Mr. Hey and Mr. Hannotte accompanied 22 scouts on the ferry to Emerald Bay Summer Camp on Santa Catalina Island this year. For 100 years scouts have had the privilege of attending camp on the island to grow their friendships, learn more about teamwork and scout spirit and have loads of fun. This year the weather was perfect, not too hot and not too cold. The scouts set up in tents and learned not to bring food into the tents unless they wanted to share the space with an army of ants. It was reported that the food was indeed camp food and the hot dogs were the “best” meal during the week.
There was not a spare minute as the camp provided so much to do. We were given the opportunity for completing merit badges and Kieran reported he worked on five of the 30 available: environmental science, rifle shooting, wilderness survival, oceanography and woodworking. Other merit badges included scuba, swimming, camping and marine science. Our troop enjoyed team spirit in the Aquacade competition, various water-based games, against other troops and did pretty well though we did not win the Aquacade trophy. We also had a blast on the standup paddleboards, waging war against other troops. Several of us mountain biked up the hill with an awesome view at the top. We enjoyed other activities such as learning to tie a fast bowline knot, archery, rifle & shotgun ranges, canoeing, kayaking and snorkeling. The highlight of the camp was hanging out with friends, fellow scouts, learning to work and play together. We can’t wait to return. Jack G.
