HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 95-4643, by Representatives K. Schmidt, Robertson, Lambert, Dyer, Chandler, Cooke, Thompson, Campbell and Smith

       WHEREAS, It is the policy of the Washington State Legislature to recognize excellence in all fields of endeavor; and

       WHEREAS, Mike Padden began his illustrious and distinguished legislative career with the Washington State House of Representatives, as 4th District Representative, and as one of nineteen Republican freshmen in the class of 1980 at which time he enjoyed the luxury of being part of the Bill Polks majority; and

       WHEREAS, State Representative Mike Padden was tempered by twelve years in the minority serving under three Speakers, representing the loyal opposition both on the floor and as the ranking member on the Judiciary Committee; and

       WHEREAS, In 1994, the voters returned Mike Padden to Olympia to once again return to the majority and to serve as the Chair of the Law and Justice Committee and as majority Floor Leader; and

       WHEREAS, Mike Padden became a leader not only in the legislature but state-wide as well, helping to craft and implement outstanding and enduring public policy in a variety of areas, working for the public good, responding to constituents, fostering trust and integrity in government, and faithfully steadfast to conscience; and

       WHEREAS, Mike Padden has tendered his resignation as State Representative in order to accept a judicial appointment as District Court Judge for the County of Spokane, State of Washington; and

       WHEREAS, Mike Padden is one of the last Troglodytes in the legislature, so named by Governor John Spellman, because he signed a letter asking the Speaker of the House of Representatives to look for cuts in the budget before any tax increases; and

       WHEREAS, Although inuring a great benefit to the citizens of Spokane County and the Judiciary, it is with deep and sincere regret that the House of Representatives has learned of Representative Padden's resignation and without equivocation the House of Representatives will experience an inestimable and irreplaceable loss from these hallowed chambers; and

       WHEREAS, The respect and admiration for Representative Padden will continue to radiate with time and will not diminish upon his absence and his work and accomplishments will be an abiding standard of ideal and attainment for legislative challenges to come;

       NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the state of Washington honor the excellence in service and untold legislative and personal accomplishments and contributions by State Representative Mike Padden to his office, his constituents and colleagues, and especially to the citizens of this great state of Washington; and

       BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the state of Washington extend the very best wishes to Mike Padden, his wife Laura, and their five sons, Justin, Shaun, Andy, Timothy, and Brendan; and

       BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution be immediately transmitted by the Chief Clerk of the House of Representatives to Mike Padden.

              I hereby certify this to be a true and correct copy of

              Resolution 4643 adopted by the House of Representatives

                                  March 27, 1995.

                         ________________________________

                          Timothy A. Martin, Chief Clerk