Troop 40 Gets Active with the Community

As the holiday season comes to an end, Boy Scouts Troop 40 in Grand Terrace would like to share some of their most recent activities. In the last three months of 2014, Troop 40 was very active in its community, and the great outdoors. During the month of October the Troop learned the importance of salesmanship through the annual Boy Scouts of America (BSA) popcorn fundraiser. Each weekend in the fall community members could find young men selling BSA Popcorn to help earn money for Troop activities and to help the local BSA Council and Troop 40. The Troop later embarked on a 2-wheeled experience as the High Adventure Patrol completed a 50-mile bike ride from the valley to the beach. While the High Adventure Patrol was riding to the beach, those not interested or able to complete the ride stayed back at camp and mastered first aid skills, knot tying and camp-wide games. Keeping with the Troop's commitment to the community, Troop 40 lent helping hands at the Annual Grand Terrace Lions Club Pancake Breakfast on Oct. 26 and later in the week, the Troop worked with city leaders and community groups at the Annual Halloween Festival held at Rollin Park. In November the Troop joined several other scouting units in Landers, CA for the Annual Model Rocket Campout at Giant Rock which was followed by the Salvation Army Food Drive, held every year before Thanksgiving weekend. This year the troop collected over 1,000 pounds of food to be given to those in need during the holiday season. In the month of December the Troop continued to be active in the community. The start of the month was an opportunity for the young men to be recognized for their achievements at the Troop's Holiday Court of Honor. This year’s Holiday Court of Honor was especially memorable because Assistant Scoutmasters Steve Collins and Al Dietrich were presented with plaques, thanking them for their years of leadership and service. The event also provided the opportunity for the Troop to bring snacks or a special meal that represented their family or religious beliefs over the holiday season. It was a great opportunity for the scouts to learn about other cultures. On Dec. 6 the Troop was requested to participate in the 2014 Redlands Christmas parade and had the honor of carrying the American Flag in the parade. Finally in 2014, the Troop gathered at the Grand Terrace Convalescent Home and sang caroling songs up and down the hallways for the patients and staff. As our community grows Scouting continues to teach positive core values and leadership skills. Troop 40 has been active in Grand Terrace for 50+ years and will continue to be active for many more to come. If you are interested in scouting the Troop meets on Tuesday nights (6:50 p.m.) at the Grand Terrace Lions Club Community Center.