Saturday, March 1, 2025
1:00 – 4:00 pm
Dougherty Valley Station Community Arts Center
Click on a blue program feature to learn more about the award and the honorees.
WelcomeTom Farris
InvocationKornelius Neal
Council Executive RemarksMike Hale
Veteran AwardsMike Hale
William D Boyce New-Unit Organizer AwardJeff Smith
Sea Scout Leadership AwardsSteve Welch
Venturing Leadership AwardsPatrick Jaime
Special Scout BSA Recognition Brian Weaver
Recognition of Inaugural Council Program Chairs Bill Johansen
Learning for Life Leadership AwardStuart Mahler
NESA Outstanding Eagle Scout AwardsTrevor Bormann & Jay Johnson
Asian American Spirit of Scouting AwardFlory Dekovic
Whitney M. Young Jr. Award Flory Dekovic
Torch of Gold AwardTony Mei
Council Duty to God AwardWayne Bishop
Council President RemarksTom Weibert
2025 Silver Buffalo Tom Weibert
2024 Silver Beaver AwardsPhil Weiss
ClosingTom Farris
Tom is a veteran Scouter who has volunteered in all aspects of the Scouting program. He currently serves as the Council Camping Chair and is an active member of the Endowment Committee and the National Eagle Scout Association. He has been a registered leader with Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, Venturing, and Exploring. Tom has the Distinguished Commissioner’s Service Award, District Award of Merit, Silver Beaver Award and is a Vigil Honor member in the Order of the Arrow. He serves on the GGAC Executive Board.
Mike began his Scouting career as a District Executive at the Cornhusker Council in Lincoln, Nebraska. He became the Camping Director at the Northeast Illinois Council in Highland Park, Illinois. After serving as a Program Director in Mt Prospect, Illinois, and the Director of Support Service in Cincinnati, Ohio, Mike returned to Lincoln as the Scout Executive before becoming an Associate Region Director with the Central Region.
Following his subsequent work in Mission Impact with the National Council, Mike served as an Area Director in the Western Region and rejoined Highland Park as the Scout Executive. Before becoming our next Scout Executive, Mike served the Western Region as the Deputy Region Director and, most recently, as National Service Territory 3 Director, which supports 20 councils in California and Hawaii.
Mike is an Eagle Scout and a Vigil Honor member of the Order of the Arrow who enjoys camping, hiking, gardening, and bowling.
Mike and his wife Lynda have four children, all of whom have been very active in scouting, with all of them serving 4 or more years on various camp staffs. Lynda is also an avid and active scouter.
The Sea Scout Leadership Award is presented by councils to Sea Scouts and Sea Scouters who have made exceptional contributions to Sea Scouting and who exemplify the Scout Oath and Scout Law. This is an opportunity to recognize the efforts of the youth and adult leaders who make Sea Scouting happen everyday. Click to learn more about the Sea Scout Leadership Award.
Eva is a past Ship’s Boatswain and the editor of the Ships Monthly or Bimonthly newsletter if the Skipper doesn’t remember to send her the information. Eva is also an Eagle Scout as well as a member of a Venture Crew. Eva can always be counted on to show up to events and help others out when needed! Eva has been a great addition to Ship 317 and we thank her for all of her dedication to helping grow the program!
Don has stepped up to fill the role of first mate succeeding Terry Thrasher. Don is a committed scouter and can always be counted on to help out when needed. Don also attends close to 100% of all outings and is always on hand to help the scouts when they are in need. Don is very active with Troop 100, Cub Scout Pack 100 and Venture Crew 100! At his advanced age I am not sure how he does it, but he does and he has been an invaluable asset to Ship 317 since day one!!!
The Learning for Life Leadership Award is a distinguished award for Explorers, high school Learning for Life program participants, and adult volunteer leaders who have given exceptional leadership in Exploring or Learning for Life programs. The Leadership Award is available annually to all Explorer posts and Learning for Life high school groups.
Qualifications for earning this award include demonstrating exceptional dedication and giving outstanding leadership to the youth participants in either the Learning for Life high school program or the Exploring program. Click to learn more about Learning for Life Leadership Award.
Kristen has been a key individual at the Napa County Airport for many years. Through those connections she started the post in 2018, then restarted it after a COVID break. Membership expanded to over fifty Explorers.
The interest in the program grew so much that a Middle School club was created to meet the demand. As one alumnus stated in a supporting letter, “As I move forward into this new chapter (Aviation program at the University of Alaska Anchorage), I will never forget where I started or never forget that one person who created this amazing program”
Phil used his passion for science throughout to mentor youth and adults in the field of robotics. He does this in between numerous other Scouting positions, church, veterans’ organizations, and schools. By the estimate of another post leader, they have mentored over several hundred students in the past five and a half years. One of her favorite quotes of his is, “It’s not just about the robot. Let’s make sure the students are having fun.”
The post is consistently one of the largest in the council. His recommendation letters from all sectors of the community all mention that Phil and his wife are “dependable, honorable, and hardworking” and more than deserving of this leadership award.
The NESA Outstanding Eagle Scout Award is a prestigious recognition granted by the local council’s NESA committee to Eagle Scouts who have demonstrated outstanding achievement at the local, state, or regional level. Unlike the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award, which is a national award, the Outstanding Eagle Scout Award recognizes Eagle Scouts whose efforts have made a positive impact closer to home. Click to learn more about the NESA Outstanding Eagle Scout Award and to view previous awardees.
Clayton earned his Eagle Rank on September 25, 2002, with Pleasanton Troop 998.
After serving our country in the U.S. Army, where he exemplified leadership, discipline, and commitment, Clayton returned to his community to continue his service in numerous impactful ways. In his role on the Wente Scout Reservation Committee, Clayton has leveraged his knowledge to enhance camp operations, particularly in vehicle maintenance and shooting sports programs, ensuring the success and safety in these areas. As Program Director for Twin Valley Day Camp for three years, he introduced new program ideas, including shooting sports activities like wrist rockets, which added exciting, safe, and educational opportunities for participants. For the past nine years, Clayton has dedicated himself to a wide range of roles within Scouting, from Tiger Den Leader to Scoutmaster of Troop 998, where he earned his own Eagle Scout rank. Additionally, Clayton has played a key role in the Tiger Cub Safari program, supporting events like Tiger Pumpkin Day, Tiger Kite Day, and the Tiger Cub Safari overnighter.
Mark earned his Eagle Rank on October 26,1986 with Troop 326 in Omaha, Nebraska.
Mark has held numerous Scouting leadership roles including Committee Chair and Outdoor Events Chair for Troop 14 in San Francisco. Mark Dietrich’s contributions to his community extend far beyond Scouting, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to service, safety, and unity in San Francisco’s Richmond District. Mark has become a local hero by tackling the problem of smash-and-grab thefts in San Francisco. When thieves discard stolen items after rifling through them, Mark has repeatedly gone out of his way to locate the rightful owners and return their belongings. When he is not working at Levi Strauss & Co as a Director of Marketplace Insights, Mark serves as part of the SFPD’s Community Police Advisory Board. He has also graduated from SFPD’s Community Police Academy to become a more informed advocate for law enforcement in his community. Through his leadership, the community developed a system for enhancing safety and communication, highlighted by the website he launched to support these efforts (stoprichmondburglary.org).
Patrick earned his Eagle rank on August 13, 2013, with Troop 317 in Concord, California.
Patrick Jaime has demonstrated exceptional leadership and service across Scouting’s organizational levels, making a profound impact on youth development and community building. At the council level, Patrick has served as the Council Venturing Advisor, Assistant Council Commissioner for Venturing, and a member of the Council Communications and NESA Committees. Patrick has set the standard for advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in Scouting as the first approved Citizenship in Society Merit Badge Facilitator in GGAC. In his role as Territory 3 Venturing Advisor, Patrick mentors youth leaders across California and Nevada; fostering their growth and encouraging them to take on active roles in their communities. At the national level, Patrick serves as the Venturing Awards and Recognition Pillar Deputy Chair, where he has innovated upon Venturing’s awards program to ensure meaningful recognition for youth nationwide. Outside of his commitments and dedication to Scouting, Patrick teaches emergency preparedness and provides emergency kits to at-risk and low-income families at the Monument Crisis Center in Concord, CA.
Dr. Paul Kivela earned his Eagle Rank on February 2, 1978 from Troop 52 in Hinsdale, IL
Dr. Kivela exemplifies the meaning of being an Eagle Scout and giving of himself to his community by achieving some of the highest leadership positions locally, nationally, and internationally in emergency medicine. He was elected and served as President of the 40,000 member American College of Emergency Physicians. He has received multiple awards for his service including Napa County Physician of the Year, the International Gold Medal from the Intercontinental Emergency Medicine Congress, and the highest honors from both the California Chapter (Edwards award) and National American College of Emergency Physicians (Wiegenstein award). He has served on the boards of multiple philanthropic organizations and advanced health initiatives and innovations to improve health outcomes, extend addiction medicine services, and streamline mental health services. Outside of his medical achievements, Dr. Kivela was a national senior Speedgolf champion and represented Team USA at the World Speedgolf championships in Japan this past November.
Mike earned his Eagle rank on November 29, 1959, with Post 91 in Meeker Colorado.
Prof. W. Mike Martin exemplifies the highest ideals of Scouting through a distinguished career in architecture and a lifetime commitment to community service and academic leadership. Prof. W. Mike Martin, Fellow of the American Institute of Architects, has made profound contributions to the field of architecture and its role in enhancing communities through education, research, and professional leadership. His work has impacted society at local, national, and international levels, addressing critical challenges and advancing architectural practices to benefit diverse populations.
Prof. Martin has held prestigious leadership positions, including Head of the Department of Architecture at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo (1985–1992), Undergraduate Dean at the University of Colorado, Boulder (1980–1985), and Chair of the Department of Architecture at UC Berkeley. During his tenure at UC Berkeley, he guided the development of undergraduate curriculum and academic policies. Prof. Martin has also maintained adjunct roles at Stanford University and the Danish Royal Academy of Architecture, reflecting the breadth of his influence in architectural education globally.
His professional contributions extend to service within the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) where he has chaired NAAB accreditation teams for Princeton University and Florida A&M University. These roles underscore his impact on shaping architectural standards and fostering professional discourse. He has pioneered approaches that directly address community needs. His translational design research emphasizes practical solutions for real-world challenges, ensuring that architectural advancements are not merely theoretical but also profoundly impactful.
Prof. Martin has also demonstrated extraordinary commitment to professional organizations, most notably the American Institute of Architects (AIA). As a Fellow of the AIA’s College of Fellows—a distinction awarded to fewer than 2% of the AIA’s 95,000 members—he has contributed to the profession’s growth and influence. His collaboration with peers across the globe.
Eric earned his Eagle rank on December 19, 1987, with Troop 519 in Los Gatos, California.
Eric Parnell exemplifies exceptional leadership and service within the Scouting community, particularly through his contributions to the Order of the Arrow and the financial stewardship of Scouting programs. Eric served for many years as Committee Chair for Troop 905 in Dublin, providing steadfast leadership to youth and adult volunteers alike. His influence extended to the Order of the Arrow, where he began his tenure as Lodge Adviser for Achewon Nimat Lodge in 2016. When three councils merged to form the Golden Gate Area Council, Eric played a pivotal role in guiding the youth through the complex process of merging three lodges into the Yerba Buena Lodge. As the first Lodge Adviser for the new lodge, he provided critical support and mentorship, helping youth leaders establish a strong foundation for future success. His financial expertise and strategic insight were instrumental during the council merger, and his contributions continue as a member of the Golden Gate Area Council’s Finance Committee. Eric’s ability to navigate complex financial challenges and provide thoughtful guidance has strengthened the council’s fiscal health and sustainability.
Brian earned his Eagle Rank on January 5, 1988, in Troop 167 of Seattle, Washington.
As a member of the Council’s Board of Directors, Brian spearheaded the formation of the Major Gifts team—the first in approximately two decades. Under his guidance, the Major Gifts team has secured over $300,000 in financial support, ensuring the sustainability and growth of Scouting programs for current and future generations. In addition to his board responsibilities, Brian actively participates in his children’s Scout units in Benicia, California, serving as past Committee Chair for Scout Troops 7 and 9 while enjoying numerous high adventure backpacking and canoe treks together. His involvement extends to the Council’s National Eagle Scout Association (NESA) chapter, where he serves on the management board and he has also served on two Wood Badge staff cohorts helping to train Scouting’s next generation of amazing leaders. Brian’s commitment to service extends to his professional career which affords him the opportunity to serve every American and countless international citizens. Through his role as Vice President leading the National and Strategic Operations teams at the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, Brian’s team ensures there is an adequate supply of U.S. coin and currency nationwide and internationally, both in normal times and in times of stress or disasters when cash is often in high demand. Brian brings a wealth of experience in financial and organizational management, and the skills and insights gained from his career have undoubtedly guided his strong leadership and strategic planning within his volunteer roles.
The Asian American Spirit of Scouting Award recognizes Scouters who have given leadership in promoting and providing Scouting for Asian American youth, while helping the Asian community understand the aims and methods of Scouting. Click to learn more about the Asian American Spirit of Scouting Award
Kim is a role model in hands-on leadership, presenting the value of Scouting to families in the Asian American community of Mission Peak District. Kim is currently the Committee Chair of Troop 2152 which has 23 girls and Troop T512 which has 80 boys. Over the past 9 years, she’s been active in effectively attracting families who are either Asian American or come from the varied Asian faith communities to the Scouting program. Most notably, her outreach has been with the diverse community that moved into a new 4000-home development next to the Tesla factory in Fremont. Kim built remarkable relationships with school administration when a new school opened for that area that has grown to over 1100 K-5 students in two years. It also includes the school district’s Mandarin immersion program.
Chip’s unwavering dedication to Scouting coupled with his exceptional contributions to the Asian American community embodies the true spirit of this recognition. Supported by his wife Sydney, he was a dedicated Cubmaster for Pack 29 and then Scoutmaster for Troop 29 in the Golden Gate District, inspiring countless Scouts and Scouters. His commitment to Scouting goes back to his own youth where he was a Troop 29 Life Scout actively participating as both a Scout and Explorer and where his father was a Scoutmaster. His legacy continues through his two sons, Jack and Grant, both Eagle Scouts. Chip’s own impact in the Japanese scouting community in the Golden Gate District is profound and extensive. Through unwavering volunteering, Chip has encouraged over 60 Scouts to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout. He continues to serve on Eagle Boards of Review and through his tireless dedication is an example for others to grow in their Scouting roles and to give back to the organization. Chip played a vital role in revitalizing Troop 29 that was founded 92 years ago and currently has 43 male youth. His influence also extends beyond Scouting where he spearheaded the popular Clarendon Udon booth at the San Francisco Cherry Blossom Festival that raised over fifty thousand dollars for public education.
Ken is an Eagle Scout who originally hails from Philadelphia. Many of his remarkable 50+ years in Scouting have been in the Golden Gate District of San Francisco. Ken has held various leader-specific positions and currently serves on the Unit committee for Troops 343 and Troop 3243. As a former Cubmaster of Pack 345 at West Portal Lutheran, Ken Rose found ways to welcome Asian American families who were new to the US and unfamiliar with Scouting. Decades later, his legacy continues as Pack 345 has grown to be one of the largest and most successful Cub Scout packs in San Francisco, currently with 70 youth. In the Golden Gate District, Ken continues to be a familiar face at District Camporees, District Dinners and Scouting for Food Drives. He is likewise a welcomed presence on many District Eagle Boards of Review. Ken’s valued and inspiring mentorship has served many, especially for those in female Troop 2343, which back in Feb 2019 was one of the first female troops in his district. Troop 2343 now has 21 girls and was the unit who had the very first 2 concurrent female Eagles for San Francisco.
Christine’s involvement and leadership has been critical to the Mission Peak District Scouting program. She is currently Cubmaster of Pack 273 which has 21 youth and is a Committee Member of Troop 110 which has 44 youth. With almost seventy percent of district Scouts coming from Asian American families, Christine’s planning, leadership, and presentation skills have been essential to the delivery of the Scouting program while increasing parent involvement. Through her active participation in pack and troop service projects plus hands-on camping participation she is a role model for the youth. Her involvement in the Scouting for Food initiative is of great value to families in the local Asian community. Throughout her six years of pack leadership, Christine has promoted the ideals of Scouting by word and deed to the Asian American families of Union City. Her troop and pack reflect the diversity of the Asian American community, especially youth whose religions include Filipino Catholic, Hindu, Jain, Islam and Sikh.
The Torch of Gold is a council-level distinguished award of the Boy Scouts of America to recognize adults for exceptional service and leadership working with Scouts who have special needs and disabilities. Each council may recognize one Scouter per year with the Torch of Gold Award.
The nominee shall be currently registered with the Scouting America, have at least three years of service in any Scouting leadership capacity related to Scouts with special needs and disabilities. This service includes educating other Scouters about special needs and disabilities and working with youth who have disabilities. Click to learn more about the Torch of Gold .
Linda has been an active member in reorganizing and reinvigorating the Council Special Needs & Disabilities Committee. She was a key member of the team that planned and implemented the committee’s first in-person meeting in October 2024. She has been instrumental in supporting the inclusion of Special Needs & Disabilities modules in adult training courses in GGAC. These efforts have far-reaching impact on the proactive support for Scouts who have Special Needs & Disabilities, their leaders, and the GGAC Scouting Community at large.
The Council Duty to God Award recognizes registered Scout leaders who have demonstrated an exemplary history of transformational leadership in supporting and promoting the spiritual foundation of Scouting at the local level. It distinguishes Scouters who selflessly work to prepare youth for life by perpetuating the merit and legacy of a Scout’s duty to their Creator. Click to learn more about the Council Duty to God Award.
Skip has served in almost every Scouting leadership position available including being a part of the council’s Religious Relationships Committee. In particular, he has been the Committee Chair for the Oakland Diocesan Catholic Committee on Scouting, has approved numerous religious awards for Scouts for years, and has organized the recognition of these Scouts for their achievements.
Herb has been a trainer and a District Eagle Scout Chair as well as a member of the council’s Religious Relationships Committee. As part of this committee, he has served as the Jewish Relations Chair and religious awards coordinator. He has been instrumental in identifying leads for new packs and troops throughout the council.
Tom Weibert became the Golden Gate Area Council President on October 19 at the GGAC Executive Board meeting. Scouting has always been a part of Tom’s life and he is proud to be a home-grown product of the Golden Gate Area Council. One of his greatest pleasures is to look one of his old Scouting mentors in the eye and say, “Thank you, look what you have done. You have helped to make me the great Father, Leader, and Business Professional I am today.”
As an adult leader in various roles, Tom has helped to pass the torch to a third generation of two Eagle Scouts in the family, one son and one daughter. All four of his children have participated in programs from Cub Scouting to Venturing. He proudly served as Walnut Creek Venture Crew 122 Advisor, home of the White Stag Sierra Leadership Development Program.
Tom has continued to support Scouting as an Executive Board member of the Mt . Diablo, Mt. Diablo Silverado, and Golden Gate Area Councils. He is a 2016 Silver Beaver recipient, James E. West and Second Century Society member. Read more about Tom at blog.ggacbsa.org.
The Silver Beaver Award was introduced in 1931 and is a council-level distinguished service award of the Boy Scouts of America. Recipients of this award are registered Scouters who have made an impact on the lives of youth through service given at the council level.
Robert‘s Scouting history started in the early 1960‘s when he joined Cub Scouts as a Wolf. After
earning his all of the ranks, he was unable to continue into Boy Scouts because there were no
troops near where he lived.
In 2002 his son joined his school‘s Cub Scout Pack as a Wolf. Subsequently Robert held
various pack leadership positions in Pack 163, and Pack 154. Dutch Oven Cooking (then taught
by Charlie Mabie) became a passion while learning it at BALOO training in 2005.
In 2009 Robert took ACORN training to learn about troop functions. He became an ASM and
troop training chair of Troop 154. He then held the position of Troop Committee Chair for 6
years. He took Wood Badge in 2012 to enhance his ability to contribute to Scouting. The troop
grew from 12 scouts to over 80 during his tenure.
He joined Crew 212 and was a member of the cooking staff at many camps, including Mom and Cub, Camping Connection, Tiger Cub Safari, University of Scouting, and Wolf-Bear Adventure Weekend.
His involvement in archery began when it became apparent that camp directors in the district were looking for help running archery ranges. He took BSA Archery training in 2010, then took U.S.A. Archery Level 1 instructor training in 2013.
Robert led archery instruction for most of the council-hosted Cub Scout overnight camps. He
also led various Scouts BSA shooting sports camps including district Camporees, Venturing
Powerhorn, and White Stag.
Robert serves as Archery Team Lead for the GGAC Range and Target Activities group.
Through this position, he has greatly contributed to the rebuilding of the Rancho Los Mochos
Archery range with the help of Troop 154, and many others. The group built a new archery shed and rebuilt tables, repaired fences, created plastic target stands, added bow hangers, and more. The RLM archery range is the only archery range in GGAC that gives Venture crews the ability to earn the archery award. Robert has also acquired new Genesis bows for Camp Herms and RLM and refurbished arrows and bows for both camps.
When he is not working on archery tasks, Robert teaches cooking at ACORN, serves as a Unit Commissioner for three troops, and is a merit badge counselor for archery and cooking.
Michael Dubro earned his Eagle Scout Rank as a member of Troop 153, Mission Peak District, Fremont, CA, and was an Order of the Arrow member as a youth. As an adult, he was actively involved in the formation of both Troops 155 and 103 and has 36 years as an Assistant Scoutmaster in both troops. He was also the #2 leader in Troop 1924 for a year. To date, thirty Scouts from his troops have earned the Eagle Rank.
At the District level, Mike has served as a Unit Commissioner for over ten years, served as a Fingerprinting Merit Badge counselor on numerous occasions for the Mission Peak District Merit Badge Extravaganza, and has served on dozens of Eagle Boards of Review over the last 20 years. He has received the Mission Peak District Certificate of Appreciation and the Mission Peak District Plaque.
At the Council level, Mike has served as a Camp Royaneh (Summer Camp) Volunteer Camp Commissioner (averaging one week each summer) from 1990 through 2003 and 2005. He served as a full-time summer camp staff member from 2006 to 2009 in the Shooting Sports Dept. as an Instructor. In the Fall of 2008, he undertook a fundraising project that raised over three thousand dollars to purchase fifteen new rifles for the Camp Royaneh shooting sports program. From 2010 through the 2019 Camp Royaneh (Summer Camp season), Mike served as the full-time Summer Camp Staff Commissioner and Chaplain.
Mike has served on the four National Scout Jamboree staffs between 1993 and 2005 as a lead Rowing Merit Badge Instructor, a lead Canoeing Merit Badge Instructor, and a presenter with the Sea Exploring Exhibit twice.
Mike was selected as the Warm Springs “Rotary Club Citizen of the Year” (1999) for his contributions to our youth community as an Assistant Scoutmaster and has served as a member of the United States Coast Guard Reserve for over 28 years, working on two major oil spills and assisting with the Coast Guard’s mission of Homeland Security.
Lorraine Ferguson has served in a variety of roles at the pack/troop level and at the district level-Den Chief trainer, Tiger Cub Safari Staff, Troop Advancement Chair, District Activity Chair, Baloo trainer, Blue Oak Staff, Wood Badge, NYALE, Unit Commissioner, Assistant Scoutmaster, Scoutmaster and NYLT leader.
In her new uniform, she soon developed a fondness for the boys who were challenging for other den leaders. With her special rapport and interpersonal skills, these Cub Scouts thrived. When her own boys moved to Boy Scouts, she did too. This path was not so welcoming though. When she wanted to become an Assistant Scoutmaster, she was rebuffed because “she is a female, and might be distracting to the boys.” But Lorraine met her mentor and role model: Liz Bradon. When Lorraine mentioned how she wasn’t welcomed as an adult leader, Liz took her into her troop and welcomed her with enthusiasm and supportive mentoring. Lorraine never looked back!! She consistently has embraced the importance of getting trained and helped others to do the same. She is masterful in engaging others in dialogue and preparing both youth and adults to succeed in their efforts.
Today we recognize Lorraine as the Role Model she has become for others in Scouting. She is a founding ASM for the first all-female troop in Livermore, Troop 2942. She moved into the Scoutmaster position last year. In her first year she has seen the troop double in size, with 20 new girls just this year; and added 9 trained Assistant Scoutmasters. The troop has seen its first Scout earn her Eagle badge, with others close behind in earning their Eagle ranks. She will be assisting with NYLT this year as we are working to have our first all-female troop at Rancho Los Mochos.
The Silver Beaver recognizes outstanding work and service to the Scouting program. It is a testimony to Lorraine’s skills and contributions, that “everyone already thought she had been awarded this recognition.” It is our pleasure to share her enthusiasm, devotion and candor. She embodies the Scout Oath and Law every day. She has set the stage for the next generation of leaders in Scouting, especially supporting women in Scouting.
Don Marek’s Scouting journey began when he married into a Scouting family. Never being exposed to Scouting as a youth, Don learned the impact of Scouting through his wife’s family.
Don became an active member of Pack 910 in 2008 and was a Den Leader for Tigers, Wolf, Bear and Webelos for 10 years. He also contributed as an Assistant Cubmaster for 8 years. When h is sons started to bridge to Troop 948 in 2015, Don continued his leadership service to the Troop in his role as Assistant Scout Master, where he continues to this day.
Don has been an instrumental head leader for several high adventure trips for the Troop (Philmont, Sea Base and Northern Tier) as well as leading many backpacking trips. He is also a merit badge counselor in Cooking, Bicycling and Fly-Fishing.
Don has been awarded the Duty to God at all three high adventure camps as well as the 50-miler award for Philmont and Northern Tier. Troop 948 has its own “Bad to the Bone” award for strong adult leadership that Don was honored to receive in 2019.
Don has also had an influence on Scouting through his service at the council level as a member of the Executive Committee and Executive Board in his roles as VP of Operations and VP of Development. He has also contributed in ad hoc positions to help in the critical areas of budget, compensation and property disposition over the years.
Outside of Scouting, Don is integrally involved as the Treasurer for Innovation Tri-Valley Leadership Group and as a Professional Advisor for Three Valleys Community Foundation.
Professionally, Don is the President of Fremont Bank, an independently owned community bank deeply committed to contributing to their clients’ goals and empowering the community.
Since Jeff became a Scout leader for his son and daughter, he has put his time and talents forward to support Scouting at the unit, district and council levels. He stepped up to be Scoutmaster for Troop 900 when no one else was willing to step forward. When girls were allowed to join the Scout BSA program, he was a guiding light and one of the adult founders and organizers for Troop 2942, which has grown to 50+ Scouts in less than 3 years. Now that both his children have aged out, he continues to volunteer and support the program and units in the Twin Valley District. He works as the Membership Chair of Twin Valley, serves on staff teaching current and future adult leaders. Jeff has been on staff for Wood Badge, Wolf/ Bear camp, and camporees as an instructor and camp medic. He serves on The NESA Committee by participating on the nominating committees for NOESA and the Adams Service Project of the Year Award.
Jeff has always played an active role in his children’s education as a frequent classroom volunteer, driver for field trips, and fire safety instructor. As a firefighter Paramedic for the City of Alameda, he has supported and participated in numerous programs like Local 689 Pumpkin patch pumpkins for kids, Marines Christmas toy drive, Children’s Library book move, The Wheelchair Regatta (a luncheon and boat tour of the bay for Vets), Thanksgiving Food Bank food collection and distribution of food, Pancake Breakfast to benefit the Annalise Burn Foundation, and the 911 FDNY Widows and Orphan’s fund Spaghetti feed on the USS Hornet that raised $109k and benefited children in his local community and throughout the country.
Jeff was the Disaster medical instructor for the City of Alameda CERT and has volunteered with the Eden ROP Fire Tech program in Hayward. He continues supporting future firefighters by teaching Emergency Medical Responder and working as a skills evaluator for Chabot College’s Fire Tech Program.
Scouting has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. As a six-year-old transplanted Californian in Warsaw, Indiana, I found a sense of belonging in Pack 36. My mom was my Den Mother, and my dad and I spent late nights building Pinewood Derby cars together. But what truly mattered were the moments spent with family and friends and the lessons of commitment and perseverance learned along the way.
Though my own Scouting journey paused in Indiana after I earned my Arrow of Light, it found new life years later back in the Bay Area. In 2008, Dr. Chip Nakamura, the Pack 29 Cubmaster, invited Will to join, launching a new adventure. As Troop 29’s Scoutmaster, I feel that guiding more than thirty-two Scouts on their journey to Eagle was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. To keep older Scouts engaged, I helped restart Royaneh Village in the Order of the Arrow for the Golden Gate District, ensuring a space where they could continue growing in leadership and service.
Scouting has taken me beyond borders, from summiting Mt. Fuji in 2017 to forging lasting friendships with a Japanese Scouting district near Tokyo. In 2020, Will became an Eagle Scout, and four years later, he served as an Adult Advisor on Troop 29’s inaugural Philmont Trek.
Megan always longed to share in the adventures Will. In 2019, relieving years of dad guilt, she joined Troop 343G and I had the privilege of serving as one of her leaders. She later became the first female Eagle Scout in the Golden Gate District in 2021. But what mattered most wasn’t the title—it was seeing her and so many other young women forge their own paths, overcoming tough mental and physical challenges to prove that Scouting’s impact knows no bounds.
In 2022, I was deeply honored to be selected by the youth Arrowmen of Yerba Buena Lodge for Vigil Honor. In 2023, I served as a Wood Badge Troop Guide and celebrated as my sixth and final patrol member completed their Wood Badge ticket. That same year, I was humbled to receive the Golden Gate District’s Award of Merit. In 2024, I was honored with the Asian American Spirit of Scouting Award, and this year, I was completely stunned to learn that I had been selected for the Silver Beaver Award.
Scouting has strengthened my family in ways I never imagined and has brought lifelong friendships that I will always treasure. To receive this award, presented by my wife, Mison, with William and Megan—via FaceTime—alongside friends and fellow Scouters, is an honor beyond words.
Don Pace’s journey in Scouting spans many years, beginning with his own experiences as a Cub Scout and Boy Scout. He has fond memories of his time in Scouting, which made him excited when his two youngest sons expressed an interest in joining Cub Scouts.
In 2015, Don’s son, Landon, joined Pack 8100, and Don quickly became an active volunteer, stepping in wherever needed. His involvement grew when his youngest son, Lucas, joined the following year, and Don became fully immersed in the Scouting experience.
In 2017, Don took on the role of Cubmaster for Pack 8100 while continuing to serve as a Den Leader. The following year, his youngest daughter, Evangeline, became a founding member of Solano County’s first girl troop, Troop 8818G. Don immediately joined the troop’s committee, later taking on the role Don Pace’s journey in Scouting spans many years, beginning with his own experiences as a Cub Scout and Boy Scout. He has fond memories of his time in Scouting, which made him excited when his two youngest sons expressed an interest in joining Cub Scouts.
In 2015, Don’s son, Landon, joined Pack 8100, and Don quickly became an active volunteer, stepping in wherever needed. His involvement grew when his youngest son, Lucas, joined the following year, and Don became fully immersed in the Scouting experience.
In 2017, Don took on the role of Cubmaster for Pack 8100 while continuing to serve as a Den Leader. The following year, his youngest daughter, Evangeline, became a founding member of Solano County’s first girl troop, Troop 8818G. Don immediately joined the troop’s committee, later taking on the role of Advancement Chair.
Don’s commitment to Scouting deepened further when he attended Wood Badge in February 2016 and was beaded later that year, on October 10th (Go Buffalos). He proudly became a member of the Order of the Arrow in October 2022 and earned his Brotherhood in April 2023.
In 2022, Don took on the role of Scoutmaster for Troop 8100 while also serving as the 1st Mate for Ship 8317 in Suisun. Over the years, Don has served in a variety of important roles, including Den Leader, Webelos Leader, Cubmaster, Assistant Scoutmaster, Scoutmaster, Unit Chaplain, Pack Trainer, Nova Awards Counselor, Pinewood Derby Chair, STEM Committee Member, Membership Committee Member, Merit Badge Counselor, Advancement Chair, Outdoor Activity Chair, and First Mate in Sea Scouts.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the community, Don was honored to be asked to serve as the Grand Marshal for the City of Fairfield’s 2024 4th of July Parade, further underscoring the profound impact he has made both within Scouting and beyond.
Don Pace’s journey in Scouting spans many years, beginning with his own experiences as a Cub Scout and Boy Scout. He has fond memories of his time in Scouting, which made him excited when his two youngest sons expressed an interest in joining Cub Scouts.
In 2015, Don’s son, Landon, joined Pack 8100, and Don quickly became an active volunteer, stepping in wherever needed. His involvement grew when his youngest son, Lucas, joined the following year, and Don became fully immersed in the Scouting experience.
In 2017, Don took on the role of Cubmaster for Pack 8100 while continuing to serve as a Den Leader. The following year, his youngest daughter, Evangeline, became a founding member of Solano County’s first girl troop, Troop 8818G. Don immediately joined the troop’s committee, later taking on the role of Advancement Chair.
Don’s commitment to Scouting deepened further when he attended Wood Badge in February 2016 and was beaded later that year, on October 10th (Go Buffalos). He proudly became a member of the Order of the Arrow in October 2022 and earned his Brotherhood in April 2023.
In 2022, Don took on the role of Scoutmaster for Troop 8100 while also serving as the 1st Mate for Ship 8317 in Suisun. Over the years, Don has served in a variety of important roles, including Den Leader, Webelos Leader, Cubmaster, Assistant Scoutmaster, Scoutmaster, Unit Chaplain, Pack Trainer, Nova Awards Counselor, Pinewood Derby Chair, STEM Committee Member, Membership Committee Member, Merit Badge Counselor, Advancement Chair, Outdoor Activity Chair, and First Mate in Sea Scouts.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the community, Don was honored to be asked to serve as the Grand Marshal for the City of Fairfield’s 2024 4th of July Parade, further underscoring the profound impact he has made both within Scouting and beyond.
of Advancement Chair.
Don’s commitment to Scouting deepened further when he attended Wood Badge in February 2016 and was beaded later that year, on October 10th (Go Buffalos). He proudly became a member of the Order of the Arrow in October 2022 and earned his Brotherhood in April 2023.
In 2022, Don took on the role of Scoutmaster for Troop 8100 while also serving as the 1st Mate for Ship 8317 in Suisun. Over the years, Don has served in a variety of important roles, including Den Leader, Webelos Leader, Cubmaster, Assistant Scoutmaster, Scoutmaster, Unit Chaplain, Pack Trainer, Nova Awards Counselor, Pinewood Derby Chair, STEM Committee Member, Membership Committee Member, Merit Badge Counselor, Advancement Chair, Outdoor Activity Chair, and First Mate in Sea Scouts.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the community, Don was honored to be asked to serve as the Grand Marshal for the City of Fairfield’s 2024 4th of July Parade, further underscoring the profound impact he has made both within Scouting and beyond.
Jeff Silva started his Scouting experience as a Cub Scout in Alameda Council’s Pack 14 and earned an Arrow of Light in 5 years. Jeff bridged over to Troop 11 and enjoyed 4 years with the troop before transferring to Troop 1015 in 1994. He served his remaining 3 years there ending as a Life Scout. Jeff was inducted into the Order of the Arrow in 1995.
After turning eighteen and starting to work nights at UPS, Jeff disconnected from the troop for about 8 ½ years. When Jeff’s Scoutmaster retired in January 2006, he was asked to come back and be an Assistant Scoutmaster in Troop 1015. He started fixing the troop’s filing cabinets which took about 7 years. With the assistance of his Stepmom, they put over 800 Scout’s names in Excel of Troop 1015 alumni. Jeff also went through Facebook and other online sites like LinkedIn and connected to over 350 scouts from Troop 1015’s history dating back to 1946. The earliest connection is 1948.
In the summer of 2010, Jeff was asked to take over as Scoutmaster. He started getting more involved streamlining multiple troop processes. He connected back with the Order of the Arrow and completed his Brotherhood in 2015. Jeff started assisting in the OA Lodge and kept The Vigil in 2019. Jeff was instrumental in starting Girl Troop 1015 and in joining the National Scouts’ combined boy/girl Troop pilot program. Jeff has participated in the Alameda Council’s Training Team and as the OA Ceremonies and membership Advisor. Jeff joined the Alameda Council Executive Board in 2018 and continued with the GGAC Executive Board until last year when he stepped down to the Advisory Board. Jeff has earned 2 Alameda Council Oscars in 2013 and 2018, The Unit Leader Award of Merit in 2013, the Scoutmaster Key in 2015, and the District Award of Merit in 2019. Jeff’s current positions are Troop 1015 Scoutmaster, Ship 9 Mate, Crew 379 Associate Advisor, Merit Badge Counselor, and is also connected with Pack 1015. Jeff has had 39 Scouts earn Eagle Scout while he has been Scoutmaster in the past 14 ½ years.
In the community, Jeff has been an Elks Lodge member for 12 years and has been an officer at the Alameda Elks for the past 4 years and counting. Jeff is also a 2-year Mason and is starting his Officer experience there. He is also involved with multiple other organizations like the Native Sons of the Golden West and the Alameda Rod and Gun Club to name a few.
A special thank you to all the volunteers and teams who helped make this great event occur.
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