Seneca Falls boys on track to raise funds

Cub Scout Pack 88 does many community service projects around Seneca Falls such as putting flags on veteran graves, ringing church bells, cleaning the canal-front sculpture trail, and more. Now, two of its younger members are working to ensure that all the pack’s scouts will be able to continue participating in a long-time scouting tradition.The annual Boy Scout Pinewood Derby is a skill-building project and competitive event at local, district and state levels, and an annual highlight of the scouting year. The boys follow extensive guidelines to build derby cars from blocks of wood, spending months on the engineering, design, carving and decoration. They race their cars under strict rules at the local level, and winners advance to compete at a district and state, national and world champion levels. The event focuses on sportsmanship, citizenship, woodworking design, and family. But Pack 88 can’t compete without an official track. Because all packs host their own competitions within the same timeframe, it is difficult to share equipment. So Jensen, who came in 2nd to last with a “Best Gas Mileage” placement, decided to ask for help. Fleming, who won First Place, agreed to work with him. “If we don’t get a track, we don’t get to do the Pinewood Derby,” says Jensen. “It’s fun to see if the car is fast. I like to see what everyone makes.” Fleming adds, “I like the Derby. It’s fun and I like building the car. I really hope we raise enough money. I’d like to thank the Seneca Falls PBA for giving us our first check.” Both boys are in the Bear den of the pack.The Seneca Falls Police Benevolent Association was the first in the community to respond to the boys, launching the fundraiser with a $250 donation toward the goal of $3,171. Part of the project includes the purchase of project materials so the pack can build storage boxes for the track. The boys have mailed requests for support. Jensen donated his piggy bank savings to pay for postage. Anyone wishing to support the effort can contact the scouts via email at [email protected] or mail a donation (payable to Cub Scout Pack 88) at: Pack 88 Track Fund C/O Nickoli Jensen, 3010 Garden St Extension, Seneca Falls, NY 13148. Donations are tax deductible.