The Boy Scouts of America have taught young boys character values for roughly a century and it bodes well for communities with active programs.

Just recently, the culmination of those lessons learned at a young age resulted in the recognition of one of Albert Lea’s leaders, Stephen Waldhoff.

He would tell you, with sincere modesty, that he didn’t earn the award alone &045; indeed, he accepted the award on behalf of the community, he said.

True, most honors, though bestowed on an individual, are typically the result of a collaboration. Still, some one must lead the crew and the leadership skills Waldhoff learned while a participant of the Scouting program in his youth often leads him to stand before groups working to better their community.

Scouting teaches boys to be trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean and reverent.

The Scout oath encourages young boys to do their best to honor duty to God, their country and other people. The Scout motto &045; be prepared &045; and the program’s slogan &045; do a good turn daily &045; are edicts we could all stand to practice more in our lives.

As the organization celebrates Boy Scout Week Feb. 6-12, we salute all the young boys who matured into men who practice the principals taught through the Scouting program, and encourage young Scouts to learn the lessons well &045; they will lead you to much success in life.