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Gov. Gregoire proclaims �Albert Dean Rosellini Week�

For Immediate Release: January 23, 2009

OLYMPIA � Gov. Chris Gregoire has proclaimed this week �Governor Albert Dean Rosellini Week� in honor of former Washington Gov. Al Rosellini, who celebrates his 99th birthday this week. He was elected governor in 1956 and re-elected in 1960. Rosellini is believed to be the oldest living former governor in the United States.

As the governor mentions in her proclamation, �Few individuals have had such a profound impact upon Washington state � evidence of his legacy is everywhere.�

Gregoire credits Rosellini with creating separate justice and prison systems for juvenile offenders, modernizing the mental health system, and increasing aid to universities and colleges.

Gregoire added that the �remarkable range of friendships (Rosellini) has enjoyed over the years speaks volumes about the breadth of his interests, the warmth of his personality, his deep concern for others, and his tireless commitment to working on behalf of the public good.�

Rosellini celebrated his 99th birthday on Jan. 21. Gregoire, with Washington�s other living governors, attended a birthday celebration today at Rosellini�s favorite Italian restaurant in Seattle.