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

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

FULL TEXT:
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