The Kootaga District Buckskin Council, Scouting America, celebrated its annual awards dinner Tuesday at Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church in Mineral Wells. Pictured, from left, are, standing John Baker, Donald Wise, Paul Mommessin, Kim Mommessin, Kirk Venderlic, John Shepard and Greg Cappadona; and, seated, Eagle Scouts Zach Phillips from Troop 12, Riley Curfman from Troop 43 and Issac Pennock from Troop 12. (Photo provided)

MINERAL WELLS — The Kootaga District Buckskin Council, Scouting America celebrated its annual awards dinner Tuesday at Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church in Mineral Wells.

Troop 86 hosted the event.

“From brand new leaders making their first impact to long-time Scouters whose dedication spans decades, we recognized individuals whose service has made a real difference in the lives of youth across our district,” a release from the council said.

All award recipients were nominated by their peers. Kootaga District Commissioner Christopher Burk made the presentations.

Award recipients included:

¯ Boy Scout Rookie of the Year – Daniella Cochran, Troop 20.

¯ Cub Scout Spirit – Kim Mommessin, Pack 12.

¯ Boy Scout Spirit – Dan Sherman, Troop 20.

¯ Cubmaster of the Year – Paul Mommessin, Pack 12.

¯ Scoutmaster of the Year – Jon Neff, Troop 91.

¯ Tex Adams Scouting Skills – John Baker, District Committee.

¯ Shorty Matheny Granite – Kirk Venderlic, Troop 20.

¯ Davis Anderson Award – John Shepard, Troop 20, and Don Wise, District Committee.

Greg Cappadona from Troop 86 received the District Award of Merit, which is presented to volunteer and professional adults for service to youth and is the highest award the district can bestow on a volunteer.

Three members of the district’s 2025 Eagle Scout Class attended: Zach Phillips, Isaac Pennock and Riley Curfman.

The Kootaga District serves Scouts and volunteers in Wood, Jackson, Wirt, Roane, Ritchie, and Calhoun counties in West Virginia and the communities of Belpre, Little Hocking, and Coolville in Ohio.