Kiwanis One Day 2010 at Boy Scout Camp Westmoreland
During Kiwanis year 2008-2009, the Kiwanis Club of Florence, Alabama was approached by Northwest Alabama Boy Scout leaders, Alan Riethmaier and Mark Simpson, to build 50 permanent tents for Camp Westmoreland.
Camp Westmoreland is located in Lauderdale County, Alabama on the west bank of Shoals Creek. Originally started with 44 acres in July 1929, Camp Westmoreland is now over 285 acres and has been used by over 70,000 boy scouts.
The Florence group was interested in the request from the start, but the $900 unit cost for 50 units was more than the club could sponsor and maintain previously budgeted commitments. One club member, Ivan Stafford, offered to organize kits whereby lumber might be precut to size and ready for assembly. Jim Sak and Mike Buckreus were able to obtain donated lumber and fasteners from local businessmen. So, with money available from the club and donated materials, the first five tents were built in the fall of 2009. Pressure treated lumber, canvas, and others materials were specified by Boy Scouts criteria and the assembly met Boy Scouts plans.
Pictures of the construction may be viewed by clicking here.
Pictures of these tents may be viewed at http://Westmoreland.1bsa.org.
The Florence Club wanted to continue this project and Division 2 clubs of the Alabama Kiwanis District were invited to help with money and/or labor. On Kiwanis One Day, April 10, 2010, the Muscle Shoals club donated money and manpower to help Florence build seven more tents. These tents are not complete, but with more financial help with local businesses are well under way.
Club members have expressed satisfaction and pride with this project which will benefit many Boy Scouts for twenty years to come. For information about this project, contact Bert Bock (256-627-5035).
David B. Beasley
Lt. Governor, Division 2
Alabama District
