Annual Aviation Camporee Offered Weekend Of March 16

Scouts of all ages will gather at Central Florida's Fantasy of Flight attraction for its Annual Scout Aviation Camporee, Friday, March 16 through Sunday, March 18, 2012.

Troops will earn their aviation merit badges with the help of skilled aviation experts and interactive activities and experiences with some of the attraction's more than 40 rare and vintage aircraft. Fantasy of Flight says it has hosted thousands of boy scouts during previous annual camporees.         

"There is no better place to get the aviation merit badge than Fantasy of Flight because aviation is what they do," said Lynn Brown, scout master of Nokomis, FL-based Troop 1001. "Some places try to accomplish the program with printed materials, pictures and write-ups, but to actually be there is definitely another dimension of learning that really boosts it up. When Kermit fires up the Mustang, it doesn't get much better than that. There are enough different stations and activities provided so there is something for everyone. They can make their own planes or hear talks about the history behind them. There's something of real interest for everyone."

Scouts can practice their primitive camping skills, and Mid-Florida RC Club will present a special R/C flying demonstration as part of the weekend festivities.

As a former Boy Scout, Fantasy of Flight creator and founder Kermit Weeks (pictured) is proud to provide a unique educational venue for scouts to immerse themselves in the captivating world of aviation. "Fantasy of Flight's hands-on, interactive learning experience will inspire and fascinate scouts of all ages," said Weeks, who began a successful construction of an aircraft at age 17.

Cost of the Camporee three-day, two-night weekend is $32 per person plus tax. The $32 rate includes unlimited admission to Fantasy of Flight, specially tailored tours and Scout merit badge stations, activities, campsite and lunch on Saturday. Troops or individual scouts are invited. Individual scouts under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Reservations are required and admission is limited. To book, call Stephanie Conner, 863-984-3500 or e-mail sconner@fantasyofflight.com.

FMI: www.fantasyofflight.com