79R7985 JNC-D By: Flynn H.R. No. 721R E S O L U T I O N WHEREAS, John and Debbie Phillips, founders of Life Choices, have devoted themselves both to advocating the importance of education and to sponsoring anti-violence initiatives in our nation's high schools; and WHEREAS, Troubling incidences of deadly violence on school campuses in recent years and the prevalence of substance abuse and teenage suicide among students all raise serious concerns about the emotional and psychological well-being of our children, even as we worry about their very physical safety; and WHEREAS, Life Choices, a motivational, multimedia event, employs videos, sketches, and individual stories to promote a brighter future for all of America's youth by deterring destructive decisions; since its inception in 1996, the program has been presented more than 300 times to 250,000 students in 23 states and received recognition from numerous community leaders, police officials, and congressmen; and WHEREAS, Mr. and Mrs. Phillips share their own personal triumphs over serious problems to deliver a message of hope to teens throughout the country; and WHEREAS, The campaign of John and Debbie Phillips to promote healthy alternatives and encourage students is indeed a significant undertaking that will most certainly have a lasting impact, and their important efforts in behalf of young people are truly commendable; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 79th Texas Legislature commend John and Debbie Phillips of the Life Choices program for their noteworthy efforts in behalf of America's youth; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for Mr. and Mrs. Phillips as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives.