Restoring a Scout camp… one hammer strike at a time

Mayflower Council — Nestled amidst the rolling hills and towering pines of forest-covered stretches of Sudbury and Framingham lies Nobscot Scout Reservation, a treasured haven for generations of young campers from New England.

But time, like the relentless march of nature, had taken its toll on the camp, leaving many cabins and facilities in disrepair.

Enter the Nobscot “Hammer Crew,” a dedicated group of volunteers who have taken it upon themselves to revitalize this beloved Scouting ground.

The story of the Hammer Crew begins with Pete Lane, a seasoned Scouting volunteer who stumbled upon the camp’s deteriorating state during a summer stroll in 2015. Witnessing the lone camp ranger struggling to repair a leaky roof single-handedly, Pete, ever the doer, offered a helping hand. This simple act of kindness ignited a spark that would eventually blossom into a full-fledged restoration effort.

Word of Pete’s initiative spread, and soon, he was joined by others who shared his vision of reviving Nobscot. Larry Bearfield, a key figure in the Nobscot Alumni Association (NAA), played a pivotal role in bringing together a team of skilled builders, visionaries, and do-it-yourself enthusiasts. This group, known as the Nobscot Hammer Crew (NHC), embarked on a mission to transform the camp.

The initial picture was bleak.

Most cabins stood boarded up, devoid of windows and doors, their roofs succumbing to the elements. Trees, victims of the gypsy moth infestation, lay sprawled across structures, further obscuring the extent of the damage. Roads were impassable, and the overall infrastructure was in dire need of attention.

Undeterred by the challenges, the NHC, led by the indefatigable Pete Lane, rolled up their sleeves and got to work. Starting with a handful of volunteers, the crew steadily grew, fueled by a shared passion for Scouting and a desire to see Nobscot thrive again.

One of the NHC’s most remarkable feats was restoring Cabin 39. This once-forgotten structure, shrouded in overgrown foliage and leaning precariously, presented a daunting task. But the NHC, with their unwavering determination and expertise, tackled it head-on.

Using cables and “come-alongs,” they painstakingly pulled the warped walls back into alignment, which took over a year. The crew then embarked on a comprehensive renovation, utilizing salvaged wood from trees felled during trail clearing and roof removal. This resourcefulness not only saved costs but also embodied the Scout’s principle of thriftiness.

The transformation of Cabin 39 is a testament to the NHC’s dedication and skill. The once-dilapidated cabin now stands proudly, ready to welcome future generations of campers.

While the NHC takes pride in its accomplishments, its focus remains firmly on the future of Nobscot. Its ultimate goal is to create a vibrant camp that fosters the growth and development of young minds through the timeless principles of Scouting.

The NHC’s unwavering commitment extends beyond mere repairs. They strive to enhance the overall camping experience by providing amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and readily available firewood. They meticulously maintain the grounds, ensuring that trails are clear and accessible.

The Nobscot Hammer Crew is more than just a group of volunteers; they are a testament to the enduring spirit of Scouting. Their unwavering dedication, resourcefulness, and can-do attitude have breathed new life into Nobscot, transforming it from a forgotten relic into a thriving hub for outdoor adventure and personal growth.

As they continue their tireless efforts, the NHC leaves a lasting legacy – a camp restored, a community strengthened, and a beacon of hope for the future of Scouting.

Rick Riopelle, John Bishop, and the Nobscot Hammer Crew compiled this story.

As we continue Den Leader Appreciation Month, the nominations keep rolling in. This week’s top nominee comes from Maynard, Massachusetts, where Cubmaster Jarrod Kennedy singled out Rob DeMarino for special recognition as Den Leader of the Week.

Rob DeMarino of Pack 130 Maynard

Maynard Cub Scouts

“Rob has served as a den leader in Pack 130 for several years and most recently graduated eight eager Scouts from the Arrow of Lights into the local BSA Troop,”  wrote Kennedy. “Rob provided an excellent environment, instilled the meaning of the Scout Law and Oath, and created many great memories for his cubs.

“After his Scouts crossed over, Rob has remained active in the pack and has volunteered to take on additional responsibilities. People like Rob are why packs and troops are successful.”

#Truth.

But those volunteers turn a successful unit into a superlative organization.

Case in point: Rob DeMarino.

Rob with Scouts for eclipse prep.

“Rob is always willing to help where needed and is happy to do so,” added Kennedy. “I’ve known Rob for almost two years and have not seen him without a smile.

“However, as an Air Force veteran, Rob is also great at grabbing the attention of the cubs when needed!”

That said, it’s not a straightforward veteran voice that keeps the kids’ attention.

“Rob consistently takes the aims of scouting and comes up with creative and fun ways to teach the Cubs,” said Jarrod. “Most recently, Rob put together activities for a solar eclipse pack meeting [as seen above], including glasses for the scouts, a model of the sun and moon, and crafts to create masks for their glasses.”

Congratulations, and thank you to Rob DeMarino of Maynard for all his efforts on behalf of his den, Pack 130, and the Mayflower Council.

Den Leader Appreciation Month

“Den Leaders Light the Way!” Scouters!  

This month, we’re celebrating extraordinary leaders. Using your suggestions, the Mayflower Council will recognize our superlative Den Leaders via social media weekly in May. Meanwhile, each officially registered Den Leader in the Council will receive a limited edition commemorative patch! Nominate your best den leaders here.

As you know, May is Den Leader Appreciation Month in the Mayflower Council.

Today, we recognize Todd Johnson of Pack 748 Medway as our third Den Leader of the Week for May 2024. 

Todd Johnson of Pack 748 Medway

Pack 748 Medway

“Todd has the liveliest den in the pack,” wrote Cubmaster Chris McKnerney. “His Scouts like to run around and have a good time, and Todd knows how to plan for that. 

“He keeps his meetings short and sweet, and the den meets outside year-round with many outings. 

“Todd is incredibly patient and well prepared and contributes to pack planning and activities,” added McKnerney.

While “patience” isn’t part of the Scout Law (yet), Todd’s ability to look beyond the excitement and energy remains a crucial facet of his leadership.

Todd Johnson, Den Leader, Pack 748

“Todd’s planning and patience make him an excellent den leader,” added the pack’s leader. “His den meets more often than the others in the pack because he knows he has to hold the Scouts’ attention. 

Meanwhile, and beyond the backyard, Johnson gets his den out and about.

“Todd is great at relating to his lively den, ” said Cubmaster McKnerney. “He takes them on many interesting outings, including trips to the town’s waste management facility, a supermarket, hikes, and even a fish hatchery.”

Congratulations and thank you to Todd Johnson of Medway for all his efforts on behalf of his den, Pack 748, and the Mayflower Council.

Den Leader Appreciation Month

“Den Leaders Light the Way!” Scouters!  

This month, we’re celebrating extraordinary leaders. Using your suggestions, the Mayflower Council will recognize our superlative Den Leaders via social media weekly in May. Meanwhile, each officially registered Den Leader in the Council will receive a limited edition commemorative patch! Nominate your best den leaders here.

And remember to RSVP to the Den Leader Appreciation Extravaganza near you!

The new name reflects the continuing efforts to welcome everyone to experience the benefits of Scouting.

Milford, Mass. (May 7, 2024) – The Boy Scouts of America today announced that it will be changing its name to Scouting America. This change reflects the organization’s ongoing commitment to welcoming every youth in America to experience the benefits of Scouting. The name change will go into effect on February 8, 2025, the organization’s 115^th birthday.

This announcement also comes as the organization celebrates the fifth anniversary of welcoming girls into Cub Scouting and Scouts BSA programs. Boy Scouts of America currently serves 176,234 girls and young women across all programs, including more than 6,000 who have earned Eagle Scout status.

Council Executive Juan Osorio

“We’re excited to be a part of Scouting America’s national launch!” said Council Executive Juan Osorio. “Here at Mayflower Council, we’ve always believed that Scouting is for all young people who are ready for adventure, leadership, and service. This new name reflects that commitment on a national scale, and we’re thrilled to welcome even more youth into our programs. We’re especially proud of the many young women who have thrived in Scouting these past five years, with thousands achieving the prestigious Eagle Scout rank. Scouting America opens a new chapter, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for all Scouts!”

Scouting America builds on the organization’s 114 years of helping America’s youth. Its ongoing goal is to provide young people with a safe environment where they can learn meaningful life skills and have fun, educational experiences, fostering their growth and future outcomes as leaders, and be prepared for life. At the same time, values instilled by the Scout Oath and Law help prepare young people for lives of purpose and impact.

Mayflower Council, established in 2017, is the result of the consolidation of Scouting programming that has served Greater Metro West and the South Shore areas of Massachusetts for over a century. Comprised of territory that was once part of the Algonquin, Norumbega, Knox Trail, Squanto, and Old Colony Councils, the Mayflower Council is rich with the traditions and history of generations of Scouts and Scouting families.

More than 130 million Americans have been through Scouting programs since its founding in 1910, and currently, more than 1 million youth, including both men and women, are served by 477,000 dedicated adult volunteers in local councils throughout the country. To date, more than 2.75 million youth have earned Scouting’s highest rank of Eagle Scout.

In addition to supporting the nation’s youth, Scouting America will continue to be an important asset to strengthen our communities, having provided more than 7 million hours of volunteer services for community improvement and other projects across the country.

“Boy Scouts of America” is now Scouting America

About Scouting America

Scouting America provides the nation’s foremost youth program of character development and values-based leadership training, which helps young people be “Prepared. For Life.®”

Scouting America welcomes all of America’s youth into its programs. Our goal is to give them fantastic experiences in the outdoors, and elsewhere, where they can grow with us in a safe environment. More than 130 million Americans have been through our programs since our founding, and currently more than 1 million youth are served by 477,000 dedicated adult volunteers in local councils throughout the country.

To learn more about Scouting America’s mission, visit Scouting.org.

About Mayflower Council

Headquartered in Milford, Massachusetts, the Mayflower Council serves the Metrowest and South Shore areas sharing the fantastic benefits of Scouting to over 6,900 youth and 2,900 volunteer adults in 2023. The Boy Scouts of America continues to prepare young people for life by providing the nation’s foremost youth program of character development and values-based leadership training. Learn more about the Mayflower Council at www.mayflowerbsa.org.

Troop 424 G Marshfield Scout also took regional accolades…

Marshfield, Mass. — The Mayflower Council NESA Committee proudly announces Alyssa B. of Troop 424 Marshfield as the distinguished winner of the council’s 2023 “Adams Eagle Scout Project of the Year.”

The National Eagle Scout Association established the Glenn A. and Melinda W. Adams National Eagle Scout Service Project of the Year Award (ESSPY) to recognize valuable service of an exceptional nature by an Eagle Scout candidate to a religious institution, a school, community, or other entity through completion of an Eagle Scout project.

Examples of projects selected for the ESSPY include undertakings that have benefited underprivileged children and recognized veterans, have been international, and require significant time and resources.

Working on the project with fellow Marshfield Scouts.

Alyssa’s project created an octagonal fire pit pergola for the Boys and Girls Club of Marshfield. The structure included six hanging porch-style swings, a multiuse whiteboard, a firewood holder, a stone fire pit, and four benches. The entire project measured 24 x 24 feet.

The selection of recipients begins locally through the council NESA committee. The council selects a recipient for their respective council from the list of submitted nominations and then forwards a worthy candidate to the National Eagle Scout Association for regional consideration.

As such, Alyssa’s exceptional dedication and commitment have earned her recognition beyond Massachusetts and the Territory Project of the Year, catapulting her to the national stage.

Alyssa B. takes photos of the completed pergola.

Following in the footsteps of previous winners, including Owen E. from Troop 193 Easton in 2022 and Eric H. from Troop 28 Cohasset in 2021, Alyssa’s remarkable achievement marks the third consecutive year of Mayflower Council representation at the national competition.

As the Mayflower Council looks toward the future, the 2024 application period promises to continue the tradition of excellence established by Alyssa and her predecessors. 

Congratulations to Alyssa B. and all those who have contributed to this remarkable achievement. 

Alyssa B. of Troop 424 G Marshfield

Mayflower Council’s new Scout Executive, Juan F. Osorio, arrived from the Chattahoochee Council in Columbus, Georgia, where he served as Scout Executive starting in 2018. Previously, Juan held roles in the Narragansett Council (Providence, RI), where he grew up as a Scout and earned his Eagle Scout rank. He began his tenure at the Mayflower Council at the beginning of March.

Read the first part of Juan’s first interview here.

Part 2 of 2

John Bishop for MayflowerBSA.org: You came in and were very complimentary of our council. If you had your druthers, what would be the one thing, as you come in, that the Mayflower Council would not change under your leadership?

Juan Osorio: That’s a difficult question, given that I’ve only been on the job a few days. However, the Mayflower Council has a great operation and program. The councils that merged into the Mayflower Council had impressive legacies. The program we deliver in the Mayflower Council is top quality. We serve about 3% of our youth population, which might seem low, but it’s not. We serve more youth than the national average, providing a great program that retains youth and keeps them engaged. With this in mind, I would work diligently to ensure we maintain the quality and delivery of the program that our volunteers provide weekly; this, combined with the great programs we run at the council level throughout the year and our summer operations, will work together to improve and deliver an excellent overall experience for our Scouts and families.

MayflowerBSA.org: What will be some of your priorities as you begin your work at Mayflower?

Juan Osorio: Again, being here only a short time, that’s a difficult question. I have yet to learn all the intricacies of the council’s operations. However, one of my strengths is streamlining processes to ensure we work as effectively and efficiently as possible as a nonprofit organization and a movement. That will be my focus in the first 60 to 90 days.

Scouters take a selfie with Juan.MayflowerBSA.org: In terms of your personal enjoyment of Scouting, having gone through it yourself and with your children participating, are there one or two things that you think Scouting delivers better than all other programs?

Juan Osorio: Character education and leadership! For example, my daughter — although not an Eagle Scout — had the opportunity to be in Scouting. Before girls were admitted into the program, she would follow me around day camp, enjoying the program.  When our programs were opened to females, she participated in NYLT. She tells me that the values and leadership learned through her association with Scouting allow her to excel as a leader in her college sorority and within her classes; I believe this gives her an edge in soft skills and leadership compared to her peers.

MayflowerBSA.org: What is your favorite tradition in Scouting that you hope every kid enjoys?

Juan Osorio: It’s the crossover from Cub Scouting to Scouts BSA. It’s a challenging time in our program as some families may think Scouts BSA is just a continuation of Cub Scouting. Yet, it marks a transition from an adult-led program to a peer-led one. Witnessing the Scout’s evolution over the next few years after Cub Scouts is incredible.

MayflowerBSA.org: When you’re putting on your Class A uniform, what is your favorite item on the shirt?

Juan Osorio joins leaders in congratulating new Eagle Scouts.

Juan Osorio: As I mentioned, I have about 17 Eagle Scouts and six mentor pins under my belt. I wear one to represent all six. So, my Eagle Mentor pin is the piece on my uniform that I cherish the most.

MayflowerBSA.org: You still need to decorate your office. What is the one item that you are really excited to show off?

Juan Osorio: Well, there are a few. There’s a photo of the Jenks Park Tower in Central Falls, Rhode Island. It reminds me of where I came from and the adversity I faced to get here. There are also eagles around the room, gifts from Eagle Scouts who earned their rank under my leadership as a Scoutmaster. Their success, especially considering they were low-income kids, will be my real lasting legacy.

MayflowerBSA.org: When we were hiring you, many Scouters were thrilled about your background in New England, believing that New England Scouting is different from Scouting around the country. Yet, you also have exposure to other councils. Why do you think these two perspectives will allow you to see the field differently than someone from just New England or another region?

Jenks Park Tower in Central Falls, Rhode Island (photo: GRP photography).

Juan Osorio: I am a New Englander, but I’ve also lived in Georgia for six years. One thing we need to continue doing better is sharing best practices across councils. Boy Scout councils, over 240 of them, often work in silos. Having worked in two different regions, I’ve seen the benefits of sharing ideas and resources. I love to bring some of those practices here to New England. Remember, it’s not about being better than our neighbor but working together to improve our Scouting program.

Be sure to watch for more updates from Juan as he begins his work in earnest. Meanwhile, listen to his interview with Rob DiFazio on the latest Around the Campfire podcast.