WHEREAS, Washington hospitality is the industry that serves. It cares about its people, growing careers, and giving back to local communities; and

WHEREAS, Our collective interest in food, beverages, and lodging accommodations are a part of the past, present, and future of our state; and

WHEREAS, As an industry filled with opportunity and hope, hospitality is driven by the passion, determination, and spirit of nearly three hundred thousand people in local communities across the state; and

WHEREAS, Jobs in hospitality can positively transform lives. From first jobs to second chances at employment and lifelong careers. There is a place for everyone in hospitality; and

WHEREAS, A majority of the owners and operators who are attending Hill Climb today began as dishwashers and front desk clerks. Their success is not by chance — they have worked hard to get to where they are today; and

WHEREAS, Hospitality businesses give back to their communities by supporting local youth sports teams, reading programs, and teachers, donating to local nonprofits and providing food and beverages for community events; and

WHEREAS, These same businesses also give back to the state. In 2017, the hospitality industry generated 1.3 billion dollars in sales tax and Business & Occupation Tax revenue; and

WHEREAS, As the hospitality industry makes up 10.1 percent of the total workforce in Washington, hospitality employers are just as passionate about their team members as they are with any other part of their business. Strong and cohesive teams are essential to succeeding in the industry; and

WHEREAS, Hospitality is a part of the fabric of America with 24.3 percent of the workforce born outside the United States and these employees, like any other, are empowered to rise through the career ladder; and

WHEREAS, Diversity and representation within the industry continues to grow. Nearly one-third of lodging establishments and restaurants are owned by women and additionally, nearly thirty percent of hospitality businesses are minority-owned; and

WHEREAS, The Washington Hospitality Association is proud to serve more than six thousand five hundred small, medium, and large hospitality members in Washington state; and

WHEREAS, January 28, 2019, marks the twenty-second Hill Climb for the organization, the largest grassroots day on the hill for the hospitality industry;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State Senate recognize the positive impact of the hospitality industry in communities across Washington as it continues to create jobs and contribute to the strength and economic vitality of our state; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Secretary of the Senate to the membership of the Washington Hospitality Association, and Washington Hospitality Association president and CEO, Anthony Anton.