Well done

Posted by Prescott on June 15, 2009

Troop,

Well done.  We did it again and we did it well.  2009 Parker Country Festival is done and, by all accounts, we knocked the cover off the ball.  Vendors and Chamber folks were telling us right and left that they were constantly impressed by our diligence, hard work, and operational smarts (to pull off such a thing.)  The Carnival Owner even told me he was impressed and never sees this kind of care taken.

Some might ask why we do this…and of course the easy answer regards fundraising.  However, there are at least two other deeper reasons.

• First, in this day and age, it’s important to teach our boys that “the dirt washes off.”  If they learn that they can do a tough dirty job like this one as young men, then they’ll be so much more prepared when they get into and out of college or whatever.
• Second, they deserve to see and be a part of a big complicated operation run as crisply as we do it.  Immersion in this kind of effort will pay big dividends later.  They get to see how adults and Scouts pull together as a team to do something that is, frankly, pretty difficult.

Which brings me to some thank you’s.

To begin with, big thanks to Cal Bills and Mike Rabon.  I hope both of these guys get some sleep in the next few days.  They are truely amazing and everyone in the Troop needs to give them a pat on the back for coordinating this year’s PCF.  And, while you’re at it, thank Mike for doing it for all these past years and Cal for agreeing to take it in the future.

Next, thanks to all the AIC’s (Adults in Charge) who managed the shifts.  You all did well and many of your sons (and daughters) got to see you in a new light (as leaders of people.)

Thanks to Mr. Maus, who was responsible for getting the Troop the bags we had.  Without his help, we’d have been dead in the water.  As well, a thank you goes to the owner of the trailer who makes it possible for us to have our barrels (Hopefully, Cal or Mike will shoot me his name.)

Further thanks go to all the moms, dads, and siblings who helped.  And, to the moms who allowed their families to spend all weekend on this project.

Lastly, a hearty thank you to the Scouts and Adults of Troop 16, who showed that when we say we are all about High Levels of Challenge in this Troop, we don’t just mean long hikes, cold temperature, or high altitudes.  We take on tough jobs and make them look easy.

Please let me know if I’ve forgotten anyone.  I wanted to get this note posted as quickly as possible, so I have not talked with folks.

Very impressed with Troop 16,
Mr. Coleman