The latest in a series designed to help Scout families, Scouts and those new
In the Bleak Midwinter (cont.)
Many traditional events take place in the “bleak midwinter”, including Blue and Gold Banquets, Courts of Honor, planning for summer camp, and the annual Friends of Scouting campaign just to name a few. Blue and Gold banquets have been a part of Cub Scouting for generations, and often celebrate the anniversary of the founding of the Boy Scouts in America as they recognize advancement and bring families together to share a meal and the warmth of fellowship. Packs often run their Pinewood Derbies during this season, a program often echoed on the District level as well. The Derby is not simply a competition between Scouts, but is characterized by Scouts and parents working together, delighting in the design creativity and ingenuity of the Scouts as they build and display their cars. And of course, there is the race. I can still remember how important it was to me to win a 2nd place trophy as a Bear, the only trophy I ever received as a youth! I actually still have it!
Many Arrow of Light Scouts will cross over to troops this season, an important time to recognize achievement, reflect upon the journey of Scouting, and launch into new and exciting adventures! These ceremonies are important rights of passage and bring meaning to the Scout Oath and Law and our values as each AOL Scout is commended for his or her work and welcomed with open arms into the next phase of Scouting life.
Scout Sunday is scheduled annually in February, a time for many to share their Scouting journey with congregations in places of worship. Scouts may be asked to share readings, usher, present flags, and be recognized for their commitment to service and the values and principles embedded in the Scouting movement. A special patch recognizes those who participate. Many of the churches, temples, mosques and other houses of worship host our units for meetings, and even serve as charter organizations. Scout Sunday provides a way to remind them that we are alive and contributing members of the communities we serve. I am always astounded by the annual ritual in the church that hosts my troop when the pastor asks anyone in the congregation who was a Scout to stand and fully three-quarters of the congregation stands with pride.
Units certainly plan outings and other events in the winter months and cabins and other Council facilities are available to reserve. District and Council events don’t shy away from winter either! Opportunities for involvement such as the Polar Cubs weekend, Klondike Derbies in most Districts, Arctic Adventure weekends, ice fishing outings, skating adventures, winter camping with the hope of earning the prestigious Polar Bear award, and so much more await those units that want to take advantage of the snow and fun available outdoors. There is nothing like a winter campfire with s’mores and hot cocoa under the stars of a clear winter sky, the glow of the fire on the faces of those surrounding it, and the satisfaction that winter did not get the better of us!
One more winter tradition that I should mention especially for those families new to Scouting is the annual Friends of Scouting (FOS) appeal. Who doesn’t need the support of friends? Scouting is no different. The FOS appeal is the Bay Lakes Council’s annual fundraising campaign and is a major source of support for all of the programs, facilities, and staff support provided by our professional staff. Every gift to support Scouting is important no matter the size. Each unit has a goal and a stretch goal for giving based upon past giving history and the number of families in the unit. Those units that reach their goals earn added incentives, but the real incentive is the quality and range of programs and services provided to support our youth and their character, leadership and personal development. Please consider making a gift when your unit is asked. Gifts can often be matched by an employer, something else to consider.
So, as winter drags on, forget not that there are many ways to enjoy this time of year through Scouting, and remember that Scouting is a family friendly adventure designed to involve you and your youth as fully as you wish. Thank you for your commitment to Scouting, for the faith and trust you place in your leaders and units every day throughout the year. I’m looking forward to seeing you down the trail and wish you a winter that is anything but bleak!
Paul Shrode
psshrode@aol.com