WHEREAS, According to a new economic study, Washington's tree fruit industry drives nearly six billion dollars per year in the state's economy and provides more than one hundred forty thousand jobs for Washington workers; and
     WHEREAS, The tree fruit industry is rightfully considered the "Boeing of central Washington" and is a major economic engine for the region and the entire state; and
     WHEREAS, The continued vitality of this industry in a global marketplace is necessary not only for those people who are directly employed but also vital for the economic sustainability of local communities and the state;
     WHEREAS, Apples have become a prominent component of health and fitness programs including the goal of eating five fruits and vegetables a day and the "three-Apples-a-Day Plan";
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Senate recognize the valuable contribution that the tree fruit industry makes every year to the production of tasty and nutritious food products and to the economy of the region and of the state; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That a copy of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Secretary of the Senate to the tree fruit industry through the Washington State Horticultural Association.