CALL FOR INDEPENDENCE
Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum Foundation Hosts Texas Independence Day Dinner
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Chris Caselli and Thao Nguyen
THE SETTING: The Bob Bullock Museum Texas State History Museum in Austin was the recent setting of the 16th annual Texas Independence Day Dinner. Over 350 of the state’s most notable sociables, dignitaries and philanthropists were on hand to celebrate the indomitable Texas spirit by honoring Texans who have made their mark in solidifying the Lone Star state as the dynamic place we call home.
THE STYLE: The excitement for the evening was brimming even before patrons stepped into the Bullock, where partygoers received the red carpet treatment posing for photos against a lush, green backdrop framed by a Texas Lone Star. Once inside, revelers headed up the grand staircase of the Bullock for a lively cocktail hour where old friends from all corners of the state reacquainted, and new friendships were established.
The action then moved downstairs to the atrium of the Bullock for the evening’s program. As guests dined on a multicourse meal, they were treated to moving video tributes of each of the honorees. The first honoree, James Allison, Ph.D., won the Nobel Prize for his innovative discoveries in treating cancer. The second honorees were art and art education advocates and philanthropists, Edith and Peter O’Donnell, Jr. As the festivities ended, each person fortunate enough to be a part of such a special evening, left the event with a sense of pride in knowing how Texans positively impact the world in such diverse ways.
THE PURPOSE: The gala, chaired by Lynn McBee, with Jan Bullock serving as honorary chair, raised over $810,000 for the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum’s educational programs and special projects. Each year the Bullock Museum welcomes over 90,000 field trip participants throughout the state of Texas, plus an additional 16,000 students through distance learning programs.
