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R E S O L U T I O N
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WHEREAS, The completion of Rett Reef off the coast of |
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San Leon in Galveston Bay will mark the first oyster restoration |
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reef in Texas established by a private oyster industry member; and |
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WHEREAS, Lisa Halili, the founder of the San Leon Oyster Fest |
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(SLOF), first conceived of the idea for Rett Reef to raise awareness |
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of Rett syndrome, a rare neurodevelopmental disorder that primarily |
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impacts girls and women and is characterized by slowing |
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development, loss of mobility, and other life-changing symptoms; |
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the Rett Reef project is being made possible through a partnership |
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involving SLOF, Pier 6 Seafood & Oyster House, Prestige Oysters, |
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The Nature Conservancy, and Texas Sea Grant at Texas A&M |
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University; and |
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WHEREAS, For the creation of Rett Reef, Pier 6 is donating all |
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the shells necessary to help restore a historical sport fishing |
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reef that was destroyed by Hurricane Ike; upon its completion, the |
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nonharvestable oyster reef will span 10 acres, and it will play an |
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instrumental role in improving water quality, attracting fauna, |
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protecting the area from storm surges, and educating the public |
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about the many benefits provided by oyster reefs; in addition, the |
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reef will serve as a habitat for fish and invertebrate species, and |
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anglers will be able to use the reef as a recreational fishing |
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location; and |
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WHEREAS, With its natural beauty and abundant wildlife, the |
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Galveston Bay area is one of the treasures of the Lone Star State, |
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and Rett Reef is sure to be a valuable addition to this vibrant and |
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unique ecosystem; now, therefore, be it |
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RESOLVED, That the Senate of the 88th Texas Legislature |
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hereby recognize Rett Reef in Galveston Bay and extend to all those |
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associated with the reef sincere appreciation for their efforts to |
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bring the project to fruition. |