H.R. No. 696 R E S O L U T I O N WHEREAS, February 21 to 28, 2015, has been set aside as National FFA Week, and in conjunction with this observance, members, advisors, and guests of the Texas FFA Association are gathering in Austin on February 24, 2015, to celebrate Texas FFA Day at the State Capitol; and WHEREAS, For nearly 100 years, FFA has helped youth develop knowledge and skills related to agriculture, food, and natural resources; the FFA program is integral to a three-part educational model that also encompasses classroom instruction and supervised agricultural experiences, which may include such activities as starting a business or working in production or for an established company; and WHEREAS, This noteworthy organization fosters good citizenship and strong leadership in Texas schools, and over the course of its long history, it has produced many outstanding community, state, and national leaders of industry, education, and government, including many members who have served in this chamber; and WHEREAS, The largest FFA organization in the country, the Texas association has more than 106,000 members and is guided by elected officers who each represent one of the state's 10 FFA areas; each year, the organization awards more than $2 million in scholarships to deserving members who have demonstrated academic excellence, career readiness, and preparation for effective civic engagement; and WHEREAS, The Texas FFA Association contributes immeasurably to the success of agricultural, career, and technical education, and in so doing, it has greatly enhanced the prosperity of the Lone Star State; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 84th Texas Legislature hereby recognize February 24, 2015, as Texas FFA Day at the State Capitol and extend to all those participating sincere best wishes for an informative and enjoyable event; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for the Texas FFA Association as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives. Aycock ______________________________ Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 696 was adopted by the House on March 5, 2015, by a non-record vote. ______________________________ Chief Clerk of the House