HR1459 - Commemorating the 25th season of the Austin Symphony Orchestra's Be at the Symphony (BATS) program.

      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