During the Fair Oaks Volunteer Fire Department Open House on Saturday October 12, 2024, Scouts from Troop 7 for girls and Troop 51 for boys spent the day informing the public about fire safety. In Scouting, our young people learn valuable and life-saving skills that remain with them for the rest of their lives. Along the way, they share their knowledge and skills and contribute to making our communities better places.
While serving as staff for the Open House, the Scouts BSA, which consists of middle and high school aged-youth, met the local community and provided information about smoke alarms, stop-drop-roll, creating a family meeting place, and general fire safety.
The Fair Oaks’ volunteers won Best Open House in Battalion 7 for their efforts!
One of the distinct benefits of Scouting to the community has always been the close connection between our Scouting units (called Packs, Troops, Crews, Ships, and Posts depending on the program) and the organizations and community groups that sponsor or “charter” them. Annual charter agreements with religious, community, and education organizations allow them to operate the Scouting program. These partners are provided with training, supportive materials, and direct professional service. We are grateful for the Fair Oaks Volunteer Fire Department and each of our charter partners whose objectives, mission, and methodologies match those of Scouting America. Together we are dedicated to a youth movement fostering character development, citizenship, and personal fitness for our young people.
NCAC Conservation Committee, under the leadership of Carol Brown & Sara Holtz, Camp William B. Snyder’s Camp Ranger James Donelson & Troop 131, collaborated to plan a conservation project in memory of Will Rodger, the first Chair of the NCAC Conservation Committee. Scout Sean & Scouter Kevin from Troop 11, Will’s wife Betsy Rodger, Carol & Sara said a few words to remember Will and his dedication to scouts, scouting & conservation.
Nearly 90 Scouts & Scouters from 8 NCAC Districts and from Virginia Headwaters Council spent 3 hours restoring habitat by removing invasive plants, rescuing trees from invasive vines & planting native trees. Participants earned the 
Will Rodger served as the founding Chair of the NCAC Conservation Committee, on the NCAC International Committee, and in many roles in Toop 131 in Alexandria, VA (Accotink Bay District). In his role as chair of the Conservation Committee, he energetically & passionately focused on training Scouters to support scouts in earning the prestigious Hornaday, now 
Thanks to Fairfax Master Naturalists and Virginia Native Plant Society members for leading teams of scouts & scouters during the work sessions. Thanks to generous donors who bought native trees & supplies for today’s project: John Selstrom, Dan Kurtenbach, Carol Brown & Sara Holtz. Thanks to the native plant nursery Earth Sangha for giving us a discount on purchasing native trees such as redbud, redcedar, white oak, maple, and hickory oak. Thanks to Carol, Chris & Alan Brown for marking invasive plants in advance of the event. Thanks to all the hardworking volunteers, many of whom did not know Will. Finally, a huge thanks to Carol Brown & Jim Donelson; this project would not be possible without them!
She is a Level 2/Master Educator for Leave No Trace. Her leadership has helped build a robust group of Outdoor Ethics Trainers, both adult, and Scouts, who deliver programs throughout the NCAC and even to other councils and the Philmont Ranger cadre.
For his Eagle Scout project, Eric A. and his fellow Scouts from 
Adjusting to the high elevation of nearly 12,000 feet took its toll on many members of the Crew, with the thin air causing labored breathing and slowing their progress. They also encountered harsh weather conditions, including freezing temperatures, fierce wind gusts exceeding 60 mph, and sudden hail and rain storms. These extreme conditions added considerable physical and mental strain, testing their resilience and adaptability.
The unexpected snow and ice crossings further complicated the trek. The Scouts had to navigate through these treacherous areas with care, relying on their scouting skills and leadership training to ensure safety and progress. The combination of high elevation, challenging terrain, and harsh weather conditions pushed their limits and demanded constant adjustment.
Despite these adversities, the Troop’s spirit remained unshaken. Their resilience and teamwork enabled them to overcome these hardships and complete the journey successfully. The breathtaking beauty of the tall peaks and mountains provided the motivation needed to persevere.