Scouts make good deeds a habit
A new year has begun, which seems like a good time to think about our future hope, the children.
Unlike some who lament about younger generations, I'm usually encouraged by the sincerity I've seen in our children. And I am often touched by their generosity as well.
One case in point is Cub Scout Pack 339 in Palatine, with 70 boys ranging in age from first to fifth grade.
December marked the time for Pack 339's annual uniform inspection. In the past, this event might include a gift exchange among the boys. But, this year, the Scouts decided they'd bring gifts to the Marines' Toys for Tots program.
It was one of the boys' many service projects this season. Some spent an afternoon with residents of Tamarack Retirement Residence, working with the them on holiday crafts, sharing snacks and singing Christmas carols. Some Scouts helped the Yellow Ribbon Organization, sorting through toiletries and bagging candy and snacks to fill care packages for soldiers, as well as children living in war zones.
"Programs like these help to encourage boys in the doing of good turns, and recognizes the difference between normal responsibilities and those of doing a good deed," said Cathie Johnson, pack activity coordinator. "We intend to continue to strive to make a difference in our community and to be the best that we can be at Pack 339."
Chrysanthie Bessinas has challenged all eight dens in the pack to come up with a "Pay It Forward" project. Then, the pack leaders will vote on a "Pack Pay It Forward Project" for the entire pack to take part in this spring.
So, look for these young men to continue their good works throughout this new year.
Art appreciation: The Palatine-Inverness Arts Council's next "First Saturday" art reception will be from 2-4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 3, at Midtown Athletic Club, 1760 N. Hicks Road in Palatine. Admission is free; refreshments are provided.
The reception will feature the works of Palatine resident Pamela Olin, a renowned sculptor. She will display a number of her sculptures in bronze, enamel and steel, as well as her enhanced giclee animal portraits. She will also highlight a number of her mixed-media creations. Olin's artwork will be displayed throughout the facility during the reception and will remain on display throughout January.
Besides viewing the artwork, additional copies of the council's 2009 Youth Art Calendar will be available for a suggested $5 donation. The calendar features works by local artists from kindergarten to 12th grade. Every resident of Palatine and Inverness received a copy of the calendar in December.
Seniors and computers: Palatine 50 Plus Computer Learning Center, affiliated with SeniorNet, is holding registration from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 8, and Friday, Jan. 9, at the Palatine Township Senior Center, 505 S. Quentin Road, Palatine. All courses cost $45, except Computer Basics, plus a $10 fee for books and materials. Both eight-week and four-week classes are offered in the Palatine Township Elementary District 15 Administration Building, at 580 First Bank Drive, Palatine. Call for a brochure at (847) 991-1112.
mhollander@dailyherald.com