Governor Gregoire Addresses the Spanish Knighthood Ceremony

April 2, 2008

*As Written*

Thank you, Oscar (Cerna), for the kind introduction.

Buenos Diaz (BWANE-Ohs DEE-Azz), and welcome everybody!

On behalf of the people of the great state of Washington, Mike and I thank you for joining us for this historic presentation and great honor for our state.

I am especially pleased to see distinguished members of the Consular Association of Washington with us today.

I want to welcome:

Consul General Manuel Pradas Romani, (Mon-WELL -- PRAH-Das -- Roe-MAHN-ee);

And Honorary Consul Luis Fernando Esteban (Loo-EEZ -- Fair-NON-Doh --ES-Tay-Bohn).

I was very sorry to learn that Spanish Ambassador Jose Pascual Marcos (Hoe-ZAY-- Pahs-KWAL-- MAR-Cohs) could not be here today as planned because of the passing of his mother in Spain last week. Please convey to him our sincere condolences.

I also want to welcome today statewide elected officials, legislators, families and friends.

And of course, congratulations to Lieutenant Governor Owen, and Antonio Sanchez for this great and rare honor. You have done much for our state with this honor, which is the highest the King of Spain can bestow on a non-citizen of Spain.

From Talgo trains, to teacher exchanges, art exhibitions, and trade development, our two recipients today have truly, truly distinguished themselves.

They have brought honor to our state.

They have helped broaden our culture.

They have promoted trade for many of our great products and services.

And they have given our young people great opportunities to study the Spanish language and to learn more about the wonderful history and heritage of Spain.

Lieutenant Governor Owen and his top aide, Mr. Sanchez, have traveled to Spain to share the wonders of our state, while here in Olympia they have hosted hundreds of government, business and education officials.

--It is now my pleasure to introduce the Consul General to give some background on the awards and make the presentation.

The Consul General is here officially representing Spain�s King Juan Carlos. We are honored to have him.

Mr. Consul General?