WHEREAS, Future Farmers of America was founded in 1928, changing its name in 1988 to the National FFA Organization to represent the growing diversity of agriculture; and
     WHEREAS, The Washington FFA Organization is an integral part of the future of the food, fiber, and natural resource systems of the Washington agriculture industry; and
     WHEREAS, The FFA boasts 500,823 members nationally and approximately 8,000 members in Washington state; and
     WHEREAS, Agricultural education and the Washington FFA ensure a steady supply of young professionals to meet growing demands in science, business, and technology of Washington agriculture; and
     WHEREAS, The FFA Motto "Learning to Do, Doing to Learn, Earning to Live, Living to Serve" gives direction of purpose to these students who take an active role in succeeding in agricultural education; and
     WHEREAS, The FFA promotes character, citizenship, volunteerism, patriotism, and cooperation; and
     WHEREAS, Washington FFA emphasizes premier leadership, personal growth, and career success among its members; and
     WHEREAS, The FFA offers diverse educational opportunities such as land judging, expos, fairs, agricultural mechanics, public speaking, skills contests, chapter meetings, award and recognition programs, committees, and community projects; and
     WHEREAS, FFA Agriculture Education Programs provide a strong foundation for the youth of Washington to grow careers in the field of agriculture; and
     WHEREAS, FFA celebrates national recognition during the week of February 16-23, 2008;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State Senate support the role of the Washington FFA and Agriculture Education in the educational system of the great state of Washington; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Secretary of the Senate to H. Wayne Gilman, Washington State FFA Adviser and Washington FFA Foundation President Clarence Pearson.