Scoutmaster Minute: We have a big week ahead of us as we approach the first Klondike Derby since 2019. You should all be prepared, think ahead, and ensure that every scout attending as a daypack with the 10 essnetials. Looking like there will be some great stations and plenty of opportunity for fun. The first rule to make that happen is teamwork…each patrol needs to pull in the same direction. Scouts should aslo take some time today and tomorrow to register for the upcoming Merit Badge University.
Anyone who imagines they can work alone winds up surrounded by nothing but rivals, without companions. 
The fact is, no one ascends alone.
― Lance Armstrong
 
ANNOUNCEMENT
  • PLEASE make sure you sign up for Klondike Derby here.We need to register and pay for all those attending, this also helps us determine how many patrols we can field for the competition.
  • ### We need volunteers that can transport two Klondike Sleds to/from Camp Synder, which does not require camping.
MEETINGS
  • All indoor meetings at the CUMC Fellowship Hall require Scouts to wear a mask, no exceptions.
  • Remember that the Patrol assigned to run a meeting also has clean up duty….meaning your Patrol should be the last to leave with approval of SPL and Scoutmaster.
  • Scouts seeking rank advancement should check with the Advancement Chair prior to requesting Scoutmaster Conference and be in Class A uniform.
1. This Week Jan 25: Klondike Shakedown in CUMC Fellowship Hall (mask required)
Uniform Class B
 
Patrols will finalize plans for Klondike, including patrol gear check by Quartermasters. All Scouts should provide $15 to the grubmaster, there are no individual meals.
This meeting will include discussion of cold weather camping. It is critical that Scouts & Parents be reminded that cotton is terrible since it does not wick moisture that will build up during the day’s activities. Changing cloths, socks is the best option for staying warm and comfortable. Layering is key to regulating temperature.
 
Key Planning Items
  • Each Patrol will be entering the Chili Cook-off so make it tasty for you and the judges.
  • Each Patrol will make plans to cook on the trail. The meal will be judged based on: type of food prepared (difficulty of preparation), Patrol effort, variety of food consumed (hot food is strongly encouraged), and cleanliness/clean-up.
  • Each Patrol will review the sled equipment list and make plans to have all items.
  • The Patrol action pack will go home with the grubmaster…make it come back on Friday or it will be a really long weekend.
Winter Weather Conditions necessitate proper gear. Any Scout arriving at the Friday assembly unprepared, no coat, hat, gloves, sneakers will be asked to show them or will not be able to depart. Repeat no sneakers.
We will apply the C – O – L – D method to assure staying warm (see below). Each Scout should bring at least 3 changes of socks…we will be stopping to have them change them throughout the day.

Clean – Since insulation is only effective when heat is trapped by dead air spaces, keep your insulating layers clean and fluffy. Dirt, grime, and perspiration can mat down those air spaces and reduce the warmth of a garment.

 

Overheating – Avoid overheating by adjusting the layers of your clothing to meet the outside temperature and the exertions of your activities. Excessive sweating can dampen your garments and cause chilling later on.

 

Loose Layers  – A steady flow of warm blood is essential to keep all parts of your body heated. Wear several loosely fitting layers of clothing and footgear that will allow maximum insulation without impeding your circulation.

 

Dry  – Damp clothing and skin can cause your body to cool quickly, possibly leading to frostbite and hypothermia.  Keep dry by avoiding cotton clothes that will absorb and hold moisture. Always brush away snow that is on your clothes before you enter a heated area. Keep the clothing around your neck loosened so that body heat and moisture can escape instead of soaking several layers of clothing.

2. Merit Badge University Registration
Uniform Class A (with B under)
 
Registration is OPEN but will CLOSE on Tuesday, Feb 1st, so be sure to sign up before then. SignUpGenius link
 

3. OUTING Jan 28-30: Klondike Derby (All)

Uniform Class A (with B under)
 
Arrive at CUMC to load the trailer by 6pm. Eat dinner prior or bring it with you.
All medications must be handed to the Scoutmaster, no exceptions.
All Scouts must turn in a hard copy of the permission slip (attached) to SPL at this gathering (this will be attached to next Troop News).
 

4. Looking Ahead

  • 1st – Mini Mission Impossible – Pandas
  • 8th – Treasure Hunt Meeting – Land Sharks
  • 15th – Team Building – Titans
  • 22nd – Church Map – Phoenix
 
KEY DATES
JAN 28-30: Klondike Derby @Camp Snyder 
FEB 6 & 27: Merit Badge University
MAR 1: Leadership Elections
MAR 18-20: Campout @Sky Meadows
MAR 29: Spring Court of Honor
MAY 6-8: New Scout Campout @Poplar Grove (Thurmont, MD)

IT’S ALL FOR THE SCOUTS!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~