Scoutmaster Minute:   This weekend was a great break from the heat and perfect for some climbing as you will see below. As things tend to slow down just a little over the summer, I thought this would be good time for a quick review on where various patch’s should be placed on the uniform (see page 22 & 23 of the Scout Handbook). In addition, just a reminder that only one position of responsibility should appear on a uniform at any given time.
1. This Week July 10 – Phoenix Patrol
     Uniform – Class A
The Phoenix patrol is planning a version of the game Battleship that will involved some scouting skills associate with communication and perhaps signals to keep things interesting. It is suggested that Scouts come prepared with pen and paper. It should be noted that Morse Code has been in and out of the Scouting handbook and rank requirements since 1937. In 2015, Morse returned yet again as part of the Signs, Signals, and Codes merit badge: “Send or receive a message of six to ten words using Morse code.” [No speed requirement.]
2. Climbing @ Great Falls
The Venturing Crew hosted a climbing event at Great Falls on Saturday, July 7th. The Crew did an excellent job preparing climbers with key knots and knowledge needed for a successful repel and climb in Mathers Gorge in Great Falls. Major kudos to Adam & Ashley Weisz for the support they provided to the climbers during this day long activity. This was great fun for those that participated, and I highly recommend you take advantage of the opportunity when its offered again.
3. Next Week July 17 – Land Sharks @ Activity Field
     Uniform – Class A
The meeting plan is under development, but general theme will be associated with Engineering.
4. Next Next Week July 24 – PLC Meeting
     Uniform – Class A
Patrol Leaders should arrive with one or more meeting plan/activity prepared. We also need to keep in mind opportunities to apply the EDGE method while working with the Nova Corp, so ASM New Scouts and Troop Guides should be prepared to support/offer activities.

The link below can help with meeting ideas that provide a combination of scout skills and fun. The attached meeting plan template will be used by ASPL Programs, PLs and SPL for all meetings. If you can bring one or more these completed to the July 24 meeting it will improve the flow and perhaps allow us to look ahead a little further to some other events. http://www.programresources.org/activities/

We will also be reviewing communications and progress with position goals and responsibilities.

5. Family Canoe Trip July 27-29  

We have reschedule and all info remain the same, just a new date. Reminder that all meals etc are planned by each attending family, no Troop gear or trailer will be taken to the event. Key forms and background info are attached…the only change is the date. For those already registered, no action needed. If changes are necessary, please be patient as we finalize the process for making modifications.
If you need to register please go https://troop893.com/summer-camp/45th-annual-family-canoe-trip/

All changes or additions and supporting paperwork must be completed by July 17.
6. Opportunity for Service Hours with Grace Ministries
Grace Ministries is coming up July 13 and 14, and we are once again asking for your assistance. The attachment has information on the weekend schedule. Please review if you are new to Grace Ministries. Let me know by return email which day(s)/time(s) you are available to help so we can keep our schedule up to date; please reply only if you are available. As usual your donations of good quality, in season clothing, household linens, diapers, children’s books and small toys, are welcome and may be dropped off beginning Sunday July 8 and all through the following week during regular church hours. Please separate donations by category and label accordingly.

“Lord, today, bless those who have served and continue to give their lives for my freedom. With favor and bounty meet their needs and watch over their families.”

Thank you,
Karen Dolan
Volunteer Coordinator
703-626-1740

7. Troop History Support
Jacob Major is the current Troop Historian. He is always seeking pictures that can be added to the troop website and history log that documents all of our great activities, including Eagle projects, service projects, campouts, hikes etc. Please send pictures and a couple sentences about the activity to historian.troop893@troopmaster.email.
 
This could include some of 1200+ photos that Mr. Powers took during summer camp. They’re uploaded at full size (and some videos as well) so feel free to grab some or all of the pictures. No need to copy them to your own Dropbox account – you can just download them right to your own computer. Enjoy!  <https://www.dropbox.com/sh/l9l3wmjt72ie8iq/AABJ9G1AtBfmgyvqsGx_mP8ha?dl=0>
8.  Key Dates
July 27-29 – Annual Canoe Trip (NEW DATE)
Aug 17-19 – Horsemanship Campout
Sept 21-23 – Outing (TBD)
Oct 2 – Fall Court of Honor
Oct 19-21 – Sully District Camporee
IT’S ALL FOR THE SCOUTS!