WHEREAS, Larry Sheahan has shown a strong dedication to
representing Eastern Washington and has exemplified the qualities of
being an elected official; and
WHEREAS, Larry is a true native Washingtonian, being born in
Spokane on December 3, 1959, and raised in Rosalia, Washington; and
WHEREAS, Larry graduated class valedictorian in 1978 among peers,
friends, and family; and
WHEREAS, Being a true Cougar, Larry enrolled in Washington State
University to earn a bachelor of arts degree in political science and
was the recipient of the 1982 Outstanding Senior Award; and
WHEREAS, It has been reported that Larry never missed a Cougar
football or basketball game while at college; and
WHEREAS, Larry continued with his education and received his law
degree from the Willamette University College of Law and then quickly
returned to Washington; and
WHEREAS, Larry's illustrious political career began as a wide-eyed
and idealistic Senate intern for former Senator Linda Smith; and
WHEREAS, Larry then came to Olympia as a legislative assistant to
9th Legislative District Senator Pat Patterson, where he served as a
trusted and loyal confidant for three sessions; and
WHEREAS, Larry ran for office in 1992 and has since represented the
citizens of the 9th Legislative District in the House of
Representatives and the Washington State Senate for the past 12 years
with distinction, honor, and vigilance; and
WHEREAS, Since coming to the Legislature, Larry has dedicated
himself to improving schools, increasing access to health care, and
strengthening the agricultural industry; and
WHEREAS, Larry's role as Senate Republican Floor Leader, with both
his calming demeanor and sharp legal mind, has helped move legislation
on the floor of the Senate for several years; and
WHEREAS, Larry is known among his fellow colleagues as a dedicated
and hardworking public servant; and
WHEREAS, After much thought and contemplation, Larry has chosen to
take his experience, his knowledge, and his passion for serving the
people of Eastern Washington to our nation's assembly in Washington
D.C.; and
WHEREAS, Larry will continue to have the support and encouragement
of his lovely wife, Lura, and daughters Anna and Stephan;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, By the Senate of the State of
Washington, that Senator Larry Sheahan be congratulated and honored for
his prominent achievements and outstanding contributions to the State
of Washington; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be
immediately transmitted to Senator Larry Sheahan, his wife, Lura, his
daughters, Anna Lawson and Stephan Adams, and his parents, Don and
Wanda Sheahan.