Scoutmaster Minute: A Scout is Reverent, but what does he pray for? Many will say they pray to be kept safe from bad things happening to them. They pray for an easier time of it, for health, and safety. These are all fine, but unfortunate things will happen to everyone.
Being able to handle those unfortunate things and the challenges that life brings is important.
  • Without challenges, you don’t find your limits.
  • Without challenges, you don’t expand your abilities.
  • Without challenges, you don’t grow.
The next time you pray, you might pray for strength and guidance to overcome the challenges rather than to have no challenges at all.

1. This Week Dec 4 – Skit Contest (Eagles)

Uniform: Class A
Each Patrol should per prepared with 2-3 skits/cheers/songs for a little competitive theatrics at this meeting. This will likely serve as an excellent showcase of options the Troop may like to share during the next Klondike Derby, New Scout Campout or perhaps Summer Camp. This could also be great planning opportunity for Scouts working towards the Communication MB. Scouts are reminded again to use their resources and be prepared!

2. This Weekend Dec 8-9 – Lock-In & Troop Gear Inventory (All)

Uniform: Class B (unless seeking Scoutmaster Conference or Board of Review)
Part 1: Troop Gear Inventory (4pm @ Troop Trailer)
Troop Quartermaster will lead an inspection and inventory of Troop gear including with special attention being given to tents and chuckboxes. The Troop closet was recently cleaned and organized but will benefit from additional attention.
Quartermasters should arrive by 4pm to being this activity and take advantage of the daylight.
Part 2: Troop Lock-In @ CUMC ROC (6pm @ ROC))
ALL ATTENDING SCOUTS MUST BRING A SIGNED PERMISSION SLIP ON 12/8 (see attached)
Scouts will have the opportunity to play all types of games and can take some time to work on a few rank advancement or merit badge requirements. This overnighter will be held Saturday, December 8 at in the CUMC ROC (gymnasium). Scouts can plan to arrive at 6pm and parents should be prepared to pick Scouts up Sunday morning by 8am.
SPL, ASPLs and Patrol Leaders will organize final activity plan during the coming weeks.
Part 3: Philmont Prep Outing (8am @ VDOT lot)
The Philmont Crew will be headed to Shenandoah National Park to tackle the Double Bear Rocks hike to test their backpacking skills and gear. This is a moderate 8.5 mile hike with a nice campsite at the top. They will split the days, with about 5 miles on Saturday and 3 miles on Sunday on the way back down. All crew members should be attending this activity. Scouts (non-crew members) with interest in attending should see Mr. Morley and Mr. Conner at the meeting this week.
3. Next Week Dec 11 – Fire & Boil (Titans) @ Activity Field
  Uniform: Class B
The Titans are planning an event at the activity field to test Scouts fire building skills with some interesting challenges to see who can harness to power of fire to their benefit.

4. Volunteers needed for Christmas Food Basket Packing and Delivery, Dec 15 @ CUMC

Uniform: Class A
Scouts this is excellent opportunity for service hours. Volunteers will be needed for packing and delivery of Christmas Baskets on Saturday, December 15, beginning at 8:00 AM.
Contact Chris Granberg at chris.granberg@gmail.com.
5. Next Next Week Dec 18 – Klondike Prep Night (ALL)
Uniform: Class B
 
This is a Patrol night that will be used to inspect Klondike sleds and make necessary adjustments.PLs should plan accordingly and communicate often and early with details.
Here is the last known location of each sled:
    • Eagles – Barnett’s
    • Pandas – Conner’s
    • Phoenix – Lee’s
    • Titans – Troop Shed @ Activity Field
    • LandSharks – Taylor’s

6. CUMC Advent and Christmas Planning Guide

Troop 893’s Chartering organization has a number of Advent and Christmas activities planned for the next several weeks. 

7.  Key Dates
Dec 8-9: Lock-In @ CUMC
Dec 8-9: High Adventure Outing (Double Bear Rocks)
Jan 18-20: Klondike Derby @ Camp Snyder
Feb 2, 17, 24: Merit Badge University
Mar 5: Leadership Elections
Mar 22-24: Outing TBD
Mar 31: Junior Leadership Training
Apr 2: Court of Honor
Apr 26-28: New Scout Campout
Jun 23-29: Summer Camp @ Goshen’s Camp Olmstead