Gov. Gregoire address the American Israel Public Affairs Committee Dinner

October 5, 2008

AS WRITTEN

Thank You, Herb, for the kind introduction. Herb has been a true friend to me over the years, and I very much appreciate his wise help and counsel.

I�m pleased to be here tonight. And to all you out-of-towners -- Welcome to Seattle!

The bipartisan American Israel Public Affairs Committee does important work -- not only for this country but for our key ally � the great nation of Israel.

I appreciate the work you do to build the Jewish Community in our state and across the nation.

And I appreciate the work you do for Israel.

It amazes me to realize that the great nation of Israel � a great and thriving Democracy -- was formed just in my lifetime!

Israel � which is so important to the Jewish people as a homeland and spiritual center � has grown into a First World nation in just 60 years!

I have been to Israel, and have seen and felt first hand its progress�its spirit�and it�s exciting, high-tech economy.

It so happens that Israel is an international satellite for Microsoft -- but it certainly doesn�t stop there.
Israel is recognized worldwide as a leader in technology and biotechnology.

And through hard work, Israelis truly have transformed the desert into a garden by pioneering and applying revolutionary agricultural practices.

We can also thank Israel for protecting and interpreting sacred sites for the world�s three major religions, and for developing cultural tourism, which means so much to people around the globe.

I understand tonight will be devoted to looking into a crystal ball and seeing where this country is going in the weeks ahead.

Ya know -- right now I�m especially interested in the answer!

So if you figure it out?

Call me right away. Will you?

Thanks again for inviting me.