Scout leads way at Smith Fields

I enjoyed reading the article about dedicating the new soccer field to the late Gary Elliot. It is a very appropriate recognition of his efforts and support of the community.  

I was surprised at no mention of the development and work to create that particular field starting a couple years ago. I first heard of the project when as the Boy Scout Committee Chairman of Troop 1917, I signed the papers approving it as the “Eagle Project” for Ryker McIntyre as part of the requirements to achieve that highest rank in Scouting. He had done the research into what community organizations to contact and all aspects of the project including leveling the fields, installing water systems, grass seeding and especially the preparation and funding. It would be a project lasting more than a year and involve him with various suppliers, contractors, and the coordination of all efforts. He worked with the Rotary Club and other businesses using the contacts, donated supplies and labor he had solicited from around the valley. Last year he finished the project and the Rotary came in to pick up rocks, plant trees, and put on their finishing touches. Therefore it was disappointing to not see Ryker’s name in the crediting for work on the field.

Don’t get me wrong, the Boy Scouts don’t do this sort of work for the community recognition, they do it for their own personal goal and pride in themselves. Ryker’s Troop 1917, Chartered by the Church of the Nazarene in Whitefish, cleans the stretch of road from Highway 40 to Hodgson Road as part of their work to “Clean the Fish.” In addition to that day of work, they clean that roadside several times a year. They also do numerous other community service projects that go unnoticed but we all enjoy the results. These young men are trying to make a difference and become the leaders of tomorrow and this is one of the ways they strive toward that end. It has been said that if every boy were a Boy Scout, there would be a lot less crime and problems in the world.

Ryker continues his work toward Eagle, and I expect that in October he will be awarded the Eagle rank at a Court of Honor. I, and the others involved with the Scouts, know what he has done and his participation in the soccer fields and the community. Those of you reading this note will also be aware of it. When you see him, give him a thanks and show your appreciation. I do.

— Toby Scott