Senate Resolution 18

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND CONGRATULATING JARVIS MCINNIS OF GULFPORT, MISSISSIPPI, THE BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS 2005 YOUTH OF THE YEAR.

WHEREAS, Jarvis McInnis of Gulfport, Mississippi, has been chosen as the Boys & Girls Clubs of Mississippi Youth of the Year for 2005, and will represent the state in the Southeast Regional competition; and

WHEREAS, the 17-year-old son of Harry and Pamela McInnis, Jarvis has been a member of the Forest Heights Unit of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Gulf Coast for nine years. Jarvis holds his family close and makes every effort to be there for them, physically, emotionally and spiritually. He is a member of the Mercy Seat Missionary Baptist Church, where he is involved in the Youth Department and Youth Choir; and

WHEREAS, at his Club, Jarvis is instrumental in the choir, Keystone Club, and community projects. He spends time at the Club mentoring and tutoring other members and strongly believes that serving others is the key to great things. In the community, Jarvis is involved in TITANS, the March of Dimes Youth Leadership Council, Toys for Tots and WHY (Workers Helping Youth); and

WHEREAS, in his Senior year at Harrison Central High School, Jarvis has already been selected President of the Student Body. He is an active member of the Club of Performing Arts, Key Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Future Business Leaders of America and the Spanish Honor Society, while maintaining a 4.12 GPA. He recently participated in the Mississippi Boys' State Program and was selected as one of two Senators to attend the Boys Nation Program in Washington, D.C. His goal is to pursue a degree in Political Science and eventually earn a law degree. Jarvis has a remarkable story. As a child, he struggled with a speech impediment. Fortunately, Jarvis found much-needed support at his Boys & Girls Club. As his confidence grew, so did his self-esteem and he became a role model, teaching younger members the importance of tolerance; and

WHEREAS, the Boys & Girls Clubs of America's "Youth of the Year" recognition program promotes and celebrates club members' service to club, community and family; academic performance; spiritual values; life goals; and poise and public speaking ability. Local Clubs recognize Youths of the Month and select a Youth of the Year, who then participates in state competition and receives a $1,500.00 scholarship. State winners participate in regional competition. Five regional winners each receive a $5,000.00 scholarship and compete on the national level. The National Youth of the Year receives an additional $10,000.00 scholarship and is installed by the President of the United States. The Youth of the Year Program, in existence for more than 50 years, is sponsored by the Readers Digest Association; and

WHEREAS, it is with pride that we recognize the accomplishments of this young Mississippian, who is becoming a contributing citizen to our state and brings honor to his community:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do commend and congratulate Jarvis McInnis of Gulfport, Mississippi, the Boys & Girls Clubs 2005 Youth of the Year, and extend to him and his family the best wishes of the Senate on his future academic and civic endeavors.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That this resolution be presented to Jarvis McInnis and be made available to the Capitol Press Corps.