H.R. No. 377R E S O L U T I O N WHEREAS, Nine decades of living a productive and satisfying life is truly a reason for celebration, and on February 26, 2005, Alwana Vaughan, affectionately known as Graham's Ambassador of Music, is observing this significant milestone; and WHEREAS, The delightful nonagenarian can claim as her grandfather John Henderson Wood, an Indian scout, Texas Ranger, and brick maker whose fine work may be seen today in a number of buildings still in use along the streets of Graham; and WHEREAS, Mrs. Vaughan and her husband, Lilburn, enjoyed a rewarding marriage for 58 years, until his passing, and although she had no children of her own, she has been adored by countless young people who took music lessons from her or benefited from her support of school activities; and WHEREAS, Never a shrinking violet, Mrs. Vaughan is an accomplished performer who readily took to the stage early on, and her impressive talents, in addition to piano playing, included singing on a radio show, winning a Charleston contest, and conducting the Graham Toy Symphony Band; and WHEREAS, For 31 years, this generous soul enthusiastically shared her passion for music by teaching boys and girls of all aptitude levels; the respect and encouragement she gave each student surely fostered not only music appreciation but self-confidence and larger life lessons, as well; and WHEREAS, Since retiring in 1976, Mrs. Vaughan has continued to be involved with student council endeavors and musical productions at Graham High School, where she is an honorary member of the GHS Thespian Society and the band, and has volunteered as musical director and choreographer of the thespians' All-American Girl Pageant for three decades; and WHEREAS, Her musical talent has enhanced a host of local events, including the city's centennial celebration in 1972, a plethora of weddings and funerals, the Rotary Follies, events sponsored by the chamber of commerce, the Lady Lions and Kiwanis clubs, the First Baptist Church, of which she has been a member for 77 years, and the First United Methodist Church, and a multitude of luncheons; and WHEREAS, An honorary Rotarian and organizer of the local chapter of the National Society of the Children of the American Revolution, Mrs. Vaughan is a 50-year member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and a charter member of the Graham Hospital Auxiliary and the Graham Concert Association; and WHEREAS, Recognized for her immeasurable contributions to her fellow residents of Graham, Mrs. Vaughan has deservedly received many accolades, including a 2000 Hero for Children Award presented for her donation of time and talents to education, and two Outstanding Citizen awards by the Graham Chamber of Commerce; and WHEREAS, Alwana Vaughan exemplifies the virtues of generosity, dedication, and community spirit, and it is a distinct pleasure to join in honoring her; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 79th Texas Legislature hereby heartily congratulate Alwana Vaughan on her 90th birthday and commend her for her exceptional contributions to her community; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for Mrs. Vaughan as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives. Hardcastle ______________________________ Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 377 was adopted by the House on February 17, 2005, by a non-record vote. ______________________________ Chief Clerk of the House