As an Eagle Scout, it is always good to see the program thrive in modern times. Many perceive a Scout as someone who helps an old lady cross a busy street, or as someone who knows how to tie a solid sheepshead knot; but the program is so much more than that.
Troop 3 out of Manchester has exemplified one of the principles of the Boy Scouts of America, giving help to those who need it.
On Feb. 9, 20 Scouts will make their way to Long Branch, N.J. to reach out to Scouts who had lost everything after Hurricane Sandy.
While Troop 148 of Long Branch did lose a lot of Scouting equipment, much more permanent damage was done.
Scoutmaster Fred Rossi of Troop 3 reached out through the ranks and is collecting donations of Scouting supplies to bring with them for their trip to Long Branch.
“It blew me away when I got the call. I never even anticipated anything like that,” Troop 148 Scoutmaster Maynard Burley said in a press release. “It really is heartwarming that another troop would be willing to help us with this kind of project.”
In addition to helping with the service project, Troop 3 Scouts will be preparing a fellowship dinner for Troop 148. After the dinner, Troop 3 will present Troop 148 with the new Scout equipment.
In an earlier interview with the Times, Rossi said Manchester Scouts will have a firsthand experience of how other troops operate as well.
Rossi is eager to make contact with Troop 148.
“It’s what we were designed to do,” he said.
To donate items to Troop 148, email Rossi at rossiwoodwork@gmail.com
Books wanted
Manchester Public Library is once again accepting donations. If you have old or new books, DVDs, VHS tapes or CDs in good condition that you no longer want, please bring these items to the library during open hours to the circulation desk.
The donation drop-off hours are from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. next Saturday, Feb. 9.
Late payments
The Essex tax collector and treasurer reminds town residents that fiscal 2013 real estate and personal property bills were mailed on Dec. 31 and were due yesterday, Feb. 1.
Payments received after Feb. 1 will be subject to interest and penalties.
All payments should include enough information to accurately post the payment. Banking on-line bill payers may want to take advantage of the memo field to include bill reference.
Checks received without payment reference may be returned. Interest charges apply on all late payments.
Office hours are Monday through Thursday. 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
For more information about the personal or real estate bills, contact the tax collector and treasurer’s office at 978-768-4519.
Essex seats open
As of Thursday, only a handful of residents had taken out nomination papers to run for the many offices open in Essex.
Some seats that can be contested are town moderator for a one-year term; a three-year term School Committee member; three Planning Board seats are open, two five-year terms and one four-year term; and one seat on the Board of Selectmen for three years.
The last day to withdraw nomination papers is March 21.
Town Talk is compiled by James Niedzinski. If you have a news tip or an item for Town Talk, please contact him at 978-283-7000 x3455, or jniedzinski@gloucestertimes.com
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