2006-2007 Orange Book: Internet Directory
Boy Scout Troup 679

For about ten years the troop has been turning out exemplary scouts, and Tom Herrington, the scout leader for the last four years, notes that it has produced ten Eagle Scouts.

One of those projects was at the Ramona Library, where a Scout built a roof for the storage shed. And recently another Eagle Scout poured a large concrete pad for the Congregational Church. There have been several projects over the years for local schools.

In addition to community service projects, the troop participates, along with the Rotary Club, in the 4th of July parade at the Country Estates. They also help the Rotary Club with rummage sales by selling refreshments. Last year Scouts bused tables at the Rotary Club breakfast.

"We try to get involved in many community activities," said Herrington.

Troop 679 is also very active in the traditional scouting activities of camping and hiking. Recently six scouts from the troop climbed Mount Whitney. Each year the troop takes part in a High Adventure Backpacking trip to many wilderness locations. This summer they will go to Mammoth and San Jacinto for snow camping.

According to Herrington "The local kids get an opportunity to be exposed to a lot of different activities. They have to obtain merit badges in First Aid, Communications, Family Life, Cooking or Camping, where they get an opportunity to learn practical skills in life."

These skills are not just about camping, he says. "It's how a family operates. How to operate a budget. How to speak and give presentations. Things they wouldn't get exposed to until they were working."

In addition to practical life skills, Scouts learn about community service by taking part in a food drive for the less fortunate, participating in service projects and building things for the community.

"There's some self, some community, some God and country," says Herrington.

On July 4 the troop operates a dunking booth at the Estates. They have no big annual fund-raiser, but each year they do car washes, sell coffee and donuts, and earn small amounts of money. Eagle Scout projects get their money from donations. Part of the job of organizing an Eagle Scout program is asking local groups for contributions.

If you are interested in your child joining this Scout Troop write to Tom Herrington, 16144 Hampson Place, Ramona CA 92065 or call him at 789-4305.