By Mike Aquino
The Long Beach Area Council of Scouts (LBAC) spent 2019 celebrating 100 years of service to our amazing community. Scouting has had a long and rich history in Long Beach establishing its first Boy Scout Troop in January of 1919 and with the Sea Scouts forming in 1923. Camp Taqhuitz, located in the mountains of Angelus Oaks, CA was first opened to Scouts in 1926.
Today the council serves approximately 3,000 boys and girls in Long Beach and the surrounding communities of Lakewood and Bellflower. Events and parties were held throughout the year celebrating the milestones and growth of the Long Beach Area Council. The Centennial Gala was held in May at the Pacific Ballroom and the annual campout was held on the CSULB campus this year and focused on Scouting’s’ connection to Long Beach. A ‘Gathering of the Eagles’ also took place, of which all past and current Long Beach Eagle Scouts celebrated Scouting’s highest achievement.
Cub Scout Pack 14, chartered by the Belmont Heights United Methodist Church, is quickly approaching its centennial as well. Established in 1930 with 8 founding members, it was originally located at Fremont Elementary but was forced to relocate just 3 years later due to the devastating Long Beach Earthquake of 1933. The Pack has been graciously hosted by BHUMC, located at 317 Termino Ave., ever since.
Pack 14 has had a long history in Belmont Heights and has produced many generations of young leaders who have served our community. The tradition continues as we proudly welcomed girls to our pack in 2019. Our current pack consists of 36 boys and girls from Kindergarten through 5th grade, drawing mostly from Fremont Elementary, but not exclusively. Troop 14, serving Scouts from 6th grade through Eagle Scout rank, also located at BHUMC, is approaching its centennial as well!
From the beginning Scouts have been urged to do a good turn daily and to always do their best. Pack 14 embraces these concepts and participates in beach cleanups, US flag retirement, Thanksgiving food collections, and the Belmont Heights Make a Difference Day. Last year’s participation in Make a Difference Day consisted of planting trees in the Belmont Heights area, all of which are currently thriving and growing with the Scouts.
Throughout the year, Pack 14 encourages the Scouts and their families to be prepared for emergencies and earthquakes and urge you and your family to do the same!
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