TITLE: Congratulating Pat Molak and Mary Jane Nalley on their 40th anniversary as owners of historic Gruene Hall.

SUMMARY: Congratulating Pat Molak and Mary Jane Nalley on their 40th anniversary as owners of historic Gruene Hall.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, Pat Molak and Mary Jane Nalley are celebrating four decades of ownership of historic Gruene Hall in May 2015, and this milestone presents a welcome opportunity to recognize that beloved institution; and WHEREAS, The long and illustrious history of Gruene Hall began in 1878, when its founder, Henry D. Gruene, first opened the establishment; the 6,000-square-foot hall quickly became popular with local residents, who gathered at the hall for weekly dances and a range of community events; and WHEREAS, Gruene Hall was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1975, and soon thereafter, Pat Molak and Mary Jane Nalley bought it and several surrounding buildings in hopes of revitalizing the town; over the decades, the proprietors have transformed the hall into a world-class music venue by featuring a broad spectrum of up-and-coming and established musical acts, including George Strait, Lyle Lovett, Little Richard, Merle Haggard, Garth Brooks, Willie Nelson, the Dixie Chicks, and Doug Miller and the Rhythm Ryders; and WHEREAS, Today, Gruene Hall is one of the oldest continuously operating dance halls in the state, and it is a popular destination for local residents as well as visitors from around the globe; illuminated by the neon glow of vintage advertising signs, photographs of the hundreds of prominent country artists who have graced the stage adorn the walls, chronicling the venue's rich legacy; nearly every night of the year, live bands take the stage, furthering a proud heritage that has spanned nearly 140 years; and WHEREAS, Steeped in tradition, yet as lively and fun as ever, Gruene Hall is one of the Lone Star State's most cherished musical treasures, and it is indeed a pleasure to recognize its owners for their significant contributions to the cultural vitality of Texas; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 84th Texas Legislature hereby congratulate Pat Molak and Mary Jane Nalley on their 40th anniversary as owners of Gruene Hall and extend to them sincere best wishes for the future; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for Mr. Molak and Ms. Nalley as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives. Miller of Comal Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 3036 was adopted by the House on May 30, 2015, by a non-record vote. Chief Clerk of the House