By Thomas Sellers Jr.
Cub Scout Pack 567 from Shelby Forest came up with a “sweet” idea to say thank you to the local law enforcement. On Aug. 28, a few of the 40 members made their way to the Millington Police Department to present 35 lunch bags to members of the MPD. What started off as a quick visit to give a gift to officers transformed into a day the Cub Scout won’t forget. “The purpose was to show we appreciate our police officers,” Cindy Pritchard said, charter sponsor for Embury United Methodist Church, “what they do for us by protecting us. It was so thrilling for the kids to meet the officers and even get to sit in squad car. ‘This was good for the children to know they do not have to fear the police,” she added. “They are our friends. It was a memorable day for all of us.” The Pack’s Lunch Bags Gifts started in July when the scouts traveled to the Oakland Police Department to present 25 bags. It was the MPD’s turn in August. Once Pack 567 arrived in the station presented the bags and their meaning by reading the following: To the Millington Police Department, On behalf of Cub Scout 567 from Shelby Forest, Tenn., we would like to present to you these “Survival Kits” for your dedication and bravery. Our Scout Oath says:
On my honor I will do my best
To do my duty to God and my country
and to obey the Scout Law;
To help other people at all times;
To keep myself physically strong,
mentally awake and morally straight. These kits were made by the boys and represent our appreciation for all that you do for our community. Each bag is filled with candy that reflects what we fill you need as you go about your day to day duties. A LIFESAVER to remind you of the many times you’ve been one; SMARTIES to give wisdom for those split second decisions that you have to make; HERSHEY KISS to show our love for you; GUM to help everyone stick together; TOOTSIE ROLL because you have to roll with the punches; PEPPERMINT PATTY to help you keep your cool; MOUNDS for the mounds of courage you show us every day; and LAFFY TAFFY just to remind you that laughter is a great stress reliever. Thank you so much for everything you do every day
Cub Scouts attending the event in Millington were Colton George, Chase Howell, Jacob Pilkington, BJ Hoskins, Gabe Jenkins, Josh Smart, Gabriel Pilkington, Zachary Smart, Jack St. John, Aaron Rodriguez and Charles Pack, committee Chair. MPD officials participating were dispatcher Anna Swanson, Leann Ramsdale, James Kendrick, Lt. Steve White, Clint Dixon, Lt. Nelda Cherry and Michael Jordan.
