Inaugural District Ignite Sparks Scout Spirit in the Oil Patch District

By Kristina Ganaway, District Executive

The Oil Patch District hosted its first-ever District Ignite this weekend, bringing together units from all over Lea County for an unforgettable all-Scout fest filled with games, camaraderie, and Scout spirit. This event has been a passion project and dream of District Commissioner Dillon Phipps since the moment he took his position, driven by a vision to bring together all the programs of Scouting. Though it took some time to pull together, the inaugural event was a resounding success, with plans already underway to grow and expand the games and opportunities offered in the years to come.

The action-packed weekend began on Saturday with campsite setups, formal Scout pictures, and engaging activities like Kim’s Game and the Rock, Paper, Scissors Hop. A major highlight of the opening festivities was the introduction of the newly created District Ignite unit flags. This marks the beginning of a brand-new tradition at Camp Jim Murray, with plans to expand upon the flags year after year.

The opening ceremony set a fantastic tone with leaders from various units taking the stage:

Cheryl Allen led the crowd in a rousing rendition of the "Princess Pat" song for Pack 300.

Dillon Phipps, District Commissioner, delivered a warm welcome and the Leader’s Minute.

Kristina Ganaway, District Executive, guided the announcements and safety moment.

Alex Bruelhart (Pack 89) inspired everyone with the RED moment, reminding the crowd to "Recruit Every Day."

The District Games sparked friendly rivalry, pitting unit against unit in a bucket brigade, a two-pole tent setup challenge, and a chaotic relay race featuring both three-legged and potato sack racers.

A standout moment was the mixed patrol blind navigation game. Exploring Cadets from the Lea County Sheriff’s Department, alongside the Senior Patrol Leader from Troop 300, commanded a navigation team of Troop leadership. Together, they successfully navigated the concrete pavilion to collect Cub Scouts—who had to remain completely silent during the rescue!

Following the games, Scouts were treated to a generous dinner provided by Empire Energy Service, proudly owned and operated by two Eagle Scouts.

The evening continued with bingo and games hosted by the Salvation Army, leading right into an entertaining campfire program. Cubs and Troops kept the crowd laughing with family-favorite skits like "The Lightbulb" and "The Emergency Broadcast," plus some new hits learned at Wehinahpay Summer Camp. A special shoutout goes to Troop 300 and Pack 89 for their hilarious "Soap and Water" skit—Tower Boss Dyson would certainly have been proud!

After a night under the stars, the Cubs, Troops, and Explorers woke up to a special Troop 300 breakfast spread of French toast, eggs, bacon, and fruit.

Sunday morning featured a small but promising community fair opportunity. Before heading out, all Scouts participated in closing ceremonies and conducted a thorough "Leave No Trace" sweep of their campsites and Camp Jim Murray, ensuring a clean and successful end to a phenomenal weekend.

Dates: August 22–23, 2026

Location: Camp Jim Murray | Hobbs, NM