SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 417

WHEREAS, Community Impact Newspaper has distinguished itself as an important voice in Texas media; and

WHEREAS, Launched in 2005 by John and Jennifer Garrett, Community Impact Newspaper initially covered Round Rock and Pflugerville; it now publishes 22 hyperlocal monthly editions in the Austin, Houston, and Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan areas, reaching more than 1.7 million households and businesses; according to INC. magazine, it ranks as the state's fastest-growing news organization; and

WHEREAS, Community Impact Newspaper remains independently owned and locally operated and has a staff that has grown to include more than 180 employees; between 2007 and 2016, the company received 106 awards for outstanding journalism and advertising design from the National Newspaper Association, and it was named the 2015 Business of the Year by the Round Rock Chamber of Commerce; Mr. Garrett received the 2016 Media Award from the Texas School Public Relations Association, and in 2014, the Austin Chamber of Commerce selected him for the KPMG Executive Leadership Award; the Austin Business Journal selected him as the 2013 Best CEO in the Small Business category; and

WHEREAS, Local newspapers are a vital and valued part of their readers' lives, and through its dedication to quality journalism, Community Impact Newspaper is serving as an important resource for citizens of the Lone Star State; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 85th Legislature, hereby commend John and Jennifer Garrett and their staff on their company's success and on their many contributions to our state and recognize March 23, 2017, as Community Impact Newspaper Day at the State Capitol.

Schwertner

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on March 14, 2017.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate