SENATE RESOLUTION

                            8724

By Senators West, Hewitt, Sheahan, McCaslin, Morton, Brown, Sheldon, B. and Johnson

     WHEREAS,  there are two-hundred local Chambers of Commerce in the state of Washington representing approximately 54,000 small businesses which, in turn, employ over 2.8 million citizens; and

     WHEREAS, Washington State Chambers raise over twenty-five million dollars annually for local community enrichment projects, involving more than fourteen-thousand volunteers who give generously of their time and talent; and

     WHEREAS, Washington State Chambers managed in excess of three  million visitor and relocation inquiries last year, and, at the same time served over 30,000 businesses seeking information about locating their companies in our state; and

     WHEREAS,  During 2001, approximately two-hundred and fifty  new businesses opened their doors in Washington, assisted by their local Chamber of Commerce, creating more than 5,000 new jobs for our citizens; and

     WHEREAS, Chambers of Commerce across Washington State have served their local communities with distinction, dedication, and dignity, enhancing the state=s economy and improving the quality of life for its citizens;

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED,  That the Washington State Senate officially recognize the invaluable work local Chambers of Commerce provide both the economy and the citizens of this state; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be immediately transmitted to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Washington D.C., by the Secretary of the Senate.

I, Tony M. Cook, Secretary of the Senate,

do hereby certify that this is a true and

correct copy of Senate Resolution 8724,

adopted by the Senate January 23, 2002.

TONY M. COOK

Secretary of the Senate