HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 99-4633, by Representatives Reardon, Scott, Dunn, Thomas, Hatfield and Pflug

      WHEREAS, The Washington State House of Representatives strives to recognize the outstanding achievements and triumphs of young people today; and

      WHEREAS, The Boys and Girls Clubs of America work to inspire and enable all young people, especially those from disadvantaged circumstances, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible, and caring citizens; and

      WHEREAS, Ms. Liberty Franklin has overcome her own difficult life challenges to be named national "Youth of the Year," the top honor awarded by the Boys and Girls Clubs of America; and

      WHEREAS, This remarkable Everett High School senior maintains an impressive 3.95 grade point average, is a member of the National Honor Society, plays varsity softball, and works several part-time jobs to help her family and to save for college; and

      WHEREAS, Liberty has received $45,000 in college scholarships in pursuit of her goal to study dentistry at the University of Washington; and

      WHEREAS, Liberty also gives back to her community as a senior center volunteer, church choir member, and coordinator of Teen Talk sessions at her local Boys and Girls Club; and

      WHEREAS, She has further distinguished herself since receiving this honor by speaking at conferences across the country, testifying on youth legislation before Congress, and meeting the President and other dignitaries at the White House, and will serve as a teen spokeswoman for nearly three million members of the Boys and Girls Clubs nationwide; and

      WHEREAS, Liberty's commitment, confidence, and talents as a communicator make her a stellar role model for our state's youth;

      NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State House of Representatives recognize and honor Liberty Franklin, and acknowledge the great contributions made by Ms. Franklin to her family, to her community, and to the youth of Washington; and

      BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That we do hereby urge all citizens of the State of Washington to join us in so recognizing Liberty Franklin as a shining example of how community support can help inspire, motivate, and encourage our youth to succeed in life, despite all odds; and

      BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Co-Chief Clerks of the House of Representatives to Ms. Liberty Franklin and to the Boys and Girls Clubs of America.

      I hereby certify this to be a true and correct copy of

      Resolution 4633 adopted by the House of Representatives

                        February 26, 1999.

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Timothy A. Martin, Co-Chief Clerk    Dean R. Foster Co-Chief Clerk