H.R. No. 3036
R E S O L U T I O N
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