Happy Independence Day!

For a number of years now a few of our now-1859-members have  participated in the Oak Harbor 4th of July parade on Whidbey Island.  We have had the pleasure of joining the VFW #7392 parade unit and connecting with the members of this great veterans hall.  We were well received today by their Commander, and I am hoping to have him as a guest at our tent this coming Saturday at the Skagit Valley Highland Games.

We may have attracted a few new members to #1859 today while at the parade staging grounds.  It’s interesting what happens when you step out in SAMS kit…  There are a lot of good folks who want to know more about Scottish heritage, our clothing and bagpipes, our organization and why we’re participating in a particular event.  So … talk with these folks!  It’s a part of our SAMS purpose statement, and people are interested.

The Commander of SAMS Post #1889, our Region 15 Commander, and I all share similar viewpoints about how we have been approaching our SAMS participation at area Highland Games — and how to improve our presence starting with the 2022 season.  Most importantly, we have wanted to make changes at our outreach tents.  We tried these changes at the recent Tacoma Highland Games and saw considerable results.  We arranged the tent and tables with an open footprint.  Our SAMS members were encouraged to invite everybody in — military, their families and friends, and the general public — everyone!  These guests were smiling and staying longer at the tent, and our SAMS were happy to connect with everyone.  On one day alone we recruited 225% of the new-members usually gained at this event.

This Saturday, July 9th, is the Skagit Valley Highland Games.  This will be the first time SAMS #1859 will be running a tent at a Highland Games.  We plan to build on the successes at the Tacoma Highland Games.  I believe it is possible that we will double our member numbers at this event alone.  When we open up and connect with people it is good for everyone.  In 1859 we work and we play — when we gain members we are better able to connect with past and present military, we can build community, and bring more enjoyment with our activities!

See you at Skagit!
~ Don