Help celebrate Scouting by joining thousands of youth and leaders from all around Battlefields Council as they march down Main St. in Hamilton past City Hall.

Saturday, May 26th, 2012

Everyone knows the importance of energy conservation and utilizing renewable energies. In fact, the UN has named 2012 the Year of "Sustainable Energy for All". But do we really know what energy is? Webster‟s dictionary defines energy as:

1. a dynamic quality,

2. the capacity for vigorous activity,

3. vigorous exertion of power (effort),

4. usable power and the resources for producing such power.

This can define heat, electricity, or solar power. But it can also mean excitement, enthusiasm, spirit, eagerness, empowerment and accomplishments. This year‟s theme, "Show Us Your Energy", was chosen so that we can have some fun displaying both sides of the word. We are challenging all groups to be imaginative and think of ways to demonstrate these personal energies, relate them to Scouting and energy conservation, and to have fun doing it.

For those who do plan this far ahead, the 2012 parade line up will be as follows: Albion Mills, Dundurn, Kings Head, Hermitage Springs, Mohawk Trails, and "Out of Town" groups.

The Parade committee is proud that Hamilton Scouting and Guiding has supported Hamilton Food Share since the agency‟s inception in 1990. You donations over the past twenty-two years have significantly aided in local hunger relief efforts. Last year you donated just under 2,000 lbs. of food and over $1,100 dollars ($5,600 purchasing value). Very commendable, but can we do better? I believe so, with greater group participation.

The 88th Group has again issued an official challenge to all groups to collect the most for our 23rd annual Parade Food Drive. To make it more interesting, the Parade Committee will award the winning group with a special parade banner and the honour of being at the front of the Parade. Plan now – full details early in January.