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Scouts, Scouters and Parents,
Happy Cinco de Mayo! I look forward to virtually meeting tonight with the Patrol Leader Council (PLC) for Introduction to Leadership Skills for Troops. If you are a member of the PLC and did not get a meeting invite, please let me know.
Big news this week is that Camp Ressica Falls, our planned summer camp location, has cancelled in-person attendance this summer. We are exploring options for different summer camps, particularly ones within the Commonwealth of Virginia. Given that many camps have already booked full weeks for the early cycles, we may have to opt for a later week than planned. This will also allow a portion of our adult leaders who are currently affected by Department of Defense travel limitations to attend, as this local travel only ban ends on 30 June. This Thursday, the Troop Committee will meet to discuss Governor Northam's recent announcement concerning the three-phase plan for reopening Virginia, how that plan affects the Troop calendar, and when we can safely return to meeting in person and conducting an outdoor program.
This week's Scoutmaster Minute:
Today is Cinco de Mayo. This holiday celebrates the May 5, 1862 Mexican Army victory against a larger French force in the Battle of Puebla. Four days after the battle, Mexico's then-President Juarez declared the anniversary of the battle as a national holiday in Mexico. In the United States, California started commemorating the day in 1863. During the 20th Century, many major US cities started hosting celebrations of Mexican culture and heritage on Cinco de Mayo. Currently across America, many families choose to enjoy Mexican cuisine and music at home or in a local restaurant on this day. As one of many cultural holidays incorporated into our Nation's calendar, it serves to represent the vibrant citizenry who came to the US in search of a better life and the promise of American opportunity. It is a wonderful thing to be able to share each other's culture and celebrate what each of us contributes to the identity of our Nation. I encourage you to seek opportunities to learn about those who have seemingly dissimilar backgrounds. Often, when we get to know one another we find that our values and ambitions are quite the same. Furthermore, our willingness to embrace and celebrate how we are different serves to enrich our lives.
A Scout is Friendly.
Yours in Scouting Service,
Doug Henry
Scoutmaster, Troop 1396
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