SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 534

WHEREAS, The 4-H Youth Development Program of Texas had its beginning in 1908 with the founding of the Jack County Boy's Corn Club by Thomas M. Marks, who taught 25 farm boys how to grow corn using improved production methods; and

WHEREAS, Establishment of the Milam County Girl's Tomato Clubs by Edna Trigg followed in 1912, through which girls learned better production and canning methods for homegrown tomatoes; and

WHEREAS, Learning opportunities for African American boys and girls were initiated in 1914 by the forerunner of Prairie View A&M University; youths learned to grow vegetable gardens and raise poultry to supplement their family diets; and

WHEREAS, The Texas 4-H Youth Development Program known today evolved from these educational outreach efforts and movements throughout the 1920s to begin similar youth groups; and

WHEREAS, The 4-H pledge and motto extol wise and productive use of the four Hs, which stand for Head, Heart, Hands, and Health in order "To Make The Best Better"; and

WHEREAS, The 4-H Youth Development Program prepares Texas youths for the future by helping them to practice life skills, develop strong character, and improve their readiness for the workplace and college; and

WHEREAS, The members of 4-H and their families have made many worthwhile contributions to the citizens of Texas and this nation, and they continue to do so today through programs such as Operation Military Kids, which supports young people who have parents serving in the military or the reserves; and

WHEREAS, During its history in Texas, 4-H has involved more than six million boys and girls in educational and developmental programs, which have contributed significantly to the quality of life for these young people and their families; and

WHEREAS, These programs are conducted by extension employees and extension-trained volunteers under the administration of the Texas Cooperative Extension and the Prairie View A&M Cooperative Extension Program, both of which are part of the Texas A&M University System; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 80th Legislature, hereby proclaim the period from September 1, 2007, to August 31, 2008, the Centennial Anniversary of 4-H in Texas and recognize extension employees and volunteers who support 4–H for their commendable service to the people of this state and to almost 659,000 Texas youths currently enrolled in the 4-H Youth Development Program; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared in honor of the 4-H Youth Development Program of Texas. Estes

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on March 21, 2007.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate