Skautu Kucios, the traditional Lithuanian Christmas Eve dinner, sponsored by the Philadelphia branch of the Lithuanian Scouts Association, was a tremendous success year. In recent years the attendance at this event had been just over 100 guests. This year there were over 150 guests in attendance‚ which filled the hall to capacity and was considered a "sellout". Why the sudden increase in attendance? Was it that nothing else was going on that day? Perhaps the nice weather? This writer attributes it to the reputation that our local Lithuanian scouts have built over the past thirty years in preparing this special dinner. The word simply got out. This group of scouts really knows how to prepare 12 traditional Lithuanian Christmas foods deliciously! They, don't just stop there. The recipe for success lies not only in the food ingredients but also the spirit of the gathering. The tables in the banquet room are arranged so that they are all joined continuously. This symbolizes the unity among the guests and as all are joined as one family. Then add in the entertainment. Every year the scouts come up with something different. This year the Philadelphia Kankles group played a suite of Lithuanian Christmas songs. Then, as every year, everyone in attendance joined in singing our favorite Lithuanian Christmas carols. Didn't have to worry if you are a little rusty with the words. Song sheets were passed out. Finally, Kucios were concluded with the traditional scout song "Ateina Naktis" (Taps). Everyone in the room joined hands, and with slight swaying to the melody, sang the words with which scouts, while in camp, conclude every day before retiring for the night and entrusting their safety into God's hands. One thing learned from this year's dinner‚ reserve early for next year's.
       Valio! Valio! to the Philadelphia Lithuanian Scouts Association. To the scouts, scout leaders, parents, families, and scout alumni, we congratulate you and your organization for yet another successful "Kucios", and thank-you for all the work you do in our community.
      This year yet another first. The Philadelphia Kankles group (which incidently is comprised of many scouts) performed traditional Lithuanian Christmas melodies on "Kankles". Kankles performers outside of Lithuania are rare. We in the Philadelphia area are fortunate to have a group of young ladies who are dedicating time to learning the art of playing this ancient Lithuanian musical instrument. Our thanks to Dr. Juozas Kasinskas (pictured on right) and Brigita Kasinskas for their work in instructing this wonderful group.