Troop 125 was successful in its bid to serve this summer at the Mackinac Island Scout Service Camp. We will be attending from August 22 - 29, 2009. This is a great honor, as only 12 Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops are chosen each year. We last served in 2002, so no current Scouts have had this opportunity.

This trip is open to Scouts who have a desire to do their best to fulfill the requirements of the program. The two major duties we perform are raising and lowering about 26 flags around Fort Mackinac, and serving as guides in the Fort. We live in the two story Scout Barracks behind the Fort. All food is cooked by Troop adult leaders. We are representing the Boy Scouts of America to the hundreds of tourist who will visit Mackinac Island during our stay. Uniforms must be worn properly and kept in inspection condition. Excellent behavior is expected at all times. We are required to march to flag and guide duty, so we will have training sessions to learn this skill.

Sound like all work and no play? - wrong! Scouts have free time an average of half of each day - plenty of time to explore the city and island, both on foot and bicycle. Last time we could swim in the Grand Hotel pool. We have an advancement program, offering different badges than a traditional summer camp. In the past, we've had treasure hunts, a campfire, special ceremonies, a night trip to town, a softball game, volleyball, and plenty of fun.

The trip will cost about $175 - $200. This includes lodging, food, transportation (including ferry), patches, and windbreaker. We hope to have about 25 Scouts from Troop 125, with the remainder of the 56 person contingent coming from other local troops.

An information session, including pictures, will be held at the Community House at about 4:30 PM on Saturday, Jan. 31, in conjunction with the talent show and lock-in. We will accept a $50 deposit at this time. Please contact Mr. Verlinde for further information.