Geography Awareness Week
By the Governor of the State of Alabama
A Proclamation
November 13, 2008

WHEREAS, Geography has played a defining role in the settlement, history and cultural heritage of the state of Alabama; and

WHEREAS, Understanding geographical concepts is crucial to maintain a balance among the wise use of the State’s natural resources, continued economic prosperity, and the well-being of its citizens; and

WHEREAS, The management, use and exchange of geographic information are essential for effective decision-making by local, state and federal governmental agencies; and

WHEREAS, Computerized Geographic Information System (GIS) technology provides a more efficient and effective means for managing geographic information as compared with traditional cartographic methods; and

WHEREAS, There have been widespread and rapid technological advances in hardware, software, mapping, and communications related to GIS; and

WHEREAS, Extensive efforts are underway around the world to develop, incorporate and utilize GIS technology; and

WHEREAS, There is a need to coordinate these efforts to minimize duplication, reduce costs, develop standards, and to facilitate the sharing and interchanging of GIS data, methods and knowledge; and

WHEREAS, Geography and GIS technology provide the tools for economic and environmental development in Alabama in accordance with the state’s education initiatives, workforce development and the development of overseas trade based on high-technology exports:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Bob Riley, Governor of Alabama, do hereby proclaim November 16 - November 22, 2008 as

Geography Awareness Week

and

November 19, 2008 as

GIS Day

in the State of Alabama and urge all Alabamians to participate in GIS Day activities.

Given Under My Hand and the Great Seal of the Office of the Governor at the State Capitol in the City of Montgomery on the 13th day of November 2008.

Governor Bob Riley

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