SR298 - Recognizing Black Beauty Ranch on the occasion of its 46th anniversary.

          SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 298          WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to   recognize Black Beauty Ranch in Murchison on the occasion of its   46th anniversary; and            WHEREAS, Founded by renowned author and animal welfare   advocate Cleveland Amory in 1979, Black Beauty Ranch is a premier   animal sanctuary that provides a safe haven for animals in need   of rescue, rehabilitation, and lifelong care; operated by the   nonprofit organization Humane World for Animals and named for the   beloved novel by Anna Sewell, the ranch stands as a beacon of hope   and a symbol of compassion for animals freed from cruelty,   neglect, and exploitation; and            WHEREAS, Black Beauty Ranch's history began with the   rescue of 577 burros from the Grand Canyon, a landmark effort   that set the foundation for the ranch's mission to provide   animals with a second chance at life; today, the ranch spans   more than 1,400 acres of natural habitat in Henderson County   and offers a secure refuge for more than 600 animals   representing some 40 different species, including primates,   big cats, bears, horses, bison, reptiles, and livestock; all   animals housed at the facility were rescued from such dire   situations as roadside zoos, the exotic pet trade, circuses,   research laboratories, and hoarding cases; and            WHEREAS, The ranch's dedicated team of animal care   professionals and veterinarians work tirelessly to meet the   physical, behavioral, and emotional needs of every animal in   their care and to ensure they receive not only shelter but also   the resources necessary to experience a higher quality of   life; beyond its work to aid vulnerable animals, the ranch has   been a leader in promoting public education and humane   advocacy through guided tours and educational programs that   help visitors from across Texas and around the world to better   understand the importance of animal protection and   environmental conservation; and            WHEREAS, In 2024, Black Beauty Ranch stepped in to offer   sanctuary to animals following the closure of Puerto Rico's last   remaining zoo, where many had suffered from years of neglect and   inadequate care; this lifesaving effort demonstrated the ranch's   capacity for large-scale rescue operations as part of its   continuing work to protect and rehabilitate wildlife held in   substandard conditions; and            WHEREAS, Over the past 46 years, Black Beauty Ranch has   exemplified the highest standards of animal welfare and ethical   stewardship, and it is indeed fitting that this exemplary   organization receive special recognition for its outstanding   contributions to the well-being of animals; now, therefore, be it            RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 89th   Legislature, hereby commend the staff, volunteers, and   supporters of Black Beauty Ranch on 46 years of exceptional   dedication to the care and protection of animals in need and   extend to all sincere best wishes for continued success; and, be   it further            RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for   the ranch as an expression of esteem from the Texas Senate.     Nichols                 ________________________________          President of the Senate               I hereby certify that the     above Resolution was adopted by     the Senate on March 24, 2025.                 ________________________________          Secretary of the Senate                 ________________________________           Member, Texas Senate