IV 111th CONGRESS 2d Session H. RES. 1689 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES September 29, 2010 Mr. Costa submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform RESOLUTION Recognizing the City of Fresno, California, as it celebrates its 125th anniversary.

Whereas the City of Fresno has grown from an early Western settlement incorporated in 1885 to the fifth largest and one of the fastest growing cities within the State of California, the 35th largest State in the Nation; Whereas development on the land that is now the City of Fresno was initiated by land speculation and the Central Pacific Railroad’s decision to build a train station in Fresno; Whereas the small town began to thrive by 1874 as settlers began to arrive by railroad and establish businesses; Whereas Fresno’s strong, agriculturally based economy offered opportunity and hope to early settlers and the first wave of immigrants encouraged family and friends to join them in this land of promise; Whereas in the years following incorporation, the City of Fresno witnessed unparalleled development, undergoing a metamorphosis from pioneer town to major city marked by an ornate and thriving downtown that transformed the cityscape, and an expansion to create new residential neighborhoods, such as Forkner’s Fig Gardens that still stands today; Whereas the City of Fresno is now a global leader in agri-business and a trailblazer in green industries, such as water technology and renewable energy; Whereas the City of Fresno is a focal point for banking, trade, health care, education, and the cultural arts of the San Joaquin Valley, the hub of a region rich in heritage, agriculture, resources, and people; Whereas the City of Fresno is proud to serve as the gateway to three major national parks, Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon National Parks; Whereas the City of Fresno celebrates its diversity in the more than 65 nationalities that have, over the past 12 decades, incorporated their lifestyles and culture into the cultural mainstream of Fresno; and Whereas the City of Fresno will celebrate its 125th anniversary on October 7, 2010: Now, therefore, be it

That the House of Representatives— (1)recognizes the City of Fresno, California, as it celebrates its 125th anniversary; and (2)commends those who have contributed to shaping the City of Fresno and the community it has become.