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Oak Harbor students’ bill
designating orca as state mammal
signed into law
Standing with their
parents and their teacher, Bonnie Alanis, second- and third-grade
students from Crescent Harbor Elementary School, Oak Harbor, watched
today as Gov. Christine Gregoire signed a bill making the orca the
official marine mammal of Washington.
The signing of House Bill
1759, co-sponsored by
Rep. Barbara Bailey, R-Oak Harbor, and Rep. Chris Strow, R-Clinton, was the culmination of two years of efforts by the
students.
"This was an amazing
civics lesson which gave these children an opportunity to see firsthand
how laws are made and become a part of Washington’s history," said
Bailey. "It was wonderful to see the look on each of their faces today
as they toured the Capitol building, met the governor, and watched their
bill being signed into law."
"It’s been just great to see the enthusiasm from the students," said
Strow. "This is an excellent example of how open the democratic process
is to Washington citizens."
The project began in 2003
when a library assistant approached Alanis to see if her class would
like to propose legislation making the orca the state’s marine mammal.
Soon afterward, the students collected more than 1,000 signatures from
citizens throughout Western Washington who supported their efforts to
promote the orca bill.
The measure was first
introduced in January 2004, but time ran out in the session before the
bill could move forward. This year, it was reintroduced and adopted by
both the House and Senate.
"Each of these students, their parents and teachers at Crescent Harbor
Elementary should be proud of the work they have done to accomplish this
goal. It demonstrates that anyone, even young children, can make a
difference in government," added Bailey.
When the students arrived
at the Capitol this morning, they were greeted by Bailey who brought
them into the House Republican Caucus room and introduced them to
members of the caucus. Later, as the students met the governor, they
presented her with thank-you cards they had written which also contained
their drawings of the orca whale. The governor also signed a poster of
the orca which was created by the students.
"I hope this experience
will encourage the students, teachers and parents from Crescent Harbor
Elementary to remain involved with the legislative process," concluded
Strow.
Students, parents and
teachers of Crescent Harbor Elementary School stand on the steps inside
the rotunda of the Washington State Capitol Building. They were joined
by Rep. Chris Strow, R-Clinton (at left), and Rep. Barbara Bailey, R-Oak
Harbor (at right). Both were co-sponsors of the Orca Bill (HB 1759)
which was signed into law today.
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For more information, contact:
John
Handy, Assistant Director: (360) 786-5758
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