82R5262 BPG-D
By: Naishtat H.R. No. 176
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, The death of Susan Bright of Austin on December 29,
2010, has brought a great loss to the family and friends of this
admired poet, publisher, and activist; and
WHEREAS, A native of Pennsylvania, Susan Safford Bright was
the daughter of William and Ann Bright; she studied at Stanford
University and embarked on a literary career, founding Plain View
Press in 1975; it has released more than 350 titles, including many
by Texas authors; as publisher and editor, Ms. Bright mentored
countless writers, who cherished her advice and kind encouragement;
and
WHEREAS, Ms. Bright inspired a host of readers through her 19
collections of verse; she won three Austin Book Awards and received
the Violet Crown Award from the Writers' League of Texas for Tirades
and Evidence of Grace; her poetry was published in England by
Longram and the Poetry Business Press; and
WHEREAS, For decades, Ms. Bright ardently supported the
environment, peace, and women's issues; she helped organize
conferences, workshops, and such events as the Women's Way
Festival, and she gave generously of her time and talents to the
Coalition for Visible Ballots and the National Ballot Integrity
Project, among other organizations; moreover, she worked
tirelessly to protect Barton Springs, where she swam laps
year-round; she served on the board of the Save Barton Creek
Association and advocated for the springs at city council meetings,
where she sometimes recited poems about the beloved Austin
landmark; in 1990, the Texas Women's Political Caucus gave her its
Woman of the Year Award; and
WHEREAS, This vibrant Texan was the devoted wife of John
Andrews and the proud mother of Daryl Bright Andrews; her warmth and
generosity endeared her to a vast network of friends around the
country; and
WHEREAS, Susan Bright made a lasting impact in the lives of
countless people through her dedication to literature and to myriad
worthy causes, and those who were privileged to share in her love
and affection will forever hold her close in their hearts; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 82nd Texas
Legislature hereby pay tribute to the life of Susan Bright and
extend sincere sympathy to the members of her family: to her
husband, John Andrews; to her son, Daryl Bright Andrews; and to her
many other relatives and friends; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for her family and that when the Texas House of
Representatives adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Susan
Bright.