Boy Scouts celebrate centennial

SIKESTON -- When asked about his feelings on the Boys Scouts of American organization celebrating its 100th birthday this year, Vern Griffith had one word: "Cool!"

"This is a big deal for all of the Scouts, I think," said the Cherokee District chairman and former scout master of Troop 41. "Scouting has come a long way over the past 100 years -- and I know it certainly has changed in the last 40 years since I was a Boy Scout."

To mark its centennial, the organization will have several events across the nation, state, and right here in Southeast Missouri.

"We have a bunch of different things planned," said Jim Starks, Cherokee District centennial chairman. "Each district has been asked to have an activity, and ours is a display of Scouting memorabilia at the Sikeston Depot Museum."

The display includes old uniforms, books, patches, neckerchiefs, pictures, old Scouting equipment and more. It is now on display at the Depot, 116 W. Malone Ave., which is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday. It will be in the Depot's main gallery through the end of February.

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