82R11692 BGU-D
By: Davis of Dallas H.R. No. 654
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, Eight accomplished public servants are being
honored by the Texas Legislative Black Caucus on February 28 as
recipients of a 2011 Trailblazer Award; and
WHEREAS, This notable accolade is given to individuals who
ably served the citizens of this state as members of the Texas House
and who also shared their valuable insight and wisdom through their
participation in the Texas Legislative Black Caucus; this year's
outstanding honorees include former state representatives Fred
Blair (1987-1993), Lanell Cofer (1977-1983), Zan W. Holmes, Jr.
(1968-1973), Samuel Hudson III (1973-1997), Jesse Jones
(1993-2007), Jerald H. Larry (1987-1993), Jesse D. Oliver
(1983-1987), and Paul Ragsdale (1973-1987); and
WHEREAS, Among this distinguished roster of state
legislators are the Honorable Samuel Hudson and the Honorable Paul
Ragsdale who, together with the Honorable Senfronia Thompson, Eddie
Bernice Johnson, Anthony Hall, Mickey Leland, Craig Washington, and
G. J. Sutton, formed the Texas Legislative Black Caucus in 1973 as
a means by which to address issues faced by African Americans across
the Lone Star State; and
WHEREAS, Over the course of their exemplary tenure in state
government, each of the 2011 Trailblazers made many significant
contributions to the betterment of life in their communities and
beyond, and they opened doors of opportunity and empowered
countless people through their commitment toward achieving the goal
of a more just and equitable society; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 82nd Texas
Legislature hereby congratulate Fred Blair, Lanell Cofer, Zan
W. Holmes, Jr., Samuel Hudson III, Jesse Jones, Jerald H. Larry,
Jesse D. Oliver, and Paul Ragsdale on their receipt of a 2011
Trailblazer Award from the Texas Legislative Black Caucus and
commend these inspiring leaders for the profound difference they
have made in the lives of their fellow Texans; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for the honorees as an expression of high regard by the
Texas House of Representatives.