SENATE RESOLUTION

                         1997-8607

By Senators McDonald, Snyder, Finkbeiner, Sheldon, Prince, Bauer, Roach, Kohl, Rasmussen and Spanel

     WHEREAS, In late November 1996 the eastside of Washington State suffered devastatingly from winter snow and ice storms; and

     WHEREAS, On the days after Christmas 1996, the eastside watched with empathy and compassion as the westside endured its turn facing the full fury of nature=s forces; and

     WHEREAS, The savage winter weather caused 37 of the state=s 39 counties to be declared disaster areas and created a significant disruption to power and communication lines leaving thousands isolated and without electricity; and

     WHEREAS, Local, state and federal agencies and organizations came together in an unprecedented effort to combat the worst winter storm in 115 years allowing an expedited application of personnel and material; and

     WHEREAS, Restoring the operation of these critical systems required an extraordinary commitment from utility personnel that far exceeded previous challenges, many of whom left families during the holidays to work around-the-clock and in dangerous situations to assist others in need; and

     WHEREAS, Mr. Jimmie Dean lost his life performing the duties of his job exemplifying the very best traditions of his chosen profession; and

     WHEREAS, Those heroic efforts, so well-accomplished, prevented or reduced personal suffering and reduced economic loss for so many; and

     WHEREAS, Such efforts deserve the acknowledgment, respect, and admiration of all;

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That, on behalf of this state's residents, the members of the Washington State Senate wish to express our heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed to maintaining and restoring power and communication services throughout this winter's storms; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be communicated by the Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development, to the family of Mr. Jimmie Dean, and to those who truly went the extra mile to help their fellow citizens during this time of need.  To each of you, we say "thank you for a job well done.@

I, Mike O=Connell, Secretary of the Senate,

do hereby certify that this is a true and

correct copy of Senate Resolution 1997-8607,

adopted by the Senate January 24, 1997.

MIKE O=CONNELL

Secretary of the Senate