HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 97-4671, by Representatives Sehlin and Anderson

     WHEREAS, May 15th marks the tenth Anniversary of Navy Kids' Day at Whidbey Island Naval Air Station; and

     WHEREAS, This day brings joy, smiles, and self-esteem to as many as seven hundred special-needs children every year; and

     WHEREAS, Founder Harvey Jansma of Camano Island and hundreds of volunteers help organize the annual event; and

     WHEREAS, The children enjoy a free lunch, live entertainment, music, aerial displays, and hands-on opportunities to explore aircraft, parachutes, and Navy equipment; and

     WHEREAS, A uniformed Navy or Marine escort is matched with each child for the day, leading to new friendships and pen pal correspondence;

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State House of Representatives does hereby honor Harvey Jansma for his tireless dedication and commitment to special-needs children; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives also recognize cocoordinator Sara McGruder, the men and women of Whidbey Island Naval Air Station, and the hundreds of volunteers responsible for the annual success of Navy Kids' Day.

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