ROCKINGHAM — Cub Scouts from three Richmond County packs learned how to navigate uptown Monday evening during an “urban hike.”
The hike is part of the outdoor survival skills the scouts are learning during the month of October, according to Meri Fair.
The scouts started at Harrington Square and then a stop at Hudson Brothers Deli, where they were treated with free hot dogs.
“They had the opportunity to eat a little meal, show how to ‘leave no trace’ by throwing everything away, cleaning up after themselves,” Fair said.
Hudson Brothers Manager Robin Roberts told them the history of the restaurant and the building, gave them American flags and had them recite the pledge of allegiance.
The next stop was the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, where the scouts were able to try on gear, sit in the vehicles and turn on the lights and sirens, and receive gift bags.
Fair said she thinks they enjoyed petting the K-9 more than anything else.
Along the route, they also learned about the downtown buildings — what they’re made of and what the businesses do — as well as the types of plants and trees lining the streets.
The short hike ended at IncSpace, where they received free ice cream from the recently opened Carolina Scoop and were given books courtesy of the Richmond County Partnership for Children.
The scouts — which include boys and girls — were from Pack 1215 at Rockingham First Baptist, Pack 90 at St. James Catholic in Hamlet, and Pack 527, led by Barbara Potter and Savannah Goodwin, respectively.
“We’ve been combining them this month,” Fair said. “It’s easier when we’re working together to get things done and get all the kids the same type of (experiences).”
Next week, Fair said, the scouts will be learning how to select a campsite, erect a tent and build a campfire.
Later in the month, the scouts will venture up to Pinebluff where they’ll learn how to make items from pines from an outdoorsman.
“This whole month is just for outdoor survival … and learning about public speaking and what goes on in the community,” Fair said. “It’s been pretty fun, so far.
Note: This story has been updated to correct a pack number. 7:30 p.m. 10-11-22
