HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 99-4628, by Representatives Regala, Skinner, Grant, O'Brien, Dickerson, Santos, Kagi, Lantz, Morris, Kenney, Constantine, Ruderman, Haigh, Buck, Cairnes, Radcliff, Miloscia, Sullivan, Cody, Tokuda, Conway, Lovick, Veloria, Romero, Stensen, Hurst, McIntire, Doumit, K. Schmidt, Gombosky, Linville, Schual‑Berke, Scott, Fisher, Rockefeller, Edmonds, Reardon, Keiser, Quall, G. Chandler, DeBolt, Mitchell, Ballasiotes, Clements, Esser, Barlean, Mastin, Benson, Wensman, Schoesler, Lambert, Hatfield, Pflug, Dunn, Hankins, D. Schmidt, Thomas, Mulliken and McDonald

      WHEREAS, The people of the State of Washington should celebrate CHILDREN as one of the most valuable assets of their society; and

      WHEREAS, CHILDREN represent the future, hope, and inspiration of the people of the State of Washington; and

      WHEREAS, The CHILDREN of the State of Washington should have the right to be cherished and live in an environment that develops their personality; and

      WHEREAS, The CHILDREN of the State of Washington should be allowed to feel that their ideas and dreams will be valued and respected because adults in the society take time to listen; and

      WHEREAS, Many CHILDREN in the State of Washington face crises of grave proportions, especially as they enter adolescent years in a fast-changing and insecure world; and

      WHEREAS, CHILDREN are the responsibility of all the citizens of the State of Washington and everyone should celebrate the CHILDREN of this society, whose questions, laughter, and tears are important to the existence of this society; and

      WHEREAS, CHILDREN of the State of Washington should have the right to an education, wholesome recreation, and a peaceful society; and

      WHEREAS, The state has designated the second Sunday in October to commemorate the CHILDREN of the State of Washington;

      NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives declare that children are out future.  It is vital that they are protected and nurtured.  It is important that we focus on children and their needs, as well as recognize their accomplishments.  The House of Representatives encourages the citizens of Washington to celebrate children on Children's Day and throughout the year by spending more quality time with children and highlighting their special importance.  It is important that we show our support for the youth of the State of Washington.

      I hereby certify this to be a true and correct copy of

      Resolution 4628 adopted by the House of Representatives

                        February 15, 1999.

________________________________     _____________________________

Timothy A. Martin, Co-Chief Clerk    Dean R. Foster Co-Chief Clerk