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 3…2…1…Launch! This phrase we have heard many times through the years as we’ve sat riveted in our chairs watching the latest launch from NASA. This was the theme for the spring camporee held by West View Scouting District at the Deseret Peaks Recreation Complex.
Scouts from across the district turned out to enjoy this overnight event that was highlighted by a mass rocket launch and a visit from former Senator and Astronaut Jake Garn. More than 300 youth and leaders attended the overnight camp. Friday night, Holly Lamb and David States from ATK Launch Systems gave a short video presentation about career opportunities in the space industry. They also showed a video of past rocket launches that were successful and not so successful. The remainder of the evening was dedicated to the Scouts’ building and decorating their model rockets that would be flying in the morning. Saturday morning, the rockets were ready to launch, and the participants were assisted by several volunteers. Bruce Bell from the Utah Rocket Club helped launch all of the rockets on his multiple launch pads. Most launches and recoveries went very well. However, some didn’t survive. In fact, one rocket landed in the swimming pool next to the complex. The Scouts were also treated to a remote control airplane and helicopter show, where the aerial acrobats were flown over the crowd. The event was capped off by a visit of former Astronaut and Senator Jake Garn. In addition to speaking to the youth, he shook hands, signed autographs, and posed for pictures with the Scouts. He reminded them not to underestimate their potential. The Deseret Peak complex is next door to the Larry Miller Motorsports Park. Saturday afternoon, the park was opened up for a free tour to the Scouts. The Scouts were able to see the control tower, club house, and museum. Copyright © 2008, Magna Times. |
