Scoutmaster Minute: I recognize many are still in the process of enjoying summer vacations, but there are a few items that require some attention. We responses to Troop picnic on August 27…really important we have a decent headcount and support for several items that need adult participation.
Scouts also need to review and work with patrol leaders or this meeting meeting…the Titans are running a competition for best homemade backpacking meal on Tuesday. I al need indication of who can support transport of the Troop trailer for the August campout. Thank you.
The rising tide lifts all the boats. 
― John F. Kennedy

1. This Week Aug 6 – Backpacking Iron Chef (Titans) @ Activity Field
Uniform – Class B
Here is opportunity to win new “Golden Spoon” Award for best menu item. The Titans patrol will be running the Backpacking Meal Iron Chef meeting on August 6th at the activity field.!!!!  Each patrol will need to pick out and get the ingredients for their meals that they will be making!!!!  Patrols will be cooking over a backpacking stove and if you have one, please bring it.  Here are some suggestions for meals (can be a Dinner or a Lunch); instant rice, tuna, chicken, tortilla, mac and cheese, and sauces and seasoning. Dehydrated foods such as Mountain house meals, MRE’s and ramen will not be permitted.
ATTN: Patrol leaders should organize their meals and consider what items may be necessary to prepare, cook and clean.  Meals will be judged based on complexity (# of ingredients) and taste.  You can find lots of suggestions online by searching backpack meals or review the attached file.

This meeting will also serve as the Preshakedown meeting for the Aug 16-18 outing at Prince William Forest, so start thinking about patrol menus, grubmaster assignments and tentmates. This meeting is a great time to safely test menu ideas.
2. Eagle Project/Conservation Service Hours Aug 10  @ Activity Field
Uniform – Class B
Spencer Morley is seeking support in assembling and painting several bat “hotels” that will provide habitat and combat mosquitoes. Each bat hotel can support approximately 250 bats and will be installed in locations selected in coordination with his homeowners association.
Battery operated drill/screw gun helpful. Drinks and pizza will be provided. See attached flyer and RSVP at https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040C4EA9A9292-spencer

3. Next Week Aug 13 – Get Orienteered (Phoenix) @ Activity Field
Uniform – Class B
The Phoenix patrol will be offering guidance on critical survival skills and the basic of Orienteering. Many Scouts have started the merit badge this meeting and the campout will provide opportunity to complete several requirements. https://meritbadge.org/wiki/index.php/Orienteering
This will also serve as the Shakedown meeting for the Aug 16-18 outing at Prince William Forest, so plan to finalize patrol menus, grubmaster assignments and tentmates.
 

4.  Troop Campout Aug 16-18  @ Prince William Forest
Uniform – Class A & B
The SPL and ASPLs are in the process of developing the activities that will take place during this outing, but be assured that this will include some hiking and orienteering. We may get some directed support from one of the area Orienteering Clubs for Saturday as well.
 
## Trailer – Need confirmation from an Adult(s) that can transport the Troop trailer to and/or from the campout ASAP.
5.  Next Next Week Aug 20 – TBD (Eagles) @ Activity Field
Uniform – Class B
 The Eagles are in the process of developing a plan for this meeting, TBD.
6. Troop 893 Back 2 School Picnic  Aug 27 – Everyone @ Activity Field
Uniform – Class A/B
### We need volunteers to setup the activity field, run the bbq pit and grills plus a few other items like plates, cups ice. 
The back to school picnic is coming up on August 27th. This is a time for fellowship with all Troop families! All Troop members are welcome. Please plan to arrive by 6:45 pm at the CUMC activity field pavilion.
Possibility to also demonstrated your gaga ball skills if time permits. That means Class A with Class B underneath if you play to play…again time permitting.
The Troop will provide the hamburgers and hot dogs. Each family should bring soda/chips, side dish, or dessert as assigned by last name below:
A-L     Dessert  
M-R    Soda or other drink & bag of chips
S-Z     Side Dish

7.  Further Out Sept 3 – Leadership Elections (ALL)
Uniform – Class A
Father Time keeps on ticking and its time to prepare the next Leadership team for the Fall 19-20 term. The majority of Scouts are now at a rank level where they must also hold a position of responsibility to demonstrate leadership as a requirement to advance.
In order to get credit for a holding a position the Scout must directly engage and participate consistently.
8.  Key Dates
Aug 16-18: Prince William Forest Campout
Aug 27: Back 2 School Troop Picnic @ CUMC Activity Field
Sept 3: Leadership Elections
Sept 21-22:  Backpacking Paris, VA to Sky Meadows (planning in progress)
Sept 28-29: Junior Leadership Training
Oct 1: Fall Court of Honor