Commemorating the 25th season of the Austin Symphony Orchestra's Be at the Symphony (BATS) program.

89(R) HR 1459 - Enrolled version - Bill Text

H.R. No. 1459

R E S O L U T I O N

WHEREAS, The Austin Symphony Orchestra's Be at the Symphony

(BATS) organization is celebrating its 25th anniversary during the

2024-2025 season; and

WHEREAS, Established in 1999, BATS inspires young

professionals to engage with and support the orchestral community

in Austin; the idea for the organization was conceived by Tom

Sellers, a longtime patron of the Austin Symphony Orchestra, who

sought to cultivate a new generation of patrons dedicated to

exploring and advocating for the arts; and

WHEREAS, Many of the founding members of BATS continue to

play an active role in the program, contributing meaningfully to

its ongoing development and success; the initiative has thrived

under the guidance of numerous distinguished leaders throughout its

history, including its current president, Laramie Stroud, current

board of directors, Alicia Adkins, Kurtis Friesen, David Glenn,

Ellen Gouws, Benjamin Hartman, Sylvia Mayer, Asha McElfish,

Elizabeth Michael, Sarah Oncken, George Ramon, Kevin Regan,

Jennifer Soto, Ash Williams, and Lola Wilson, and countless past

board members; and

WHEREAS, The BATS program offers its members unique access to

live symphonic performances, including attendance at select

Masterworks Series concerts during the Austin Symphony Orchestra's

performance season; members also participate in a wide range of

enriching experiences, including exclusive social gatherings,

opportunities to meet world-renowned guest artists, conversations

with Maestro Peter Bay, volunteer service at symphony events, and

the chance to connect with a community of music enthusiasts; and

WHEREAS, Over the past two and a half decades, BATS has played

a vital role in promoting Austin's vibrant arts scene and culture,

and it is a pleasure to join in recognizing the organization for its

many contributions; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 89th Texas

Legislature hereby commemorate the 25th season of the Austin

Symphony Orchestra's Be at the Symphony program and extend to all

those associated with the organization sincere best wishes for the

future; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be

prepared for BATS as an expression of high regard by the Texas House

of Representatives.

Darby

______________________________

Speaker of the House

I certify that H.R. No. 1459 was adopted by the House on June

1, 2025, by a non-record vote.

______________________________

Chief Clerk of the House