H.R. No. 651
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, The Texas House of Representatives takes pleasure in
recognizing public radio station KUT-FM on the occasion of its 50th
anniversary; and
WHEREAS, Through the efforts of a group of students at The
University of Texas and radio-television-film Professor Robert
Schenkkan, KUT went on the air in November of 1958 as a full-power
FM radio station; it has grown from a 4,000-watt station with a
range of 15 miles to one with 100,000 watts that reaches 500,000
people each week over the air, online, through two additional
digital channels, and through nationally syndicated original
programming; and
WHEREAS, Initially run by student volunteers, KUT-FM now
employs 65 professionals and continues its collaboration with the
university's journalism school through a competitive internship
program; and
WHEREAS, The news department, added in 2002 to expand news
coverage in the Central Texas area, has received more than 50 state,
national, and international awards, including 12 Edward R. Murrow
awards for journalistic excellence; and
WHEREAS, From its beginning as a mostly classical station
operating three hours per night, the station has evolved over the
years with the interests of its listeners, whose donations make up
the bulk of the station's budget; it now provides news and
information, public affairs programming, and a variety of music
programming, as well as National Public Radio's popular programs
Morning Edition and All Things Considered; and
WHEREAS, Central Texas is fortunate to have such a dedicated
and talented group of broadcasting professionals and students who
supply entertainment, information, and inspiration through
programming that is now aired around the clock; now, therefore, be
it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 81st Texas
Legislature hereby commend all those associated with KUT-FM for the
many contributions the public radio station has made to the
cultural life of Central Texas and extend to them congratulations
on KUT's 50th anniversary celebration; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of
Representatives.
Naishtat
______________________________
Speaker of the House
I certify that H.R. No. 651 was adopted by the House on
February 26, 2009, by a non-record vote.
______________________________
Chief Clerk of the House