"Pathfinders, atten-huh!” Following a summer of camporee and campouts, Alaska Pathfinders fall in for a new year of activities.
First order of business for most is the induction service during which both new and continuing Pathfinders light a candle as a symbol of their commitment to adhere to the Pathfinder pledge and law.
Proud parents and friends of Anchorage Pathfinders recently gathered for this service. Only the captains and staff were in full uniform as the club is bursting at the seams with more than 40 Pathfinders. Though they have a good supply of uniforms, they are too small for this group. Someone at the service was touched to provide the more than 25 needed uniforms.
Anchorage, Fairbanks and Palmer Pathfinders are eagerly jumping hurdles to reach the Oshkosh Camporee, including fund raisers for airline tickets and expenses. Luggage will be another challenge with the airline limit of 50 pounds per bag; the required tents, sleeping bags and cooking equipment accumulate quickly! Clubs are hoping to find sponsor clubs “outside” to help provide some of the bulky and weighty items. Directors are determined to make this dream come true for their Pathfinders.
Camporees are an extra challenge for Alaska clubs. The long distance and expense make union camporees unfeasible, and even the local conference camporee is a challenge. All but three clubs would have to fly to their local conference camporee because they are not on the road system.
Oshkosh is coming, and Alaska Pathfinders expect to be going!
Adam Stevens lights his candle of commitment as staff member Joe Hess looks on.
Chad Bigelow meets William Wilhite at his level to welcome him as a new Pathfinder.
