SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 578 WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to join the citizens of Austin in welcoming the North American Gay Amateur Athletic Alliance to the city for the 40th anniversary Gay Softball World Series, which is taking place August 15 through 20, 2016; and WHEREAS, The North American Gay Amateur Athletic Alliance is a nonprofit organization that consists of more than 800 teams in 45 cities across the United States and Canada; 2016 marks the 40th year that the alliance has hosted a Gay Softball World Series; and WHEREAS, The alliance has worked closely with Softball Austin and the Austin Sports Commission to bring this prominent event to the city; each year, this outstanding annual tournament raises thousands of dollars to support HIV-AIDS organizations and other charitable groups in its host cities; and WHEREAS, The 2016 Gay Softball World Series provides an opportunity for the people of Austin to welcome between 4,000 and 5,000 athletes who make up more than 200 top teams; it is truly fitting that this outstanding tournament receive special recognition; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 84th Legislature, hereby commend the North American Gay Amateur Athletic Alliance on its exemplary work and extend to the participants, sponsors, and organizers of the 2016 Gay Softball World Series best wishes for a successful event; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for the alliance as an expression of high regard from the Texas Senate. Watson ________________________________ President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on April 20, 2015. ________________________________ Secretary of the Senate ________________________________ Member, Texas Senate