And the donations came rolling in...

During the American Legion's monthly social in March, Isaiah came and addressed the group of US veterans to see if they would be willing to support his project with a donation toward the flagpole renovation and veteran's bench and garden.

After he read through his donation letter request and answered a few questions, the Commander Val Frailey (pictured above) called on members to pas a basket around for donations. Isaiah was very hopeful because from his estimate he would need $646 for the entire project. He was completely blown away when they finished counting the money and informed him that the members' donations was $154. But it didn't stop there, the Legion had decided to write a check for $499 to support his project as well.

The financial support of the American Legion members was humbling knowing that these individuals have sacrificed so much for our country and continue to be so generous with their time, talent, and treasure.  

Other generous corporate donations were received from the following: Costco, Store #1026; Lowe’s, Store #0417; May Day Landscape Supply; Porter Paints, Store #9173; Publix; and Sam’s Club, Store #8120.

Life to Eagle... What a Path!

This was Isaiah before he left for Winter Camp 2011. He had already began meeting with his Eagle Mentor Asst. Scoutmaster Kimberly Parker to get through the slew of paperwork that is required for the new Eagle Scout Workbook.

He and his dad attended a Life to Eagle Seminar at the Winter Camp. It provided enough information for him to muddle his way through the process. I am amazed at all that they require for this rank of Eagle. There are so many aspects: researching prices, products, talking with experts, fundraising, planning and executing. What great life lessons Scouting provides!

I have to admit, I was not big on him joining Scouts at first. After all, I had no brothers or any concept of what impact Scouting can have on a young man's life. I am fully convinced that Scouting provides experiences that help boys develop into men with character and a heart for service and leadership.

Eagle by 13: An Ambitious Pursuit

Early on in Isaiah's scouting, he learned that Sam Walton, the founder of Wal-Mart, had earned the rank of Eagle Scout at age 13. It was then that he  decided that he would do that too!

We thought that was very ambitious, but he has such a passion for scouting and loves any merit badge opportunity. I think it sealed the deal for him when he found out that 2012 was a celebration of 100 years of the Eagle: the first Eagle Scout Rank was awarded in 1912.

He knew he had to earn the Eagle rank before his 14th birthday on September 11, 2012 in order to earn this special commemorative patch! Congrats on surprising us again with your passion and fervor for Scouting!

Fall Camporee 2009

Isaiah's first outing with the troop was to the Fall Camporee at St. George Island. His dad went along with him. It was windy, cold, his tent mate was a snorer,and he desperately missed his mommy's cooking. We worried that this might have squashed his dreams of Scouting. However he persevered, he's matured greatly and doesn't seem to miss my cooking quite as much!

Wishes Do Come True...

Isaiah Springer officially joined Troop 117 under the leadership of Scoutmaster Dee Dee Wingate. It was his birthday present to join the Boy Scouts, since we didn't allow him to join Cub Scouts. The first meeting he attend was a Court of Honor, and Isaiah felt so welcomed into the troop.