WESTFIELD-Boy Scout Troop 821 extends a welcome to local boys, ages 11 to 17, to learn about the Boy Scout program during a unique, fun-filled afternoon Nov. 11 at the Moses Scout Reservation in Russell.
Scouts Garrette Ondrick and Nathan Black practice making fire – one of the skills that will be taught during a scouting recruitment afternoon on Nov. 11. (Submitted photo)
The troop, sponsored by Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Church, is hosting its “Eight-Two-Fun Day” from 1 to 4 p.m.
“Parents are welcome to stay and meet the adult leaders of our troop and learn about the Boy Scout program and how it differs from Cub Scouting,” said Assistant Scoutmaster Heidi Trottier. Trottier serves with Dan Phaneuf, assistant scoutmaster, on the recruitment committee. Scout Master Christian Muldrew will also be on hand to answer questions throughout the event.
Activities throughout the afternoon include first aid demonstrations, a fire-building competition, wood cutting, knot tying, and creating a shelter. Additionally, boys can participate in an obstacle course and pumpkin chunkin’. An early “light” meal will be provided including hamburgers, hot dogs and the troop’s favorite, chili, with “secret ingredients.”
“Team building and troop bonding games will round out the event,” said Trottier.
For more information and to RSVP by Nov. 10, contact Trottier at (413) 348-8265 or via email to [email protected].
A catapult launching fall squash is always a popular event during Westfield Boy Scout Troop 821’s recruitment day. Behind the catapult is Joseph Muto as Anthony Peck looks on. On the right assisting Muto is Antony Muto. (Submitted photo)
In a related note, Troop 821 will once again host its annual “Breakfast with Santa” on Dec. 2 from 8 to 11:30 a.m. at Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Church.
Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for children (children under 3 admitted free). Menu items include pancakes with syrup, bacon, juice, coffee and tea.
Highlights of the event include being served by the Boy Scouts, a chance to win silent auction raffle prizes, and being photographed with Santa Claus. A nominal fee is charged for the photo session with Santa. The raffle is being hosted by the “Friends of Scouting” which are family members and friends of the scouts, according to Trottier. Raffle prizes will include camping supplies, themed gift baskets, gift cards from local vendors, board games and small electronics.
Trottier said the boys enjoy being a part of this annual tradition which has been conducted for more than 10 years.
“I think it’s a nice sense of community service during a very jolly occasion,” said Trottier. “The room is festively decorated, holiday music is playing in the background, and the smell of cooking bacon and the taste of hot pancakes and coffee makes everyone smile.”
In addition to interacting with Santa, a complimentary craft table for children is also always a hit.
“The boys take pride in seating and serving their patrons and seeing that everyone has a fantastic time,” said Trottier.
