Explorer Post 227 closed in 2006, we would like to express our sincerest appreciation to those who volunteered their personal time, finances, and knowledge.
	Explorer Post 227 was an Advanced Computer Programming Post in Tampa, Florida. For over 20 years, Post 227 has been proud to been sponsored by Verizon Data Services (formerly known as GTE Data Services, Verizon was created with GTE's merger with Bell Atlantic on 30 June 2000). The members of Explorer Post 227 were given the unique opportunity to work with seasoned Information Technology Professionals in a large number of different subject areas covering hardware, software, and networking topics from a enterprise viewpoint. While the Post conducted formal classes, the structure was more of a hands-on learning environment than it was of a teaching environment. Post members were expected to set their own goals, and the advisory staff would assist members in reaching that goal. The majority of the knowledge sharing was hands on using the equipment and networking facilities available to the post members in the Meeting Room / Laboratory that was constructed for the exclusive use of the Post. Examples of Knowledge Sharing: The Post's web servers (3), application and database servers (4) and workstations (15+ general purpose, 3 special purpose) were constructed and maintained by members of the Hardware Team, after which the Software Team loaded and configured the operating systems (various flavors of Windows and Linux) along with the necessary applications and support systems - including VMware. Individuals interested in web and internet issues were then given a chance to practice their learned skills in creating web content and providing systems administration. Individuals interested in general programming or Database design had the ability to work with a large number of different computer languages (Compilied and Interpreted) and were then given a chance to practice their design and coding skills in support of our various Service Projects. Members interested in photography and video systems had the opportunity to work with the Post's Video Editing and Graphics systems, allowing members to gain additional knowledge in animation and multimedia topics. As part of our public service projects, the members of Explorer Post 227 agreed to provide web hosting, programming, and communication services for other local Explorer Posts and select organizations such as the Gulf Ridge Council (Boy Scouts of America) as part of our "real world" training programs. Services provided include design, coding, and maintenance services. Furthermore, members participating in any of our Public Service activities gain credit for productive hours worked, allowing the members to learn useful employment skills (and experience) while receiving Public Service volunteering "credits" toward meeting their Florida graduation requirements. Our largest (and longest running service project) was providing programming and on-site support for the Gulf Ridge Council's Annual University of Scouting training program. This involving the pre-registration and on-site last minute registration of over 600 Scout leaders for a one-day series of classes. The Scout Leaders were able to select eight or nine courses from a selection of 100 to 120 possible classes. We did not select the courses, or the Instructors, nor design any of the course material - but we were involved in almost all other aspects of running this one-day College of Learning. (Including reacting to last minute changes!) The University of South Florida provided the physical facilities (two multi-floor classroom buildings, and several auditoriums - essentially all of the facilities of the entire Business College) and Explorer Post 227 members provided the programming and on-site computer systems/networking necessary to schedule the classrooms and participants. We provided Instructor Identification Badges, and packets of information for each Instructor - including an attendance system. Our graphics members created the ID badges and signage for all of the classrooms, along with directional signage between the buildings. We designed and staffed a registration facility that allowed the participating Scout Leaders to pickup their customized schedules for the day in the early morning hours, and later in the afternoon that same day, to be able to pickup their diplomas and other awards. This same facility also provided support for last-minute registrations and schedule changes. We were a major player in this event for over 10 years - having been first involved about 3 years after the program was initially started and continuing until the Gulf Ridge Council cancelled the University of Scouting program.