Utah lawmakers honor Utah-Israeli ties

SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah Senate, in a resolution passed unanimously Tuesday, recognized Utah's cultural, economic, military and security bonds to Israel.

SJR18, sponsored by Sen. Curt Bramble, R-Orem, also encourages Gov. Gary Herbert to embark on a trade mission to Israel.

Senate President Michael Waddoups, R-Taylorsville, said he recently took part in a trade mission to Israel with the National Conference of State Legislatures.

"Not only am I glad I did it, I'd love to do it again," Waddoups said.

Rabbi Benny Zippel of Chabad Lubavitch of Utah thanked the Senate for passage of the resolution. Historically, Rabbi Zippel said, nations and people that have supported Israel have been "blessed with tremendous success and prosperity."

Rep. Patrice Arent, D-Salt Lake City, co-sponsored the measure in the Utah House of Representatives.

— Marjorie Cortez