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Local Scout Soars to National Success: Ricardo Awarded Top Eagle Scout in the Country

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San Antonio, TX – In the heart of Texas, amidst the bustling cityscape of San Antonio, a young Scout has emerged as a beacon of dedication and achievement. Ricardo L. has not only made his mark locally but has soared to national recognition, clinching the prestigious title of Top Eagle Scout in the country.

Just a month ago, Ricardo received news that he had secured the top spot in the Arthur M. & Berdena King Eagle Scout Contest at the state level, representing the state of Texas. His application, forwarded by the local San Antonio Chapter, stood out among the rest, earning him the first-place position.

But Ricardo’s journey didn’t stop there. His excellence transcended state borders when he was selected as the First-Place Winner to represent Texas at the national level by the Sons of the American Revolution.

This past weekend, at the Sons of the American Revolution State Convention, Ricardo received news that would further solidify his status as a standout Scout. He was informed that he had been chosen as the Top Eagle Scout in the entire nation.

The accolades didn’t end with recognition; Ricardo is set to receive significant scholarships as a testament to his hard work and dedication. He will be awarded a total of three scholarships, amounting to an impressive sum:

  • $250.00 – Local Chapter 1st Place Winner
  • $3,500.00 – State-Level 1st Place Winner
  • $10,000.00 – National 1st Place Winner

With the national title under his belt, Ricardo’s journey continues as he prepares to embark on an all-expenses-paid trip to Lancaster, PA, on July 13th. There, he will be honored with the national $10,000.00 scholarship, marking a remarkable achievement in his scouting career.

The 583 extends heartfelt congratulations to Ricardo, expressing immense pride in his accomplishments! As he prepares to receive his well-deserved recognition on the national stage, the community stands in awe of his dedication, perseverance, and commitment to service. Ricardo’s success not only highlights his individual achievements but also serves as an inspiration to Scouts across the country, showcasing the transformative power of determination and hard work.

 

 

Do you have a Scout story to share? We want to hear from you! Email eNews@AlamoAreaBSA.org

Update to the Guide to Safe Scouting about 18 year old program participants – Please read

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18 – 20 Adult Leader/Program Participant Policy 

17-year-old* youth members transitioning to an adult leader (Scouts BSA), Camp Staff or adult program participant (Order of the Arrow, Venturing and Sea Scouts) upon their 18th birthday may continue to participate while their adult application and CBC are processed, but this period shall not exceed 30 days. These individuals are subject to the same youth protection policies and guidelines as all adult Scouters even during this registration transition period.

This includes:

  • Adhere to the Youth Protection and Barriers to abuse polices of the BSA.
  • Follow housing and tenting policies that apply to adult membership.
  • Utilize restroom and shower facilities for adults.
  • Buddy system is not required but is recommended for all participants.
  • While adult program participants do not require two deep leadership, as they are subject to the same youth protection policies and guidelines as all adult Scouters. All Scouting activities are still required to meet barriers to abuse and must have two leaders over 21.

*Exception

 17-year-old youth members whose 18th birthday occurs during active participation at Summer Camp, a High Adventure Base or any BSA National Events may complete the activity they started as a youth participant without interruption; however, at its conclusion they must immediately register as an adult. This exception is intended for limited use in scenarios such as completing a trek while staying in the same tent or accommodation in the last few days of an event. It does not change or extend Eagle Scout or other advancement required to be completed by a Scouts 18th Birthday; they will need to follow all applicable advancement policies

 

This can be found already updated in the Guide to Safe Scouting here

Congratulations to Ship 26 for earning the Sea Scout National Flagship Award!

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In 2002, to honor the 90th anniversary of Sea Scouts, BoatUS, the nation’s largest recreational boating organization, instituted the annual Sea Scout National Flagship Award. This recognizes the Sea Scout Ships that excel in all areas of Sea Scouting. Additional ships that exhibit excellence in their Sea Scout program can be selected for the National Flagship Fleet. This year, Ship 502 “Invincible” from Sam Houston Area Council was awarded the National Flagship. For the first time in Alamo Area Council history, a Ship was awarded the honor of being selected for the National Flagship Fleet with three other Ships from across the United States. Sea Scout Ship 26 “Alamo” was awarded this honor. Ship 26’s Charter Organization is the Texas Transportation Museum.

Selection of the National Flagship Fleet was for the activities of the Ship from January 1, 2023 through December 31, 2023. Boatswain Eirik Sutton, under the leadership of Skipper Shawn Sawyer, spearheaded the effort to apply for this distinction. The criteria follow the Journey to Excellence scorecard and emphasizes excellence in on-the-water activities, advancement, training, recognition, community service, leader professional development, growth and recruiting. Along with the application, the Ship must submit a video, a picture of the Ship in The Official Sea Scout Uniform, and obtain a signed authorization from the Council Executive.

For the first half of 2023, Ship 26 was under the leadership of Boatswain Franky Johns and then Boatswain Eirik Sutton for the latter half. The efforts of the entire Ship contributed to the success of the Ship.

Below are some highlights of activities that contributed to us achieving the award:

General

  • The ship conducted regular membership meetings
  • Contributed to Council events
  • Monthly or more on-the water activities
    • Sailing
    • SCUBA
    • Paddle boarding
    • Power boating
    • Swimming
    • Fishing
  • Frequent attendance at nautical events
    • First annual Council event, Weekend on the Water
    • Sailboat races
    • The annual territory-wide practical skills competition, Minto, where they placed 3rd overall
    • Eliza Sutton’s Quartermaster Cruise where she had to plan, fund, and lead a crew of 5 through practical skills and drills for 40 hours
    • Texas 200 where a crew of 3 youth and 4 adults attempted to sail 200 miles through the Intercoastal Waterway from Port Isabel to Magnolia Beach. Successfully sailed 100 miles, had to pull out due to equipment failure.
    • Sea Base Florida

Ship 26 by the numbers:

  • Over 60% increase in membership
  • 79% advancement within the Ship
  • 5 long cruises of a week or longer
  • Service to other Scouts BSA units (Small boat sailing MB, Water safety, Sea Base prep, Kayaking BSA teaching, rain gutter regattas)
  • Extensive community service hours
  • Multiple recruiting events
  • 16 adults attended Sea Badge
  • 100% of the adult leaders took some form of additional professional development (STCA, Aquatic Supervisor, Powderhorn, Lifeguard BSA, SCUBA certification, Range Safety officer, Shooting sports instructor, outdoor ethics, EDGE, commissioner’s university)
  • 100% of the youth took some form of leadership training (ILSS, NYLT, NYLT Academy)
  • Over 60% of the youth participated in additional practical skills training (CPR, First Aid, Lifeguard, NASBLA Boating Safety, SCUBA certification, Aquatics School

Check out this video about Ship 26!

Interested in Scouting? Start your adventure today!

Be Prepared for the National Day of Prayer

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As we approach the first Thursday in May (5/2/24), we stand on the brink of a significant occasion deeply rooted in the fabric of American history and tradition—the National Day of Prayer. It is a day when our nation collectively turns its thoughts towards the divine, seeking guidance, solace, and unity through prayer.

Understanding the Significance

Dating back to 1775, the Continental Congress initiated the first National Day of Prayer, urging colonists to beseech the Almighty for the fledgling nation’s well-being. This tradition has since evolved, culminating in 1988 with the U.S. Congress enacting a law to designate the first Thursday in May as the official National Day of Prayer.

How Scouts Can Participate

As Scouts, embodying values of reverence, duty to God, and service to others, our participation in this significant day is not only encouraged but vital. Here are some ways you can engage:

23rd World Scout Jamboree in Kirara-hama Japan
  1. Personal Reflection and Prayer: Take a moment to retreat into quietude, whether alone or with fellow Scouts, and offer prayers of gratitude, reflection, and supplication. Express thanks for the privileges and freedoms we enjoy as citizens of a nation that values religious liberty.
  2. Community Outreach: Consider organizing a prayer gathering within your troop or with other local scout troops. This can be a time of collective prayer for the well-being of our communities, nation, and the world at large. Engage in discussions about the values of unity, understanding, and empathy.
  3. Acts of Service: Use this day as an opportunity to serve others in your community. Whether it’s volunteering at a local shelter, assisting the elderly, or participating in environmental cleanup efforts, let your actions be a manifestation of your prayers for a better world.
  4. Educational Endeavors: Take time to delve into the history and significance of the National Day of Prayer. Explore the diverse religious traditions within Scouting and how they intersect with this observance. Foster understanding and respect for differing faiths and beliefs.

Saint Teresa of Avila once said, “For prayer is nothing else than being on terms of friendship with God.” Let this sentiment guide our interactions on this National Day of Prayer as we forge deeper connections with our Creator and with one another. As Scouts, let us embrace the spirit of this day by embodying the principles of reverence, service, and unity. Together, let us offer our prayers for the well-being of our nation, our communities, and our world.

Did you know?

To encourage members to grow stronger in their faith, religious groups have developed religious emblems programs. The Boy Scouts of America has approved of these programs and allows the emblems to be worn on the official uniform. The various religious groups administer the programs.

For more information about Religious Emblems Programs, see the following links to BSA resources:

Additional resources:

Cub Scouts of Pack 55: On a Mission to Meet Governor Abbott

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Texas Governor Greg AbbottThe tradition of scouting has long stood as a beacon of character-building and adventure. Recently, the eager Cub Scouts of Pack #55 embarked on a unique journey—to meet none other than the esteemed Texas Governor, Greg Abbott. As the dust settled on their memorable encounter, Cubmaster Nick Desnoyer shared insights into the pack’s remarkable experience.

For Nick, connecting with public servants isn’t just a matter of chance—it’s a deliberate pursuit. Year after year, he diligently sends speaking requests to various political figures. “I just send emails and make phone calls until someone says yes,” Nick explains with a hint of determination. This annual ritual, initiated every January, serves as a testament to the pack’s persistence and commitment to engaging with their community.

The process isn’t always straightforward. Nick acknowledges that not every politician responds to their requests. Nevertheless, he remains undeterred, ensuring that Pack #55 explores every avenue for meaningful encounters. “Flexibility is key,” he emphasizes, noting that opportunities to meet with politicians often arise at the eleventh hour, sometimes with just a few days’ notice.
But why go through the effort? Because the benefits extend far beyond a mere handshake and photo op. Engaging with public officials aligns seamlessly with the ethos of scouting, providing Scouts with invaluable experiences that fulfill merit badge requirements and broaden their horizons. “There are many adventures in Cub Scouts and BSA merit badge requirements that can be satisfied by doing this,” Nick affirms, underscoring the educational value inherent in these encounters.

Texas Governor Greg AbbottWhen the long-awaited moment finally arrived for the Cub Scouts to meet Governor Abbott, it proved to be nothing short of memorable. Describing the Governor’s demeanor as “gracious,” a heartfelt exchange between the civic leader and the kids transcended mere formalities. The Governor regaled the young Scouts with anecdotes from his own scouting days and reminisced about his fondness for San Antonio—a testament to the lasting impact of scouting on leaders at all levels.

The story of Pack #55’s visit to offers a refreshing reminder of the power of community engagement and the enduring spirit of scouting. As these young Scouts continue on their journey of growth and discovery, one thing remains certain: with determination and persistence, no summit is too high to reach, and no opportunity too elusive to grasp.

 

Do you have a story to share? Send your story and photos to enews@alamoareabsa.org

Eclipse is happening April 8th!

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Do you have the special glasses so you can see the eclipse without hurting your eyes?! You can purchase them from the council office! ONLY $1.50/piece

Order them online and pick up at the council office

These glasses are both ISO and CE certified safe for direct solar viewing anytime.

Click here to buy the glasses!

ALSO!!!

Get ready for the awe-inspiring April Solar Eclipse at the scenic Bear Creek Scout Camp! Imagine a weekend campout under the stars, with the chance to witness this celestial spectacle from the comfort of our captivating location. Don’t miss out on this exclusive weekend-only camping opportunity. While other places in the hill country are filling up fast, and traffic chaos looms, why not opt for the tranquility of Bear Creek? Get set for an unforgettable experience without the stress.

 

Click here for more info about view the Eclipse with us!

Scouting Adventures