SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 213

WHEREAS, Proud residents of Pearland are gathering in Austin on February 22, 2023, to celebrate Pearland Day at the State Capitol; and

WHEREAS, Spanning Brazoria, Fort Bend, and Harris Counties, Pearland was originally established as Mark Belt in 1893; the town's name was changed the following year to reflect the large number of pear trees in the area; by 1898, Pearland had a newspaper, 12 businesses, and 75 residents; however, because many of the pear trees were destroyed by the 1900 and 1915 Galveston hurricanes, population growth slowed for a considerable time; the planting of oranges and figs helped revive local agriculture until the freeze of 1918 caused another wave of damage; Pearland again recovered when oil and gas were discovered in the area in 1934, which led to the development of the Hastings Oilfield; and

WHEREAS, While enjoying the benefits of its proximity to Houston and sites such as the Johnson Space Center, Kemah Boardwalk, and the Galveston beaches, Pearland maintains its unique character; in 1999, it was named an All-America City by the National Civic League, and its notable attractions include the more than 100-year-old Gulf, Colorado and Santa Fe Railway depot, the Pearland Town Center, and an emerging biotech and manufacturing area known as the Kirby District; and

WHEREAS, Pearland is fortunate to have a local chamber of commerce that works diligently to further the city's development and to keep the citizenry informed on matters that affect the region; the city also boasts a highly rated school system that is committed to helping with workforce development; the University of Houston-Clear Lake Pearland Campus is meeting the need for post-secondary education options in the area with the addition of a health science building, and the city benefits from an ongoing partnership between the university and Alvin Community College; and

WHEREAS, Since the 1970s, Pearland has experienced explosive growth and substantial development; from its humble beginnings, Pearland has become one of the fastest-growing communities in the country; the residents of Pearland can take great civic pride in their community as they continue to celebrate its neighborly spirit and cherished traditions for generations to come; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 88th Legislature, hereby recognize February 22, 2023, as Pearland Day at the State Capitol and extend to the visiting delegation sincere best wishes for a meaningful and memorable stay in Austin; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for the delegation as an expression of esteem from the Texas Senate.

Middleton

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on February 22, 2023.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate