Archives 2023

Troops 30B and 30G are selling 22″ live holiday wreaths and 19″ tall metal reindeer as a fundraiser this holiday season. These items listed on our custom sale form (link below) will be available for local pick-up the week after Thanksgiving. Arrival is guaranteed no later than 2 weeks after Thanksgiving Day. You must pre-order to make sure you get what you want as supplies are limited.

We appreciate your support of BSA Troops 30B & 30G… Thank you!

SOLD OUT! Thank you!

The scouts of Crestview’s Troop 30B and 30G recently had an exciting and educational encounter with law enforcement, diving into the fascinating worlds of crime prevention and forensic science! Thanks to the generous time and expertise of a local sheriff’s deputy, these dedicated young men and women earned both the Crime Prevention and Fingerprinting merit badges, gaining valuable skills and insights into potential future careers.

Earning the Crime Prevention and Fingerprinting merit badges offers scouts a unique opportunity to understand the vital role law enforcement plays in our society and how individuals can contribute to safer communities. These badges go beyond simple book learning, providing practical skills and knowledge that can have a real-world impact.

The Crime Prevention merit badge equips scouts with the understanding of how crime impacts individuals and communities and empowers them to take proactive steps to prevent it. Scouts likely learned about:

• Understanding different types of crime: Exploring various categories of offenses and their consequences.
• Home and personal security: Learning practical tips and techniques to safeguard their homes and protect themselves from becoming victims of crime.
• Community safety: Understanding the role of neighborhood watch programs and other community-based crime prevention initiatives.
• Cyber safety: Recognizing the risks in the digital world and learning how to protect themselves online.
• Reporting crime: Understanding the importance of reporting suspicious activity and how to do so responsibly.

These skills are not only beneficial for personal safety but also foster a sense of civic responsibility and encourage scouts to be active participants in creating safer environments for everyone in Crestview.

Crestview Scouts Get Hands-On with Law Enforcement, Earning Crime Prevention and Fingerprinting Badges!

The Fingerprinting merit badge delves into the intriguing science of forensic identification. Working directly with the sheriff’s deputy, the scouts likely got hands-on experience with:

• Understanding the history and science of fingerprinting: Learning about the uniqueness of fingerprints and their use in identification.
• Identifying different fingerprint patterns: Recognizing and classifying the arch, loop, and whorl patterns.
• Developing latent fingerprints: Learning various techniques used to reveal fingerprints that are not immediately visible.
• Lifting fingerprints: Practicing the careful process of transferring developed fingerprints onto evidence cards.
• Understanding the role of fingerprinting in law enforcement: Learning how this scientific method aids in solving crimes and identifying individuals.

This badge not only introduces scouts to a fascinating scientific field but also develops their observation skills, attention to detail, and understanding of the scientific method as applied in a real-world context.

Beyond the skills learned, these merit badges also open the door to exploring potential career paths within law enforcement and related fields. Scouts earning these badges may become interested in careers such as:

• Law Enforcement Officers (Sheriff’s Deputies, Police Officers): The direct application of crime prevention knowledge and the understanding of forensic techniques like fingerprinting are foundational to these roles.
• Crime Scene Investigators (CSIs): The Fingerprinting merit badge offers a direct introduction to the work of CSIs, who play a crucial role in collecting and analyzing evidence at crime scenes.
• Forensic Scientists: The scientific principles behind fingerprinting can spark an interest in the broader field of forensic science, which involves analyzing various types of evidence.
• Security Professionals: The knowledge gained in the Crime Prevention badge is highly relevant to careers in security, risk management, and loss prevention.

These interactions with a local law enforcement professional provide valuable mentorship opportunities and allow scouts to see firsthand the dedication and expertise involved in protecting our communities.

The opportunity for the Crestview scouts of Troop 30B and 30G to earn these merit badges with the guidance of a local sheriff’s deputy is a testament to the positive connections between the scouting program and the community. This hands-on learning experience underscores the many ways the Scouting America program benefits teen boys and girls. It provides them with opportunities to learn valuable life skills, explore potential career paths, develop a sense of civic responsibility, and build character in a supportive and engaging environment. From understanding how to keep their homes safe to uncovering the secrets held within a fingerprint, these scouts are gaining knowledge and skills that will empower them to be better citizens and potentially inspire their future endeavors. Scouting truly offers a well-rounded program that prepares young people for success in all aspects of their lives.

Autumn leaves were falling and a cool crispness filled the air as Scout Troop 30 gathered in October 2023 for a memorable Court of Honor. This special evening was dedicated to celebrating the remarkable achievements and unwavering dedication of our scouts, marking another significant chapter in their Scouting journey.

A Night of Milestones: Troop 30’s October 2023 Court of Honor

Understanding the Tradition: What is a Court of Honor?

For those who might be new to the Scouting family, a Court of Honor is a cherished tradition – a formal ceremony designed to publicly recognize scouts for their hard-earned advancements in rank, the diverse merit badges they’ve completed, and any other special awards they’ve received. Held periodically throughout the year, it’s a wonderful opportunity for families, friends, and the wider community to come together and witness the tangible growth and progress of our young people. Unlike a regular troop meeting, this event is solely focused on the formal acknowledgment of individual accomplishments within the supportive framework of the troop.

A Night of Milestones: Troop 30’s October 2023 Court of Honor

Why These Moments Matter: The Importance of a Court of Honor for Scouts

The significance of a Court of Honor for every scout cannot be overstated. These ceremonies are vital for several profound reasons:

• Fueling Future Endeavors: Receiving public recognition for their efforts is an incredibly powerful motivator. When a scout hears their name called, walks forward to receive a new rank or badge, and feels the genuine pride and applause from their peers and loved ones, it reinforces the value of their hard work and inspires them to set even higher goals.
• Cultivating Self-Assurance: Stepping into the spotlight to be recognized helps scouts build confidence and develop poise. It’s a moment that highlights their capabilities and strengthens their belief in their own potential.
• Visualizing the Journey: The ceremony provides a clear, visual representation of a scout’s progression through the ranks and the wide array of skills and knowledge gained through merit badges. It allows scouts, and especially their families, to truly see the tangible results of their commitment to the Scouting program.
• Inspiring the Next Generation: Younger scouts often look up to those being honored, seeing a clear and exciting path for their own development. The achievements celebrated at a Court of Honor serve as a powerful inspiration and a testament to what is possible within Scouting.
• Strengthening Community Bonds: Courts of Honor are truly family-centric events, bringing together the entire Scouting community. Parents, siblings, and extended family members become active participants in the celebration, reinforcing the vital network of support that underpins a scout’s success.
• Embracing Core Values: Often, the ceremony includes meaningful reflections on the timeless principles of the Scout Oath and Law, serving as a powerful reminder of the ethical framework that guides every scout’s actions and character development.

A Night of Milestones: Troop 30’s October 2023 Court of Honor

Troop 30’s October 2023 Court of Honor was a heartwarming testament to the dedication of its scouts and the vibrant, supportive environment fostered by their leaders and families. Each badge presented, each rank achieved, represented countless hours of learning, practicing, and growing. Congratulations to all the scouts of Troop 30 on their well-deserved recognition! We eagerly anticipate celebrating many more milestones in the future.

On September 23rd, 2023, the tranquility of Lake Seminole in Sneads, Florida, was gently disrupted by the excitement of the Inaugural Bass Tournament, a collaborative effort between Boy Scout Troops 30B and 30G and host Evan Robbins of Sass & Grit of Florala, Alabama. It brought together anglers from the local community for a day of friendly competition and outdoor fun to benefit the Scouts.

As the morning mist cleared, participating anglers eagerly launched their boats onto the glassy surface of the lake. Armed with their rods, reels, and a spirit of sportsmanship, they embarked on a quest to catch the biggest bass. Throughout the day, cheers erupted as lines went taut and impressive catches were reeled in, each fish carefully measured and documented.

As the day drew to a close, the tournament culminated in an awards ceremony held at the scenic Lake Seminole park. Trophies were presented to the winners in various categories, recognizing not only the largest bass caught but also the spirit of sportsmanship and teamwork exhibited by the participants. Scouts assisted anglers in returning their fish to the water.

Tournament Results:

• First Place: Brad Hambrick and Nicky DaVinco
• Second Place: Cole Huff and Preston Kreel
• Big Fish: Kevin Peel

Community Impact: Notably, 40% of the tournament’s proceeds were generously donated back to the Scouts to help offset the cost of Summer Camp, ensuring continued opportunities for outdoor adventure and personal growth for these young individuals.

Back at camp, scouts learned about whipping knots and how to build a dining fly. Scouts worked together to accomplish these skill-oriented tasks with the guidance of their leaders. Both skills were useful in creating a shelter from the sun as daytime temperatures increased. While shore fishing proved to be a bust this trip, Scouts experienced the joys of nature and being a part of it.

The Inaugural John Mayfield Memorial Bass Tournament proved to be a resounding success, exceeding expectations and leaving a lasting impression on all involved. The event not only provided a platform for healthy competition and outdoor recreation but also served as a testament to the positive impact of collaboration and community engagement within the BSA. With the lessons learned and the bonds forged near the waters of Lake Seminole, both Troops 30B and 30G look forward to the prospect of making this an annual tradition.

We are hosting a bass fishing tournament!

• Registration and boat check will begin at 4:00 AM at Sneads Park Boat Ramp
• Blast off will be at safe light and weigh in will be at 1:00 PM
• Boat launch order will be in the order of registration
• Entry Fee is $100 per boat with an optional big fish pot of $10
• Payout will be based on number of entries. 60% to payout at 1 place per 7 boats and 40% to BSA Troop 30. Big fish will be 100% payback.

RULES
• All state rules and regulations must be followed.
• Maximum of two people fishing in one boat.
• All boats must check in at the Sneads Park boat ramp.
• All boats must be back at weigh in by 1:00 PM. Late boats will be disqualified.
• Contestants must stay in their boat during tournament hours.
• 5 fish maximum at weigh in.
• 12-inch minimum length (Short fish will not be weighed.)
• 0.25 lb penalty for each dead fish including big fish.
• Life jackets will be worn when boat is at speeds above idle, with kill switch attached.
• Must remain 50 yards from other boats unless there is a mutual agreement between competitors/boats to be closer.
• One rod and reel in use at any time. No trolling allowed!
• Artificial baits only. No live bait!
• No limit on number of boats in tournament.
• Canals are off limits. Must fish in the main lake only.
• Must have a good attitude and use good sportsmanship.

You may register at Sass & Grit in Florala, AL, the boat ramp the morning of, or mail entries and check to:

Evan Robbins 23238 5th Ave. Florala, AL 36442

For questions or information contact: Evan Robbins 334-804-8277

Printable PDF Flyer & Entry Form: Click Here

The air was filled with pride, applause, and the joyful spirit of accomplishment as Scout Troop 30 recently gathered for their Court of Honor! This special event is a cornerstone of the Scouting program, a moment to pause, reflect, and celebrate the hard work and dedication of every scout.

Celebrating Achievements: Troop 30’s Court of Honor

What is a Court of Honor?

For those new to Scouting, a Court of Honor is a formal ceremony where scouts are recognized for their advancements in rank, the merit badges they’ve earned, and other awards they’ve achieved since the last gathering. It’s a significant occasion, typically held a few times a year, where families, friends, and community members come together to witness the growth and progress of the young people in the troop. Unlike a regular troop meeting, a Court of Honor emphasizes the formal recognition of individual achievements within the collective spirit of Scouting.

Celebrating Achievements: Troop 30’s Court of Honor

Why is it Important to Scouts?

The Court of Honor holds immense importance for scouts for several key reasons:

• Recognition and Motivation: It provides a public platform to acknowledge and celebrate each scout’s efforts. Seeing their name called, walking forward to receive a badge or rank, and hearing the applause of their peers and family is a powerful motivator. It validates their hard work and encourages them to continue striving for new goals.
• Building Confidence: Standing before an audience to receive recognition helps scouts develop confidence and poise. It’s a moment where their achievements are highlighted, reinforcing their self-worth and capabilities.
• Understanding Progress: The ceremony visually demonstrates a scout’s journey through the ranks and the breadth of skills they’ve acquired through merit badges. It helps them, and their families, see the tangible results of their commitment to the Scouting program.
• Inspiring Others: Younger scouts look up to those who are advancing, seeing a clear path for their own growth and development. The achievements of older scouts serve as an inspiration and a testament to what can be accomplished.
• Community and Family Involvement: Courts of Honor are family-friendly events that bring the entire Scouting community together. Parents, siblings, and extended family get to be an active part of the celebration, reinforcing the supportive network that is so vital to a scout’s success.
• Reinforcing Values: The ceremony often includes reflections on the Scout Oath and Law, reminding everyone of the core values that guide every scout’s journey.

Celebrating Achievements: Troop 30’s Court of Honor

For Troop 30, their recent Court of Honor was a testament to the dedication of its members and the supportive environment fostered by their leaders and families. Each badge presented, each rank achieved, represented countless hours of learning, practicing, and growing. Congratulations to all the scouts of Troop 30 on their well-deserved recognition! We look forward to celebrating many more achievements in the future.

The adventurous young women of Crestview’s Troop 30G have recently been honing a vital skill that blends outdoor exploration with sharp thinking: orienteering! Through hands-on practice with maps and compasses, these dedicated scouts are not only learning how to navigate the wilderness but also developing crucial life skills that will guide them far beyond the trail.

Orienteering, the sport of navigation using a map and compass, is a cornerstone of scouting, and Troop 30G has embraced it with enthusiasm. It’s more than just finding your way from point A to point B; it’s about developing a keen sense of direction, problem-solving abilities, and the confidence to navigate unfamiliar territory – both literally and figuratively.

Crestview’s Troop 30G Finds Their Way: Mastering Orienteering Skills for Life’s Adventures!

As the scouts learn the intricacies of orienteering, they are acquiring a wealth of skills that translate directly into real-life scenarios:

• Map Reading and Interpretation: Understanding topographic maps, deciphering symbols, and visualizing terrain are fundamental to orienteering. This skill translates to the ability to interpret all kinds of visual information, from blueprints and diagrams to data charts and even understanding the layout of a new city.
• Compass Skills and Direction Finding: Mastering the use of a compass to determine bearings and follow a specific course develops a strong sense of direction and the ability to stay oriented. This skill can be surprisingly useful in everyday situations, from navigating a large parking lot to understanding geographical relationships.
• Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking: Orienteering often presents challenges – unexpected obstacles, unclear trails, or the need to recalculate a bearing. Scouts learn to analyze the situation, think critically, and develop solutions to stay on course. This ability to think on their feet and solve problems is invaluable in all aspects of life, from academic challenges to workplace dilemmas.
• Decision-Making and Independence: When navigating, scouts must make independent decisions about the best route to take. This fosters self-reliance and the confidence to make informed choices, even when faced with uncertainty.
• Spatial Reasoning and Visualization: Mentally picturing the terrain based on a map and visualizing the relationship between map and reality strengthens spatial reasoning skills. This ability is beneficial in fields like architecture, engineering, and even packing a car efficiently!
• Planning and Organization: Successful orienteering requires careful planning of the route and organization of equipment. Scouts learn the importance of preparation and forethought to achieve their goals.
• Teamwork and Communication: When orienteering in pairs or small groups, effective communication and collaboration are essential for success. Scouts learn to share information, discuss strategies, and work together to navigate effectively.
• Observation Skills: Paying close attention to the surrounding environment – identifying landmarks, noting changes in terrain – is crucial for staying on course. This hones observation skills, making scouts more aware of their surroundings in all situations.
• Resilience and Perseverance: Getting lost or facing challenges during an orienteering course is a learning opportunity. Scouts develop resilience as they learn to stay calm, retrace their steps, and persevere until they find their way.

The skills Troop 30G is developing through orienteering are not confined to the woods. They are foundational abilities that will empower these young women to navigate the complexities of life with greater confidence and competence. From understanding directions and interpreting information to solving problems and making independent decisions, the lessons learned with a map and compass are truly skills for life’s adventures, wherever those adventures may lead them in Paxton, Florida, or beyond. The Scouting America program continues to equip young people with practical skills that build character and prepare them for a successful future, one bearing at a time.

The pursuit of knowledge and a commitment to community recently converged for the scouts of Crestview’s Troop 30B and the enthusiastic members of Troop 30G. Their dedication to earning the Reading Merit Badge led them to the welcoming doors of the Florala Public Library, where they not only immersed themselves in the world of books but also forged a deeper connection with this vital community resource.

The Reading Merit Badge serves as a powerful encouragement for young people to explore the vast landscape of literature, cultivate critical thinking skills, and recognize the profound impact of literacy. The Florala Public Library became the perfect launchpad for this intellectual adventure, offering a treasure trove of stories and information waiting to be discovered.

Libraries are the heart of a thriving community, acting as accessible hubs for learning, discovery, and connection.

They provide equitable access to a wealth of resources, fostering a culture of reading and lifelong learning for everyone. For the scouts, the Florala Public Library offered:

• A Universe of Stories and Information: Scouts explored diverse genres, from thrilling adventures and informative biographies to captivating poetry and insightful historical accounts, fulfilling the badge requirement to read widely.
• A Sanctuary for Focused Study: The quiet and welcoming atmosphere of the library provided an ideal space for the scouts to concentrate on their reading and thoughtfully engage with the material.
• Guidance from Knowledgeable Librarians: The dedicated staff at the Florala Public Library were invaluable resources, offering recommendations, assisting with research, and fostering a welcoming environment for the scouts.

To earn the Reading Merit Badge, the scouts embarked on a journey of literary exploration, which included:

• Venturing into Varied Literary Landscapes: Scouts embraced the challenge of reading books from different genres, expanding their understanding of diverse writing styles and subject matter.
• Engaging in Thought-Provoking Discussions: The badge emphasizes comprehension and critical analysis. Scouts participated in discussions about the books they read, sharing their interpretations, analyzing themes, and developing their communication skills.
• Sharing Their Literary Discoveries: Through book reviews and reports, the scouts articulated their understanding and appreciation of the books they encountered, further solidifying their learning.
• Understanding the Library’s Crucial Role: A key element of the badge is recognizing the significance of libraries in promoting literacy and community engagement. Their time at the Florala Public Library provided firsthand insight into this vital role.

Crestview Scouts Turn Pages and Forge Connections at Florala Public Library, Earning Reading Merit Badge!

Beyond their individual reading endeavors, the scouts of Troop 30B and 30G actively contributed to the Florala Public Library, demonstrating their commitment to service. They dedicated more than 4 hours volunteering at the library, assisting with tasks such as reshelving books, organizing collections, and learning about the day-to-day operations that keep this essential resource running smoothly. This hands-on experience instilled a sense of civic responsibility and a deeper appreciation for the work involved in making a library accessible to all.

Adding a heartwarming note to their visit, the outing to the Florala Public Library marked a special milestone for two scouts who received their very first library cards! This tangible symbol of access to a world of knowledge and stories underscores the lasting impact of this experience and the vital role libraries play in opening doors for young learners.

The journey of Troop 30B and 30G towards earning the Reading Merit Badge at the Florala Public Library beautifully illustrates the core values of the Scouting America program: learning, service, and community engagement. By immersing themselves in the world of books and actively supporting their local library, these Crestview scouts have not only achieved a significant merit badge but have also fostered a lifelong appreciation for the power of reading and the invaluable contributions of libraries to our communities. Their experience serves as an inspiring example of how young people can connect with knowledge, serve their community, and open new doors for themselves and others.

The air was crisp, the stars were bright, and the spirit of adventure was alive as Scout Troop 30G embarked on their very first campout! This wasn’t just a night under the stars; it was a foundational experience where the girls learned essential outdoor skills, built teamwork, and made unforgettable memories.

Scouts of 30G were able to learn these skills from scouts from Troop 30B

For many, this campout was their introduction to the joys and challenges of living in the great outdoors. The leaders guided the scouts through crucial lessons, starting with the very basics of campcraft:

• Setting Up a Safe Axe Yard: Safety first! The girls learned the importance of establishing a designated “axe yard” – a clear, safe area for chopping wood. They understood the safety circle, proper stance, and how to use an axe safely and efficiently. This hands-on lesson in tool safety and responsible outdoor practices is a cornerstone of scouting.

Scouts learned how to set up an axe yard and use tools safely.

• Mastering Fire Building: There’s a special kind of magic in building a fire from scratch. Troop 30G learned the art of fire lays, selecting tinder, kindling, and fuel wood, and how to safely ignite and maintain a campfire. This skill is not only practical for warmth and cooking but also teaches patience, observation, and respect for nature’s elements.

Scouts master their fire making skills.

• Tent Setup Teamwork: A comfortable night’s sleep begins with a well-pitched tent! The scouts worked together, learning how to unfurl, assemble poles, stake down, and properly tension their tents. This activity was a fantastic exercise in teamwork, communication, and following instructions, ensuring everyone had a cozy shelter.

Scouts carry their patrol box to their kitchen area.

• Outdoor Cooking Adventures: And what’s a campout without delicious food? The girls got hands-on with outdoor cooking, learning how to prepare meals using camp stoves and over the open fire. The highlight? Making and enjoying fresh pancakes for breakfast! This experience taught them about meal planning, food safety in an outdoor setting, and the satisfaction of cooking for themselves and their patrol.

Scouts learned to cook their meals outdoors for the first time.

From mastering the axe to flipping perfect pancakes, Troop 30G’s first campout was a resounding success. The laughter, the learning, and the shared experiences under the open sky truly cemented their bond as a new troop. Congratulations, Troop 30G, on a fantastic start to your scouting journey! We can’t wait to see what adventures you’ll tackle next.