December emits holiday cheer and Troop 160 fully embraces the excitement. Not only do troop members plan to continue to camp, they will also offer service to others.
Back on Nov. 7, the troop held its annual French toast breakfast. Thanks to the community and everyone who attended, it was a huge success. However, some of the Scouts were learning to hone their skills at the NEPA Council’s Great Expectations program. This program is designed to provide Scouts an opportunity to learn practical teamwork and leadership skills. In fact, most current and past Troop 160 junior leaders have attended this program (as well as its second part, Great Medicine).
Troop 160 remains very connected to the outdoors year-round, rain or shine. On Nov. 14, the Scouts set up camp at Goose Pond Scouting Reservation. The theme was Dutch oven cooking and the Scouts enjoyed every moment of it. Additionally, the Scouts had the choice of sleeping in a lean-to or building their own shelters.
To stay in the spirit of the holidays, the troop will hold its annual holiday party on Dec. 17 at the Clarks Summit United Methodist Church. Plenty of games and refreshments will be available for the Scouts. The white elephant gifting program makes this meeting a troop favorite. Who knows, there may even be a special surprise this year, as well.
Boy Scouts always emphasize service to others. Troop 160 also embraces this idea and spent Nov. 21 sorting items at the Dalton Food Pantry. The troop would like to thank the pantry for the opportunity to provide its services.
In order to advance in rank from Star Scout onwards, the Scouts must earn a certain number and set of merit badges (Eagle Scout requires a minimum of 21). The NEPA Council’s Annual Merit Badge College program is the perfect time for Scouts to earn a few extra merit badges. Essentially, the Scouts arrive in the morning and are given four time slots to fill with badges and an hour lunch block in between the two. The Scouts may earn up to four merit badges, provided badge work does not extend beyond a cap of eight hours. Troop 160 plans to bring a strong showing to the event this year and is ready to learn.
Even the harsh cold on a winter campout cannot dampen the spirits of Troop 160 since the Scout Motto reminds them to “Be Prepared.” The troop will continue to aim skyward in the future, just as it always has.
Remember, a Scout is friendly.
