Scoutmaster Minute: The Klondike Derby was good fun this weekend. The Troop 893 station required Patrols to build a self-supporting bridge that could support the weight of at least one Scout. Our Scouts competed in first sled race run on snow in this District in many, many years….only a few got run over by reindeer. A good fire always warms the spirts on any campout, but especially when it is cold and wet. The weather held for most of the day, but all were pretty soggy by nightfall. Given the rain and wet conditions, I suspect that many have new a appreciation for the Scout motto – Be Prepared. Spirits were lifted with a very creative rendition of “If were a Boy Scout…” directed by Henry Jobe during the evening awards ceremony. All seemed to be well feed and we even celebrated a birthday.

Rank Advancement

  • Life – Owen Pschigoda  (1/19/19)

1. This Week Jan 22 – Lashing Out and Up (Pandas)

Uniform: Class A
Panda Patrol will have Scouts apply pioneering skills to create a fun camp “gadget” and this is also opportunity to tackle 1st class requirements (3a-d) all of which may be useful during the March campout.
Arrow of Light Scouts may be visiting so please be ready to welcome them and include them in this fun activity.
 
2. Next Week Jan 29 – Lashing Out and Up (LandSharks)
Uniform: Class A
Meeting plan under review with SPL.
3. Next Next Week Feb 5- Lashing Out and Up (Titans)
Uniform: Class A
Meeting details under review with SPL.
 
4. Next Next Next Week Feb12 – Cyber Awareness (ALL)
Uniform: Class A
The use of cell phone technology amongst youth is at an all time high. This meeting is designed to address important Youth Protection requirements associated with Cyber Chip and is designed to help our Scouts protect themselves while using these devices. This also is complements the electronic policy each Scout signed during our rechartering and is opportunity to reinforce those expectations.
5. Merit Badge University
Registration for MBU 2019 is open now, and slots are filled first-come, first-served basis. Don’t delay to make sure you get what you want and need!
MBU is the best opportunity outside of Summer Camp for Scouts to complete requirements necessary for advancement. Take advantage of this opportunity!
Instructors will contact registered students next weekend to assign pre-requisites as needed, but there is no need to wait. Every Scout should review the requirements for the merit badges they select and become familiar with the work ahead. It can’t hurt to work on any writing assignments, research or compilation needed for the badge.  Everything you need to know *should* be on the SignUpGenius link above. Please direct questions about registration and logistics to Matt Connor <matt.conner@gmail.com>; questions about requirements or content should be directed to the listed instructor.
6.  Key Dates
Feb 10, 17, 24: Merit Badge University
Feb 19: PLC Meeting
Mar 5: Troop Leadership Elections/Positions of Responsibility
Mar 22-24: Elizabeth Furnace Campout
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