Scoutmaster Minute: The Troop was honored to support 3 crossover ceremonies this week and several more are scheduled for coming weeks. We have 15+ AOL Scouts joining our Nova Corps Patrol (aka New Scout Program). As these new Scouters and families join our ranks our watch words should be HELPFUL, COURTEOUS & KIND.
A tree is know by its fruits; a man by his deeds.
A good deed is never lost; he who sows courtesy reaps friendship,
and he who plants kindness gathers love.
  — St. Basil

1.  Next Meeting – 27 Feb: Backcountry Iron Chef (Pandas)

 Uniform – Class A

The Panda Patrol will be providing instruction on how to properly use a backpacking stove to prepare a meal. Each patrol will be given instructions for a meal to be prepared during the meeting.

Scouts should come to the meeting prepared (HINT- only provide stoves and fuel, not utensils).

2.  Summer Camp Registration

     Uniform – Class A

Registration for Summer Camp has begun and it is essential that Scouts and families review the information sent via email on Feb 22, entitled “Troop 893 – Reserve Your Spot for Summer Camp 2018!” Registration and payment is require to complete Merit Badge selection.

  • Full payment or First half installment, due by Tues, March 6th
  • Second half installment, due Tues, April 17th

3.  Troop Elections: March 6

Senior Patrol Leader Candidates: All scouts interested in running for election as the next Senior Patrol Leader should contact Mr. Morley no later than the 27 February Troop meeting. Candidates must be the rank of Life or higher and be in 9th to 12th grade. Mr. Morley will schedule a time to meet with you, or call, to discuss your goals and ambitions as SPL. The time period for this leadership position is from 1 April 2018 to 1 October 2018.

Scouts: All patrols should prepare for Patrol Leader elections. Scouts interested in running for Patrol Leader for their patrols should discuss their desire with their patrol members. New scout patrols will elect their first patrol leaders. To be elected patrol leader you must be present at the Troop election meeting!

Troop Positions of Responsibility: Scouts interested in serving in other positions of responsibility should review the attached Position Guide for information on the various positions available and associated responsibilities.

Order of the Arrow: Election of Ordeal Candidates will also be conducted. Eligibility requires a Scouts to hold First Class, minimum of 15 days/nights camping. The OA recognizes Scouts and Scouters who best exemplify the Scout Oath and Law in their daily lives. This recognition provides encouragement for others to live these ideals as well. Arrowmen are known for maintaining camping traditions and spirit, promoting year-round and long term resident camping, and providing cheerful service to others.

4.  NCAC Orienteering Meet: March 24, Prince William Forrest

We would like to send representatives to this event in a few weeks. This will be a day trip only activity, no camping. This event is great opportunity to learn and improve orienteering skills which is key element of 1st Class, multiple merit badges, high adventure (+++Philmont Crew+++) and is core Scouting knowledge.

The cost will be $10 per Scout. We will need Adult support for transportation, but note that no Adults are allowed on the orienteering course. Please register your interest with the Troop ASAP so we can plan accordingly, we will then make reservation with NCAC.

5.  Invitation – Pack 893 Renegade Pinewood Derby: March 1

Members of Troop 893 are invited to race in the Renegade Pinewood Derby this Thursday, March 1st. Cub Scout races begin at 7:00 p.m. at the Centre Ridge Elementary School Cafeteria, and Renegade races will follow. The Renegade Class is open to ANYONE (Cub Scout, Boy Scout, Mom, Dad, Sister, Uncle, etc.) who can meet the following rules:

    • Prefer that the car be based on an official BSA Pinewood Derby Kit.
    • The car must fit on the track.
    • The car must not damage the track.
    • The car cannot interfere with other cars during a race.
    • The car must not be dangerous to operate.

If you plan to participate, please register by sending an e-mail to Dave Weisz (david.weisz@verizon.net).

 

6.  Key Dates   

March 6 – Troop Elections
March 16-18 – Elizabeth Furnace Campout
April 3 – Spring Court of Honor
April 27-29 – New Scout Campout
May 25-27 – Annual Canoe Trip
June 24-30 – Summer Camp @ Camp T Brady Saunders
July 27-29 – Horsemanship Campout
Aug 17-19 – Outing (TBD)
Sept 21-23 – Outing (TBD)