Troop and Pack 103 are collecting used, gently worn and new shoes for a shoe drive this Fall. They accept all sizes, types, styles of shoes/sneakers/boots. The troop is working with an organization that will help people in developing countries develop a micro-enterprise with these used shoes. They are making an impact by reducing shoes entering landfills and also re-purposing shoes that people have outgrown, no longer use, or just aren’t their style anymore. Shoes can be dropped off at the troop’s scout cabin at St. Paul’s UCC located at 5 W Arch St Fleetwood, PA. There is a designated bin on the side of the cabin for shoe donations (not the large bin for Opportunity House) under the roof on the side of the building. Local pick-up can be arranged for any donations if needed as well. Please contact Brittany Blose at [email protected] or 610.914.9046 to coordinate pick up. Learn more about the event here.

The Friends of Fleetwood Library are hosting their Annual Meeting on Thursday, November 13 in the cafeteria of the Fleetwood community center. A brief meeting will take place at 6:30 PM and a presentation on the Civil War and the historic connection to the local area will begin at 7 PM. This presentation will be completed by David Snoot. The event is free and open to the public.

On Saturday, November 15 at 9 AM Scout Troop and Pack 103 is hosting their Leaves and Laces 5K Race and Fun Walk at Maidencreek Community Park. The 5K race starts and ends at Maidencreek Community Park and will take participants through local roads/neighborhoods in Blandon. Course is stroller friendly. Participants can elect to run or walk the course. Northern Berks Police Department and Blandon Fire Company Fire police will be assisting with traffic control for the event. The fun walk is approximately ¾ mile and will be untimed. This walk is open to all ages. Refreshments will be available for all finishers, and a water station is available on the route. Indoor toilet facilities are at the park. This event is held rain or shine.

Awards will be presented for the Overall Male & Female Top Finishers, Age Group awards for Top 2 Male & Female finishers for the following age groups: 14 & under, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69 & 70+, additional awards Top 2 Scout finishers (includes both youth involved in Cub Scouts, Scouting America and Girl Scout units and individuals that have earned Eagle Scout & Gold Award). You must be present for awards, as they will not be mailed. Results will be available on www.pretzelcitysports.com 1-2 days after the race, and a time clock at finish will provide instant results.

Cost to register is $30 (with a shirt) and $20 without a shirt if registration is complete by 10/23. Race shirt is a performance tech short sleeve t-shirt ($15 value). After 10/23 (including day of race), the cost is $30 with option to purchase shirts while supplies last. Fun walk cost is $10 (no shirts provided). Register online here or mail a check payable to Troop 103 to Brittany Blose, 416 E Wesner Rd, Blandon, PA 19510. Contact the Race Director at 610.914.9046 or [email protected].