Day 9

I feel like every day I want to say that today has surpassed every day so far and I suspect that I will want to say that tomorrow too. Today was amazing for a number of reasons but the most amazing part of today was the "Arena Show". The arena is a big field. They estimated that there were 80,000+ at the arena show including visitors. Today is the highest number of visitors. What made the Arena Show so amazing and special was that it was like a boy scout version of Woodstock. We had music, speakers and they even had some scout contests before it got started. President Obama gave a video taped address as did the Governor of West Virginia. Now if you happen to notice that we are not in West Virginia but it Virginia you might be wondering why the Governor of West Virginia would speak. The answer to that question lies in the knowledge that BSA has purchased with the help of some donors land in West Virginia that will be the location for Jamboree moving forward. The land is on the New River which has some great whitewater rapids and well as great rock climbing and mountain biking as well as enough acreage for a high adventure base, a summer camp, a training center and lots of other options. Starting in 2013. Jamboree is normally every 4 years but this one was stretched to 5 years because of the anniversary.

Others that presented their talents were Mike Rowe of Dirty Jobs fame. He told the boys that they needed to add a Dirty Jobs merit badge. Needless to say he got a big ovation on that. He has a great message for the boys too. We also had musical groups Honor Society and also Switchfoot. I think that the scouts really enjoyed both of those. To close out the show they presented a fireworks show that was easily the biggest one that I have ever seen.

That recounts the major happenings of the day. During the Areana Show I worked in Arena Medical keeping the computers, printers and scanners running. They have come to like us quite a bit. I don't know if I told you but when I am on duty I have a partner, Jonathan Shields that is from Richmond, Virginia. However, he was not a last minute addition and is good to work with.

I think I am going to call that a wrap for tonight. It is late and I have church services tomorrow. I will put up some pictures tomorrow too.

SLY, Dad