By Senators Ericksen, Baumgartner, Benton, Rolfes, Billig, Mullet, Padden, Ranker, McAuliffe, and Fraser

WHEREAS, It is the policy of the Washington State Legislature to recognize and honor the contribution of individuals who demonstrate excellence among their peers and inspire others in their community; and

WHEREAS, Don Murdzia, of Bellingham, has been an influential umpire and referee to over 30 schools throughout Washington and beyond; and

WHEREAS, Don's long-standing passion as an athlete, umpire, and referee of three sports allows us to celebrate the outstanding effort of such a passionate individual; and

WHEREAS, A graduate of Ferndale High School, Don lettered in baseball, basketball, football, and track and field in his senior year; and

WHEREAS, Don's passion for sports caught the eye of Milt Clothier, affording him the opportunity to become an umpire in 1959; and

WHEREAS, Don expanded his officiating career in 1963, refereeing for both football and basketball after being recruited by Frank "Moose" Zurlene; and

WHEREAS, Don received The Dave Duvall Meritorious Service Award in 1977 for outstanding service to the Northwest Interscholastic Activities Association for his extensive time and effort in promoting extracurricular activities from within the association; and

WHEREAS, Don's exceptional skills as an umpire earned him the CJ Mitchell Umpire Service Award in the Washington State Baseball Coaches Hall of Fame in 2001; and

WHEREAS, Don's career as an umpire reaches further than Washington State to such places as Australia and Cooperstown, New York, home of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum; and

WHEREAS, At 76 years old, Don continues to umpire baseball and plans a return to football despite a hip revision surgery in September of 2015; and

WHEREAS, Don has distinguished himself from his peers with over 8,200 games, and counting, as an umpire and referee; and

WHEREAS, After a 53 year basketball career, Don has retired in order to, in his words, "smell the roses" and play golf with his sons and grandchildren;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State Senate recognize and honor Don Murdzia for his tremendous passion, dedication, and devotion towards the sports which continue to shape and inspire our youth in Washington State; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Secretary of the Senate to Don Murdzia, Ferndale High School, the Washington State Baseball Coaches Hall of Fame, and the Whatcom Skagit Island Football Officials Association.