Scoutmaster Minute: While summer technically runs thru September 23, this is the last week of summer before school begins (sorry). When school ends the summer appears timeless with endless days to pass. Now each day becomes a scramble to maximize the long days of sunshine or one more splash in the pool. Ideally we take each moment for its own and embrace all the sights and sounds it can offer. This past weekend offered us one of those moments. I think the the Horsemanship campout did just that for the Scouts and leaders able to attend. We were very grateful that the weather cooperated yet again. Our Scouts earned the Horsemanship merit badge with plenty of hard work, sweat and the courage to try something new. They needed to have confidence in themselves and their ability to communicate with a horse to accomplish several tasks. Not once did I hear anyone say “I can’t”, and they all proved to themselves that they can. Hopeful, that same “can do” attitude serves them well in the upcoming school year. Enjoy this last week of summer.
1. This Week Aug 21 – Positions of Responsibility (ALL)
     Uniform – Class A
A. 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 14 August Troop meeting. 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 1 October 2018 to 31 March 2019. You must be present to be elected.

B. Patrol Leader: 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. New scout patrols will elect their first patrol leaders. To be elected patrol leader you must be present at the Troop election meeting!

C. 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. Actively supporting the Troop through a leadership position is required to complete the ranks of Star, Life and Eagle. If a Scout is unable to attend, please advise Mr. Morley of your interest by email.

All scouts elected or appointed to a position of responsibility for the Fall term are required to attend the Junior Leadership Training (JLT) on September 30 at the CUMC Activity Field.
2.  Next Week Aug 28 – Iron Chef (Phoenix) @ Activity Field
     Uniform – Class B
Specification for this Iron Chef activity are still in development, but Scout should be prepared to be flexible and adaptive to what ever direction is provided by the Phoenix Patrol in the coming week.
3. Following Week Sept 4 – Back to School Picnic (ALL) @ Activity Field
     Uniform – Class A
The back to school picnic is coming up quick on September 4th. 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.
The Troop will provide the hamburgers and hot dogs, but we will be requesting volunteers to help during the event with a signup sheet in separate email.
Each family needs to bring soda/chips, side dish, or dessert assigned by last name
    1. A-L Soda or other drink & bag of chips
    2. M-R Side Dish
    3. S-Z Dessert
4.  Troop Fundraiser
Each Scout family will be receiving a packet of information providing guidance for our Troop Fundraising activity.
Our Scouts will be selling popcorn to support various Troop activities and resources, such as maintenance of the troop trailer, awards and camping fees.
5.  Key Dates
Aug 21: Scout Leadership Elections
Sept 4: Troop Back to School Picnic @ Activity Field
Sept 14-16: Climbing/Hiking Campout @ Marsden Tract (New Date)
Sept 30: Junior Leadership Training (JLT)
Oct 2: Fall Court of Honor
Oct 19-21: Sully District Camporee
Nov 16-18: Mission Impossible Campout @ IWL
IT’S ALL FOR THE SCOUTS!