Virginia

Certificate of Recognition

By the virtue of the authority vested by the Constitution in the Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia, there is hereby officially recognized:

EARTH SCIENCE WEEK

WHEREAS, strong academic preparation is the key to opening doors of opportunity for young people across our great Commonwealth, and parents and teachers across Virginia are helping students reach higher levels of achievement in science through our new and more rigorous Standards of Learning; and

WHEREAS, the study of geology and the other earth sciences is fundamental to the education of the people of our Commonwealth, and the information provided by research in the earth sciences benefits the safety, health and welfare of Virginians; and

WHEREAS, earth sciences supply the foundation of knowledge needed to prepare for and mitigate natural hazards such as floods, droughts, expansive soils and landslides, providing technology that can save lives; and

WHEREAS, the study of earth sciences helps us to address crucial environmental issues including waste disposal and water and air quality; and

WHEREAS, the study of earth sciences is essential to finding, developing and protecting water, mineral and energy resources necessary for Virginia's continued prosperity; and

WHEREAS, earth sciences contribute critical information that enhances our respect, understanding and appreciation of the abundant natural resources in our Commonwealth;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, James S. Gilmore, III, do hereby recognize October 11-15, 1999 as EARTH SCIENCE WEEK in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.
 

James S. Gilmore
(signed)
Governor
Anne P. Petera
(signed)
Secretary of the Commonwealth