TITLE: Recognizing February 8, 2023, as Laredo Legislative Day at the State Capitol.

SUMMARY: Recognizing February 8, 2023, as Laredo Legislative Day at the State Capitol.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, Representatives of the City of Laredo are gathering in Austin on February 8, 2023, to celebrate Laredo Legislative Day at the State Capitol; and WHEREAS, Laredo was established in 1755 by Don Tom s S nchez, and its history offers a compelling tale, as the town was forged by Spaniards, Indians, Mexicans, Texans, and Americans; a dynamic bilingual and bicultural community, this Texas city is proud of its Mexican roots; seven flags have flown over Laredo, and this unique city celebrates its dual historical and cultural ties throughout the year; and WHEREAS, Situated on the banks of the Rio Grande, Laredo is now the 10th-largest city in Texas and the number one inland port on the southern United States border; in addition, it is one of the top three ports of commerce in the nation, and in 2021, the city handled almost 60 percent of all overland trade between Texas and Mexico; and WHEREAS, Laredo represents a strong economic driver for the United States, handling more than $240 billion in total trade by value with the world and over five million commercial trucks annually; through trade activity, the city has contributed more than 474,000 direct and indirect jobs for the state of Texas, and in 2022, it generated 2,563 jobs; Laredo is also home to multiple institutes of higher learning, including Laredo College and Texas A&M International University; and WHEREAS, Boasting a rich history and a thriving trade industry, Laredo has established itself as an outstanding community in which to live and work, and its citizens may indeed take pride in the place they call home; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the 88th Texas Legislature hereby recognize February 8, 2023, as Laredo Legislative Day at the State Capitol and extend to the visiting delegation sincere best wishes for an informative and enjoyable stay in Austin.