SENATE RESOLUTION

                         1999-8660

By Senators McDonald, Hale, Sellar, Winsley, Zarelli, Honeyford, Finkbeiner, Oke, Sheahan, Swecker, Horn and Johnson

     WHEREAS, Twenty years ago this year, Bill Gates and Paul Allen, both native sons of Washington State, moved home to relocate their small start-up company, Microsoft, in Washington; and

     WHEREAS, Today, twenty years later, the Microsoft Corporation, which has grown to be the world=s largest and most successful software developer and a leader in the high-tech industry is still owned and operated by local people; and

     WHEREAS, Microsoft has led a technological revolution that has changed the world, taking control of knowledge and information from centralized institutions and giving it directly to people in every community on our planet; and

     WHEREAS, Microsoft=s freedom to innovate in the high-tech industry has made Washington state a leader in technology and a recognized international high-tech hub; and

     WHEREAS, The vibrant market for computer technology has resulted in immense benefits to consumers. Consumer products improve constantly giving more power, while prices for software and computers continue to decline; and

     WHEREAS, Microsoft=s talented employees have started other computer-related businesses, such as Real Networks and Free Range Media; and

     WHEREAS, Microsoft is an integral part of Washington State=s economy.  It provides high-paying jobs and solid career opportunities to more than 14,000 Washingtonians and has helped to make Washington State first among states in high-tech average wages; and

     WHEREAS, Microsoft is part of a clean, non-polluting industry and has played a key role in building this industry into the state=s fastest growing business sector; and

     WHEREAS, Microsoft, its executives, and employees provide strong support for our local communities.  They generously and enthusiastically provide leadership and support to enhance Washington State schools, colleges, libraries, community charities and organizations, ranging from early child development, cancer research and the Woodland Park Zoo;

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Senate hereby proclaims its support to the Microsoft Corporation by honoring Microsoft=s past twenty years of innovation, growth, and leadership in Washington State; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Senate supports Microsoft=s freedom to continue to innovate in Washington State; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Senate is committed to working with the Microsoft Corporation to continue the company=s presence and successful partnership with the state of Washington and its citizens as we move into the new millenium.