By MIKE COURSON
Great Bend Post
Three Scout packs presently operate in Barton County with Packs 7157 and 7184 in Great Bend and Pack 7158 in Ellinwood. The Great Bend packs will host a recruiting event on Tuesday, Sept 3. from 5-7 p.m. at the My Backyard Playground, 2715 18th Street. John Austin, Kanza district commissioner for Boy Scouts of America, said there are plenty of reasons young boys and girls should join.
"Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts give kids the opportunity to get outdoors and experience things in the outdoors: camping, hiking, fishing, backpacking," he said. "There are lots of opportunities there. Also, as you get further into the scouting career, leadership opportunities. It trains scouts, both boys and girls, to be leaders in the future."
The meeting will include some activities involving the new Ninja Course and rock wall outside the Great Bend Recreation Commission's Activity Center, as well some refreshments.
"Leaders for Scouts will be there and have the opportunity to discuss the program with parents and answer any questions they may have," Austin said.
Boys and girls become eligible to join Cub Scouts when they enter kindergarten, and the program continues via Boy Scouts all the way through high school.