Boy Scout Troop 518, sponsored by Park Cities Baptist Church, held its first campout activity January 23-24 at a private lake/ranch near Gilmer, Texas.  The group consists of 13 boys from the Highland Park area, ranging in age from sixth to ninth grade.  The boys were hosted by Scoutmaster Mark Boozer at his ranch for a weekend of education, service and fun.

The boys received information on cooking techniques for dutch ovens, then applied their new knowledge in creating a delicious dinner of chicken pot pie, biscuits, and apple cobbler for dessert.  The education plus good food was the perfect combination! 
In addition, the troop learned how to design and create their own troop flag, which features original artwork, lettering and lashing techniques on the leather banner.  This flag helps reinforce the troop’s motto of Leadership, Adventure, Advancement, and Service. 

As a service project, troop members patrolled the local lake and cleaned up trash and litter.  The boys also managed to find time for some fun by kayaking, Frisbee throwing, and mastering the art of remote controlled vehicles.

On Sunday, the troop attended an inspirational sunrise service conducted by Jon Wasson, the youth minister for Highland Park Presbyterian Church.

Although rain moved in for several hours on Saturday, it did not dampen the spirits of this energetic group of boys.  Everyone agreed that this initial campout was a great success.

If you live in the Park Cities area and you are interested in joining Troop 518, please contact Mark Boozer at 214-763-4311.

Posted by Laurie Johnson for Eric Devlin.