To Salute Our Scouts: Take a Seat or Take a Hike!

Only 2% of all Boy Scouts ever complete the rigorous process to become an Eagle Scout, yet West Catonsville is fortunate this season to have two in our midst’s. Danny Neighoff, a Catonsville High School Junior and Brian Sommer, a Catonsville High School Senior, have just completed this process and left their mark on our community.

Danny contributed the 3 new benches, 2 planters and trash receptacle which enhance the front porch of the Catonsville Public Library. He raised the $3500 to fund the project and installed the fixtures to make the entrance more welcoming. Danny began scouting in May 2002. He holds his troop’s record for number of nights camping out, with a lifetime total of 195 and counting. (The previous record set in the 1970’s was 141 nights.) No doubt this number will increase as he spends his 3rd summer living in a tent, working as a camp counselor. Danny was also elected to the Order of the Arrow by fellow troop members and has served as the Order’s Chief, Vice Chief and Web Master. Danny’s advice for young scouts, “You can not give up on your dream. Just keep working on it and it will happen.”

Brian set his sights on becoming an Eagle Scout early in his scouting career after attending the ceremony of a friend years ago. In turn, Brian set a strong example to potential future Eagles when he enlisted the help of some younger scouts on his Eagle Project, the clean up a portion of the Trolly Line #8 Trail in Paradise. Over grown by weeds, trees and stumps, the gravel trail was in need of some TLC. Scouting has offered many opportunities for example the chance to travel and camp in the southwestern United States. Most recently he was awarded a scholarship from his first choice college in recognition of obtaining the honor of Eagle Scout. Scouting has also offered opportunities to spend time with his dad, Jerry, an active scouting volunteer.

It is wonderful to know the 98 year tradition of Boy Scouts is alive and well in Catonsville as these two young men are awarded their Eagle Scout Honor this month. They have exemplified the Boy Scouting mission of strong character, personal fitness and good citizenship to the benefit all of us. Please remember Danny and Brian next time you take a seat or take a hike!