R E S O L U T I O N

 1-1           WHEREAS, May 1997 has been designated Older Americans Month,

 1-2     and this occasion provides an ideal opportunity to recognize the

 1-3     many accomplishments of these vital and valued citizens throughout

 1-4     Texas and across the nation; and

 1-5           WHEREAS, The blessings of liberty and prosperity we now enjoy

 1-6     as a people are the culmination of the trials and triumphs of

 1-7     previous generations, and in honoring our elders we acknowledge

 1-8     their role in shaping our destiny even as we pay tribute to the

 1-9     rich tapestry of traditions they represent and continue to uphold;

1-10     and

1-11           WHEREAS, The twentieth century has been one of sweeping and

1-12     unprecedented change around the world, and those Americans who have

1-13     lived through this remarkable historical period have much to offer

1-14     in their experience and wisdom; touchstones to an earlier era, they

1-15     are also stirring examples of the willingness and ability to

1-16     embrace new challenges that have characterized our nation's people

1-17     throughout its history; and

1-18           WHEREAS, Even as we are enriched and enlightened by the

1-19     experience of older citizens, we must also acknowledge our great

1-20     debt to them for their many contributions to the common good, and

1-21     it is the equal and necessary responsibility of every American to

1-22     ensure that our eldest compatriots enjoy the security, dignity, and

1-23     quality of life to which their efforts have entitled them; and

1-24           WHEREAS, In paying tribute to the crucial role that older

 2-1     citizens have played in our lives, we not only reaffirm their

 2-2     importance to us but also lay the groundwork to ensure that all

 2-3     Americans can look forward to the respect and regard they deserve

 2-4     as they enter their later years; now, therefore, be it

 2-5           RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 75th Texas

 2-6     Legislature hereby recognize May 1997 as Older Americans Month and

 2-7     encourage its observance across the state of Texas.

                                                                     Staples

                                             _______________________________

                                                   Speaker of the House

               I certify that H.R. No. 789 was adopted by the House on May

         9, 1997, by a non-record vote.

                                             _______________________________

                                                 Chief Clerk of the House