WHEREAS, Our society has been enriched by the immigration of
countless people, whose experience and successes have added to the
diversity of our nations' culture and the building of our state's
community; and
WHEREAS, Irish immigrants played a major role in the settling of
the Northwest and the founding of communities where they aspired to
leadership positions and helped forge what would become the distinct
culture of Washington State; and
WHEREAS, The struggles and successes of Saint Patrick demonstrate
integrity, perseverance, and honor, qualities that the Irish people
embrace and that serve as a model for all Washingtonians; and
WHEREAS, Our Emerald City of Seattle parallels not only in name,
but also in social value, the historic example of cultural prowess the
Emerald Isle has demonstrated to the world; and
WHEREAS, In addition to our Irish population, Washington shares
many characteristics with Ireland, including the prominent Irish green
of our flag and our famed potatoes that constitute over twenty percent
of our nation's potato crop; and
WHEREAS, The wild March weather in Olympia creates rainbows that
with any bit o' Irish luck will end in that elusive pot of gold, which
in this time of financial woes might be a wee bit helpful; and
WHEREAS, The establishment of Limerick, Ireland, as the sister city
of Spokane is a model for the expansion of ties with Ireland and a
tribute to our region's expanded connection to the Irish; and
WHEREAS, Eloquence is a trait invaluable to the legislative
process, and since eloquence, as legend has it, can be obtained from
kissing the Blarney Stone, the Stone could be a helpful destination for
all elected officials and public speakers everywhere;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State House of
Representatives recognize the contributions of Irish Americans to the
history and culture of Washington State and encourage all the citizens
of Washington State to join in celebrating Saint Patrick's Day in honor
of all those of Irish descent who proudly call the EverGREEN state
their home.