SCOUTS RAISE FUNDS, HONOR EAGLES

The local Shawnee Council of Boy Scouts of America has kicked off its annual Friends of Scouting fund-raising campaign, a major fund raiser for Scout organizations around Southeast Missouri.

Scouting has proved over many years to get young people off on the right foot by instilling moral character and responsible behavior, traits they will carry throughout life and be better off by it. It is an organization that has thrived through the generosity of the people who realize the important role Scouting plays in society. The council hopes to raise $50,000 through Friends of Scouting. It is a drive well worth supporting, and it would be nice if contributions far exceed the goal.

On Feb. 14, 62 Boy Scouts from 19 Southeast Missouri and 10 Southern Illinois counties participated in the Eagle Scout Court of Honor at Southeast Missouri State University.

The annual ceremony recognizes those Scouts who attain the organization's highest honor, that of Eagle Scout. They obtained the rank through hard work and dedication, and deserve congratulations.