SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 851

WHEREAS, Mabel Garza, Christian Perez, Jason Perez, Mateo Requenez, and Ramiro Soliz, students at Falfurrias High School, made a stellar showing as finalists in the National History Day contest, held in College Park, Maryland, June 12-16, 2016; and

WHEREAS, The team's group exhibit, "Irma Lerma Rangel: Leveling the Playing Field for All," paid tribute to the pioneering Texas politician, who became the first Mexican American woman elected to the state legislature in 1976; a first-place finish in local competition advanced the team to the Coastal Bend Regional History Day contest in Kingsville, where they won the championship; at the state-level meet in Austin, they placed second in a field of 36 group exhibits, qualifying for entry in the National History Day competition; and

WHEREAS, The students from Falfurrias High School were among more than 3,000 contestants facing off at the national level; their exhibit went on to place in the top 20 out of a field of 146, and it was also honored with the Outstanding Entry from Texas Award; this significant achievement was the culmination of over 175 hours of research, during which the students documented more than 100 sources and conducted 30 personal interviews in an effort to fully portray the life of Irma Rangel; along the way, they received support and encouragement from a number of individuals, including family members, former chiefs of staff and colleagues, and others who knew Ms. Rangel and benefited from her committed work as a public servant; and

WHEREAS, Through the time, effort, and thought that they invested in constructing their superb exhibit, these notable young Texans have brought great credit to themselves while focusing well-deserved attention on a distinguished figure in Texas history, and they may reflect with pride on a job well done; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 85th Legislature, hereby congratulate Mabel Garza, Christian Perez, Jason Perez, Mateo Requenez, and Ramiro Soliz for their exceptional performance at the 2016 National History Day competition and extend to them sincere best wishes for the future; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution be prepared for the students as an expression of high regard from the Texas Senate.

Hinojosa

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on May 23, 2017.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate