Month: October 2025

Several scouts had the opportunity to obtain the Surveying Merit Badge over a course of a few weeks. For the final stage, scouts were invited to the Timmons Group for an hands on experience conducting practical surveys.

Alligators, maybe! Definitely swamp water and bugs. Perhaps one of the more exciting camping experiences is survival campout. Troops 242 B and 242 G combined a campout at Merchants Millpond in North Carolina. In order to get to the campsite, you have to “canoe-in. On average, it takes roughly 45 minutes depending on the weather and whether or not the gators are awake or sleeping, so I’ve heard!☺️. All 8 scouts earned their Wilderness Survival Merit Badge.

Scouts from Troop 242 took an evening field trip to The city of Newport News’ Emergency Management Operations Center, set up by SPL Josh. The ops building is the central hub for natural disasters. Several monitors line the walls, and computers are in abundance. John Northam, the Fire Department’s Emergency Operations Manager, explained to the scouts how information is processed.

Congratulations to Matthew for earning his Eagle rank. Mr. Grieme said the Eagle board “was extremely impressed” with Matthew. One board member commented, “Come back to Scouts, we need leaders like you.” We hope he does.

Great job, Matthew!

Brady’s Eagle Scout project involved making treat- dispensing dog toys for a local animal shelter. He and his team built sturdy toys that released treats when the dogs rolled or pawed at them. These toys will help keep the dogs entertained and more active play.

After all their hard work and dedication, scouts were recognized for earning new ranks and merit badges. Pizza and a variety of cookies to feed an Army was our eatings for the CoH. It was a great night for all!

Donovan had his moment of truth to sit in front of the Eagle Board. He was nervous, but confident. According to our ScoutMaster, Mr. Grieme noted that, “The board was extremely impressed with their discussion this evening with DJ. He had well thought out answers and carried the conversation throughout. The board said he has an excellent future ahead of him.”

Outstanding board DJ!!

Well done!!

The annual 4th of July flag raising ceremony was held at the Knights of Columbus Council 5480. Troop 242, 86 and Pack 242 raised the flag to open the ceremony. Eagle Scout Jacob read a letter discussing our freedom. The Newport News’ Sheriff’s Office and the Newport News’ Police were on hand.