OAKLAND COUNTY EXECUTIVE DECLARATION

L. Brooks Patterson hereby issues this special proclamation supporting The Citizens of Lebanon in their Quest for Freedom and Self-Determination

WHEREAS nearly 3 million people of Lebanese origin live in the United States including some 300,000 of Middle Eastern descent who make their home in Southeastern Michigan; and

WHEREAS Syrian troops ended their 29-year military presence in Lebanon on April 26, 2005 providing the Lebanese people with a unique opportunity to usher in a new era of hope and prosperity in Lebanon; and

WHEREAS the people of Lebanon have remained steadfast, strong and courageous in spite of their adversity; and

WHEREAS freedom loving people the world over stand united as one in support of Lebanon's quest to establish a democratic form of government during free and open elections scheduled for the end of May.

NOW THEREFORE LET IT BE KNOWN that I, L. Brooks Patterson, Oakland County Executive, do hereby authorize the issuance of this special proclamation which salutes the Lebanese people as they strive for a new era of freedom, sovereignty and independence.