In response to the COVID -19 pandemic, the George Mason District had to cancel its Merit Badge day. Saturday was a glorious day out and most Scouts probably went out and enjoyed the early spring day.
Most Dads too, but not mine. He had plans to do “distance learning.” He wanted to hold a virtual Public Speaking merit badge class. He quickly sent out an email that Friday to the Scouts and parents registered and organized a class for the next morning at 8:30 am! He looked at me and said, “I’ll fix you breakfast and you can handle all my technology needs right!” I said,” its not complicated Dad, but why so early? You know I’m done with my requirements.” He said, “it will be a good learning experience!”
He got 8 Scouts to join him and we completed our requirements. We heard speeches on the Civil War, Sailing, Joseph Stalin and the Gulag, The M-16 in Vietnam, Homer, Socialization and its impact on Capitalism in America, and many other great topics. We learned about how to prepare a speech, over come nerves, and had alot of impromptu speeches about the novel coronus virus. We talked about our favorite foods and favorite classes At school.
Finally we discussed the importance of Parliamentary procedures and reviewed a quiz my dad sent out to all of us Scouts.
My dads a great nerd, but I’m glad he did the online session. We learned alot and had fun. It was a different kind of audience but I think it will help me in the future. My PLC and I will try to use the same tech to organize our next troop meeting so we can stay engaged, active and safe in Scouting.
George Mason kicked off the Cub Scout Day Camp season on June 18 with Twilight Camp at Izaak Walton League-Centreville. With six different program stations to rotate through, there was never a dull moment all week.
No doubt fish stories abound after a successful day fishing the pond at IWL. Scouts found that fishing can be fun, even if you don’t bring home a catch every time you cast. Among other topics, Fishing Director Tom Canody helped Scouts understand local fishing regulations and discussed different area fish then gave the Scouts the opportunity to drop lines in the water. Scouts took home “ribbon” fish to show “just how big was the one that got away.”
The week in the woods ended with the annual flameless Campfire Closing program where the Scouts entertained their parents and invited guests with skits, songs, run-ons and lots of laughter.