Spring Scout Experience Scheduled for Saturday

Local Cub Scouts as well as those considering joining the Scouts will have a chance to experience some of the fun activities Scouting offers when the Gulf Ridge Council of the Boy Scouts hosts a Spring Scout Experience Saturday at the Winthrop Pole Barn, 11349 Bloomingdale Ave., Riverview

Registration begins at 8 a.m. and the event runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The cost is $7 for Scouts and would-be Scouts and $5 for any sibling who wants to participate.

Donnie Cagnina, leader of Troop 61, which meets at the Presbyterian Church of Bloomingdale on Bloomingdale Avenue, is helping to organize the first-time event.

“We hope to make this an annual event, and we’d like to see it grow every year,” said Cagnina.

Cub Scouts and would-be Cub Scouts, including boys entering first grade in the fall, are invited to participate in such activities as fishing, archery, wrist rockets, a pinewood derby and a rain-gutter regatta. In addition Troop 1986 will have a camp site set up for boys the explore. There also will be a Bobcat Boot Camp for new Scouts to allow boys to earn their first badge by reciting the Cub Scout motto.

 “This is designed to expose boys to Cub Scouting,” said Cagnina, adding that the purpose of Scouting is to participate in “fun with a purpose,” create good citizens and teach boys responsibility.

In addition to the activities, there will be representatives of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission on hand with a live alligator.

Hot dogs, chips and drinks will be available as well.

There are already about 40 boys registered for the event, and Cagnina is hoping for 100 participants.

For information, visit www.timucua.us.