Gov. Gregoire addresses The Links, Incorporated national convention

For Immediate Release: July 4, 2008

SEATTLE � Gov. Chris Gregoire today addressed nearly 3,000 women decision makers and opinion leaders at The Links, Incorporated 36th national convention, which took place at the Washington State Convention & Trade Center.

�Women have always understood that the foundation for getting anything done is strong relationships,� Gregoire said. �Members of The Links have proven they get things done since 1946, when the organization was founded. You are extraordinary women who have supported issues ranging from the need for bone marrow donations for minority communities to the Susan G. Komen Foundation to Habitat for Humanity. It is an understatement for me to stand up here and tell you what a truly impressive group of women you are.�

The Links, Incorporated is committed to enriching, sustaining and ensuring the culture and economic survival of African Americans. The organization has 12,000 members across 42 states, with Washington chapters in Seattle, Tacoma, Spokane and the Tri-Cities. The Links is one of the nation�s oldest and largest volunteer service organizations, with members annually contributing more than 500,000 documented hours of community service.

�I want to commend and congratulate The Links for being an incredible force for good,� Gregoire said. �You�ve been a strong resource for understanding and positive change in our communities, in our country and around the world.�

The national convention drew thousands of people to Seattle, with guests arriving from Germany, the Bahamas and South Africa. The conference included workshops on business development, women�s health issues and financial management.

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