Fall is always an exciting time of year for me. Hearing the big, yellow buses rolling through neighborhoods, feeling the crispness in the morning air, and seeing the changing of the leaves reminds me that we are entering one of the most exciting times of the Scouting year. The goal of allowing every boy to hear the message about joining Scouting is happening in schools, places of worship, and throughout our community, resulting in hundreds of new families beginning their journey on this great Scouting trail. As we embark each year on a new class of Scouts, I am reminded of the awesome responsibility that we have to deliver a quality Scouting experience that will retain families and allow boys to receive all the benefits of the program for years to come.
This fall has been very special and unlike any other for my family and me. So much has transpired in the short period since August 1, my first day as your new Scout Executive. On the personal front, my wife, Jennifer and my five-year-old daughter Alexa, have joined me in the Miami Valley Council and we are still unpacking and getting settled into our new home. We've been overwhelmed by the kindness and support we've received from so many Scouters--even prior to our arrival. On the Scouting front, I've been doing a lot of listening and learning as I meet with many stakeholders in our community and in our Scouting family. Through all my conversations, people are feeling good about Scouting and what the program does for young people. In 2018, the Miami Valley Council will celebrate 100 years of service to the community and I can't think of a better time to connect, engage, and impact all our communities with everything that Scouting has to offer during this pinnacle year.
Thank you for the role you play in allowing the Scouting program to reach new families this fall and thank you for the hours you spend making a difference in the life of a young person. I appreciate you allowing me to 'share the trail' with you as I begin my service to the Miami Valley Council.