Momentum into Summer

from the desk of Karl Shelton Scout Executive

May is a month of motion. School years begin to wind down, calendars fill up, and for Scouts and Scouters across Southeast New Mexico, excitement builds for the adventures ahead.

Lower Antelope Canyon

I just returned from a personal trip to Lake Powell, where we hiked Antelope Canyon and boated through the awe-inspiring Horseshoe Bend on the Colorado River. Surrounded by towering sandstone and flowing water, I was reminded how deeply these kinds of outdoor experiences shape us. They stay with us—not just as snapshots on our phones, but as core memories that define our sense of wonder, courage, and connection.

That’s exactly what Scouting offers. For the youth in our programs, these aren’t just activities on a calendar. They are life-shaping moments—learning to build a fire, sleeping under the stars, cooking a meal with your patrol, earning your first merit badge, helping a friend succeed.

We saw that firsthand at last month’s Spring Camporee and Mulligan Stew in Clovis. With nine troops and a large percentage of our Scouts participating, it was a celebration of everything right with our movement. Scouts tackled challenges in fire-building, first aid, pioneering, campsite skills, and teamwork—all while deepening friendships and having a blast. The tradition of Mulligan Stew tied us together across generations of Scouting in Southeast New Mexico.

As we look ahead, summer camp is just around the corner. Whether your unit is headed to Wehinahpay Mountain Camp, Cub Scout Day Camp, or Resident Camp, now is the time to lock in plans and ensure every Scout has the chance to be part of the adventure.

And while A Scout is Thrifty, we know that sometimes a helping hand is needed. Camperships and fundraising support are available to make sure no Scout is left out. Let us know how we can help.

Finally, as we approach Memorial Day, let us remember that a Scout is Reverent. I encourage all of our units to participate in local ceremonies and acts of remembrance. Honoring those who served is a powerful way for Scouts to learn respect, history, and gratitude.

Let’s keep the momentum going. Let’s build memories that will last a lifetime.

See you around the campfire,

Karl Shelton Scout Executive/CEO

Conquistador Council, Scouting America

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