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Community Corner

Speizer Gives it His All

Hopatcong's Cub Scout master has been involved in the group since 2004.

Hopatcong wouldn't exist without its volunteers. Whether on the playing fields or in the fire companies or riding in ambulances, those sacrificing their time to help the borough make it run, make it whole.

This week Patch spoke with Marshal Speizer, Hopatcong's Cub Scouts master.

How did you get involved in the Boy Scouts? I got into cub scouts when my son David joined in May of 2004. I have been involved for 7 and a half years.

What are some of the benefits of joining? Some of the benefits of joining cub scouts are meeting new friends (both the scouts and the parents); learning life skills; acquiring an appreciation for the world around us, starting with the community.

What are you able to accomplish as scout master? As cub master I have been able to reach the people in this community and have them see just how important scouting is, not just for the boys but for our community as well. It is hoped that each boy who starts as a cub scout will go on to boy scouts and maybe someday achieve the rank of Eagle Scout.

If someone were to think about joining, what would you tell them? Anyone who has a son that might be interested in joining cub scouts is told that scouting presents a great opportunity for the boys to learn and grow.  The boys learn to work as a team within their dens and then within the pack.

What have you learned from the scouts? I have a new appreciation for my town and community. I learned that scouting touches so many people in a good way and for me, that is the greatest reward.

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Practically speaking, what is the best skill you've gained? I would have to say that being viewed as a good role model for the boys is one of the things I will take with me. As for a learned skill, I would have to say that being able to speak to large crowds of people, both young and old, is a skill I will take with me as well.

What's a skill you'd still like to learn? I would have to say that the one skill I am hoping to take with me before my boys are finished with scouting is to tie knots better. While I am OK, I would like to improve this skill.
 
What are some of your hobbies? My hobbies include collecting baseball cards; collecting football memorabelia; camping; hiking and spending time with my family (not really a hobby but the most important thing I do!).

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