Scouts and their families participated in placing flags on graves at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona. Arriving in time for the opening ceremony, we joined other Scouts from across the Valley to honor our nation’s fallen heroes. Wearing our Class A uniforms, we took part in this meaningful act of remembrance. It was a powerful way to show respect and serve our community.
Troop 653 scouts helped with a community service project at the postal office food drive, assisting in sorting donated food collected by mail carriers. Scouts and adults wore their Class B uniforms and worked hard while taking occasional breaks with cold water and snacks. This was the first time scouts supported the food drive in five years, after a pause due to the pandemic. It was a great opportunity for scouts to give back and demonstrate the importance of service in our community.
Troop members had a great time at the Grand Canyon Council Yuma Canoe Run in Yuma. They spent the weekend canoeing over four miles down the Colorado River, with one adventurous boat even capsizing along the way. Scouts cooked and shared meals at their campsite, which they enjoyed alongside other visiting troops. It was a fun and memorable weekend filled with teamwork and outdoor adventure.
The Scouts had an action-packed weekend biking the trails at McDowell Mountain, surrounded by stunning desert scenery and challenging terrain. Along the way, some Scouts tested their skills by taking on a small jump, adding an extra thrill to the ride. Back at camp, the group came together to cook delicious meals, practicing teamwork and outdoor cooking skills. It was a memorable adventure full of fun, exploration, and time spent in the great outdoors.
The Scouts rolled up their sleeves to help with an Eagle Project at the Riparian Preserve in Arizona. They rebuilt a lakeside fireplace by laying concrete blocks and using cement to bind them together, restoring it for safe community use. The team also cleared overgrown brush to improve walkways and create a safer, cleaner environment. To wrap up the day, they painted bird deterrent structures near the lake to help protect the area. It was a meaningful project that blended hard work, environmental care, and service to a well-loved local spot.
The Scouts came together to support an Eagle Project focused on creating a more inclusive outdoor space. They built a wheelchair-accessible garden bed and a custom table designed for easy access and comfort. In addition to the construction, the Scouts worked hard leveling dirt and laying down pavers to create a smooth, stable surface. It was a rewarding day of service that combined teamwork, problem-solving, and making a lasting impact in the community.
The Scouts had an exciting urban bike ride through the city, cycling through a variety of streets and parks. Along the way, they focused on bike safety, teamwork, and navigating busy urban environments. The group took breaks to recharge, enjoy the outdoors, and keep up their energy. It was a thrilling outing that combined adventure, skill-building, and exploring the city on two wheels.
The scout troop visited a local elderly home to spread holiday cheer by caroling for the residents. Dressed in festive attire, the scouts sang a variety of classic holiday songs, brightening the spirits of the seniors and creating a joyful atmosphere. The residents enjoyed the performance, and the troop’s visit was met with smiles and heartfelt appreciation, making it a memorable experience for both the scouts and the elderly community.
The scouts visited Pima Air and Space Museum in Tuscon Arizona and the Sonoran Desert Museum. The Pima Air and Space Museum features over 400 aircraft and is the world’s largest non-government-funded aerospace museum. The Sonoran Desert Museum is a natural history museum and aquarium dedicated to the Sonoran Desert ecosystem. The Sonoran Desert Museum is home to over 230 animal species and 1200 types of plants.
The Scouts also had the opportunity to attend a local veterans parade during their outing. The event featured planes flying overhead and a procession through the streets, honoring those who served. It was a powerful and respectful experience, allowing the Scouts to reflect on the importance of service and sacrifice. The sight of the planes and the support from the community made for a memorable and meaningful moment in the day.
