Boy Scout Troop 107 from St. John Kanty Parish celebrates its 91st anniversary this year.

As it celebrates 91 years of existence, Boy Scout Troop 107 of St. John Kanty Parish in Buffalo is looking for a few good young men interested in the Boy Scout experience. Recruitment will take place Thursday, Oct. 6, at 7 p.m., in the parish's Convent Center, and will be combined with a gym night. Boys 11 years or older, or if they have completed the fifth grade, are welcome to join.

Troop 107 was established at St. John Kanty in 1925, 15 years after the first Boy Scout troop in the United States. A meeting room in the original school was designated for the scouts. The Mothers' Club was organized, and the first long-term camping took place at Camp Kosciuszko.

Soon, 107 became the biggest troop in the state. In time, a group was formed for the purpose of sponsoring events to finance the troop's needs, affording the opportunity for more boys to enjoy scouting to its fullest.

In the late 1960s, troop camping increased to monthly outings. In 1968, Troop 107 received the "Best Troop" trophy from Bishop James A. McNulty at St. Joseph's New Cathedral in Buffalo. The '70s saw new Eagle Scouts and countless more events.

In 2000, 107 celebrated its 75th anniversary with activities and a trip to Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico. After 30 years in the Lyceum, the scout room was moved to the former convent of St. John Kanty, which provided more space for the troop's needs.

"Father Antoni Lutostanski, pastor of St. John Kanty, has fully supported and encouraged the troop's assistance at many parish functions. This relationship has continued over the years at our Summerfest, harvest dinner, meat raffle, as honor guards at the Tomb during holy week, and whenever needed," said St. John Kanty parishioner and media volunteer Judith Felski.

The troop's leaders, Eric Augustyn, Paul Augustyn, Steve Blass, "Mr. Bob" Koza, Scoutmaster Randy Siejak, Dick Slazak, Ron Slazak, Steve Slazak and Butch Wesolowski, are all former members. Although not one, Dan Kowalczewski came to Troop 107 about 20 years ago and was a perfect fit.

"Our leaders have received many honors: Randy as Scoutmaster of the Year for 2011, and 'Mr. Bob' recently received the American Legion and Scouting Square Knot Award," Felski added. "The troop is very proud that over the years, several families have had two generations of scouts in 107, and it seems pretty certain that several families will be around to see a third-generation scout in Troop 107.

For further information about Troop 107 at St. John Kanty in Buffalo, call Paul Augustyn at 716-228-0781.