Eli Espinoza, another member of Troop 152, smiles proudly after a job well done. Photo courtesy of Boy Scouts of America Troop Troop 152 and Jennifer McMillan

DIXON, CA (MPG) - The Boy Scouts of America have a mission: to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices throughout their lifetime. These youths make an oath that they will honor their duty to God and country, help others at all times and keep themselves physically, mentally and morally strong, in adherence to the Scout’s Law.

Dixon’s Boy Scouts of America Troop 152 members work to live up to this oath with their community efforts.

Annually, Troop 152 hosts a Christmas Tree Recycling event in late December at the Dixon Chamber of Commerce parking lot, 220 N. Jefferson St., Dixon residents can have their Christmas trees recycled at 9 a.m. either Dec. 28 or Jan. 4 for a $20 fee. 

“Proceeds go directly to the troop to help defer costs for camp, equipment, annual registration fees and all Scout events that are done year-round,” said Scoutmaster Matt Latham. 

Latham became Scoutmaster of Troop 152 after his son crossed over from Dixon Cub Scout Pack 253; shortly after, Troop 152’s Scoutmaster retired and Latham was offered the position.

Troop 152 will also hold troop elections from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Dec. 3. Scouts will be elected to either troop or Patrol Leadership positions at the semi-annual elections, occurring every December and May. Joining Patrol Leadership is no small task, requiring leadership skills, good attendance at troop meetings and activities and, above all, dedication to the Scout’s Oath and Law.

Braxton Winchester and Kyle Latham pose triumphantly with several recycled trees. Photo courtesy of Boy Scouts of America Troop Troop 152 and Jennifer McMillan

Scout’s Law dictates that a Scout should be trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean and reverent. These 12 principles are necessary, as Patrol Leaders represent their patrol (normally six to eight Scouts), planning and leading patrol meetings, keeping patrol members informed and assigning specific duties per member.

Many Scouts have their reasons for joining the cause; the Collins brothers, Tyler (16) and Dylan (13), both joined for a love of outdoor activities and annual camping trips. After his time as a Cub Scout, Tyler Collins wished to do more as a Boy Scout.

“The best part about being a Scout is doing service projects for the community, monthly camping trips and attending high adventure camps like Philmont Scout Ranch,” Collins said.

Jacob McMillan (12) shares a love of nature with the Collins brothers, enjoying the hikes, camping trips and just having fun in general.

According to Latham, being a Scout is a significant endeavor that goes beyond learning how to be safe and competent in the outdoors.

“Scouting teaches young people that they are part of many communities and their role in each community is important,” Latham said. “Scouting is also a means to learn greater leadership skills that they will use throughout their lives.”

Scouts Boy Scouts of America Troop 152, founded in 1953, remains a fixture in Dixon, continuing to interact with and support the community. 

Allison Latham, a member of Troop 152, prepares a Christmas Tree to be recycled. Photo courtesy of Boy Scouts of America Troop 152 and Jennifer McMillan

“We are creating the leaders of tomorrow,” Latham said. “Whether it is learning how to cook in the backcountry of the High Sierra, snowshoeing in a national park, placing flags on veterans' graves or collecting food for those in need, Scouting is focused on developing well-rounded young people that are prepared for adulthood.”

Troop 152 is currently on the lookout for more capable adults to mentor and advise; according to Latham, every youth organization requires money to run and scouting is no different.

“Please reach out to the troop and we can discuss how you can be a part of the adventure.  Thank you for supporting Dixon Troop 152,” Latham said.

For more information, visit troop152dixon.com or call 707-676-6152.