Texas House Bill HR 1111

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 7/7/26

Caption

Honoring the Pipe and Drum Corps of Bel Air High School in El Paso on the occasion of the Celebration of Bagpipes event on May 17, 2025.

Summary

H.R. 1111 is a ceremonial House resolution honoring the Bel Air High School Pipe and Drum Corps in El Paso on the occasion of the third annual Celebration of Bagpipes held on May 17, 2025. The resolution recounts the band’s origins, its creation and long-running leadership by educator John Estes, and its many performances at school, civic, and public events over more than six decades. The resolution also highlights the 2025 celebration, which features performances by the Bel Air corps alongside pipe bands from the El Paso Police and Fire Departments, Empyre Pipes and Drums, and other ensembles. It notes that proceeds from the event benefit the John Estes Scholarship, which supports a graduating piper or drummer continuing their education, and recognizes Mr. Estes’s planned appearance to announce the scholarship recipient.

Impact

This resolution does not change state law, create regulatory requirements, or appropriate funds. Its effect is purely honorary: it formally recognizes the Bel Air Pipe and Drum Corps and directs that an official copy be prepared as an expression of esteem from the Texas House of Representatives. The practical impact is limited to public recognition of the program, its scholarship effort, and its role in the El Paso community.

Sentiment

The sentiment around the resolution is strongly positive and celebratory. It was adopted by the House by a non-record vote, indicating broad, uncontested support. The language of the resolution emphasizes pride, tradition, and appreciation for the corps’ long service to the school and community.

Contention

There is no notable policy contention in the bill or its passage. Because the measure is a commemorative resolution rather than substantive legislation, it does not appear to have generated debate over legal or fiscal effects. The only substantive details are the historical and community acknowledgments of the band, its scholarship, and the Celebration of Bagpipes event.