Bargain hunters and supporters of local youth, mark your calendars! Troop 63 is hosting a Yard Sale Fundraiser this Saturday, September 28th, from 8 AM to 1 PM at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Paris, KY.
We’ll have a fantastic selection of items up for grabs, including furniture, clothing, household goods, and much more!
Every dollar raised goes directly towards supporting the scouts of Troop 63 and their activities. These funds help cover the costs of camping trips, leadership training, community service projects, and other valuable experiences that shape these young individuals into responsible and capable leaders.
So come on out, find some treasures, and help support the next generation of leaders in our community!
In the heart of Bourbon County, a young man is taking proactive steps to make his community safer. On June 6th, Luke Johnson, a Life Scout from St. Peter’s Episcopal Church Troop 63 and a Junior Firefighter with the Paris Fire Department, received approval from The Boy Scout Council for his Eagle Project focused on fire safety and preparedness.
Driven by his experiences as a Junior Firefighter and his dedication as a Life Scout, Luke has set an ambitious goal: to install 75 smoke detectors and fire extinguishers into homes in need throughout Bourbon County. Recognizing the critical role these tools play in early fire detection and suppression, Luke is particularly focused on reaching low-income and elderly individuals who may not have these essential safety devices in their homes.
First Installation: A Special Moment
On a recent outing, Luke had the privilege of making his first installation, providing Ed and Jan Taylor with a smoke detector and fire extinguisher. This installation was particularly meaningful, as the Taylors had previously experienced a flash flood, during which Luke and his fellow Scouts from Troop 63 had helped them clean up. Sharing a church community with the Taylors further deepened the connection. This initial installation served as a valuable learning experience for Luke, allowing him to identify areas for improvement before the main event on Saturday.
Luke is actively seeking community support to make his project a success. He’s currently developing Google Forms to streamline the process for both volunteers who wish to assist with installations and individuals who would like to request installations in their homes. Please stay tuned to Luke Johnson’s Eagle Project on Facebook, as all Google Forms will be posted by Friday, June 14th.
Donations Needed
To cover the cost of the smoke detectors and fire extinguishers, Luke is also welcoming donations. Your generosity can help ensure that every home in Bourbon County has the necessary tools to stay safe from fire.
Conclusion
Luke Johnson’s Eagle Project is a shining example of the positive impact young people can have on their communities. By addressing the critical issue of fire safety, he’s making a tangible difference in Bourbon County. The successful first installation at the Taylors’ home marks the beginning of this impactful journey. We applaud Luke’s efforts and encourage everyone to support his project in any way they can.
Troop 63 Joins Troop 56 for Summer Camp Adventure at Camp Crooked Creek
Summer camp is a highlight of the Scouting year, filled with opportunities for adventure, learning, and camaraderie. This summer, Scouts Max Hawkins and Sam Miller from Troop 63 had the unique experience of joining Troop 56 for their week-long summer camp at Camp Crooked Creek, part of the Lincoln Heritage Council, from July 7th to 13th.
A Week of Fun and Challenges
Camp Crooked Creek provided the perfect backdrop for a week of Scouting excitement. Max and Sam, along with their new friends from Troop 56, dove into a wide range of activities and challenges.
Merit Badge Mania: The Scouts pursued merit badges in various areas, honing skills and expanding their knowledge.
Max dedicated his time to:
Citizenship in the Nation: Learning about the rights and responsibilities of U.S. citizens, exploring the different levels of government, and participating in a service project.
Sustainability: Understanding the principles of sustainability and taking action to conserve natural resources, reduce waste, and promote environmental responsibility. Max successfully completed this merit badge.
Cooking: Mastering various cooking techniques, planning nutritious meals, and preparing food safely in both indoor and outdoor settings.
Wilderness Survival: Developing essential survival skills like building shelters, finding safe water, signaling for help, and navigating in the wilderness.
Sam focused on:
Cooking: Similar to Max, Sam also explored cooking techniques, meal planning, and food safety.
Sustainability: Sam also delved into the principles of sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Fishing: Learning about different fish species, fishing equipment, and responsible fishing practices, and demonstrating fishing skills.
Chemistry: Exploring the fundamentals of chemistry, conducting experiments, and understanding the role of chemistry in everyday life. Sam successfully completed this merit badge.
Exploration: Researching and planning an exploration trip, learning about navigation and safety, and documenting the exploration experience. Sam also successfully completed this merit badge.
Aquatic Adventures: With the camp’s waterfront facilities, the Scouts enjoyed plenty of time on the water. Canoeing, kayaking, and swimming provided refreshing fun and a chance to build confidence and teamwork.
Outdoor Exploration: Hiking through the surrounding woods, the Scouts experienced the beauty of nature and learned valuable outdoor skills. They also tested their navigation abilities with orienteering challenges.
Campfire Camaraderie: Evenings around the campfire were filled with laughter, songs, and stories. The Scouts bonded with their fellow campers, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Benefits of Shared Experiences
The decision to join Troop 56 for summer camp provided Max and Sam with a valuable opportunity to broaden their Scouting horizons.
New Friendships: They forged new friendships with Scouts from another troop, expanding their social circles and strengthening the Scouting community.
Fresh Perspectives: Experiencing camp with a different troop exposed them to new ideas and approaches to Scouting activities.
Increased Confidence: Stepping outside their comfort zone and adapting to a new environment helped Max and Sam build self-reliance and resilience.
A Summer to Remember
Summer camp at Camp Crooked Creek was a resounding success for Max Hawkins and Sam Miller. They returned home with new skills, cherished memories, and a renewed appreciation for the Scouting spirit. Their experience serves as a reminder of the power of shared adventures and the importance of building connections within the Scouting community.
Troop 63’s Memorial Day Weekend Campout: A Blend of Adventure and Advancement
Scouting America Troop 63 kicked off their summer with a memorable Memorial Day weekend campout at the picturesque Headquarters Cattle Company Farm, nestled in the heart of Carlisle, Kentucky. The troop, comprised of eager Scouts and dedicated leaders, set up camp at the farm’s headquarters, located at 1794 Saltwell Headquarters Rd., ready to embrace a weekend filled with adventure, learning, and growth.
The campout provided the perfect backdrop for the Scouts to dive into their rank requirements and merit badge work. With the guidance of their experienced leaders, the boys actively participated in various skill-building activities, tackling challenges and honing their abilities. From knot-tying and fire-building to orienteering and first aid, the Scouts eagerly embraced every opportunity to expand their knowledge and earn those coveted badges.
The serene beauty of the Cattle Company Farm offered ample space for the Scouts to explore and connect with nature. Hiking trails wound through lush meadows, providing the perfect setting for reflection and camaraderie. The boys also had the chance to interact with the farm’s friendly animals, gaining a deeper appreciation for the natural world around them.
Evenings at the campout were filled with laughter, stories, and the warmth of a crackling campfire. The Scouts shared meals, swapped tales of their day’s adventures, and strengthened the bonds of friendship that make Scouting such a special experience.
As the weekend drew to a close, Troop 63 packed up their gear, leaving the Cattle Company Farm with a sense of accomplishment and renewed enthusiasm for their Scouting journey. The Memorial Day campout not only provided a fun and engaging experience but also served as a valuable opportunity for the Scouts to progress in their ranks and develop essential skills for life.
Troop 63 extends their heartfelt gratitude to the Cattle Company Farm for their hospitality and for providing such a wonderful setting for their campout. It was a weekend that will be cherished by all who attended.
On April 18th, 2024, a special ceremony marked a significant milestone for one young man in Paris, KY. Owen West, a dedicated Cub Scout from Pack 63, officially crossed over to Scouting America Troop 63.
Achieving the Arrow of Light Rank, the highest honor in Cub Scouts, is no small feat. It requires years of commitment, learning, and demonstrating Scout spirit. Owen’s dedication to earning this rank speaks volumes about his character and perseverance. The Crossing Over ceremony, a time-honored tradition, symbolized Owen’s transition from the Cub Scout program to the exciting world of Boy Scouts.
This is a new chapter for Owen, one filled with opportunities for adventure, growth, and leadership. Troop 63 is thrilled to welcome him into their ranks. As he embarks on this journey, we know Owen will continue to embody the values of Scouting, making a positive impact on his troop and community.
Congratulations, Owen, on this remarkable achievement. We can’t wait to see all that you accomplish in Scouting America Troop 63!
Troop 63’s Winter Adventure: IMAX, Camp Friedlander, and Tubing with a Special Guest
Scouting is all about adventure, and Troop 63 certainly embraced that spirit during their action-packed weekend getaway on February 3rd and 4th of this year. The troop embarked on an exciting journey that included an IMAX movie experience, an overnight stay at Camp Friedlander, and a thrilling day of tubing at Perfect North Slopes. Adding to the excitement, Arrow of Light Cub Scout Owen West from Pack 63 joined the troop for this adventure, eager to learn more about the troop and experience firsthand the fun and camaraderie of Boy Scouts.
The adventure kicked off on Friday with an immersive IMAX movie experience. The larger-than-life screen and captivating sound transported the Scouts and their guest, Owen, to another world, leaving them awestruck and inspired. It was a perfect start to the weekend, sparking excitement for the adventures to come. Owen shared in the enthusiasm, further solidifying his interest in joining Troop 63.
As the sun began to set, the troop made their way to the iconic Camp Friedlander for an overnight stay. Under the cover of the night sky, the Scouts and Owen enjoyed the rustic charm of the campgrounds and the camaraderie of shared meals and stories around the campfire. The crisp winter air and starlit sky created the perfect backdrop for bonding and forging lasting memories. Owen had the opportunity to interact with the Scouts, ask questions, and get a feel for the troop’s dynamics.
The next morning, with their spirits high, the group headed to Perfect North Slopes for an afternoon of exhilarating tubing. Laughter echoed across the slopes as they zipped down the snowy hills, embracing the thrill of winter fun. The perfect blend of adrenaline and camaraderie made it an unforgettable experience for all, and Owen felt a sense of belonging as he joined in the fun.
This weekend getaway was a testament to the spirit of Scouting, showcasing the importance of adventure, learning, and friendship. For Owen, it was a glimpse into his future as a Boy Scout, and for Troop 63, it was a chance to welcome a potential new member into their fold. Troop 63’s winter escapade will undoubtedly be remembered as a highlight of their Scouting journey, and for Owen, it marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter.
The Boy Scouts of America program in Paris experienced a significant transition at the close of 2023. On December 31st, Troop 67, long sponsored by the Church of the Annunciation, was officially retired. In its place, a new troop, Troop 63, was established under the leadership of Scoutmaster Jason McDonald. St. Peters Episcopal Church has graciously stepped forward to become the new troop’s chartering organization, with Frank McMullen serving as the Committee Chair and Mikki Johnson taking on the role of Chartered Organization Representative.
While the retirement of Troop 67 marks the end of an era, it also paves the way for a fresh start and new opportunities for local Scouts. Troop 63 will carry on the proud tradition of Scouting, providing young people with valuable experiences that build character, leadership, and a sense of community.
Under the guidance of its dedicated leadership team, Troop 63 is poised for success. Scoutmaster McDonald, along with Chartered Organization Rep. Johnson, bring a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to their roles. Their commitment to the Scouting program and their passion for helping young people reach their full potential will undoubtedly inspire and motivate the Scouts of Troop 63. With Frank McMullen’s leadership as Committee Chair and Mikki Johnson’s role ensuring strong communication and support from the chartering organization, Troop 63 has a solid foundation for growth.
St. Peters Episcopal Church’s willingness to charter Troop 63 is a testament to the church’s commitment to serving the community and fostering the development of its young people. The church’s facilities and resources will provide a welcoming and supportive environment for the troop’s activities and programs.
The transition from Troop 67 to Troop 63 represents a natural evolution in the Scouting program in Paris. While change can be bittersweet, it is also an opportunity for growth and renewal. Troop 63 will build upon the legacy of Troop 67, honoring its past while forging a new path forward.
