Bradley County commission recognizes Troop 1444 from Wesley Methodist Church; scouts working on citizenship badge

Bradley County commissioners welcomed Troop 1444 from Wesley Methodist Church during their work session and heard from scout leaders and scouts about the troop's activities, ranks and projects.

Ally Creed, scoutmaster for Troop 1444 and a teacher at Cleveland Middle School, told commissioners the troop is an all-girl unit and a sister troop to Troop 44 at Wesley. “We are the sister troop to troop 44, that's been around for about 42 years at Wesley as well,” Creed said. She said the troop was founded six years ago at Wesley and that several members are working on the citizenship-in-the-community merit badge.

Anthony Miller, who assists the troop, and the scouts introduced themselves by name and rank. Scout Maggie Curl, who identified herself as one of the founders and an Eagle Scout, said the troop has produced multiple Eagle Scouts. One scout described leading an Eagle project building sensory gardens at Cleveland Middle School and credited partner organizations that donated materials.

Commissioners asked light, civic questions: Commissioner Blake asked whether the scouts sell cookies, and Commissioner Winters asked what is required to become an Eagle Scout. Scouts described rank progression and that some advancement requirements include time-in-rank waits and leadership of a project to earn Eagle.

Commissioners encouraged the troop to return for a voting session so they could see a full meeting. No formal action was taken; the recognition was part of routine reports and a photo opportunity at the front of the chamber.