Appalachian Trail District scouts prepare to lay wreaths at the Georgia National Cemetery, a project that’s part of Wreaths Across America.
Scouting for Fun in Cherokee BY LEE SMATHERS
In 1910, the Boy Scouts of America was established as a way to encourage young men working in factories during the Industrial Revolution to get out and enjoy nature. They were given the opportunity to explore the woods, scavenge the fields and learn outdoor survival skills they could put to use for the rest of their lives. In Cherokee County, the Boy Scouts of America still is going strong and is a great place for young men to continue to explore, scavenge and learn. But, today, scouting offers much more than that. Beginning at the first grade level, Cub Scouts is the family’s first exposure to scouting. The program promotes family participation and encourages everyone to take part in developing an exciting environment, with lots of great activities. The annual Cub Scout Pinewood Derby will be held at Carriage Kia on Olde Rope Mill Park Road at 8:30 a.m., Feb. 10. Cub Adventure Quest, held Aug. 25 this year, is a day filled with shooting BB guns, bow and arrows, and more. This year’s theme is Let the Games Begin and will feature tons of Olympic-inspired games and activities. The Boy Scouts also are stepping things up a notch. In January, Troop 8880 from Canton went to Escalade Climbing for a climbing merit badge lock-in. On Feb. 24, Troop 241 in Canton is encouraging other troops to join them in taking the Polar Bear Plunge — walking into the lake in full uniform posting the American flag. Other troops 72
TOWNELAKER | February 2018
in the area are busy with preparation hikes for attending multiple high-adventure camps across the country this year. In March, there will be a spring Camporee for all the troops from the Appalachian Trail District to join in celebration of scouting. Venturing is yet another scouting opportunity offered in this area, and is available to coed participants, ages 14-20. Venturing is based on a unique and dynamic relationship between youths, adult leaders and organizations in their communities. Local community organizations establish a venturing crew by matching their people and program resources to the interests of young people in the community. The result is a program of exciting and meaningful activities that helps youths pursue their special interests, grow and develop leadership skills, and become good citizens. Venturing crews can specialize in a variety of vocation or hobby interests. Sea Scouts, a specialized segment of the venturing program, was organized to address members' boating skills and promote knowledge of our maritime heritage. Sea Scout units, called "ships," focus on sailing and cruising either sailboats or power vessels. Most ships hold formal meetings continued on page 88
Lee Smathers is district executive of the Appalachian Trail for the Atlanta Area Council of the Boys Scouts of America. 770-989-2885. www.atbsa.org.