[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 99 (Thursday, June 13, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E775]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         RECOGNIZING THE CITY OF PLEASANTON'S 125TH ANNIVERSARY

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                           HON. ERIC SWALWELL

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 13, 2019

  Mr. SWALWELL of California. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the 
City of Pleasanton, California, on the occasion of the 125th 
anniversary of its founding which will occur next week on June 18.
  The valley where Pleasanton sits has been a source of valuable 
resources for over 5,000 years. Prior to the arrival of European 
settlers, it was home to wetlands and an immensely diverse portfolio of 
plants and animal life that sustained generations of Native Americans.
  Spanish settlers were drawn to the vast and plentiful landscape and 
plentiful water supply established a ranching and farming culture that 
flourished and served as a magnet to others that passed through during 
the California Gold Rush in the foothills nearby.
  In the decades that followed, the area was named for a Civil War 
general of the United States Army and Union cavalry and saw the arrival 
of the transcontinental railroads. The population was approximately 500 
people at the time; however, that would not last long.
  The same rich soil that sustained the Native American populations for 
so long was then home to vineyards and hop fields that yielded a supply 
that was sought after across the nation and internationally. By 1900, 
Pleasanton became home to all of this, in addition to its own bank and 
several hotels.
  Since that time, growth and development has only continued. In the 
1980s, Pleasanton broke ground on a massive project that would change 
the trajectory of the city and the region around it. The 850-acre 
Hacienda Business Park was the new magnet drawing industry and economic 
development into the valley.
  With a current population of approximately 85,000, Pleasanton is now 
home to one of the top 10 school districts in the State of California 
and holds over 1,200 acres of recreational space that play host to 
festivals, parades, and year-round weekly farmers markets.
  In recognition of its 125 years of incorporation, Pleasanton will be 
holding a Summer of Celebration, which will begin with a reception on 
the anniversary of its founding, June 18, 2019. Throughout the summer, 
residents of California's 15th Congressional District can take 
advantage of several events and exhibits throughout the city.
  Congratulations to Pleasanton on their anniversary, and good wishes 
for a summer of fun and celebration of our local history.

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