WHEREAS, Tom Hunter nourished the hearts of teachers, parents, and children for decades throughout Washington State, the nation, and overseas; and 
 

      WHEREAS, Tom Hunter was a brilliant folk singer, songwriter, minister, minstrel, educator, and champion of teachers and children; and 
 

      WHEREAS, Tom Hunter had an encyclopedic knowledge of folk songs and when no suitable song existed, was most willing to write one; and 
 

      WHEREAS, Tom Hunter was widely beloved for his ability to celebrate teachers’ everyday interactions with children; and 
 

      WHEREAS, Tom Hunter encouraged generations of children to sing and value community; and 
 

      WHEREAS, Tom Hunter was a loving husband, father, son, brother and stalwart friend to many; and 
 

      WHEREAS, we honor Tom Hunter’s teachings, generosity, vision, and talents by keeping his music and stories alive, and continuing his legacy of singing out loud. In short, following Tom’s wise advice to KEEP IT GOING;  
 

      NOW, THEREFORE, I Christine O. Gregoire, Governor of the state of Washington, do hereby proclaim October 24, 2008, as 
 

Tom Hunter Day: A Day for Singing! 
 

in Washington State, and I urge all citizens to join me in this special observance. 
 

                                    Signed this 30^th day of September, 2008 
 
 
 

                                    Governor Christine O. Gregoire