TITLE: Commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Kern Place neighborhood in El Paso.

SUMMARY: Commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Kern Place neighborhood in El Paso.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, Residents of Kern Place in El Paso are celebrating the 100th anniversary of their historic neighborhood during 2014; and WHEREAS, Created by local businessman Peter Kern in 1914, the Kern Place development was originally located on the edge of the desert, well outside the main hub of El Paso; many of the homes in the area were built by the owners themselves and represent a rich diversity of early 20th century architecture; the community is known for its winding roads and quiet atmosphere and for the large park at its center, named Madeline Park after Mr. Kern's daughter; and WHEREAS, In its early days, the entrance to the area was marked by a distinctive arch designed by Mr. Kern that depicted ancient symbols of luck and included nearly 450 electric light globes that illuminated the words "Kern Place"; this architectural flourish soon became both an attraction and a nuisance; people drove across town to see it for themselves, but vandals also were fond of the arch; after falling into disrepair, it was finally dismantled in the 1950s; and WHEREAS, The city's growth caught up with Kern Place over time, and the area is now just a mile north of downtown; through the years, many prominent citizens and leaders have called the neighborhood home, and the elegant Hoover House has served as the residence of The University of Texas at El Paso president since 1965; and WHEREAS, The Kern Place Association was organized in 1981 to maintain and improve the neighborhood, and members have worked with the city on various zoning and management issues; thanks to the dedicated efforts of many volunteers and supporters, the group has revitalized Madeline Park, hosting annual picnics and Music in the Park events at its newly built gazebo, and the association has also worked to develop Alethea Park; and WHEREAS, Although El Paso has changed immeasurably during the past century, Kern Place retains its character as a unique and lovely area of the city, and it is indeed fitting to join in honoring the neighborhood on this milestone occasion; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 83rd Texas Legislature hereby commemorate the 100th anniversary of Kern Place and commend the members of the Kern Place Association for their work in behalf of this special community; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for the association as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives. Marquez Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 1788 was adopted by the House on May 8, 2013, by a non-record vote. Chief Clerk of the House