Local Boy Scout Troop 343 recently held its first meeting after summer break and, with an open house on the horizon, the group is actively recruiting new members.

“After a fantastic summer, our weekly meetings have resumed,” said Scoutmaster Scott Woods. “Over the summer several Boy Scouts enjoyed a week-long camp at Camp Raymond, just outside Williams, enjoying the great outdoors. For some of our older scouts, we enjoyed a high adventure, twelve-day, 75-mile backpacking trek to Philmont Scout Ranch in the rugged mountains of New Mexico.”

Troop 343 is holding an open house for boys who are 12 years old or older, alongside their parents. The event is open to anyone interested in learning more about scouting.

The Troop 343 Boy Scout Open House and Ice Cream Social will be held Monday, Sept. 18, from 7 to 8 p.m. at Church of the Ascension in Fountain Hills.

Boy Scout activities include learning leadership and outdoor skills, team-building activities, life skills and monthly camping, hiking and/or backpacking adventures.

“We invite interested boys and their parents to join us on Sept. 18,” said Woods. “We have a great year planned and now is the time to get involved.”

Troop 343 is in the Four Peaks District of the Grand Canyon Council of Boy Scouts. The Troop began in 1988 and is chartered by the Church of the Ascension. A strong emphasis is placed on outings, including camping, backpacking, canoeing and hiking. Troop 343 is a boy-led troop, and is always looking for more boys to join the adventure and advance in scouting.

Boy Scout Troop 343 meets Monday evenings at 7 p.m. at Church of the Ascension, 12615 N Fountain Hills Blvd, in Fountain Hills. Boys 12 and older that have completed the fifth grade and are interested in scouting are invited to attend a meeting (with a parent) to learn more.