HR391 - Honoring Black Beauty Ranch in Murchison on its 46th anniversary.

      H.R. No. 391       R E S O L U T I O N          WHEREAS, For 46 years, Black Beauty Ranch in Murchison has   provided a safe haven for animals in need of rescue,   rehabilitation, and lifelong care; and          WHEREAS, Founded by renowned author and animal welfare   advocate Cleveland Amory in 1979, Black Beauty Ranch is a premier   animal sanctuary operated by the nonprofit organization Humane   World for Animals; named after the beloved novel by Anna Sewell, the   ranch stands as a symbol of compassion and a beacon of hope 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 habitats in Henderson County and offers a secure refuge for   over 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 tragic   situations such 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 resident,   ensuring they receive not only shelter but also the dignity,   respect, and quality of life they deserve; beyond its service to   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 life-saving 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 a privilege to recognize an organization   that has made such a profound difference in the lives of both   animals and people; now, therefore, be it          RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 89th Texas   Legislature hereby honor Black Beauty Ranch on its 46th anniversary   and commend its staff, volunteers, and supporters for their   exceptional dedication to the care and protection of animals in   need; and, be it further          RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be   prepared for Black Beauty Ranch as an expression of high regard by   the Texas House of Representatives.     Harris     ______________________________   Speaker of the House                 I certify that H.R. No. 391 was adopted by the House on March   13, 2025, by a non-record vote.     ______________________________   Chief Clerk of the House