin, Texas | Press Release

Governor Greg Abbott today traveled to West, Texas to attend and deliver remarks at the grand opening and ribbon cutting of Sokol West Gym, whose original facility was destroyed in the plant explosion in West in 2013. Governor Abbott spoke to the resilience and strength of the West community following the devastation and honored those whose lives, homes and memories were lost.

"Today is a celebration of the Czech community and of human resilience and ongoing recovery of West," said Governor Abbott. "What was once destroyed is now being dedicated. The spirit of Texas is one that always builds a better tomorrow, and that's what we are doing today opening this Sokol Gym...cutting a ribbon that reunites the community of West."

Governor Abbott's Sokol West Gym Grand Opening Remarks:

**Gov. Abbott often deviates from prepared remarks.

Today is a celebration of the Czech community and of human resilience and ongoing recovery of West.

True strength of character is revealed when tested by adversity. This community was tested by tragedy. It brought out the best in people. Firefighters, first responders, friends and neighbors, and strangers uniting. Texans helping fellow Texans.

We've seen the extraordinary resilience and strength of character of our Texas family. Our lives aren't measured by how we're challenged. Instead they're measured by how we respond to those challenges.

What was once destroyed is now being dedicated. The spirit of Texas is one that always builds a better tomorrow. That's what we are doing today opening this Sokol Gym...cutting a ribbon that reunites the community of West.

The First Lady and I are proud of West. You represent the very best of Texas.