We will utilize Zoom so the families can still be a part of the ceremony for all Scouts. This is a time of recognition for every Scout, and we want to share in that recognition as a Pack. Families in their cars during the crossover drive-through are encouraged to log in and watch activities at the bridge. The Zoom login link, meeting ID, and passcode have been emailed out to the Pack list.
Directions
McGimsey Scout Park (MSP) is located at 10810 Wedgewood Road, San Antonio, TX 78230. Proceed down Wedgewood past the Council office building, go past the gates by the field (we’ll have an exit sign posted here), and enter at the main stone entrance that says Boy Scouts of America (we’ll have an entrance sign posted here). Please see attached map.
Drive down the main road, and turn left onto the gravel road by the open field. Follow this around to where the bridge is set up. This is where we’ll line up for the ceremony. There is no order to the line, so please just pull all the way through as you arrive. (Arrows parents, please watch for a separate email from me directions specific for Arrow families.)
Please note, there will be others out at MSP for swim checks until 5:30. They will be turning right where we’ll be turning left, just FYI.
Flag Ceremony
We’ll begin with the traditional flag ceremony, Pledge of Allegience, Scout Oath, and Scout Law. We’re still looking for Webelos volunteers to lead the Pledge, Oath, and Law. I have one volunteer so far, so please let me know by 5pm Friday if your Scout is interested in leading one of these three from the comfort of your vehicle.
Building of Bridge
The ceremony will begin with the building of the bridge, led by the Arrows. If your Arrow is interested in participating in this portion, please me know by 5pm Friday. This portion of the ceremony is out of the vehicle, and masks are required.
Arrows Crossovers
The Arrows will crossover first. We will have guests from a Troop to receive our Scout going on to Scouts BSA. (Arrow parents, please see separate email with additional information.)
Rank Up
The remaining Scouts ranking up will proceed through the ceremony in the order they appear in the car line. This will help with Scouts with siblings, where both can receive their awards at the same time.
Once you are at the bridge, we’ll let you know when your family may exit your vehicle. (Please note, anyone exiting the vehicle must wear a mask.) Your Scout can come to the bridge, we’ll read the awards earned, and your Scout can walk across the bridge to receive the awards. Please note, instead of the traditional Scout handshake, we will do the Scout salute. Please make sure your Scout is aware of this change.
Once your Scout has received their awards, you may take a moment to take a few pictures at the bridge to commemorate your Scouts accomplishments this year. Once you are done, please return to your vehicle, so the next family in line may exit their vehicle.
Please be considerate of all Scouts we are recognizing during this ceremony. We ask that you remain in the Zoom call to help celebrate with all Scouts, even after your Scout has received their awards. This is a great accomplishment for all Scouts, especially in this ever-changing environment. If you wish, after exiting MSP, you can drive down to the Council building parking lot to watch the remainder of the ceremony.
HELP WANTED
Transportation
We still need a volunteer to help transport the bridge to the ceremony (load bridge at 3:30), and a volunteer to help transport the bridge after the ceremony (leave McGimsey at approximately 7:15).
Decorating
We would like your help in making this event more festive for the Scouts. Please consider decorating your car for this event. Some ideas are making signs, adding a splash of color representing your Scout’s den, ribbon, balloons, etc.
Fall Pack 502 Programming
Our committee has been working diligently to plan how we’ll continue with programming this fall given the current environment. After we get through Saturday’s ceremony, we’ll begin sending out information.
