Newport Cub Scout pack celebrates year of growth, thanks local supporters

NEWPORT — Cub Scout Pack 828 is wrapping up what its leaders call a landmark year, marked by the pack’s first annual camping trip, a successful Pinewood Derby and a long list of community partnerships.

The pack, which serves youth in kindergarten through fifth grade in Newport and surrounding areas, is also transitioning to a new meeting space at North Country Union High School after spending recent years at the Newport American Legion.

“The support we receive goes directly toward character-building activities, outdoor adventures and leadership training for the next generation of Newport citizens,” said Chris Vacon, the pack’s cubmaster.

Over the past year, the pack drew on support from a range of local businesses and organizations. Community National Bank funded pack shirts. Northpoint Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram sponsored the Pinewood Derby. Edmond Plante and Sons Trucking hosted the derby’s impound night.

Scouts also visited the Vermont Reindeer Farm, learned about maple sugaring at Deer Ridge Maple, went caroling with the Daily Memorial Library and enjoyed a nighttime snowshoe and ski outing with Memphremagog Trails.

The Derby Line Fire Department and the Orleans County Sheriff’s Department provided safety lessons and station tours.

Families interested in joining or businesses willing to sponsor the pack can contact the leadership team at [email protected].