As the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) celebrate their 106th anniversary this February, Cub Scouts are more than happy to join in the celebration as partners in Scouting. Traditionally, the Blue and Gold Banquet began as a birthday party for Scouting, commemorating the formal establishment of BSA in 1910 (the program was so appealing that Cubbing, or Cub Scouts, was formally added in 1930). In recent years, a Crossover Ceremony was added as the official graduation from Cub Scout Pack 120 to Boy Scout Troop 120 for those who have completed the required achievements for this very important milestone.
This year's Blue & Gold Banquet was held on Saturday, February 6, 2016 at the California Elementary School. The evening began with a delicious meal prepared by Pack 120 Leaders. After the meal, much laughter was heard as magician Gerry Tritz amazed the group with an array of tricks, illusions and juggling. Several Scouts served as magician's assistants throughout the show with the exception of a few dangerous tricks including the fiery outdoor grand finale! After enthusiastic applause, the attendees returned indoors for a more solemn part of the program.
Webelos 2 Cub Scout, Diego Alexander Vasquez, was asked to come forward with his parents, Lucia Bryant and Moises Vasquez. Pack 120 Cubmaster, Brad Friedmeyer, spoke about the dedication of both the Scout and his family to make it to this moment. Special recognition was given to Webelos 2 Den Leader Rose Blair for her service to the Pack and to the Webelos group in particular. Blair spoke about the many ways in which Diego had grown and matured into a fine young man since his start as a 1st grade Tiger Cub Scout. After this moving speech, the Cubmaster then removed all traces of Cub Scout achievements from the young man's uniform to prepare for the final crossover from Pack to Troop. As the wide-eyed younger Scouts looked on, Arrowmen (Boy Scout members of The Order of the Arrow) led Diego and his parents through a dynamic ceremony. Upon completion, Scoutmaster Eric Schroeter welcomed Diego as the newest member of Boy Scout Troop 120 with a firm handshake and the gift of a Boy Scout Handbook. After closing remarks, the banquet concluded with congratulations and pictures.
Upcoming events include grade-level Den meetings, Pack-wide meeting on Feb. 22 and the Pinewood Derby in conjunction with Scouting For Food on March 5. Pinewood Derby work days, where the cars are built and customized, are scheduled for February 13, February 27 and Feb. 28. For more information call Brad at 573-338-2491.