Scoutmaster Minute: Sobering times for sure, but that does not make us helpless. If we are Obedient and abide by the actions public health officials recommend for social distancing we can mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on our communities and save lives. That means we must not act in our own self interest but collectively for the benefit of our families, friends and neighbors.

There will be no Troop meetings thru March 27, at which time leadership will adjust per the plans I outlined yesterday. We are evaluating options for holding some virtual meetings to support merit badges and other activities.
We are holding just such a meeting for the New Scout parents on Tuesday, so that will be good test case. Stay tuned.

If we take collective action and self-regulate thru social distancing (min 6ft), avoid large gatherings and practice good hygiene by washing hands frequently and wiping down surfaces, we will slow the transmission of COVID-19 in our community.
That also means we must gather our wits and stop the irrational hoarding of toilet paper and other commodities. Relax, settle in, hug your loved ones, play some board games, go fishing, or take a hike and enjoy nature as spring resurrects the woodlots and fields.

Never laugh at live dragons.
― J.R.R. Tolkien

Start by doing what’s necessary;
then do what’s possible;
and suddenly you’re doing the impossible.
― Francis of Assisi

Rank Advancement
Star – Christopher Davids, Jr (3/10/20)
Star – Oliver Barretto (3/10/20)

Things to Do
Scoutmaster Challenge – Scout’s that can demonstrate a mastery of the following will be treated to a generous serving of ice cream once we can meet again. If you need rope, $4 gets you 50ft of paracord at Home Depot or Lowes,,,you pick the color.
Clove Hitch
Taut-line hitch
Bowline (bonus if one handed)
Square lashing
Shear lashing
Diagonal lashing

Merit Badges (check with me and counselor before starting a new one)
Now would also be great time for a Scout to consider the Public Health merit badge since there is real world example unfolding before us. I am happy to support anyone interested in doing so.
Finish your incomplete’s from Summer Camp or MBU. If your need counselor support just let us know.
Start those MB’s that require tracking activities for several weeks: Family Life, Personnel Fitness and Personnel Management