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Community Corner

Boy Scouts Recruiting This Weekend

Benicia boys can check out Scouting this Sunday evening.

Benicia Scouts hope to recruit new members at a special event this Sunday evening. Benicia has multiple packs of Cub Scouts for boys from first to fifth grades, and Boy Scouts for boys in sixth to 12 grades. Venturers Crew is for young men and women out of high school.

“These are wonderful programs for all the youth of Benicia from elementary through high school,” says Benicia Scout Leader Craig Stein. “Boys can be involved in sports, and Scouts; you don’t have to make every meeting.” says Stein. The aim is to instill character and leadership in youths. “It’s one of the big things that we do—good morals and ethics,” says Stein.

Every program sets its own agenda and calendar, but all focus on outdoor events. As Scouts get older, there are more advanced events like camping and hiking. The programs are flexible, allowing boys to participate in multiple activities throughout the year, like the Christmas Tree Recycling program.

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The Cub Scout Leader of Pack 108, , just began her second year for her son's troop. Burgess organizes the curriculum, activities and field trips for her pack of 13, with the help of the Cub Scout manual. Events include museum visits, camping, the and the on Sept. 24.

Scouts earn belt loops, pins and patches for skills learned and deeds done. The Scout motto is "Do your best.:

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“It's all about being conscientious, respectful and honorable,” says Burgess. “I see a difference. I can tell which boys are Scouts by how they conduct themselves.”

“Scouting teaches leadership,” says W. Eric Sargeson, committee chair of Benicia Troop 7008. “ One thing kids really need now on college applications is service opportunity, which Scouting offers as well.”

Scout fees range from $15 to $65 per year for membership, although some groups may charge for additional activities. The commitment for Scout Leaders requires them to hold two Pack meetings per month but the frequency of meetings, activities and field trips varies.

The recruitment event happens on Sunday, Sept. 18, from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the new Community Center. For more information, visit the Benicia Scouting website or call the Scout hotline at 707-551-4520.

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