Scout Troop 267 Celebrates Achievements and Leadership at December Court of Honor Scout Troop 267 gathered on Dec. 15, to celebrate accomplishments, recognize leadership, and look ahead to a busy year during its year-end Court of Honor. The evening brought together Scouts, families, and leaders to honor advancement, merit badge achievements, and the service of outgoing youth officers.

Scoutmaster Mike O’Dell, and incoming Assistant Senior Patrol Leader Ben O’Dell assisted with the presentation of rank advancements, while Senior Patrol Leader Tasha Kemp served as Master of Ceremonies. Advancing Scouts included Rainn Szczerbacki (Tenderfoot), Kam Johnson (Star), Ben O’Dell (Life Scout), and Eli Williams (Life Scout).

A wide range of merit badges highlighted the diverse interests and skills of Troop 267 Scouts. Badges earned included Chemistry, Citizenship in the Community and Society, Health Care Professions, Robotics, Athletics, Crime Prevention, Geology, Music, First Aid, Family Life, Personal Fitness, Traffic Safety, Communication, Indian Lore, American Business, and Animation. Multiple Scouts earned several badges, reflecting dedication both in and beyond weekly meetings.

The troop also recognized special achievements, including participation in the AHC Monster Mash at Camp Merz by Scouts Gabriel Nagle, Sienna Nagle, Jax Ostler, Rainn Szczerbacki, and Eben Wille. Tyler Field was honored with the Scouts BSA National Outdoor Awards Emblem and the Camping Segment Achievement Award.

Leadership transitions were a key focus of the evening. Outgoing officers, led by Senior Patrol Leader Tasha Kemp, were recognized for their service in guiding the troop over the past term. New officers were then introduced, with Max Kropp installed as the incoming Senior Patrol Leader, supported by a full slate of youth leaders across patrol and troop positions.

Scout Troop 267 would like to thank the community for its generous support of the Annual Popcorn Sale Fundraiser, which sold just over $21,000 in four months, and the Applebee’s Pancake Breakfast Troop Fundraiser.Top popcorn sellers were recognized and awarded for their outstanding contributions. Most notably, Jethduan Cordova-Olmo sold $5,860 worth of popcorn. Record sales were also achieved by Tyler Field ($3,760), Kam Johnson ($3,190), Rainn Szczerbacki ($3,055), Ryan Cook ($1,041), and Aaron Cook ($1,021).

Troop 267 also announced several upcoming activities, including a free bowling celebration for Scouts at Lucky Lanes on December 22, rock climbing at Central Rock Gym on Jan. 19, and an Electronics Campout at Camp Gross from Feb. 27 to March 1.The Scouts return to their weekly meeting schedule beginning Monday, Jan. 5, at 7p.m.

Committee Chair Holly Field offered closing remarks, thanking the Scouts and their families for their continued commitment, and encouraging community members to consider supporting the troop as committee members or merit badge counselors. Family and community involvement is essential as the troop begins a new Scouting year in January. The troop is currently seeking volunteers for the following roles: Committee Chair (beginning in January), Assistant Activities Chair, Life to Eagle Coordinator, Training Chair, Scout-to-Cub Scout Liaison, Religious Emblem Coordinator, and Unit Public Relations Chair. Email 267fredonia@gmail.com to express interest and learn more!

Scout Troop 267 meets Mondays at 7 p.m. at American Legion Post 59, 156 East Main Street, in Fredonia, and is open to all boys and girls who have completed the fifth grade and are at least 10, but not yet 18 years old. For more information about the Troop and how to join, visit the Troop’s website at: https://www.fredoniatroop267.com.