WHEREAS, People of all ethnic and cultural heritage live in Washington State, sharing their traditions, histories, and cultures with the citizens of our state; and

WHEREAS, The State of Washington recognizes the great cultural contributions made by the many generations and individuals of Norwegian descent residing in our state, particularly in Ballard; and

WHEREAS, Since 1889, the greater Seattle area and beyond have joined in celebrating Norway's Constitution Day on the 17th of May by hosting a 17th of May, or "Syttende Mai," Festival and parade in Ballard to honor the day in 1814 when Norway declared its independence by signing its constitution, making this the 126th anniversary of the Festival; and

WHEREAS, The Ballard 17th of May parade is one of the largest ethnic parades in the United States, and the largest 17th of May parade outside of Oslo, Norway; and

WHEREAS, On the 17th of May the Ballard community will join together to participate in a wide range of cultural festivities and events in celebration of all that is Norwegian;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State Senate honor Norway's Constitution Day, May 17, 2015, and encourage all citizens of Washington State to join in celebrating the culture and heritage of Norway.

I, Hunter G. Goodman, Secretary of the Senate,

do hereby certify that this is a true and

correct copy of Senate Resolution 8649,

adopted by the Senate

March 30, 2015

HUNTER G. GOODMAN

Secretary of the Senate