[Congressional Bills 108th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H. Res. 399 Engrossed in House (EH)]


                 In the House of Representatives, U.S.,

                                                        April 27, 2004.
Whereas Melvin Jones was born in the Cavalry Outpost at Fort Thomas, Arizona, on 
        January 13, 1879;
Whereas Melvin Jones experienced early success in the insurance industry and 
        that success led to his sole ownership of an insurance agency;
Whereas although many business clubs of the time exhibited a self-interested 
        attitude, Melvin Jones had a vision of an organization of businessmen 
        focused on volunteerism and community service;
Whereas the Association of Lions Clubs, known today as Lions Clubs 
        International, was begun on June 17, 1917, when 20 delegates gathered in 
        the East Room of the Hotel LaSalle in Chicago;
Whereas, while Melvin Jones passed away on June 1, 1961, his legacy lives on;
Whereas, for over 85 years, Lions Clubs International has honored Melvin Jones' 
        legacy by following the simple rule that he insisted be included in the 
        organization's Constitution: ``No club shall hold out as one of its 
        objects, financial benefits to its members.'';
Whereas Lions Clubs International counts over 46,000 clubs and 1.4 million 
        members, and constitutes the largest network of service clubs in the 
        world; and
Whereas Lions Clubs International continues to embrace its motto ``We Serve'' by 
        performing a wide range of services, including cleaning local parks, 
        supporting advances in medical technology, bringing sight to the blind, 
        mentoring children, and organizing Liberty Day celebrations: Now, 
        therefore, be it
    Resolved, That the House of Representatives--
            (1) honors the life and legacy of volunteerism and community service 
        of Melvin Jones; and
            (2) recognizes the contributions and service of Lions Clubs 
        International to communities and those in need throughout the world.
            Attest:

                                                                          Clerk.