HISTORIC Camp Miakonda was the site Aug. 17 for the Erie Shores Council’s 94th Annual Council Scouter Recognition Dinner presented by NSG Group. It was a celebration honoring all Erie Shores Council adult volunteer leaders for service of exceptional character to youth by individuals within Ottawa, Sandusky, Lucas, and Wood counties under the jurisdiction of the Erie Shores Council.
The Erie Shores Council operates and maintains nearly 1,500 acres of land through two camps: the Pioneer Scout Reservation and Camp Frontier also known as the Richard P. Anderson Pioneer Scout Reservation in Pioneer, Ohio, and Camp Miakonda in Sylvania.
Pandemic precautions were utilized including wearing masks at all times during the event, except for when seated at a table for eating and watching the program. Only two guests were seated at each table for proper social distancing. ServSafe Certified volunteers served dinner where only the guests touched their dinner plate in the buffet line.
After socializing while sipping and dining, the outdoor program began with emcee Rod Miller. However, there was no hand shaking for congratulations.
Lifetime Service awards:
The Gregory A. Hendel Lifetime Service Award was established in 2009 to honor Mr. Hendel, who served his community through exemplary lifelong volunteer service. Yes, that was my late brother, an Eagle Scout, Silver Beaver Awardee, and council member. I remember from childhood, him donning his scout uniform, working on merit badges, and going to Camp Miakonda which back then, was just for boys. But I came on family night with my parents and other brother, also who became an Eagle Scout, with brownies and watermelon in tow. Alas, I didn't get to swim in the infamous pool.
As an adult, Greg continued to be active in scouting often donning his scout uniform to make presentations to new Eagle Scouts. The Hendel Award honors Scouters who gave direct support of community activities and indirect support through leadership roles in the business community. Gary M. Harden, an Eagle Scout, and a Silver Beaver Awardee, is this year's recipient.
The John C. Haar Lifetime Service Award honors Scouters for lifelong service to their community, including having served in leadership roles in civic and community organizations. David Schultz is this year's honoree.
The Glenda M. Bowman Lifetime Inspirational Leadership Award also known as the North Star Award, is for lifelong inspirational leadership such as serving as a positive role model and mentor; demonstrating courage in the face of adversity; fostering the spirit and intent of diversity; and, motivating and helping others to reach their full potential. David Dreier, an Eagle Scout, is the honoree.
The Torch of Gold Award is a council-level distinguished award of the Boy Scouts of America for adults for exceptional service and leadership in working with Scouts who have disabilities. Cheryl Smarkel is this year's recipient.
The Silver Beaver Award is conferred by the Erie Shores Council, Boy Scouts of America upon the nomination by the council Distinguished Awards Committee and the National Court of Honor for distinguished service to youth.
The award is for service of exceptional character to youth by registered Scouters within the district of the Erie Shores Council.
This year's honorees included Larry Caffro, Sara Crosby, Dennis Nemec, and Jennifer Vancil.
The night concluded with a dessert reception.
PLEASE remember to practice social distancing and wear your masks for the safety of others.
First Published August 27, 2020, 10:38 a.m.
