OLYMPIA…Next week, agencies and vendors from around the state will come together to help celebrate the achievements of public employees as a part of Public Service Recognition Week (PSRW).
 
From the steps of the state Capitol to the smallest towns, public servants will participate in ceremonies, information fairs, parades and other events in their honor.
 
PSRW is a national program that is celebrated each year during the first full week in May, and recognizes public employees for their service to federal, state and local governments. This year, events will be held in Olympia, Spokane, Seattle and the Tri-Cities, and are being administered by the Washington State Productivity Board within the Office of the Secretary of State.
 
“The most important reason for Public Service Recognition Week is the need to celebrate and recognize the valuable services that public servants provide our state, particularly in these difficult times of budget cuts and staff reductions and furloughs,” said Secretary of State Sam Reed. “All too often, the contributions made by public employees are forgotten, not only by our fellow citizens but even by those of us who serve.”
 
Here are the details for events around the state:
 
Olympia - May 5
11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Capitol Campus, South Plaza corner of Capitol Boulevard and 14th Avenue, behind the Department of Transportation and Education Service District buildings, next to the Korean War Memorial. Events include:
·         Thirty-six agencies and vendors will have booths to showcase their individual services.
·         $1 buys you a hot dog, chips and water.
·         Lunch provided by the Office of Secretary of State, Washington State Potato Commission and Washington Federation of State Employees.
·         Free hot lattes will be provided by the Washington State Employees Credit Union.
 
Seattle – May 6
11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Westlake Park (400 Pine St.), across from the Westlake Center. Events include:
·         Eight agency and vendor booths will be on hand to recognize public employees.
·         $2 buys you a hot dog, chips and water or show your state employee ID and get your meal for free.
 
Richland – May 6
5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
WSU – Tri-Cities Campus (2710 University Drive). Events include:
·         The Longevity Award will be given to employees with 40 or more years of service.
·         A marimba band will be providing live music and entertainment.
·         A family barbecue with free food provided by the Lions Club International.
 
Spokane – May 7
4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
University of Phoenix – Spokane Campus (8775 East Mission Ave.) Events include:
·         A family barbecue with free food provided by the University of Phoenix.
·         Fun activities for the entire family including face painting, bouncy house and games.
·         An awards ceremony will be held for recipients of the Extra Mile, Leadership and Longevity awards.
 
To learn more about the Washington State Productivity Board, visit www.secstate.wa.gov/productivityboard.