OLYMPIA…Sen. Linda Evans Parlette, R-Wenatchee, has been selected as one of eight state legislators from across the nation to participate in the Rising State Leaders program sponsored by the Canadian Embassy.

As a participant in the program Parlette will take part in a working tour of Canada that offers state leaders a unique opportunity to meet with political counterparts, business leaders and cultural representatives, and fosters firsthand knowledge of the deep and diverse nature of the U.S.-Canada relationship.  

The participants will begin their tour in the Canadian capital of Ottawa, Ontario on June 21 and over the next nine days travel to the provinces of Manitoba, Alberta, Saskatchewan and British Columbia, including a stop in Vancouver, the site of the 2010 Winter Olympics, and a visit to the world’s second-largest oil reserves at Fort McMurray, Alberta. Program elements will cover a wide range of key bilateral issues, including border security, national security and defense, energy and environment, trade cooperation and promotion, and the 2010 Olympics.

“This experience will be especially valuable because the 12th District includes a border with Canada,” said Parlette. “I’m sure that developing good working relationships with these Canadian officials and other state leaders will enhance my ability to approach legislative issues from a more informed perspective. I also look forward to providing my fellow Washington legislators with firsthand knowledge as we work together on issues that affect both our state and our Canadian neighbors.”  

Now in its fourth year, the Rising State Leaders program has hosted 24 participants – primarily state legislators – from 21 U.S. states. State legislators participating in this year’s program are from Nevada, North Carolina, Idaho, Kentucky, North Dakota, Alabama, South Dakota and Washington.

Candidates for the Rising State Leaders program are nominated by the Canadian Embassy and the Canadian Consulates General; applications for the program are not accepted. Parlette was nominated in 2008 but was unable to participate.

“I’m thrilled to be offered this fantastic opportunity in 2009,” Parlette said.