University of Scouting Event

This was the second year that Flotilla 18-6 was invited to participate in the University of Scouting. The recent event, sponsored by the Simon Kenton Boy Scouts of America (BSA) Council, took place at our local High School.

Auxiliarists Ron Tvorik, Pat Linesch, and Eric Piper, arrived at the registration area early in the morning and set up our boating safety display in the school’s gymnasium. Last year the displays were set up in the hallway but it was better to be in the gymnasium where the vendor area was located.

The University of Scouting coordinator’s Jeff Lockhart and Mark Hoppes greeted us and made sure all was going well. Sea Scout Commodore Tom Ross, and his wife, Lori were in the booth next to us and were very helpful throughout the event.

In between attending their classroom sessions the 439 scout leaders and 60 youth helpers visited the vendor area to check out the displays and the various hands on activities. This gave us the opportunity to interact with Cub Scout, Boy Scout and Sea Scout leaders and their youth helpers regarding the Coast Guard Auxiliary. Many leaders who work with the older scouts were interested in what the Coast Guard Academy had to offer. We were prepared with numerous Coast Guard Academy handouts and DVDs.

Eric Piper (L) and Ron Tvorik talking to a Scout leader.

We had available a variety of American Canoe Association pamphlets regarding paddle craft, the “Operation Paddle Smart” brochures, the Ohio Boat Operator’s guide, our flotilla’s 2012 public education schedule and other appropriate handouts.

Our Coast Guard Auxiliary life jackets, float coats and a mustang suit drew attention and comments. The flags and pull up displays also went over well with the scout leaders. We made many contacts and gave out and received numerous business cards. The scout leaders were interested in, among other things, public education classes, vessel safety checks, boating safety displays, and support for parades.

The University of Scouting was an outstanding event and has opened the door for us regarding the sharing of Coast Guard Auxiliary and Boy Scouts of America activities. We also appreciated the lunch they provided for us.

The vendor area.

 

 

 

 

 

~efl 02-24-12