Scouting Program Reorganized, Revitalized

Local Scouting programs – Troop 167 for boys and Troop 761 for girls – are planning rallies and sign-up events this month as a major reorganization and reinvigoration effort begins.

The new committee chair and energy source is Tony Brown, who offers extensive experience in Scouting and enthusiasm for what it can offer youth and their families.

His son Nick Brown is Scoutmaster for Troop 167.

“Scouts of America is coming back to Mountain View with a vengeance,” Nick commented.

Girls Scoutmaster Amanda Richardson, who also serves as Assistant Scoutmaster for boys, said she is excited to see additional people join the core volunteers that have been active in the community.
Alicia Lewis is Assistant Scoutmaster for girls.

Along with Tony Brown, committee members are Molly Hanlin, Wiley Ferrell, Jennifer Orengo (Cubmaster) and Alfredo Orengo (Assistant Cubmaster).

Cub Scout groups are still in need of more adult volunteers, Richardson noted.
Rallies are scheduled on school campuses: Concord (Aug. 15), Rural Special (Aug. 20) and Mountain View (Aug. 21) with sign-ups on the following day. No event had been scheduled at Timbo School as of press time.

Scouting is not affiliated with school districts, but local officials are good to let Scouting representatives come in and present information, Richardson said.

After next week, meetings for all age levels will be held on Thursdays beginning at 5:30 p.m. at The Dome Church in Mountain View.

Scouting is open to all youths ages 5-17. Scouting teaches life skills through fun and educational experiences, fosters leadership and instills values. More than 20 local youth are now members.

Richardson said local troops typically enjoy camping, hiking and “everything outdoors.” Members recently returned from summer camp at Damascus, and there is a camping and hiking event at Ponca scheduled Aug. 24-25.

Other scheduled activities include a September camping trip, with a winter preparedness workshop later that month; a Scout Expo Oct. 5, and Fall Camporee at Clinton Oct. 18-20. Winter Camp at Damascus will be held Nov. 23-27.

To fund outings and activiites, Scouts are planning fundraisers such as popcorn sales, having gumbo food booths during festivals, and the business flag service.

Businesses will be approached soon about contracting to have flags placed for holidays such as Memorial Day and Labor Day.