WHEREAS, The Boy Scouts of America will mark the close of their 100th year of service to America on February 8th, and will begin their 2nd century of service to their communities; and
     WHEREAS, The mission of the Boy Scouts of America is to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Scout Law; and
     WHEREAS, The Scouting program has maintained a strong ethical standard among every community of which the program has influence; and
     WHEREAS, Through the Boy Scouts of America, programs such as the Venturing and Varsity Crew, Sea Scouts, Cub Scouts, and Order of the Arrow have received outstanding recognition for the training and life experiences taught to our young scouts, exemplifying commitment and dedication to their communities; and
     WHEREAS, In 2009 alone, the Boy Scouts of America program reported over 36 million service hours across the nation in areas such as food collection and distribution, litter cleanup/community beautification, conservation projects, serving food at shelters, and military support/appreciation; and
     WHEREAS, In 2009 over one million volunteers gave of their time assuming leadership positions for various Scouting programs; and
     WHEREAS, Baden Powell, founder of the Boy Scouts of America and decorated military leader, be recognized for his sincere devotion and countless hours of service to the preservation of America and the exceptional success of the Boy Scouts of America program; and
     WHEREAS, Since 1910, more than 100 million citizens have become registered members; and
     WHEREAS, Over 2 million scouts have served and worked diligently in their communities to receive the high honor and prestigious award of Eagle Scout;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That after 100 years of service it is with great respect that the Washington State Senate honor and recognize the service, character, and strong ethical standing that the Boy Scouts of America have exemplified within our state, nation, and throughout the world; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Secretary of the Senate to the National Boy Scouts of America office, the National Director of the Boy Scouts of America, and the Boy Scouts of America Councils in Washington: Chief Seattle Council, Pacific Harbors Council, Mount Baker Council, Grand Columbia Council, Blue Mountain Council, and Inland Northwest Council.