81R6534 JNC-D

By: Harper-Brown H.R. No. 286

R E S O L U T I O N

WHEREAS, During the past two decades, the Irving Arts Center has fostered an appreciation for artistic endeavor and offered area residents the opportunity to experience art in a variety of mediums; and

WHEREAS, A vibrant arts community is one of the hallmarks of a civilized society, and Irving's citizens have sought to promote and nurture the arts through the establishment of the City of Irving Arts Board; this 11-member body opened the first phase of the Irving Arts Center in 1986, and oversaw its completion four years later; and

WHEREAS, Today, the center offers two state-of-the-art theaters, four galleries, meeting, classroom, reception, and rehearsal facilities, and a sculpture garden; more than 20 rotating exhibitions are featured each year, and in fiscal year 2007, the center hosted more than 250 symphonic presentations, theatrical productions, and other performing arts events; and

WHEREAS, Area youth find opportunities for self-expression through the KidsArts program, which includes story times, live performances, Saturday School, summer camp, Family Fundays, and free festivals; and

WHEREAS, In 2007, the center was named an affiliate of the Smithsonian Museum, becoming one of only 159 facilities nationwide to earn that honor; and

WHEREAS, The Irving Arts Center provides a wealth of cultural opportunities to the residents of North Texas, and it has truly become a treasured centerpiece of the Irving community; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 81st Texas Legislature hereby honor the Irving Arts Center and extend to all those associated with this noteworthy institution sincere best wishes for continued success; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for the center as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives.