Scouting programs plan events, welcome new members
Two Bear Air Rescue provides a rescue demonstration Sept. 18 th at BSA Grizzly Base Camp near Bigfork during the NW District Fall Camporee.
Although the Covid-19 pandemic impacted youth activities throughout Northwest Montana, Scouting has continued, and activities are planned into the winter months, according to the Northwest District of the Montana Council, Boy Scouts of America.
“Scouting helps prepare youth in America to become responsible, participating citizens and leaders,” District Committee Chair Tom Sward said, adding that the long-held Boy Scout motto is “Be prepared.”
During the pandemic, Scouts combined efforts to produce thousands of face coverings through sewing venues and 3D printing to help first responders, Sward said in a press release. Units conducted food drives to feed the hungry and camping and hiking have continued.
Upcoming district events include a Klondike Derby in January (winter camp), Cub Scout Winter Day in February, and the annual Pinewood Derby in the spring. The Montana Council is hosting an International Exposition in Great Falls next June. All Scouts and their families are welcome. Already registered are Scouting units from Canada, Japan and Europe. Troops, packs and venture crews have a full calendar of activities in addition to the district and council events.
Area groups include Cub Scout Packs (girls and boys ages 5-10), Scouts BSA troops (girls and boys ages 11-18), and Venture Crew (males and females ages 14-20). Those interested in joining may attend upcoming unit meetings:
• Kalispell — Pack 4949, Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Thursdays 6:30 p.m.; Pack 4137, American Legion Post 137, Tuesdays 6:30 p.m.; Troop 1901, Trinity Lutheran Church, Tuesdays 7:00 p.m.; Troop 1933, Presbyterian Church, Tuesdays 6:30 p.m.; Troop 1933 (Girls), Tuesdays 6 p.m at different venues.
There will be a 1933 (Girls) special recruiting event campfire at Lone Pine State Park Tuesday, Nov. 23. Email 1933g.scoutmaster@gmail.com.
• Columbia Falls — Pack 4101, The Alliance Church Fellowship Hall, Tuesdays 6 p.m.; Troop 1941, Columbia Falls Methodist Church, Tuesdays 7 p.m.; Troop 1941(Girls), Columbia Falls Methodist Church, Fridays 7 p.m.
• Whitefish — Pack 4917, Church of the Nazarene, Tuesdays 6 p.m.;Troop 1936 and Venture Crew 2920, Moose Lodge, Tuesdays 6 p.m.; The Lodge is also reforming Pack 4936.
• Bigfork — Pack 4923, Bethany Lutheran Church, Mondays 6 p.m.; Troop 1923, VFW Post 4042, Mondays 6:30 p.m.; Troop 1916 (Girls), Community United Methodist Church, Bigfork, Mondays 6:30 p.m.