HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 98-4681, by Representative Delvin

     WHEREAS, Mighty rivers began shaping the State of Washington thousands of years ago, creating an area of exceptional natural beauty at the confluence of the Yakima, Snake, and Columbia Rivers; and

     WHEREAS, Washington citizens' universal connection to the water is an abundantly powerful force; and

     WHEREAS, No single resource in the great State of Washington influences the region's culture and way of life as its rivers do; and

     WHEREAS, Washington's mighty rivers are the lifeblood of the Pacific Northwest which immeasurably add to the state's economy and the quality of life enjoyed by all the state's citizens; and

     WHEREAS, Washington's rivers provide an abundant supply of spectacular fish including steelhead, salmon, and chinook, recognized  delicacies throughout the United States and the world; and

     WHEREAS, The Columbia, Snake, and Yakima Rivers offer unique water resources with enormous potential as tourist attractions and recreational venues; and

     WHEREAS, A year-long celebration is planned by the Tri-Cities communities of Kennewick, Pasco, and Richland to encourage extended use of the river parks and waterfront areas for special events and celebrations to highlight these rivers as great assets; and

     WHEREAS, The celebration will accelerate the completion of river-related public works projects and amenities to enhance the riverfront areas, increase tourism, and foster economic diversity;

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives in order to encourage the citizens of Washington to preserve the natural beauty of the Columbia, Snake, and Yakima Rivers; and in recognition of the great import these mighty rivers are to the Tri-Cities region and to the great State of Washington declare 1998, "The Year of the River."

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