SENATE RESOLUTION

                         1997-8608

By Senator West

     WHEREAS, Young people represent the future of Washington State and are the citizens of tomorrow; and

     WHEREAS, Young people who reside in Washington State face countless challenges as they strive to become adults; and

     WHEREAS, Youth gang violence is an ever‑increasing problem in Washington State; and

     WHEREAS, Adults who assist young people in Washington State achieve their full potential assisting us all to achieve a better quality of life; and

     WHEREAS, Wm. Philip Werschler, M.D. has given countless hours of his time and equipment by removing gang‑related tattoos from teens who "thought it was cool" and did not realize the long‑term ramifications of their action; and

     WHEREAS, Wm. Philip Werschler, M.D. has removed over one hundred tattoos for no charge to these teens; and

     WHEREAS, His efforts have greatly enhanced these individuals' ability to have a real chance at changing the course of their lives especially as they seek employment, further education, and new opportunities, and strive to become more productive citizens;

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Senate recognize and honor Dr. Werschler for his contributions on behalf of youth in the state of Washington; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Secretary of the Senate to Dr. Werschler.

I, Mike O=Connell, Secretary of the Senate,

do hereby certify that this is a true and

correct copy of Senate Resolution 1997-8608,

adopted by the Senate February 10, 1997.

MIKE O=CONNELL

Secretary of the Senate