The State of Washington

Proclamation
 

WHEREAS, the Wailer's Performing Arts Foundation (WPAF) was co-created by John "Buck" Ormsby and Kent Morrill, members of Tacoma's own "Boys from Tacoma;" and

WHEREAS, the WPAF encourages our youth to pursue their interests, develop their talents and achieve their dreams in the world of music; and

WHEREAS, funding is need for music lessons, books, sheet music, instruments, instruction, grants and scholarships; and

WHEREAS, the WPAF, in cooperation and partnership with Boys and Girls Clubs of South Puget Sound, are presenting the "1000 Guitars Festival" at Cheney Stadium on Sunday, August 24, 2003, to establish a Guinness World Record for more thatn 1000 guitars playing "Louie Louie" in unison, with proceeds benefiting the WPAF youth music programs and scholarships; and

WHEREAS, the WPAF plans to make this an annual event to support youth and in memory of Richard Dangel, lead guitar player with the Wailers, who made history by arranging the rock and roll version of this song and who had looked forward to mentoring youth through this organization;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gary Locke, Governor of the state of Washington, do hereby proclaim August 24, 2003, as

Louie Louie Day

in Washington State, and I encourage all citizens and fans of rock and roll to gather at Cheney Stadium for fun and entertainment and to support this worthwhile event for the youth of our communities.

Signed this 20th day of August, 2003

Governor Gary Locke