Title
To honor the Columbus Blue Jackets on the occasion of their first playoff appearance in franchise history.
Body
WHEREAS, under the leadership of the late John H. McConnell, the Columbus Blue Jackets joined the National Hockey League in 2000; and
WHEREAS, the Blue Jackets organization and the Blue Jackets Foundation have been at the forefront of the Columbus community, donating more than $2.3 million to local charities while supporting youth hockey leagues that stretch across economic, social and racial boundaries; and
WHEREAS, Head Coach Ken Hitchcock and his staff have instilled a system of discipline and teamwork that has led to improved play in every facet of the game; and
WHEREAS, Blue Jackets players, with their performance on the ice and commitment to the community, continue to serve as role models for our young people by selflessly donating their time at charity functions and clinics; and
WHEREAS, the Columbus Blue Jackets have the #1 fans in the NHL, fans that supported the team in good times and during the more difficult seasons; now, therefore
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS:
That this Council hereby recognizes and congratulates the Columbus Blue Jackets on the occasion of appearing in the playoffs for the first time in franchise history.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the entire City of Columbus wishes the Blue Jackets ultimate success in their pursuit of the 2009 Stanley Cup.