For Immediate Release- Sept. 3, 2008
Contact: Shelly Grimes
(317) 925-1900 ofc.
(317) 946-6999 cell
sgrimes@crossroadsbsa.org
Photo Opportunity
Indianapolis man celebrates 82 years of Scouting
93-year-old Boy Scout still teaches canoe safety at Indianapolis Camp Belzer
Indianapolis, Ind., Sept. 3, 2008—Richard Ross will spend this weekend at Boy Scout Camp Belzer with dozens of other Scout volunteers practicing canoe safety.
Which might not seem all that remarkable, except Ross is no ordinary Scouter: At 93 years old, Ross will celebrate his 82nd year of Scouting doing what he loves most—teaching a canoeing course. Ross is more than two-thirds of a century the elder of some of the pupils in his class, adults who are learning how to properly launch, paddle and navigate canoes so they can train their Scouts in these basic skills.
Ross’s dedication to the program began when he was a child. He got involved in Boy Scouts at the age of 10 and hasn’t strayed since. He is the most tenured Scouter in central Indiana. Ross’s 82-year dedication will be commemorated with an awards ceremony on Saturday, Sept. 6 at 10:15 a.m.
Ross’s dedication to Scouting has afforded him one other perk: A building at Camp Belzer is named for him.
“Mr. Ross’s dedication to our program is unmatched,” said Scott Clabaugh, Scout Executive for the Crossroads of America Council. “The Boy Scout program is all about teaching our young men skills and values that will last a lifetime. Through his continued service to the Boy Scouts of America, Mr. Ross has exemplified these values and has truly made a difference in the lives of hundreds of people throughout his eight-decade Scouting experience.”
Photo opportunity: Ross will be teaching Voyageur Canoe Training this weekend at Boy Scout Camp Belzer, 6102 Boy Scout Road, Indianapolis (Lawrence Township). A brief ceremony honoring him will begin Saturday at approximately 10:15 a.m. at the canoe ramp. Ross and his students will launch their canoes and begin in-water training shortly after the presentation.
Boy Scouts of America is a youth development organization that’s designed to prepare young people to make ethical and moral decisions throughout their lifetimes. The goals of Scouting consist of citizenship training, character development and personal fitness. Throughout the Boy Scout program, young people are encouraged to advance through ranks by fulfilling requirements in the areas of leadership, service and outdoor skills. To get more information on Scouting, call (317) 925-1900 or 877-925-1900 (toll free) or visit www.crossroadsbsa.org.
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