December 2025 Scoutmaster Minute

Hello friends of Troop 26,

It is a deep privilege to serve as Scoutmaster. After a wonderful handover with Mike at the end of 2024 and into early 2025, I’m delighted to report that the troop has remained highly active and thriving throughout 2025.

Our Scouts completed numerous hikes in the local Front Country, including Bear Trap, Cold Springs, and Rattlesnake, as well as longer expeditions such as multi-day biking in the Carrizo Plains, kayaking at Tomales Bay, and summer camp at Emerald Bay on Catalina Island. We also led a major trek in the Sierras, during which our Scouts rescued a stranded hiker—an event that drew international media coverage.

Troop 26 averaged around 50 Scouts on the roster and more than 40 adult leaders. It is inspiring to see the impact Scouting has on these young men. Their camaraderie, confidence, sense of belonging, and self-esteem grow with every trip, every challenge, and every shared adventure.

We have celebrated two new Eagle Scouts this year, with more expected early in 2026, alongside numerous service and community projects. Our weekly meetings continue to be strong, building the skills and teamwork that make our larger outings such a success.

I want to extend heartfelt thanks to our Troop community, to all the adults who give their time, and to our generous supporters. Your contributions make a direct and meaningful difference—especially for Scouts from underprivileged backgrounds who would otherwise be unable to participate fully in the Scouting experience. Your support truly changes lives.

I also encourage you to stay engaged and volunteer where you can. If you didn’t have the chance to experience Scouting as a youth, now is a wonderful opportunity to be part of it.

Looking ahead to 2026, we have an exciting program of adventures planned, including a high-adventure program in Florida, summer camp at Chawanakee, another Sierra backpacking expedition to Dinky Lakes, several overnight biking events, and much, much more. Beyond that, we are preparing for our return to Philmont in 2027 and additional great adventures in 2028.