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Welcome to West Virginia from Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin

Let me be among one of the first to welcome you to the Summit Bechtel Family National Scout Reserve for the very first Jamboree in West Virginia. It is an honor and privilege for our beautiful state to host this anticipated event. We are so glad you’re here!

My staff and I have had the pleasure of working with many Boy Scout leaders, volunteers, and sponsors to help make your visit the best it can be. I saw the same vision as we stood at the overlook during construction. And to be here, with you today, to begin the adventure brings me great joy. Together we’ve created a one-of-a-kind outdoor space for you to explore and advance your scouting skills and learn some valuable lessons in areas like science, technology, and math-all while having the time of your life.

How wonderful it is to have the many individuals recognized today, like the Bechtel family, who have worked diligently and been extremely generous to ensure you have the very best of everything while at the Jamboree. Across the Summit’s thousands of acres, the very best of West Virginia adventure awaits you.

From fishing to kayaking, mountain biking, and sport shooting, something wild and wonderful lies along every trail. The Summit is home to the world’s largest man-made, outdoor rock climbing facility and the world’s longest zip lines and canopy tours. The Summit is simply one-of-a-kind.

Each of us here today – volunteers, staff, scout leaders, and sponsors -want to help you build new skill-sets, and develop your leadership potential. I believe, throughout the next nine days the Jamboree will provide you with an excellent foundation from which you can build a bright future. We encourage you to learn – absorb everything around you and make the most of this opportunity.

In the coming days, many of you will venture beyond the Summit to lend a helping hand to the surrounding communities. As governor, I want to thank you, in advance, for your community service. Please know, our communities welcome you and appreciate your kind-hearted spirit. While you are out in these areas, I encourage you to take time to get to know the people you’re serving. I know they will certainly appreciate your help.

Enjoy yourself and make the most of this terrific opportunity. We are honored to have you here. I think you’re going to love it here – and I hope you come back to visit us.