Where has time gone? It's almost over

 Webelos Weekend has begun. Extra time off for the staff, mostly back and getting ready to roll out the proverbial red carpet to this most important segment of youth. How important? For the program it is the easiest group to recruit into Scouts BSA, as they are already in the Scouting America family. 

It cannot be understated how critical that recruitment phase is to the program. There are so many activities and programs that compete for time and dollars with Scouting, that we must keep those that are already in, in, as well as seeking out new members. There is no question that Scouting, like any organization needs membership to thrive, to be successful. Even more importantly, America, and the world, need a vibrant scouting program. Scouting teaches values and timeless principles to the upcoming generations. Lessons in being good citizens, and good people.

Yes, Scouting has had its black marks. There is no sugar coating here. But since the implementation of Youth Protection training in 1987, and the roll out of the updated program, Safeguarding Youth, this year, no youth program has done more to protect this vulnerable group. The future of Scouting America, so long as it maintains its core principles is bright. America, and the world, need the foundation of Duty to God, to Country, to Other People. From an encounter with an unnamed scout in the London fog, the scouting movement built by William Boyce and others in 1910 rolls onward, dedicated to serving others, to making the world a better place.

After Webelos camp is the 6th and final session of Scouts BSA camp for the season. There are many things to celebrate, 90 years of Camp Geiger, and the Centennial for the Tribe of Mic-O-Say, the honor camping program initiated by H. Roe Bartle, Chief Lone Bear, here in what is now the Pony Express Council. Mic-O-Say and the Pony Express Council can be proud of the accomplishments achieved in this little corner of the Scouting universe. A very high rate of retention of Scouts, a very unusually high percentage of Eagle Scouts, especially compared to the national rate of less than 10%.

To those who have come to camp this year, I appreciate you very much. This has been a special year, and the staff may be one of the best ever. My store staff certainly is the best I have ever had. Lots of energy, lots of participation, good times have been had. And there is still a week to go. If you haven't made your way to camp for a visit, and chance to share in the celebration you still have one session. But like perishable items, there is an expiration date.

Next week will be the last Wednesday night campfire for visitors to come and share in scouting. To enjoy the corny skits and songs, as well as the dancing and the wonderful closing. Thursday night will be the last Tapping ceremony for the Centennial year, and it will no doubt be amazing. All are welcome to come see and hear the sights and sounds of that dramatic event. No doubt the fire will be massive, and the energy pulsing. For those that know, there is a special tension in the air on Thursdays here at camp, as first year campers experience a full on tapping for the first time, and more seasoned scouts look forward with excitement and nervousness about potentially having the tomahawk fall on their chests, and even more worried that it might not. 

For members of the Tribe of Mic-O-Say, Friday night ceremonies will be the final ones for the year, and I suspect that they will be very special. It isn't every year you celebrate a Centennial, and closing out the season will have added impact. If you are a member, and can make it, I would encourage attendance. Come early, it is a large session, with, no doubt, several that have not visited camp in years making the trek.

Change is inevitable, as we have seen significant changes this year, including a rebranding for the camp. Change will occur with the likely announcement of a new Camp Director for 2026 and beyond. Perhaps a new Program Director? Camp will have a different leadership team next year, and a different feel. Change is inevitable, but somethings simply do not change, at least dramatically. Camp Geiger will still be Camp Geiger, home away from home for many people. 

On the hills, above the river.