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Where Memories Become Music: The Story Behind Back to the Creek

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There’s a certain kind of magic that lives at Bear Creek Scout Camp— a mix of campfire smoke, starlight, and the shared adventures that shape generations of Scouts. That magic is exactly what inspired longtime Scouter and Eagle Scout Brad Barrows to create Back to the Creek, a brand-new music album releasing November 19, 2025. Rooted in real memories from right here in the Alamo Area Council, Brad’s songs celebrate the moments that make Scouting unforgettable — and now, his project is giving back to the place that helped make those stories possible.

For as long as he can remember, Scouting has been part of Brad Barrows’ life. A San Antonio native and proud graduate of UTSA, Brad joined as a Tiger Cub in first grade and never looked back. His first big adventure came as a first-year Webelos at a cold and windy Bear Creek Freeze-O-Ree — the kind of campout that tests your resolve but leaves you smiling afterward. From there, he spent countless weekends outdoors, learning new skills, making lifelong friends, and discovering the quiet pride that comes from working hard and helping others.

Brad earned his Eagle Scout rank in May of 1996 and went on to serve two summers on youth staff at Bear Creek. He attended the last “Cedar Badge” NYLT held at Bear Creek — camping with his patrol on the ever-quiet Ghost Cave Plains — and later returned as NYLT staff to help other Scouts find their own confidence and leadership. Along the way, he also completed two Philmont treks and joined in on many backpacking, hiking, and canoeing expeditions across Texas and beyond.

As an adult, Brad continued to give back by serving as a Cubmaster, Committee Chair, and Charter Organization Representative for his son’s units. He completed Wood Badge, earned his beads as an Antelope, and later served on staff. One of his proudest moments came when his own son earned the rank of Eagle Scout — a milestone that reminded him just how much Scouting gives back to families.

Though no longer active in a formal leadership role, Brad still enjoys staying connected — often helping with the sound system at the council’s Wade Campout. His recent music project, Back to the Creek, was inspired by those same campfire nights and friendships that shaped him. Proceeds from the album benefit Bear Creek Scout Camp, helping ensure that the next generation of Scouts can experience the same spirit of adventure under the Texas stars.

As Brad’s journey shows, the impact of Scouting stretches far beyond a single campout or skill learned — it becomes part of who we are. Back to the Creek is more than an album; it’s a tribute to the experiences that built a leader, a father, and a lifelong friend of Bear Creek. And now, every stream and every download directly supports Bear Creek Scout Camp, helping preserve a place where countless youth continue to grow, explore, and discover their own stories.

The album is live, see below for the direct links so you can purchase, download, and share the music: 

Get on Apple Music

Get on Spotify

Get on YouTube

Honoring a True Good Scout: Paul E. McSween Recognized at 43rd Annual Good Scout Award Luncheon

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Scouting America, Alamo Area Council proudly hosted the 43rd Annual Good Scout Award Luncheon on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, celebrating the outstanding service and leadership of Paul E. McSween III, Chairman of Jefferson Bank.

Established in 1982, the Good Scout Award is the Council’s highest community honor, presented each year to individuals who exemplify the values of Scouting in their everyday lives. The award recognizes those who live by the Scout Oath and Law, demonstrating integrity, leadership, and a lifelong commitment to serving others.

A Legacy of Leadership and Service

This year’s honoree, Paul E. McSween III, has dedicated his career and personal life to the betterment of his community. Since joining Jefferson Bank in 1987, Paul has held numerous leadership roles, including 14 years as President before being named Chairman in 2023. Under his guidance, Jefferson Bank has expanded across Central and South Texas, with nearly $3 billion in assets and Trust and Wealth Management divisions overseeing more than $4 billion.

Known for his humility, integrity, and mentorship, Paul’s leadership has fostered a culture of empowerment and service — values that resonate deeply with the principles of Scouting.

Beyond his professional success, Paul’s dedication to the community spans decades. He has served more than 21 years on the Executive Board of the YMCA of Greater San Antonio and Texas Hill Country, 23 years on the Board of the Auditory Learning Foundation supporting Sunshine Cottage School for Deaf Children, and holds leadership roles with the Texas Wildlife Association, Ronald McDonald House Charities of San Antonio, and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County.

Paul’s love of the outdoors and commitment to youth development are evident in his 12 years as an Assistant Scoutmaster with Troop 809 and 14 years coaching Little League and YMCA sports.

An Inspiring Celebration

The luncheon featured Master of Ceremonies Deborah Knapp, retired KENS 5 news anchor, and an introduction of the honoree by Mark Mays, Principal of Mays Family Enterprises. Friends, family, and colleagues joined in honoring Paul’s accomplishments with a heartfelt video tribute that captured the impact of his leadership and service.

In his remarks, Scout Executive Ryan Harris reflected on the continued strength and growth of Scouting across the Alamo Area Council’s 13 counties. With over 100 chartered partners, nearly 5,000 traditional Scouts, and 3,000 Scouting in Schools participants, the Council continues to deliver life-changing experiences guided by the Scout Oath and Law. In 2025 alone, Scouts have earned 6,604 merit badges, achieved more than 3,100 rank advancements, contributed over 50,000 hours of community service, and celebrated 214 new Eagle Scouts.

Harris also emphasized the importance of the Council’s three outdoor properties — McGimsey Scout Park, Mays Family Scout Ranch, and Bear Creek Scout Camp — where youth learn leadership, build friendships, and experience adventure in the great outdoors.

Community Support and Impact

This year’s Good Scout Award Luncheon raised $330,000 to support Scouting programs throughout San Antonio and 13 surrounding counties. These funds ensure that youth across South Texas have access to experiences that build character, confidence, and leadership.

The event was made possible through the generous support of Presenting Sponsors: Mays Family Foundation, Jefferson Bank, and 1900 Wealth. Their continued partnership helps the Alamo Area Council expand the reach and impact of Scouting, preparing the next generation of leaders for life.

Watch the Tribute

To celebrate Paul’s remarkable contributions, friends and family created a special tribute video that premiered during the luncheon. Watch the video here and see the event photos here.

Thank You for Supporting Scouting

The Alamo Area Council extends sincere gratitude to all who attended, sponsored, and supported this year’s Good Scout Award Luncheon. Your commitment to Scouting ensures that young people across our community continue to learn, lead, and thrive.

Scouts Provide 1,782 Meals To Our Neighbors

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As of October 31, 2025, the Scouts of the Alamo Area Council have collected 2,139 pounds of food for our community—enough to provide an estimated 1,782 meals for families in need. Food banks and hunger relief organizations, such as Feeding America, often use a standard conversion based on U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) guidelines: 1.2 pounds of food equals one meal. This helps us better understand the real impact our Scouts are making with every can, box, and bag of food they collect.

Making a Local Impact

The food collected by our Scouts supported several area food banks and pantries, including:

  • San Antonio Food Bank

  • New Braunfels Food Bank

  • Provisions Outreach Food Pantry

  • KRBS Ministries Food Pantry

Each of these organizations works tirelessly to ensure families across our region have access to nutritious meals and essential groceries. Through Scouting for Food, our Scouts are helping them continue that mission—one collection at a time.

Food insecurity in our area is at an all-time high, especially with the recent government shutdown and the uncertainty surrounding SNAP benefits. Every donation—no matter the size—helps fill a critical gap for families who are struggling to make ends meet. We are incredibly grateful to every Scout, parent, leader, and community member who took the time to participate, collect, and contribute. Your generosity is making a difference in the lives of our neighbors. And to those who weren’t able to join this time—we understand, and we encourage you to participate in the spring campaign if you can. Every effort counts.

Why Reporting Matters

Accurate reporting allows the council to share the impact of Scouting with local foundations, community partners, and grant providers. These organizations often ask for measurable examples of how Scouting supports our community—and food donations are a powerful, tangible way to show that Scouting truly serves others. Please send your photos and collection weights to ScoutingForFood@AlamoAreaScouting.org.

Spring Scouting for Food Collection

📅 Collection Day: Saturday, April 18, 2026
📍 Drop-off Location: Alamo Area Council Service Center Parking Lot

Your unit can also host its own Scouting for Food campaign anytime that works best for your schedule—we simply ask that you let the council office know so we can include your results in our overall total.

What If You’re in an Outlying Area?
No problem! If your Chartered Organization has its own food pantry, feel free to donate your collection there. Just remember to ask them to weigh the donations your Scouts collect and report the total to the council.

Thank you again for your dedication to service, leadership, and kindness. Together, we are proving that even small acts of generosity can lead to a big impact.

Scouting for Food: A Fresh Approach to Fighting Hunger

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 This year, the Alamo Area Council is rolling out a new and flexible way for units to participate in the Scouting for Food campaign—using door hangers instead of bags.

We know every unit is different, and this change is designed to empower YOU to serve your community in the way that works best for your Scouts and families.

📬 New This Year: Door Hangers

Instead of printed pickup dates on bags, your unit can now use versatile door hangers that allow you to write in your own collection date with a Sharpie.

  • Want to do pickups on a Saturday morning?

  • Prefer to collect food in lieu of a regular den or troop meeting?

  • Need flexibility for multiple neighborhoods or charter partners?

Now, it’s all up to you!

Each door hanger has two sides:

  1. One side explains the food drive and includes space to write your pickup date.

  2. The other side promotes Scouting and invites new families to learn more about your unit and our program.

📅 Council-Wide Drop-Off Dates

While your unit can collect food on your schedule, the Alamo Area Council will host two official drop-off dates to consolidate donations:

  • Fall Collection Day: Saturday, October 18, 2025

  • Spring Collection Day: Saturday, April 18, 2026

Drop-off location:
📍 Alamo Area Council Service Center Parking Lot

You’re welcome to participate in one or both campaigns—collect in the fall, the spring, or both, depending on your unit’s schedule and goals.

🌎 What If We’re in an Outlying Area?

No problem! If your Chartered Organization has a food pantry, you can donate directly there.
👉 Just remember to ask them to weigh the donations your Scouts collect so we can include them in our Council-wide total.
This is a powerful way to:

  • Show how Scouts are helping in your community

  • Celebrate your impact

  • Promote Scouting’s values to new families

🧭 How to Be Prepared

  1. Complete this Jotform for the Scouting for Food event and let us know how many door hangers you need to get started.

  2. Pick up your door hangers at:

    • September Roundtable (for the fall event)

    • March Roundtable (for the spring event)

    • Or stop by the Council Service Center after Roundtable

⚠️ Please only take what your unit is prepared to use.
A Scout is thrifty—and that includes making the most of our supplies.

Why It Matters

Scouting for Food is more than a service project—it’s a way to live the Scout Oath and Law.
Your Scouts are making a tangible difference in the lives of people right here in San Antonio and the surrounding area.

This year’s door hangers also double as a recruiting tool. Leave a positive impression of Scouting on every doorstep you visit.

Thank you for being part of the solution. Let’s show our community what Scouting can do!
If you have questions, contact your District Executive or email us at ScoutingForFood@AlamoAreaScouting.org.

Scouting Membership Renewals

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Can you believe it’s already been two years since Scouting America introduced the 12-month membership program? Before this change, Scouts and leaders who joined in the fall paid prorated dues and then had to turn around and pay again during the big December renewal. Thankfully, those days are behind us! Now, families simply renew once a year—on the anniversary month of when they first joined.

That means if you joined in 2023 or 2024, now is the perfect time to double-check your membership expiration date so you don’t miss out on the adventure.

How Renewals Work

To help families stay on track, Scouting America sends out multiple reminders before memberships expire:

  • Emails go out every couple of weeks, starting two months before expiration and continuing until one week after.
  • Text reminders are new this fall! Expect a friendly nudge at 45 days before your membership ends.
  • Unit reminders may also come your way, depending on how your local unit communicates.

If you’re not seeing any of these messages—and you joined during the fall—reach out to the Council office. We may just need to update your contact information so you don’t miss important notices.

Why It Matters

Once a membership expires, a Scout is no longer registered with the program. That means no participation in campouts, popcorn sales, troop meetings, or exciting Council events like Beast Feast or Let It Glow. Even though you’ll stay on the roster for two months after your expiration date, that doesn’t mean you’re covered—you’re technically not an active member until your renewal is complete.

Don’t Miss Out!

Scouting is all about adventure, friendship, and growth. Make sure your family stays part of it by renewing today. If you have questions or need help, call the Council office at 210-341-8611. Our team can walk you through the process and even take payment over the phone.

Thank you for being part of the Scouting journey—we’re excited for another great year together!

Scouting Service Opportunity: Supporting Flood Recovery in Kerr County

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Scouting is built on service. When disaster strikes, Scouts step forward to help their communities rebuild. Just miles from our own Bear Creek Scout Camp, Kerr County continues to recover from devastating flash floods that have claimed more than 100 lives and damaged thousands of homes.

ReachGlobal Crisis Response, a disaster relief organization, is mobilizing efforts in the Texas Hill Country to meet the needs of affected families. Their work includes:

  • Coordinating with local churches to create a long-term response plan.
  • Preparing opportunities for short-term volunteer teams to serve in the recovery process.
  • Equipping area churches with trauma care and preparedness training.

This is an important opportunity for Scouts and Scouting families to live out the values of the Scout Oath and Law by providing meaningful service to those in need.

How Units Can Get Involved

If your unit is looking for a service project that makes a real difference in Hunt, consider participating in the Kerr County flood recovery efforts. Projects may include cleanup, rebuilding support, and community care, depending on the needs at the time of your service.

Contact: For more information or to schedule a trip to serve at the Texas Hill Country site, please email respond@efca.org

For Bear Creek Scout Camp property service opportunities, contact the Ranger at Mike.Weide@Scouting.org

Important Safety Reminder

All Scouting units interested in serving must reference the Guide to Safe Scouting when planning their activities, no matter the specific location or project. This ensures that every project is conducted safely and in accordance with Scouting policies.

Guide to Safe Scouting: https://www.scouting.org/health-and-safety/gss/

Safe Project Tool List: https://filestore.scouting.org/filestore/healthsafety/pdf/680-028.pdf

Why This Matters

Disasters leave behind more than physical damage—they leave lasting emotional and spiritual wounds. By engaging in this work, Scouts not only help restore homes, but also bring hope and encouragement to families and communities struggling to recover.

Together, we can demonstrate what it truly means to be Helpful, Friendly, and Kind.

Scouting Adventures