Brit Mott

One of the largest and most prominent values-based youth organizations is celebrating a centennial birthday. The Boy Scouts of America was incorporated on February 8, 1910. According to the Associated Press, “no other U.S. youth organization has served as many boys—an estimated 112 million over the years.”

On Friday, January 8, the 2010 Great Plains District Recognition Dinner held at the HP-EDS campus recognized more than 100 Eagle Scouts for their service to God and country. Congratulations to the following Scouts and Scout leaders for their hard work and service in the community:

Al Lee Service Award: Tim Buckley
Ed Valentine Community Service Award: Crew 25, Pack 220
Dick Shaw Eagle Scout Award: Andrew Craven, Troop 288; Matthew Yenny, Troop 380;
Erik Eppig, Troop 999; and Alec Corona, Troop 1000
District Award of Merit: Wayne Allred, Earl Baker, Marilyn Joyce, Tammy Allen, Sallie Diamond, and John Stone

View a Slideshow

Steeped in tradition, Scouting encourages physical, mental and spiritual growth through educational programs and outdoor activities. Badges are earned by demonstrating involvement in five core values: leadership, achievement, community service, character, and the outdoors. Scouts who earn at least 21 merit badges and demonstrate the “Scout Spirit” become Eagle Scouts.

In the U.S., there are more than 300 councils in four regions. The Great Plains District is part of the Circle 10 Council serving the Scouts of Plano, Wylie, Nevada, and north Richardson.

The Circle Ten Council has geared up for the annual Scouting for Food drive. Scouts will scurry through the neighborhoods with yellow bags to collect food February 13–20 for the Plano Food Pantry. Pasta, cereal, macaroni and cheese, peanut butter, jelly, and canned goods are needed.

Tom and Sharon Macduff, who run the Plano Food Pantry, said the Scouting for Food drive is the largest source of food for the pantry. “2009 was the busiest year ever,” said Sharon. “Many days we’ve fed 10-plus families providing them with a week’s supply of food. Thanks to the Scouting for Food drive, we’ve had food available to help those in need.”

Fred Moss, marketing chairman of the Great Plains District committee, said the district’s goal is to surpass 80,000 food items. “The economy has hit many families hard,” he said, “and Scouting for Food is one of the major ways that food pantries can keep their shelves stocked for an ever-increasing demand. It is perhaps the only event in which the whole community gets involved for the good of its residents.”

Call 972.814.5997 or visit greatplainsbsa.org.