Scouts having fun, growing up at Camp Turrell
Learning experience as well as an outing SHOHOLA Together with their Scout Master Joe Malanio and Assistant Scout Masters Ron Miller and Mike Brown, eighteen boys of Shohola Troop 76 spent a week, earlier this summer, at Camp Turrell. Located in Cuddebackville, N.Y., Camp Turrell is a Boy Scout camp celebrating 40 years of operation. Devoted leaders and several parents volunteered their time to assist these young men in various tasks and activities throughout the week. The boys slept in sleeping bags on cots within canvas tents pitched on wooden platforms. Despite the fact that electronics (cell phones, iPods, etc.) were prohibited, they enjoyed campfires, swimming, fishing, canoeing, and hiking, along with many other activities. Not only did they enjoy these activities, they were learning, as well. The boys were also responsible for a number of different tasks and job duties. Boy Scout camp provides a significant opportunity for young men. Since its beginning in 1910, Boy Scouts of America has believed in personal growth through service. At camp, boys gain a sense of self worth through serving others. Strong personal values and character may be shaped as they are encouraged to make decisions that affect others, reflect on personal values, contemplate their own spirituality, and participate in patriotic activities regarding American citizenship. In reflection of the week that he spent at Camp Turrell with his scouts, Assistant Scout Master Ron Miller said, “We really had a week of fun, learning, sharing, growth, bonding, and accomplishments.” Assistant Scout Master Mike Brown continues, “In addition to having fun, the troop earned or made progress on over 90 merit badges. The younger members also made progress on rank advancements.” Scout Master Joe Malanio sums it all up by saying, “It was my distinct pleasure to take these guys 'up the hill’ to Camp Turrell. I thoroughly enjoy working with these guys, watching them mature and experiencing all that summer camp has to offer.” To learn more about Shohola Troop 76, log on to http://troop76.web.officelive.com/default.aspx.