WHEREAS, Washington has been blessed by local Granges since 1873, and a statewide Grange organization since shortly before the admission of Washington Territory to statehood in 1889; and
     WHEREAS, The Washington State Grange enjoys the distinction of having more Grangers than any other state--currently around 50,000 members of a nationwide total of 350,000 members in 37 states; and
     WHEREAS, The Washington State Grange coordinates the activities of the state's 300 subordinate Granges; and
     WHEREAS, The Grange continues to be a major player in the affairs of our state to the benefit of all Washingtonians; and
     WHEREAS, The Washington State Grange, a nonpartisan, grass roots organization, takes pride in sponsoring a multitude of activities ranging from presenting college scholarships to legislative involvement and coordinating projects and contests; and
     WHEREAS, The Grange continues to maintain a strong and abiding interest in quality of life issues important to rural and urban residents of our state, particularly in agriculture as the industry that feeds the world and deserves our support; and
     WHEREAS, The Washington State Grange invites all state residents to consider becoming members of this progressive, active, and concerned organization; and
     WHEREAS, Governor Gary Locke has proclaimed April 18-24 Grange Week in honor of the accomplishments of the Washington State Grange;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Senate join the Governor in congratulating the Grange on more than 130 years of service in Washington Territory and the State of Washington; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the officers and members of the Washington State Grange be urged to keep up the good and useful work; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Secretary of the Senate transmit a copy of this resolution to State Grange President Terry Hunt at Washington State Grange headquarters in Olympia.