With nearly half of its current residents participating, The Barry Robinson Center’s Scout Troop 397 has been busy in recent weeks.
In June, the Scouts enjoyed an overnight “camping” activity in the gym, watching movies and playing games. Four Scouts earned the privilege of attending a regional Scout day at Ocean Breeze Water Park in Virginia Beach. And another eight Scouts took in a Norfolk Tides baseball game during Scout night at Harbor Park.
For more than 10 years, the Center has sponsored Scout Troop 397, part of the Tidewater Council of Boy Scouts of America. The Center has a Cub Scout pack, a younger Scout troop and an older leadership Scout group.
Willie Linn, the Center’s activities coordinator, established the troop and continues to lead it as Scoutmaster. Recently, Damian Owen, a residential counselor for the older boys’ dorms, became the program’s first Assistant Scoutmaster. Like Linn, Walker participated in Scouting activities when he was a youth.
“It’s a big plus to have Mr. Damian now,” Linn said. “He’s a huge help and is doing a lot to support our Scouts and the program.”
Another ongoing Scout activity is a bike safety program, where the residents learn about wearing helmets, using turn signals and riding in single file.
One special upcoming project include activities surrounding the Independence Day holiday. Scouts will place small flags around campus. On July 3rd, they’ll lower the flag in the campus Military Courtyard, and then conduct a flag raising ceremony on the morning of July 4th. In preparation, the Scouts are learning flag etiquette and proper flag folding and handling procedures.
Later this summer, the Cub Scouts will enjoy a “Rain Gutter Regatta.” They’ll make paper boats and race them in a water-filled gutter, powering the boats by blowing through a straw.
And before long, the annual Scout popcorn sale will be underway. This is always a popular event among staff and residents.