October 31, 2009
Scouts receive big gift
Advertiser

CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- The Stephen D. Bechtel Jr. Foundation has reportedly made a $50 million contribution to the Boy Scouts of America's new National High Adventure Base that will be developed in Fayette and Raleigh counties.

Scouting News, a blog at www.scoutingnews.org, reported the gift in August. The Bechtel Foundation referred questions to the scouts' national office in Texas.

David Lavalle, spokesman for the Boy Scouts of America, said the scouts expect to unveil a model of the project and discuss "what our vision is for the property" during a Nov. 18 invitation-only event at the Glen Jean Armed Services Reserve Center.

Asked about the gift, Lavalle said, "I can't really talk about that right now. We're trying to save a little bit for the [Nov. 18] event. Obviously it's out there and it's known that Mr. Bechtel has provided a gift to the organization, which is going to be a great thing for West Virginia and for our plans and vision for this site. At this point we're going to save further good news for the 18th."

Steve Bechtel Jr. is the retired chairman of the Bechtel Group Inc., an engineering, construction and project management company. Bechtel's signature projects include the Hoover Dam, San Francisco's Bay Area Rapid Transit System and Boston's "Big Dig."

According to Scouting News, Steve Bechtel Jr. became an Eagle Scout in 1940 and his uncle, Kenneth Bechtel, was national president of the Scouts 1956-59.

  • nn
  • A "Worldwide Carbide Retiree Reunion" will be held Oct. 1-2, 2010, at the Embassy Suites in Charleston, said Ed Ballard, regional director of the Carbide Retiree Corps. Inc. and chairman of the reunion planning committee.

    Report a violation or offensive comment.
    [X] Close
    to report abuse.
    Posted By: Thinking Outloud (8:02am 11-01-2009)
    Report Abuse


    Wow - what a great thing for Scouting and West Virginia.

    Advertisement - Your ad here
    Advertisement - Your ad here
    PRECISION TUNE
    Precision Tune Auto Care is the fast, convenient and affordable solution to all of your car repai...
    Advertisement - Your ad here