H.R. No. 107
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, The Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce is
marking its 180th anniversary with the second annual Galveston
Island Country Music Fest on January 25, 2025, and this occasion
provides a welcome opportunity to reflect on the many contributions
this organization has made to the economic well-being of the
community; and
WHEREAS, Established in 1845 by the Republic of Texas, the
Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce is considered to be the
oldest chamber of commerce in continuous operation in the Lone Star
State; with more than 1,000 members, it represents a robust and
diverse network of business, education, research and health care,
government, nonprofit, and religious organizations; the chamber
benefits from the able leadership of its president and chief
executive officer, Gina M. Spagnola; and
WHEREAS, The Galveston chamber established itself as a
catalyst for progress from the start by spearheading efforts to
build a railroad line, a wagon bridge, and lifeboat stations along
the coast; moreover, its early advocacy was instrumental in the
construction of the Galveston Mercantile Library, the city's first
such institution; its leaders also played an important role in
instituting mail connections with neighboring counties, developing
the port and waterborne commerce, and paving the way for The
University of Texas Medical Branch; throughout its history, the
chamber has been at the forefront of disaster recovery initiatives,
and its programs have helped sustain communities during wartime
periods; further, the chamber sponsors such popular events as Mardi
Gras! Galveston; and
WHEREAS, The Galveston Island Country Music Fest, which is
being held at the Galveston Island Convention Center, will
celebrate the chamber's commitment to the region and will feature
such prominent Texan performers as Drake Milligan and The Powell
Brothers; and
WHEREAS, For nearly two centuries, the Galveston Regional
Chamber of Commerce has played an integral role in the growth and
vitality of the community, and it is indeed deserving of
recognition as it marks this special milestone in its history; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 89th Texas
Legislature hereby commemorate the 180th anniversary of the
Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce and extend to its members
sincere best wishes for continued success in all their endeavors;
and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for the chamber as an expression of high regard by the
Texas House of Representatives.
Leo Wilson
Bonnen
______________________________
Speaker of the House
I certify that H.R. No. 107 was adopted by the House on March
6, 2025, by a non-record vote.
______________________________
Chief Clerk of the House