HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 97-4603, by Representatives Johnson, Hickel, Sump, Radcliff, Talcott, Benson, Mulliken, Smith, Sterk, Thompson, Hatfield, Cole, Keiser, Quall, Veloria, Linville, Cooke, Cairnes, Crouse, Chandler, McMorris, Dunn, Pennington, K. Schmidt, Mitchell, Hankins, Schoesler, Wolfe, Carlson, Honeyford, Reams, Sheldon, Lambert, Sherstad, Lantz, Bush, Lisk, Van Luven, Sheahan, Huff, Backlund, Gardner, D. Schmidt, Conway, Ogden, L. Thomas, B. Thomas, Dyer, McDonald, Morris, Mason and Kenney

      WHEREAS, The Governor and Legislature have designated 1997 as the Year of the Reader to promote the joys and successes of reading at any age; and

      WHEREAS, The Legislature recognizes that the ability to read with comprehension and skill is essential for success in school and future life, and that the ability to read is critical to personal, family, and the state's economic prosperity; and

      WHEREAS, A year-long state-wide cooperative effort between schools, parents, literacy agencies, libraries, the media, businesses, government, and social and health services will recognize reading efforts and successes; and

      WHEREAS, The Chief Clerk of the House of Representatives of the State of Washington shall be designated the "open book" of the House of Representatives, distributing Year of the Reader stickers and other information to visitors; and

      WHEREAS, Members of the House of Representatives are encouraged to contribute to the state's effort in their home districts by using the logo and theme throughout the year and by lending their support to reading, literacy, and other educational efforts; and

      WHEREAS, Citizens of the State of Washington are encouraged through a state-wide, coordinated year-long schedule of events to celebrate reading;

      NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives declare the official beginning of the Year of the Reader in Washington State, and urge all citizens to open a book and read, today, throughout the year, and every day of their lives.

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

      Resolution 4603 adopted by the House of Representatives

                         January 20, 1997.

                 ________________________________

                  Timothy A. Martin, Chief Clerk