SENATE RESOLUTION

                         1997-8605

By Senators Hochstatter and McAuliffe

     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 Secretary of the Senate of the State of Washington shall be designated the "open book" of the Senate, distributing Year of the Reader stickers and other information to visitors; and

     WHEREAS, Members of the Senate 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 Senate 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, Mike O=Connell, Secretary of the Senate,

do hereby certify that this is a true and

correct copy of Senate Resolution 1997-8605,

adopted by the Senate January 20, 1997.

MIKE O=CONNELL

Secretary of the Senate