Scoutmaster Minute: There nothing better than having a Scout describe, in their own words, what they are getting out the program. The following contribution is from Life Scout Lane Meyer:
Merit Badge University gives you as a Boy Scout many opportunities to complete new and old merit badges. It is also a good way to have a lot of fun and hang out with your peers. These merit badges teach you life skills, that you could use in the future. You also complete and create many fun projects. For example the engineering merit badge created catapults out of spoons and rubber bands. If you have already completed the Eagle required merit badges, you can participate in others including merit badges like crime prevention and engineering. Merit badge university gives you many fun and educational experiences to complete merit badges and to hang out with your peers.

1. This Week Feb 19 – PLC Meeting
Uniform: Class A
All Scouts holding a Position of Responsibility should plan to attend this meeting.
### Prior to the PLC, each Scout is encouraged to provide meeting ideas to their Patrol Leader. One resource to consider is http://www.programresources.org/activities/
As the weather breaks and we gain daylight, that presents options for more use of the activity field and other outdoor events.
This also means ideas for campouts, hikes or other activities that you would like to experience…climbing, caving, whitewater rafting…its your program. Set a goal and lets go after it together.
Hiking MB  – Scouts are encouraged to review hike options in the 5mi, 10mi, and 15mi range for a outing in early March. Source like www.HikingUpward.org/maps. Your choices should be shared with the SPL, me, and ASM Staton.
2. Next Week Feb 26 – Leadership and OA Elections
Uniform: Class A
 
All Scouts seeking to hold a Position of Responsibility during the spring term (April-Oct) should plan to attend this meeting. Holding a position of responsibility is especially necessary for rank advancement — Star, Life & Eagle.
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 February 19 PLC 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  April 2019 to October 2019. You must be present to be elected.
 
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. 
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. 
All scouts elected or appointed to a position of responsibility for the Spring term are required to attend the Junior Leadership Training (JLT) on March 31 at the CUMC Activity Field.
 
Order of the Arrow: Election of Ordeal Candidates will also be conducted. Eligibility requires a Scout to hold the rank of First Class, a 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.
The following Scouts are known to be eligible, including those that were previously elected (#) but unable to complete ordeal. 
These Scouts should indicate their desire to be considered to Mr. Morley or Mr. Powers ASAP, including any Scout that believes they are eligible.

Scouts Rank Eligible Nights
A, Peter Life 28
A-G, Joshua Life 16
B, Joseph First 29
B, Ryan Star 21
C, Luke First 25
C, Brady Star 25
D, Artur Life 32
#F, David Star 33
F, Andy Star 23
F-B , Ben Star 19
H, Owen First 21
#J, Henry Life 28
#J, Nick Life 28
J, Kylen Star 22
L, Colby Star 21
#L, Jonathan Life 36
M, Ryan Life 24
M, Tyler First 33
#P, Darius Life 26
P, John Stephen First 15
P, Owen Life 21
S, Charlie Life 20
S, Dominic First 27
S, Anders Star 26
W, Austin Life 23
 
3. Next Next Week Mar 5 – Fire 101 (Titans) @ Activity Field
Uniform: Class A
This meeting is being design to ensure that all Scouts have a firm grasp on one key elements of the 10 Essentials – Matches and/or a firestarter. Specifically the starter part that is critical to getting the fire part to work. More details to follow.
This will also be a pre-Shakedown for the Elizabeth Furnace campout on March 22-24.
 
4.  Key Dates
Feb 10, 17, 24: Merit Badge University
Feb 19: PLC Meeting
Feb 26: Troop Leadership & OA Elections/Positions of Responsibility
Mar 22-24: Elizabeth Furnace Campout
Mar 31: Junior Leadership Training
Apr 2: Court of Honor
Apr 6: Spring Cleanup @CUMC (Service Hrs)
Apr 26-28: New Scout Campout
May 24-26: Annual Canoe Trip
Jun 23-29: Summer Camp @ Goshen’s Camp Olmstead