SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 33

WHEREAS, Texas State Parks was recognized with the National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management by the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration on October 11, 2023; and

WHEREAS, Since 1965, the Gold Medal Awards program has honored park and recreation agencies across the United States that demonstrate excellence in their work; organizations are judged on their ability to address the needs of the public they serve and on the basis of such criteria as long-range planning, resource management, environmental stewardship, and program development; and

WHEREAS, This coveted recognition is made all the more meaningful by the fact that it coincides with the 100th anniversary of the Texas State Parks system; the agency has excelled at preserving the natural beauty of the state parks, which are visited by more than nine million people annually, as well as through its efforts to increase accessibility and to invite new audiences to enjoy the parks; and

WHEREAS, Texas' state parks system is a source of immense pride to the residents of the Lone Star State, and the outstanding reputation that it enjoys is further strengthened by its receipt of this prestigious national honor; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 88th Legislature, 3rd Called Session, hereby congratulate Texas State Parks on its receipt of the 2023 National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management from the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration and commend all those affiliated with Texas State Parks for their contributions; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That an official copy of this Resolution be prepared for Texas State Parks as an expression of high regard by the Texas Senate.

Flores, Hancock, Kolkhorst, Perry, Sparks, Springer

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Member, Texas Senate Member, Texas Senate

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Member, Texas Senate Member, Texas Senate

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Member, Texas Senate Member, Texas Senate

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on October 19, 2023.

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Secretary of the Senate