Boy Scouts of Troop 35 Share Insights and Traditions in Letters

Members of Boy Scout Troop 35, based in Baltimore, recently contributed letters to The Baltimore Sun as part of their efforts to earn the communication merit badge. Each letter reflects personal experiences and perspectives, showcasing the unique activities and values of the troop.

Celebrating Traditions at Gilman Middle School

In his letter, scout Teddy Barañano highlights a cherished tradition at Gilman Middle School known as Super Gras. This end-of-year field day features various activities that encourage friendly competition among students. The day kicks off with Latin classes racing chariots, followed by events such as an egg toss, backpack race, and dodgeball. Participants also engage in tug-of-war games and enjoy lunch together.

A particularly exciting aspect of Super Gras is the auction, where students can spend merits they have accumulated throughout the year. The day concludes with the announcement of the winning homeroom and a refreshing treat of ice pops. Barañano emphasizes that this tradition is not only enjoyable but also fosters camaraderie among the students.

Storytelling and Inspiration

Scout Will Nelson shares his passion for storytelling, exploring how nature inspires his creativity. He enjoys hiking and finding quiet moments in the woods to gather thoughts for his writing. Nelson has received recognition for his storytelling skills, including a runner-up award for a short story published in a magazine. He is currently working on his first screenplay, aiming to direct it in the future. His letter underscores the importance of storytelling in both writing and film, and how his adventures as a scout contribute to his imaginative process.

Unique Adventures of Troop 35

In his letter, scout Andrew passionately argues that Troop 35 is the best Boy Scout troop in Maryland. He recounts two standout events: Camp E-Star and the Forty Miler. Camp E-Star is a unique camping experience held each summer near Chestertown on the Chesapeake Bay. This camp is exclusive to Troop 35, allowing scouts to forge deep friendships.

The camp offers various activities, including jet skiing, tubing, and water skiing, facilitated by volunteer dads. Scouts can also hone their skills at hatchet and slingshot ranges, while participating in friendly competitions that foster teamwork. Andrew expresses that the experiences at Camp E-Star are unforgettable and pivotal to the troop’s identity.

The Forty Miler, a challenging trek that Andrew has completed twice, is another highlight. He describes the event as both a mental and physical test, noting that his fastest completion time was nine hours and 15 minutes. The bond formed with fellow scouts, especially during shared moments with family members, makes this event particularly meaningful for him.

Addressing Climate Change

In a thoughtful letter, scout Royce Kirk addresses the pressing issue of climate change. He emphasizes the urgency of this global threat and its far-reaching impacts, such as rising sea levels and biodiversity loss. Kirk points out that climate change acts as a catalyst for various environmental issues that can disrupt ecosystems and human lives.

He recognizes the role of media outlets like The Baltimore Sun in raising awareness about climate change. Kirk encourages the publication to continue using its platform to inform the public and promote positive change. His perspective highlights the importance of communication in confronting environmental challenges.

The letters from Troop 35 not only fulfill merit badge requirements but also serve as a testament to the scouts’ commitment to sharing their experiences and insights. These contributions ultimately reflect the values of teamwork, creativity, and responsibility that are central to the Boy Scout ethos.