Missed meeting... sorry!

Good morning, sorry to have missed everyone at last Thursdays Troop meeting... Ethan's concert went well. They will be getting together and playing next at a benefit concert at the Brass Heart Inn on June 6th, it promises to be a good time.

Sounds like the meeting was a success and that you got a lot accomplished. We will continue the cooking theme for the next meeting.

Reminders:
Make sure you are arriving on time and staying through the whole meeting.
If for some reason you can't make the meeting or are leaving before the closing it is your responsibility to contact your Patrol Leader to find out what you missed.

As we had discussed at the Patrol Leaders Council we are going to have our game time just before the opening of the meeting. The meeting will start promptly at 7pm and will close at 8:15. Game time will be at approximately 10 minutes of 7.

COURT OF HONOR will be at 7pm Thursday May 31st

See you all at Thursdays Troop Meeting,
Mr C.

May is cooking!

Good morning to all, I trust everyone is finally catching up on some sleep after our Camporee.

On our agenda for this month is cooking.
We had planned a pre-Mothers Day, Scout cook out for this weeks meeting, but, it just isn't going to be feasible to pull this off time wise.
Mr. Selmi has generously offered his professional services to talk about menu planning and food preparation with the Scouts over the next few meetings. Mrs. Owen has offered to come in and do a few hands on cooking demonstrations during the meetings.

Hopefully this will all culminate into a Scout planned cookout in the near future.

See you all Thursday,
Mr C

Camporee a 'Sucesss'

Thanks to everyone for joining us for the Camporee. I hope that everyone had as much fun attending as we did hosting the event.

Please fire me off an e-mail so that as we conduct the postmortem of the event I can use your feedback to make future events even better.

I had heard the criticism that there were no directional signs to the event. I understand that it may have been difficult to locate the site that is why I tried to provide the 'turn, by, turn' directions as well as the Google Earth link to this site to all of the Unit Leaders well in advance of the event. I apologize if you had a hard time finding us. In the future I would pursue the additional expense of obtaining a sign permit.

I also heard a little 'grousing' from a few Unit Leaders about having their Scouts participate in the Scouts Own Service. This is something that will take a lot of convincing to try to get me to change this... I think that 'Reverence' has even a larger role to play in the lives of our Scouts. The fact that the role of Chaplain's Aide was not filled by many (any) of the Units attending the Camporee is something that we should all take a look at as Scouters. It may be difficult to say that we, as Unit Leaders, are fulfilling the 'Promise of Scouting' without providing an outlet for our Scouts Duty to God.

The other thing that I might suggest for future events is that we hold our Outdoor Leader trainings at these venues. The Leadership is in attendance, most of the Training Staff for the District is there... something to think about?

I look forward to hearing from everyone.

Enjoy the warm weather. I look forward to seeing everyone Tuesday night.

Yours in Scouting,
Andy

CONGRATS

It is my understanding that the Indian Patrol has successfully had their vacation Patrol meeting. They have completed their flag and planned their menu for the Camporee... GREAT JOB!

REMINDER... we are having a Troop Meeting on Thursday... we'll be outside (YEA!)

Agenda;
Continued Scout Skills
Menu approvals
Camp duty roster

Sign-up for Camporee (DON'T FORGET THOSE HEALTH FORMS!!!) No consent, No health form = no participation.

Camp $$$ needs to come in to Mrs. Owen and Mr. Tinkham... also get those MB sheets back to these folks... 1st come 1st served.
You should all be working on getting Hike-a-thon pledges... remember 75% of the funds raised by you helps you pay your way to camp.

Quick message re; this years Wood Badge Course.

21 participants signed up at the Program Kick Off on Saturday. This leaves only a few slots left. PLEASE let me know that everyone that wants to go from GND has already signed up and sent in their application.
I can't think of any one thing that you can do for yourself that will impact not only you in your personal and professional life, but, the in youth that you serve in Scouting. You owe it to yourself to take this Wood Badge course.

When I think of this in this context it completely blows my mind:
As a single individual you have the opportunity to change the future though the lives of the youth you serve. This is what B-P refers to as 'leading a legacy' and 'leading change'. By providing a positive impact on only one boy think of the ripples you begin in this boy's life. Now think of all of the boys in your Unit... Lot's of ripples. Now consider the impact that your new Wood Badge energy can impart to all of the adults in your Unit. We're no longer talking ripples here... we've started some WAVES!

BE the source of the wave for changing the future.

Yours in Scouting
Andy C

SPRING CAMPOREE

Great Northern District Spring Camporee
May 4th-6th, 2007
Hosted by Troop 150, North Conway, NH

Location
Whittaker Woods and John H. Fuller School in North Conway Village.
Traveling South on Route 16/ 302; pass the Memorial Hospital on your left, cross a set of rail road tracks, Whittaker Woods will be on your left, White Mountain Oil and The Big Apple will be on your right. Take a left at the first set of lights you come to John H Fuller School will be on your left.

Program Highlights
· Hike-a-thon
· Service Project
· Camp Fire Program
· Scouts Own Service
· Nighttime navigation and hike
· MUCH more

Competitions
· Iron Chef
· Fire Building
· Best Troop/ Patrol
· Campsite Inspection
· Scout Decathlon
· Scout Skills
· Survival/ Search and Rescue
· Orienteering
· Knots
· Pioneering
Fees / Registration $8 per person

Contact
• Scoutmaster Andy Chalmers at 447-1393 or achalmers@verizon.net
• All troops are responsible for carrying current medical forms for all Scouts.
• No Troop will be allowed on site without a completed Unit Roster.
• Registration is open to any Troop/Crew within any District.

All units will receive an information packet at Round Table… see you there. -Andy C

Interesting... what does this say about Scouts?

Scouting has benefited the lives of countless individuals.
Scouting accounts for 64 percent of Air Force Academy graduates, 68 percent of West Point graduates, 72 percent of Rhodes Scholars, 85 percent of F.B.I. agents, 26 of the first 29 astronauts.
The pilots of both the Challenger and the Columbia space shuttles were Eagle Scouts.

THIS IS WHY WE USE THE BUDDY SYSTEM...

News 14 Carolina 24 Hour Local News HEADLINES Rescuers search for lost Boy Scout: "Rescuers search for lost Boy Scout
Updated: 3/18/2007 7:13 PM
By: News 14 Carolina Staff & Associated Press


12-year-old Michael Auberry

More than 100 rescuers are looking for a lost Boy Scout in Doughton Park in Wilkes County.
Officials say 12-year-old Michael Auberry from Greensboro has been missing since Saturday afternoon.
Auberry was camping with his Boy Scout troop this weekend when he went missing.


Auberry was last seen at the Daughton Park Trails.
Rescuers have been searching around the clock since Saturday for Michael.
The North Carolina Highway Patrol also sent a helicopter to help with the search.
Doughton Park is near the Blue Ridge Parkway.
'I think we have multiple concerns,” said Incident Commander, David Weldon. “You have cold temperatures, you've
The park is about 5,900 square acres.
got a young boy that's out in the woods that's not familiar with the area, in this mountainous area a lot of things look the same. And the concern is he may be disoriented, and walking around and that's why we're concentrating as hard we can today.'
Michael does have some survival training and officials say he’s wearing the right kind of clothes.
So far, rescue workers say they’ve found some food scraps and part of his mess kit."

Scouts in the news

cbs5.com - Bay City News Wire: "SANTA CLARA CO.: BOY SCOUTS HELP IN MT. HAMILTON POT GROW SITE CLEANUP
03/18/07 11:05 PDT
Volunteer Boy Scouts and Sheriff's Office Youth Cadets are joining law enforcement this morning in an effort to clean up marijuana grow sites that have damaged formerly pristine natural areas near Mt. Hamilton, a Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office spokesman said.
According to Sgt. Ed Wise, several areas on and near the University of California, Santa Cruz property at the Lick Observatory were used for marijuana cultivation last year, causing erosion and leaving garbage and possibly chemical contaminants around nearby creeks.
The youth volunteers, along with deputies from the Sheriff's Office Marijuana Eradication Team and the state Department of Fish and Game, will be cleaning up plastic pipe and tarps used in the operations and trash at the grower campsites.
With a new grow season approaching in the spring, officials hope to deter marijuana cultivators from returning to the area and further damaging the land and waterways, Wise said."

Scouts in the news; Rough, but, happy landing

PARENTS/ COMMITTEE MEETING

We will be having a Parents and Committee Meeting in conjunction with the Troop meeting on Thursday night.
We'll be going over camp details and looking for help on the Committee... see you all there!

Summer camp sign-up

Well guys it is that time of year again.
Time to sign up for camp at Hidden Valley Scout Reservation.

I need a head count of everyone that is planning to attend. Please e-mail me, ASAP, and let me know your intentions.

We will be going the last week of July (the 29th- Aug 4th). I will be there the entire week.
This WILL BE A BLAST. We will do a camp presentation for parents and new Scouts during our Troop meeting on the 22nd.

Unfortunately, I will be unable to attend this Thursday's Troop Meeting; I have a Scout meeting (for next fall's Wood Badge course) in Manchester that I am expected to be at... have no fear there will still be a Troop meeting.. our SPL will handle things just fine (I expect best behavior and help from everyone).

Camp costs this year are $285... if we send a $50 deposit per Scout by the 15th (this is why it is imperative that I know who is planning on going right away). If you do not have money in your Scout account, the Troop can handle the deposit fee, as this is short notice for many. We just need to know now if you will be joining us.

We will need to make payment in full by 5/15 to take advantage of the best rate ($285). There are ways for Scouts to earn money for camp: Participation in one of the Troops fundraisers or raising pledges for participation in the Hike-a-thon (on 5/5). If a family has participated in these events, has an active Scout in our Troop, and still has difficulty coming up with the full amount for camp please speak with me prior to April 1... we want to see everyone at camp.

In the near future I will be forwarding camp gear lists and a list of activities to choose from... I know July seems like a long way off right now, but, we'll be sleeping in those green canvas tents before you know it.

All the best,
Mr. C

HOUSE KEEPING

A few items that need to be taken care of;

All ornaments need to be returned to Mr. Gamache by Thursday's Troop meeting. If he does not have the ornaments in-hand by the end of the meeting you will be charged for them ($15/ ornament).

We are missing 3 new Troop tents... they need to be returned on Thursday's meeting. Upon return they will be inspected and then signed back in by the Quartermaster... DO NOT JUST PUT THEM IN THE SHED.

Registration fees ($22) need to be paid. Again, if money is to come out of your Scout account (for any reason) you must write a 'check' so that Mr. Gamache knows to take the money out of your account. If you haven't paid your registration or event fees you will not be able to attend any further outings, nor will you be able to advance. Please... no one has the time or energy to expend chasing you guys for money. Remember a Scout pays his own way.

New Scouts need to get their applications back to me. You are not covered by BSA insurance if I do not have a completed application in hand. This also applies to all Scouts Crossing over from a Pack. A note to the guys Crossing over from Bartlett; the $1 transfer fee does not apply to you. As Rechartering did not take place on time for that Pack so we are required to completely re-register the boys from that Unit.

I still need health/ permission to treat forms for most of you guys... we need those on file if you are to be at any Scout function/ Troop meetings without your parents direct supervision/ participation. If an accident were to happen we need that form on hand so that we can get you proper medical attention in a timely manner. A link to the Class 1 medical form can be found on the blog.

Hope you are all outside and enjoying SPRING!

Yours in Scouting,
Andy

-URGENT HOCKEY UPDATE-

This is a follow-up email to the calls made earlier this evening. The Civic Center has called with a change of venue.

The new itinerary;
-4:30 pm Meeting @ the Conway Rec Ctr
-Drive to Portland
-Dinning AL Fresco in the scenic parking garage... (bring Bag dinner)
-Enjoy the hockey game
-General Public leaves the Civic Center
-Troop 150 stays to skate and watch a movie
-Lights-out
-Rise and shine early
-Vacate the Civic Ctr.
-Meet for breakfast at Denny's (bring $$$)
10:30- 11 am Return to the Conway Rec Center

WHAT TO BRING
-bag dinner
-money for breakfast
-skates
-toothbrush
-change of clothing
-something to wear to sleep-in
-sleeping bag pad
-sleeping bag or blankets
-great attitude

Scouts do not need to be in uniform

Any questions please call me @ 447-1393 or Mr Dewar @ 383-0885

See you all tomorrow,

Mr. C

Thursday night, 2-29, reminders

Reminder to everyone transporting Scouts (yours and others) to the hockey game.
Our Transportation Coordinator has to have a copy of your vehicle insurance and drivers license, before we can be issued a TOUR PERMIT... I need this info in-hand THURS night.

While on the paperwork train... we need a signed Consent Form to be turned in on Thursdays meeting as well. No signed Consent Form... you may not go (can find the form on our web site... look on the 'links' on the right hand side of the page).

Looking forward to seeing everyone Thursday night. PLC Meeting @ 6PM followed by our Troop Meeting @ 7.

PATROL LEADERS... call your Patrols

THANK YOU

Mr. C

Happy Birthday to the Chief Scout

The name Baden-Powell is known and respected throughout the world as that of a man who, in his 83 years, devoted himself to the service of his country and his fellow men in two separate and complete lives, one as a soldier fighting for his country, and the other as a worker for peace through the brotherhood of the Scout Movement.


Robert Stephenson Smyth Baden-Powell was born at 6 Stanhope Street (now 11 Stanhope Terrace), Paddington, London on February 22, 1857. He was the sixth son and the eighth of ten children of the Reverend Baden-Powell, a Professor at Oxford University. The names Robert Stephenson were those of his Godfather, the son of George Stephenson, the railway pioneer.
His father died when B.-P. was only three years old and the family were left none too well off. B.-P. was given his first lessons by his mother and later attended Rose Hill School, Tunbridge Wells, where he gained a scholarship for admittance to Charterhouse School. Charterhouse School was in London when B.-P. first attended but whilst he was there it moved to Godalming, Surrey, a factor which had great influence in his later life. He was always eager to learn new skills. He played the piano and fiddle. He acted - and acted the clown too at times. He practised bricklaying, and it was whilst a scholar at Charter house that he began to exploit his interest in the arts of Scouting and woodcraft.


Unofficially, in the woods around the school, B.-P. would stalk his Masters as well as catch and cook rabbits, being careful not to let the tell-tale smoke give his position away. His holidays were not wasted either. With his brothers he was always in search of adventure. One holiday they made a yachting expedition around the south coast of England. On another, they traced the Thames to its source by canoe. In all this, Baden-Powell was learning the arts and crafts which were to prove so useful to him professionally. B.-P. was certainly not a 'swot' at school, as his end of term reports revealed. One records: 'Mathematics - has to all intents given up the study', and another:
'French - could do well but has become very lazy, often sleeps in school'. Nevertheless, he gained second place for cavalry in open examination for the Army and was commissioned straight into the 13th Hussars, bypassing the officer training establishments, and subsequently became their Honorary Colonel for 30 years. His Army career was outstanding from the start. With the 13th Hussars he served in India, Afghanistan and South Africa and was mentioned in dispatches for his work in Zululand. There followed three years service in Malta as Assistant Military Secretary and then he went to Ashanti, Africa, to lead the campaign against Prempeh. Success led to his being promoted to command the 5th Dragoon Guards in 1897, at the age of 40. It was to the 5th Dragoon Guards that B.-P. gave his first training in Scouting and awarded soldiers reaching certain standards a badge based on the north point of the compass. Today's Scout Membership badge is very similar.

In 1899 came Mafeking, the most notable episode in his outstanding military career, by which he became a Major-General at the age of only 43. B.-P. became famous and the hero of every boy, although he always minimised his own part and the value of his inspiring leadership. By using boys for responsible jobs during the siege, he learned the good response youth give to a challenge. During the 217 day siege, B.-P.'s book Aids to Scouting was published and reached a far wider readership than the military one for which it was intended. Following Mafeking, B.-P. was given the task of organising the South African Constabulary and it was not until 1903 that he returned to England as Inspector General of Cavalry and found that his book, Aids to Scouting'was being used by youth leaders and teachers all over the country. He spoke at meetings and rallies and whilst at a Boys' Brigade gathering he was asked by its Founder, Sir William Smith, to work out a scheme for giving greater variety in the training of boys in good citizenship.

The Beginnings of the Movement

B.-P. set to work rewriting Aids to Scouting, this time for a younger readership. In 1907 he held an experimental camp on Brownsea Island, Poole, Dorset, to try out his ideas. He brought together 22 boys, some from public schools and some from working class homes, and put them into camp under his leadership. The whole world now knows the results of that camp.
Scouting for Boys'was published in 1908 in six fortnightly parts at 4d a copy. Sales of the book were tremendous. Boys formed themselves into Scout Patrols to try out ideas. What had been intended as a training aid for existing organisations became the handbook of a new and, ultimately worldwide Movement. B.-P.'s great understanding of boys obviously touched something fundamental in the youth of this and other countries.
'Scouting for Boys' has since been translated into many different languages and dialects.
Without fuss, without ceremony and completely spontaneously, boys began to form Scout Troops all over the country. In September 1908, B.-P. had set up an office to deal with the large number of enquiries which were pouring in concerning the Movement.
There is no need to describe the way in which Scouting spread throughout the British Commonwealth and to other countries until it was established in practically all parts of the free world. Even those countries where Scouting as we know it is not allowed to exist readily, admit that they used its methods for their own youth training.

As Inspector-General of Cavalry, B.-P. considered that he had reached the pinnacle of his career. The baton of Field Marshal was within his grasp but he retired from the Army in 1910 at the age of 53, on the advice of His Majesty King Edward VII, who suggested that he would do more valuable service for his country within the Boy Scout Movement (now Scout Movement) than anyone could hope to do as a soldier!
So all his enthusiasm and energy was now directed to the development of Scouting and its sister Movement, Guiding. He travelled to all parts of the world, wherever he was most needed, to encourage their growth and give them the inspiration that he alone could give.
In 1912, he married Olave Soames who was his constant help and companion in all this work and by whom he had three children (Peter, Heather and Betty). Olave, Lady Baden-Powell, until she died in 1977, was known throughout the world as World Chief Guide.

Chief Scout of the World

The first international Scout Jamboree took place at Olympia, London in 1920. At its closing scene, B.-P. was unanimously acclaimed as Chief Scout of the World. Successive international gatherings, whether of Scouts or Rovers (now called Venture Scouts) or of Scouters, proved that this was not an honorary title, but that he was truly regarded by them all as their Chief. The shouts that heralded his arrival, and the silence that fell when he raised his hand, proved beyond any doubt that he had captured the hearts and imaginations of his followers in whatever country they owed allegiance.
At the 3rd World Jamboree, held in Arrowe Park, Birkenhead, to celebrate the 21st Anniversary of the publication of Scouting for Boys, the Prince of Wales announced that B.-P. had been created a Peer. He took the title of Lord Baden-Powell of Gilwell - Gilwell Park being the International Training Centre for Scout Leaders.
Scouting was not B.-P.'s only interest, for excelled at pig-sticking and fishing, and favoured polo and big game hunting. He was also a very good black & white and watercolour artist and took an interest in cinephotography and sculpture. In 1907, he exhibited a bust of John Smith, the colonial pioneer, at the Royal Academy.

B.-P. wrote no less than 32 books, the earning from which helped to pay for his Scouting travels. As with all his successors, he received no salary as Chief Scout. He received honorary degrees from Edinburgh, Toronto, Montreal, Oxford, Liverpool and Cambridge Universities. He also received Freedoms of the cities of London, Guildford,
Newcastle-on-Tyne, Bangor, Cardiff, Hawick, Kingston-on- Thames, Poole, Blandford, Canterbury and Pontefract, and of other cities in various parts of the world. In addition, 28 Foreign Orders and decorations and 19 Foreign Scout Awards were bestowed upon him. Every minute of B.-P.'s life was 'sixty seconds worth of distance run'. Each new adventure was the subject for a book. Every happy incident or thought, every fine landscape might be the subject for a sketch.

In 1938, suffering from ill-health, B.-P. returned to Africa, which had meant so much in his life, to live in semi-retirement in Nyeri, Kenya. Even here he found it difficult to curb his energies - he still produced many books and sketches.

On January 8, 1941, Baden-Powell died. He was 83 years of age. He is buried in a simple grave at Nyeri within sight of Mount Kenya. On his headstone are the words, 'Robert Baden-Powell, Chief Scout of the World' surmounted by the Boy Scout and Girl Guide Badges. His memory remains for all time in the hearts of millions of men and women, boys and girls.
It is up to those who are, or have been, Scouts or Guides to see that the two Movements he so firmly established continue for all time as living memorials to their Founder.

Baden-Powell's Last Message

Towards the end of his life, although still in comparatively good health, he prepared a farewell message to his Scouts for publication after his death. It read:
"Dear Scouts - if you have ever seen the play 'Peter Pan' you will remember how the pirate chief was always making his dying speech because he was afraid that possible, when the time came for him to die, he might not have time to get it off his chest. It is much the same with me, and so, although I am not at this moment dying, I shall be doing so one of these days and I want to send you a parting word of goodbye.
Remember, it is the last time you will ever hear from me, so think it over. I have had a most happy life and I want each one of you to have a happy life too.
I believe that God put us in this jolly world to be happy and enjoy life. Happiness does not come from being rich, nor merely being successful in your career, nor by self-indulgence. One step towards happiness is to make yourself healthy and strong while you are a boy, so that you can be useful and so you can enjoy life when you are a man.
Nature study will show you how full of beautiful and wonderful things God has made the world for you to enjoy. Be contented with what you have got and make the best of it. Look on the bright side of things instead of the gloomy one.
But the real way to get happiness is by giving out happiness to other people. Try and leave this world a little better than you found it and when your turn comes to die, you can die happy in feeling that at any rate you have not wasted your time but have done your best. 'Be Prepared' i this way, to live happy and to die happy - stick to your Scout Promise always - even after you have ceased to be a boy - and God help you to do it.
Your friend,

With the compliments from: The Public Relations Department at Baden-Powell House, London, England courtesy of Simon Pearce, Author of ScoutNet UK - THE Scouting Web Pages

Reminder about Thursdays (2-15-07) meeting

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY

Thursdays meeting will be at the Pine Tree School... same time, 7pm.
We will be joining both Conway and Madison for their Cross-over ceremony.
Be in full uniform and on your best Scouting behavior.

Thursday's meeting is the LAST time to sign-up and pay for the March 3rd hockey game. If you are not on the sign-up sheet by the end of the meeting you will NOT be going. If you haven't yet signed up and know you can't make Thursdays meeting please make sure you contact Mr. Dewar. All Scouts must have paid their $10 to Mr. Dewar by Thursday night.

There will be no meeting during school vacation week... keep your eye on the web site... with the new snow we may have some impromptu snowshoeing outings.

I look forward to seeing you all tomorrow night.
Mr. C

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BSA

William Boyce. The Boy Scouts of America (which also uses the name Scouting/USA) was founded by Chicago publisher William Boyce on February 8, 1910. At that time in the US, there were several other loosely-structured outdoor-oriented youth organizations, some using the name "Boy Scout" and some using other names, and there were already a number of troops in existence using some variation of the British Scout program. Boyce's key contribution was to organize the BSA as a business. He incorporated the organization (in Washington, DC, rather than Chicago), recruited key youth professionals to design and operate the program, and he provided key funding for the infant organization.

FAMILY LIFE

For the guys working on their Family Life Merit Badge please show up at 6:30pm on Thursday prior to the Troop Meeting. Bring ALL of your paperwork and 'chore charts' for review.

Is this you?

Please check out the OA link. If you are an eligible Scout and are ready to dedicate yourself to furthering the camping traditions of Scouting and pledging yourself to a lifetime of cheerful service then please contact me now.


OA elections are going to be held durring this Thursdays Troop meeting. We need everyone to show up and show support for those nominees to the OA. We need 50% minimum youth attendance for there to be an election. Please do not let your Troop down by not showing up for the meeting.

Troop 150 Looses a special friend

Next time you see Mr. Dewar please give him your condolences.
His beloved dog 'Peachy' has passed away. Peach will be missed by all of his two-legged buddies in the Troop. Certainly, the pre-washing of dishes during camp-outs is going to be a much more onerous task without our pal around.
-Mr. C

Great Klondike, great weekend!

Over the past weekend our Troop fielded two Patrols for this years Great Northern District's annual Klondike Derby.
Both Patrols did a great job. The Huskies took 2nd place in the overall competition. The Indians received an honorable mention.
I think that the biggest thing that the guys took home (other than the bags of Klondike gold) was that everyone needs to do their part for their Patrol to succeed. They learned that perhaps it is not always about the challenge being performed 'correctly' but it is about the manner in which the challenge is approached... team work and spirit counts! Attitude is everything.

After wrapping up the days events the guys played a little snow football/ wrestling. I think Troop 150 was responsible for melting at least an inch of the new snow fall in the Berlin area.
Troop 150 was invited to spend the night with Troop 207. After changing into warm clothes we had a pizza party and raffle. The rest of the evening was spent playing games and watching movies. It was the old standard fare for breakfast; oatmeal and hot chocolate. The guys are starting to learn that being the 1st up, having your gear packed, and a clean 'camp site' is a good thing. I was doling out baked treats to the first guys to be ready to start their day. We had a great time; the Ol' Wood badgers' are already conspiring together on plans for more joint activities.

The guys did a super job and I am very proud. I'm especially pleased to see the new leadership developing in our Troop... we are getting closer to the boy run Troop all the time. Great job guys!!!

A very special thanks to Michael Dewar. This is a man that has no son in the Troop (nor has he had) and yet he is always there to pitch in and help out. There was no 'two deep' leadership available for this weekend so Michael changed his plans (at the very last minute, Saturday morning) so that he could cover for the parents that could not be available to help out their boys. This fellow truly embodies the Scouting Spirit and realizes the important values/ opportunities that this program offers your boys.
Parents the next time you see Michael PLEASE make sure you offer him your heartfelt thanks.

Directions to the GND Klondike

from: conway,nh to: 2020 Riverside Dr, Berlin, NH 03570 - Google Maps

Boy Scout Gear List: New Scouts, Three-Season @ Backpacking Light

Interesting article... I thought I might share with you folks.
Mr. C.


Boy Scout Gear List: New Scouts, Three-Season @ Backpacking Light

INFORMED CONSENT AGREEMENT

New Link (see link list on the right hand side of the page).

Tips for your next winter camping trip:

1. Use the buddy system for winter outings. Buddies can check each other for frostbite, make sure no one becomes lost, and boost the morale of the entire group.
   
2. Plan to cover no more than five miles per day on a winter trek on snowshoes. An experienced group can cover 10 to 12 miles on cross-country skis.
   
3. Always allow ample time to make camp in winter, especially if you plan to build snow shelters.
   Fatigue encourages accidents. Rest occasionally when building a snow shelter; taking part in cross-country skiing or snowshoeing; or participating in other active winter sports. Periodic rests also help avoid overheating.
   
4. Pulling a load over the snow on a sled or toboggan is generally easier than carrying it in a backpack.
   
5. Snow is a terrific insulator. Snow shelters are much warmer than tents because they retain heat and keep out the cold wind. If you have adequate time for building snow shelters, you will spend a much more comfortable night sleeping in them than in a tent.
   
6. Snow is the greatest thief in winter, swallowing up small dropped items. Tie or tape a piece of brightly colored cord to small items so they can be seen in snow. Some items, such as mittens, can be tied to larger items, such as a parka, to prevent them from being dropped and lost.
   
7. Melting snow in a pot to get water may cause the pot to burn through or may scorch the snow, giving the water a disagreeable taste. Prevent this by adding a cup or two of water in the bottom of the pot before putting in the snow to melt.
   
8. Punch a hole in the top of your ice chisel and string a stout cord through it. Before trying to chisel a hole in ice, anchor the cord to something large or too heavy to be pulled through the hole so you will not lose your chisel in freezing water when the ice is penetrated.
   
9. Always test the thickness of ice before venturing any distance from the shore. Ice should be at least 3 inches thick for a small group; 4 inches of ice is safe for a crowd. Since ice thickness can vary considerably, it is best to stay near the shoreline of large lakes.
   
10. Use alkaline batteries in flashlights. Standard batteries deteriorate quickly in cold weather. Tape the switch of your flashlight in the "off" position until you are ready to use it. This will prevent it from being turned on accidentally while in your pack or on your sled.
    
11. Encourage everyone in your group to wear brightly colored outer clothing so that each person will be more visible, especially during severe weather.
    
12. Small liquid-fuel stoves are much better for cooking in winter than fires, which are difficult to build with wet wood. Gathering wood that is frozen to the ground also can be difficult, if not impossible. A pressure/pump-type stove is essential in winter.
    Always use a funnel to refuel a stove so you won't frostbite your fingers by accidentally pouring fuel on them. Fuel evaporates at a high rate of speed and quickly removes heat from anything it touches.
    
13. Place a stove or fire on a platform of logs or rocks so it will not melt through the snow.
    
14. Never light or use a stove inside a tent or snow shelter. A tent may catch fire, and vapors in a snow shelter may lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Neither of these potential mishaps is worth the risk.
    
15. A windscreen is essential for using a stove in the winter. Even a slight breeze will direct the heat away from its intended mark.
    

References: Okpik: Cold Weather Camping, Boy Scout Handbook, Scoutmaster Handbook, and Camping Sparklers

GND Klondike

I need to confirm who will be attending this weekends Klondike; Feb 3rd & 4th. (Patrol Leaders CALL YOUR PATROLS). I, currently, have 13 guys signed up. It looks as though we'll be able to field two Patrols for Saturdays games.

I need to hear from everyone attending by Wednesday night.

We will have a gear 'shake-down' at Thursdays meeting. Bring your appropriate winter gear and your (signed) permission slip. If your gear has not been inspected and I do not have your permission slip in hand at Thursday nights meeting you WILL miss out on this event.

Cost: $8.00 per person for registration (includes a patch); plus cost of food.

We will be leaving the Scout shed Saturday morning at 7:30 am and returning to the Scout Shed by 11 am on Sunday.

The Klondike will be held at NHCTC in Berlin.

We have been invited to stay overnight with T207, should be a great time. Some night games and perhaps a movie or two.
If the weather is mild there may be an opportunity to sleep under the stars.

This promises to be a great 'fellowship' weekend with other Scouts. There will be some friendly competition and LOTS of fun.

Each Scout will bring a bag lunch and snacks for Saturday. Dinner can be cooked on site or be purchased from the 'OA Cafe'.

We'll have oatmeal or something quick for breakfast prior to closing and returning home on Sunday.

I look forward to hearing from you all.

Sincerely,
Mr C.

Survive or Die

Reprinted from;
AMC Outdoors, November 2006

The difference may be only a few ounces of essential gear.
You are stranded, injured and alone. Night is falling, conditions are deteriorating, and there is no way out until the next day. Or longer. Are you equipped to survive? Your chances will be vastly improved if you carry these essential items and know how to use them.

STAY DRY AND WARM Hypothermia will kill you quickly, especially if you’re wet and the wind is blowing. Always carry at least two heavy-duty garbage bags or a space blanket to protect you from the elements in an emergency situation. When selecting your bags, go thick, go large, and go bright. Look for high-capacity versions designed for hard use, such as contractor or lawn and leaf bags; a thickness of four millimeters is best. Most trash bags are green, brown, or black—difficult for rescuers to see. Try to find a more visible color; orange DOT contractor bags are ideal, though harder to find. Space blankets are usually brightly colored, but can be fragile; look for a more durable material.
To create an emergency rain or wind jacket with a trash bag, cut a slit no longer than your face about eight inches down from the closed corner. Pull it over your head, using the corner as a hood. If conditions are not too severe, cut two small holes for your arms. If conditions are bad, pull a second bag up over your legs to create an emergency bivy. If the situation is really grim, stuff dry leaves or moss in the bags with you for insulation. Use a space blanket in similar fashion by wrapping it tightly around you, but be aware that they are much harder to work with in windy conditions and are more difficult to fully seal from the elements.

KNOW HOW TO MAKE A FIRE Always carry materials to start a fire, both for warmth and as a potential rescue signal. Bring along matches in a waterproof container and opt for “stormproof” versions, which readily ignite and stay lit in windy or wet conditions; some will even burn underwater. Peter Kummerfeldt, a leading survival expert, recently reviewed nearly 20 matches for survival scenarios; his top pick is REI Storm Proof matches (0.65 ounces per box, $4).
Also consider carrying a “metal match,” which creates a shower of long-lived sparks when struck briskly with a metal scraper. When thrown on easily lit kindling, the sparks are sufficient to ignite a flame. Butane lighters should not be relied on as your only means for fire. They will not work if wet, are difficultto dry out, and can be challenging to operate with cold, wooden hands. If you do carry one as a backup, opt for clear models that allow you to see the fuel reservoir and have an adjustable flame for maximum torching.
To get a fire going, you’ll also need kindling. Shredded paper birch bark or other dry forest material will work, but if everything is soaking wet you’ll need a backup: Vaseline-coated cotton balls. Knead Vaseline into a few large cotton balls, leaving the inside dry, and carry them in a tiny waterproof container. (Make sure they are 100 percent cotton; synthetic versions do not burn well.) To light, tear the ball open and easily ignite the dry interior with a flame or sparks. A single ball will burn furiously for six minutes or more.

HELP RESCUERS FIND YOU Always tell somebody where you’re going and when you expect to be back, otherwise the amount of time it will take for rescuers to find you increases dramatically. Carry a whistle to help alert others of your situation; a loud whistle can be heard more than a mile away in good conditions. Blow it in series of three, a standard indication of need. Your brightly colored garbage bags or space blanket will make you more visible, but you should also always bring a signal mirror to alert passing (or searching) aircraft. Weighing as little as half an ounce, pocket signal mirrors can reflect a beam of sunlight several phone for rescue.

- Matt Heid is senior editor at AMC Outdoors.

TROOP MEETING 1-11-07

7pm

OPENING (5 mins)
-Sign-in
-Debrief from the camp out

PATROL MEETINGS (30 mins)
DON'T FORGET YOUR PATROL BOOKS
work on Patrol Flags... need them completed for the Klondike, bring design ideas
*** I only have one (1) Patrol's list of members and positions

ACTIVITIES (30 mins)
Scouter/Tenderfoot
-Fitness
-Whip and fuse
2nd and 1st Class
-estimating measurement (height and width)
-stoves
Star, Life
-Merit Badges

GAME (20 mins)

CLOSING (5 mins)
Announcements

POST MEETING (5 mins)
ALL Troop & Partol Leaders

8:30 pm out the door...

REMINDERS
Registration fee $22
Please pay Mr. Gamache prior to the Court of Honor.
If you have money in your Scout account and want it deducted from the account please write Mr. Gamache a (legible) note requesting the payment be removed from your account.

Court of Honor
(this is the awards night in Scouting)
Jan. 25th @ JHF 7pm
Invite your family and friends!
Friends of Scouting presentation (Troop goal is to raise $1500)
Camp Presentation... wow hard to believe it is time to start thinking about that!
Final chance to sign-up for participating in the Klondike will be tonight.

Next outing... Klondike Feb 3-4th

The Weekend at Littleton Scout Camp

Camping at the Littleton Cabin this weekend.

If you are planning on attending you must hand me a completed Permission Form at Thursday night's meeting.

We will be leaving the Scout Shed @ 9am on Saturday morning.

While we are expecting unseasonably warm temps please BE PREPARED for winter conditions.

We will be working on completing allot of 2nd and 1st Class requirements... this outing really shouldn't be missed.

We will be returning to the Scout Shed around 10am on Sunday morning.

When preparing for this trip please refer to pgs 204, 207, 225-6 of your Handbook (don't forget to bring your handbook).

We will be planning the menu during the Patrol meetings on Thursday night.

There will be a $5 food fee for those wishing to participate.

Winter Camping Tips

Backpacker.com - Winter Camping

Pizza & Pool Party

Our annual event to share with the Webelos. Check the calendar for details.

Scouts Take 1st Place in the annual Holiday Parade

In spite of the sudden on-set of cold weather the guys were able to show their Scouting Spirit.
I was VERY PROUD. Great job guys!

Scouting for Food

Super job on the Scouting for Food

1100 food items collected and distributed on one weekend... NICE WORK!

(we are now probably closer to the original 1200 piece figure as I am still getting donated food dropped off to me)

Many thanks to the MacLeod family for all of their help!

Scouting Pictures

http://http://homepage.mac.com/davidmmacleod/BOYSCOUTS/Menu18.html

Dave MacLeod has done a FANTASTIC job of capturing the Troop in action over the last few years. He has also spent a good deal of time putting this all together for us to enjoy.

THANKS DAVE!!!!!

Court Of Honor Pictures

http://web.mac.com/davidmmacleod/iWeb/Site/Court%20of%20Honor%20October%202006.html

Great job today!

You guys did a super job and I'm very proud. It meant an awful lot to the Veterans to have such a super turn out.

Tomorrow morning Ethan and I are going to be meeting w/ Dr. Waltz to pick up the remaining grave markers at cemeteries around the Valley. We are meeting at the N. Conway Catholic Cemetery at 10am. Any and all that would like to join us would be quite welcome.

Thanks again to all!
Andy C

Tuesday Nov. 16th

On our regular Troop meeting night we will be assembling early to attend the local performance. This is a special event. Please arrive at 5:45pm the show begins promptly at 6pm. Scouts must wear their uniform. The cost of the performance is $5 for each registered Scout/ Scouter (student price is normally $10).

YOU MUST HAVE SIGNED UP FOR THIS PERFORMANCE IN ADVANCE AT ONE OF THE LAST TWO TROOP MEETINGS.

If you didn't make the meeting and get onto the sign-up sheet you must e-mail me by Tuesday

conwayscout@yahoo.com

We will have a brief Troop meeting after the play to go over last minute planning for our Scouting for Food drive.

Scouting for Food

Mr. MacLeod is still looking for Scouts to fill the Saturday, Nov. 18th
Noon to 2:00pm and the 2 to 4:00 pm slots.

PLEASE contact him ASAP
csetraining@aol.com or at 356-8129


This is a very important community service project. All of the food that we collect stays with local families.

COMMITTEE MEETING

Wednesday, Nov. 15th @ 7:30 pm

Pike/ Conway Dahl office (old AD Davis location) 3277 Wht. Mtn Highway

This meeting is open to all parents and Committee members, please make every effort to attend... this is your Troop.

Agenda;

• Calendar
• Fund Raising
• Chair Positions
• Troop Handbook

This should be a very productive meeting... I'm looking forward to lots of great ideas and hoping to come out of this meeting with and even stronger Unit and a Committee that is ready to further the aims and goals of Scouting in the Valley.

We'll see you all Wednesday night.

YIS,

-AC

VETERANS DAY

Does anyone know the significance of the phrase “the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month"?

It's the time, day, and month when, in 1918, the peace treaty was signed bringing an end to the conflict we know today as World War I.
People notice and remember unusual coincidences like this.

In the years following 1918 many nations chose to honor those who fought and died in the War with special ceremonies held on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month.
In England , an Unknown Soldier was buried in Westminster Abbey. Westminster Abbey is the sacred and hollowed place where the people of Great Britain honor their heroes.
In France an Unknown Soldier was buried in Paris beneath the Arch de Triumph, a sacred place to the French.
In the United States , on November 11, 19 21, we created the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery .

Over time, other nameless heroes have been added to our Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Today, there is an unidentified soldier from WWI, WWII, The Korean War, and the Vietnam War. This sacred place has come to symbolize all those who have fought and died in the service of our country.

Our Congress made this day a national holiday, originally known as Armistice Day - to honor the end of the "war to end all wars".

Unfortunately, there were other wars. Armistice Day has been renamed Veteran's Day.

For a brief time, Veteran's Day was moved from November 11th.
Congress turned it into one of those Monday - 3 day weekend holidays. People, however, remembered the coincidental date. Fate or the hand of God perhaps, had marked forever the 11th of November - Congress had to change it back.
Veteran's Day should be a time when we remember, and honor, all that have served in these nations armed forces.

Veterans Day

This year Veteran's Day, as I'm sure you are all aware, falls on a Saturday.

The schedule of events are as follows;
11 am church service at the North Conway Congregational Church (across from Your Paws Only).
We will leave the church following the service and march to the JHF School.
From the school we will parade to Schouler Park (in front of the train station).
At the park there will be a flag ceremony w/ two Scouts from Troop 150 aiding the Legionnaire's in folding the flag. The flag will be presented to a local widow to commemorate her husbands service to our country.
Following the service, around 2pm, the Scouts will be invited to attend a luncheon with the members of the Legion. This, from my understanding, will be a ticketed event. You should see me immediately following the ceremony at the park if you plan on attending the luncheon.

The boys and leaders will be expected to be in 'Class A' uniform.

Please remind the boys about the reverence that is due to the men and women that have sacrificed for our country. They are expected to be on their best behavior.

FULL MOON HIKE

What a night for a hike... Absolutely beautiful! The moon was as bright as I have seen it. Cloudless and calm, what a treat!
Twenty-one joined us for our jaunt around the moon lit pond. I kick my-self for not bringing a camera... In reality this is not something I will forget for quite a while. It was gorgeous.

Total wild life count:
SPL- 1
Indian Patrol- 6 members
King Chickens- 3 members

Mountaineers- 1 member
Huskies- 1 member

Adult leaders- 3
Family members- 6

Troop 150 takes 2nd place at the District's Fall Camporee!

Great work guys. I saw a lot of encouraging things during this Camporee. You guys are really beginning to work well together. The 'Trick out my Scout' was a great NEW skit.

A special thanks to the Dads that ran stations for the boys... it wouldn't have happened without you!
Thanks to Mr. Steesy... you, your truck and your dedication to the Troop is greatly appreciated.

Again a GIANT THANK YOU to all of the guys that gave up their weekend to come share it with us at the Camporee.

Hope to see you all at Thursdays meeting.

-AC

The Scout Outdoor Essentials

The Scout Outdoor Essentials

This is the minimum list that I would expect all Scouts to carry, to this I would add;

• pen and paper
• a LNT toilet kit

S100 50/50 Premium Heavyweight T-shirts from ClassB.com

S100 50/50 Premium Heavyweight T-shirts from ClassB.com

Prior to Committee Meeting last night we were talking about t-shirts.
Class B will do our shirts. No artwork or shipping fees, print (one color) front and back... free shipping for $9.99 per shirt (40 shirts)... check it out at the link above.
-Andy

GREAT JOB!

Kudos to the guys that gave up thier Sat. to take part in the classroom portion of the Adult Leader Training. Great job; Steve, Scott and Ted!
It's not too late for everyone else... you can still join these guys durring the Outdoor portion of the training in October. Check out the calendar for details.

Meetings 9/7/06

Happy Thursday... looking forward to seeing everyone tonight!

Patrol Leaders Council for Patrol Leaders Assistant PL's @ 6pm
Month's Agenda

Troop Meeting @ 7pm

POPCORN... We need EVERYONE on board for this. Last night the Popcorn Committee has ordered almost 3 times the amount of popcorn from last years Show n' Sell. They know you can sell this.
Mrs. Steesy is leading the charge with this and will be at tonight's meeting. Bring your calendars and be prepared to commit to selling lot's of POPCORN!

Prep for Open House

New Leader Training... this Saturday in Littleton. There is a link on the BLOG with info. I'll bring a copy of the flyer from the web site to the meeting. So far I have commitments from Mr. Laliberte, Mr. Steesy and Mr. Mannik.

See you all tonight,
Andy

Link to the District Training Calendar

For the leaders attending this Saturdays training here is the link to the District training calendar. Click the 'HERE' for the flyer. Dennis Murphy is the contact person for this event.

Thanks for your commitment to providing and excellent program for the boys.

-Andy

Fall Camporee 2006

When; Sept 29th- Oct 1st

Where; Palmer Brook Scout Reservation, Broomstick Hill Rd., Littleton, NH

You will need to turn in your permission slip to your Patrol Leader by Thursday, the 21st, if you are planning on attending.
Registration cost is $8 per person. If this is to come out of your Scout account remember to write a 'check' and turn it in with your permission slip (you are responcible to make sure you have funds available).
Please use your Scout Handbook as a reference source for the personal items that you will need to bring. If you have any questions as to what is appropriate please see your Patrol Leader or Senior Patrol. We will be hiking our gear into our camp site.

We will be departing from our Troop shed Friday evening at 5:00 pm. We will be carpooling to this event.

We will be returning to the shed by 12 pm on Sunday, Oct 1st. Scouts will need to be picked-up @ noon.

There is no cell service on this site... in an EMERGENCY you may contact 447-1393; every effort will be made to get word to the camp site.

What a day!

 

Prepping the 'blaze'

 

More from the Pond

 

Sawyer Pond

 

Sawyer Pond Trip

 

What a GREAT weekend for a backpacking trip!

A much reduced version of the Troop went on a backpacking trip to Sawyer Pond this past weekend.
Saturday morning, after a little pack fitting, we left parking lot on the Kanc behind us. Promptly we shed our hiking boots and put on our water shoes to wade across the Swift River. We reviewed proper water crossing techniques and then jumped in. The water was COLD. Upon reaching the other side we dried off, re-laced our boots and donned our packs. We were off following the Sawyer Pond trail. The trail is fairly well marked and we met several other hikers either coming from or headed to the pond. We stopped for a very nice lunch on the trail... it's amazing how good a simple peanut butter and jelly sandwich can taste when enjoyed on the right location with the right company.
We had a fairly flat hike for the first half of the trip. Once we hit the the halfway mark we started a slight elevation gain, the trail became rockier with more exposed roots. We started thinking about how much fun it was going to be when we hit camp. In true Scout fashion the guys broke out into marching songs while on the trail. After SEVERAL verses I had to be the wet blanket and beg them to stop... there would be a brief pause (out of respect, I'm sure) and then they'd set off singing again.
Upon reaching the pond we made another water crossing and found the tent platforms. We gave some brief thought about staying in the shelter, but, the boys decided... "we lugged the tent... we're going to sleep in it"... there was no arguing with that logic.
It was fun to watch the guys set up camp... they attacked it like real pros. They set up their tent and stowed their gear. Then they went about the task of gathering firewood... this is no easy job as this area sees a ton of traffic. Using teamwork they built one of the best log cabin fire-sets I think I have seen. They set this beauty a blaze using flint and steel. Their next task was cooking dinner. We prepared spaghetti and carrots on the backpacking stove. We enjoyed some ginger snaps and chai tea for dessert. The fire was timed perfectly we enjoyed it thru dinner and then it burned out. After dinner was cleaned up we set-up the requisite bear bag and then went off to filter some water out of the pond.
As the sun set the guys broke out the LED Frisbee and had a blast tossing it about the camp site, as the throws got wilder we decided to call it a night. We got cleaned up and ready for bed, after a long day we turned in around 8:30... I must have been out as soon as I hit my pad. The next morning the boys reported to me the shenanigans, from the college aged group, going on at the site adjacent to us... I don't know how I missed it. Tough being an old dog!
Sunday morning I was up early to enjoy the pre-sunrise dawn. I took my cup of tea down to the edge of the pond and watched the mist rise off the pond... Truly beautiful. The boys rolled out and we cooked rather lumpy, slightly charcoaled, apple pancakes on the stove... looked rough, but, tasted great. We washed them down w/ hot Tang... it get's no better.
We broke camp and cleaned the whole campsite (it's amazing the garbage that people leave behind). The guys did a super job with following the Leave No Trace principles.
We made an impromptu bush-wack around the back side of the pond before taking the Sawyer River trail back to the parking lot and civilization.
All in all a GREAT weekend. The guys joining me are real troopers... this was their first backpack outing... I would not hesitate to take them anywhere.

Here's to more trips into the backcountry.
-Andy

Philly Scout update

http://www.philly.com/mld/philly/news/columnists/15132591.htm

To clarify

BP is my shorthand for Lord Robert Baden-Powell, the founder of the Boy Scout movement.
I apologize 'BP' is rather irreverent slang for such a great man.

Please forgive me.
-Andy

A response to a note I received from 'anonymous'

Today I received an e-mail from 'anonymous'. It included a link to a gay/ liberal website with various articles about the BSA policy towards homosexuality. I am not including a link to this site as I know that many people, of all ages, read my blog. If you would like me to give you the link so that you can read the article for yourself please e-mail me... I will gladly give you the link.
Most recently there was an article that 'anonymous' sited questioning BP's sexual orientation. Basically, the author regurgitated the standard BP biography that we all have read. Then the author went on to question BP's sexual leaning.
The person that e-mailed me did so on an account that will not accept a reply... Does this tell us something about the honor of this person?... Perhaps.

I wanted to share my response.

Dear Anonymous,
An interesting take.
I have read various claims by other biographers before... All pure conjecture and supposition on behalf of the writer. I have never heard or read any evidence that BP was gay. I am of the belief that serving in the military or having close male friendships does not make or qualify a person as being gay. Of interesting note; those that theorize that BP was a homosexual or bisexual seem to have that tendency themselves, or have a 'political' agenda in regards to the BSA.
In a world filled with immorality and vice it is disheartening to me that people spend so much time and energy trying to tear down the foundations of things that actually have value and are making a positive impact.
I have often thought this is just a symptom of our valueless age. A time of instant gratification and immorality. Then I am reminded of our history... Jesus was crucified for his 'crimes'... again radical Muslims are waging an un-holy war against Christendom. Sadly, it seems those that hate people, or movements, that are positive are not bounded by the constraints of time.
For the rest of us we struggle on. Turning the other cheek, trying to make the world a better and more positive place.
I pray that people will spend more of their energies actually trying to make a difference and impact the future... For the better.

Here's to 'leading change' and 'leading to make a difference.'
-Andy C

On the you've got to be kidding front...

Boy Scout Council May Be Evicted In Philadelphia
PHILADELPHIA - The city said it will evict a Boy Scout council from its publicly owned headquarters or make the group pay a fair rent price unless it changes its policy on gays. The Boy Scouts' Cradle of Liberty Council, the country's third-largest, has been battling with the city for more than three years over the policy, which like the national Scouts organization forbids gays from being leaders.
City Solicitor Romulo L. Diaz Jr. wrote a letter to William T. Dwyer III, president of the Cradle of Liberty Council, stating that the council's "discriminatory policies" violate city policy and law, and that city officials have not been assured the group will not discriminate.
Unless the city gets a "fair-market rent agreement," the council will be evicted, the letter says.
The group has made its headquarters on a half-acre owned by the city in the upscale Philadelphia Art Museum area since 1928, when the city council voted to allow the Scouts to use the property rent-free "in perpetuity." The Scouts pay for building upkeep.
Council spokesman Jeff Jubelirer questioned the timing of the city's move.
"With an epidemic of gun violence taking the lives of Philadelphia's children every day, it is ironic the administration chose this time to destroy programming that services 40,000 children in the city," Jubelirer said.
Stacey Sobel, executive director of Philadelphia's Center for Lesbian and Gay Civil Rights, said she's pleased the city is taking action.
"If they are going to discriminate, the taxpayers shouldn't be subsidizing it," Sobel said.
The Boy Scouts of America's policy on gay leaders was upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court in 2000.
In 2003, the council in Philadelphia said it would adopt a nondiscrimination policy on gays. However, weeks later the group dismissed an 18-year-old Scout who publicly acknowledged he was gay.
Dwyer did not immediately return a message Saturday from The Associated Press, and a phone rang unanswered at the organization's national headquarters in Texas. [AP]

DWC e-letter

http://www.dwcbsa.org/resources/eletter/index.htm

Emergency Preparedness

September is national Emergency Preparedness month... Let's start planning to 'be prepared'.
Good Troop MB topic. Are you prepared? Check out www.ready.gov.

Help meeting 1st Class recruiting requirements

Boy Scouts can invite friends using Web site e-mail. The e-card, a new feature available to Scouts and leaders on the www.thescoutzone.org Web site, helps a Scout complete the new First Class requirement to invite a friend to a troop meeting or activity.

To use the e-card, a Scout goes to www.thescoutzone.org, clicks on "Tell a Friend," enters his name and his friend's name and e-mail address in the designated boxes. He selects the action images he thinks his friend would be interested in doing, then chooses music and a message.
After previewing the e-card, he sends it to his friend.

Blue cards, Scout accounts, advancement

Thanks to everyone that showed up to the 'blue card' meeting. I know the Troop MB library is looking a little sparse. Paul Getchell and I had discussed the Troop purchasing new books for the kids attending camp... but, I am having 2nd thoughts. I think that the boys should be responsible for purchasing their own MB books (they can come our of their Scout accounts... someone just has too keep track of it and write one Troop check at camp {Paul Getchell or Mike Dewar}). I know the guys in the Indian Patrol have been purchasing their own books 'out of pocket'. I think this furthers the 'a Scout pays his own way'.

Along the 'take it out of my Scout account' line. We need to devise an easier way for this to happen... (as I am still short on funds from the Lock Down and the Camporee). As the boys are signing-up and paying for their events and they want to have the payment come out of their account; 1.) they must make sure they have the funds in the account 2.) they need to 'write a check' on a piece of paper asking for the funds to be withdrawn from their account, give this slip of paper to the event leader. This needs to be handled well before the event to allow the leader enough time to get a check from the Treasurer. While on the Scout account issue, does it not make sense to use this only for bigger ticket items... i.e. uniforms, camp, registration, camping gear... etc. It seems to me that it makes a lot of extra work for the leadership to be chasing $5 for outing meal expenses and $3.50 MB books. Thoughts?

Advancement... I know this has been a chaffing point for a few in the Troop. I am making every effort to provide opportunities for advancement... the boys just need to make an effort to show-up. Saturday three leaders took time out of their busy work and family schedules to take the Troop on a hike. We went over showing up prepared for a hike, Leave No Trace, map and compass skills, and identifying plants and trees. These are all First and Second Class requirements, as is, participating in Patrol/ Troop activities (being an 'active member' of the Troop is a requirement for all other ranks). We had 4 Scouts show up. If you are not getting the information about these events in enough time please look at the Troop calendar... the whole year is available on line. Patrol Leaders it is your responsibility to make sure everyone in your Patrol is getting this information... if your Patrol members are not showing up for meetings or outings find out why.
I want no one to be left behind... but, it will require a little effort on the part of the Scout/ parents. I have set the calendar so that we have, at least, one outing a month. If the scheduled outing dates are not working for you let's talk.

Yours in Scouting,
Andy

Andrew Chalmers
Scout Master Troop 150
FOS District Chairman, Great Northern District

Saturday the INDIANS rule the boulder (loop trail)!

Troop 150 met at the Covered Bridge parking lot at 8am. We had a very sparse turn out, I think the thought of hiking in the heat scared away many Scouters. Prior to setting out with four members of the Indian Patrol and three adult leaders we went over map and compass skills and reviewed what we should be bringing to 'be prepared' in the woods.
It was a very pleasant hike with great views from several vantage points. The boys gorged themselves on fresh blueberries at the summit (I'm thinking the 'black bears' may be a more appropriate patrol name). We identified our 10 native plants and trees, did a little 'bouldering' and saw the preparations the Forest Service was making in getting ready to close and repair the trail.
We passed a few people as we were headed down the trail, we all noted that they were unprepared for the conditions... no gear and NO WATER... not good.
I am always impressed by this group. They are great hikers, with super attitudes... a real pleasure to be around.
-Andy

Blue Card Meeting

Last Thursday night the Troop met at the gazebo in Conway Village. We talked about camp preparations and handed out 'blue cards'. Everyone going to camp seems pretty excited. After our informal meeting the boys did a quick trash sweep of the park and adjacent path along the pond. They collected two large trash bags of garbage... great work guys!

Essentials for Your Hiking Daypack

AMC Outdoors, July/August 2004
By Michael Lanza

What you bring on a day hike depends on where you’re going, how long you’ll be out, and the weather. No matter what the duration of your trip, always bring the following to get you home before dark, or keep you safe during an unexpected night out:
A compass and map of the area, to find your way there and back; a flashlight or headlamp, because it’s easy to get lost if you’re caught out after dark without one; a whistle, one of the most powerful distress signals available; warm clothing and rain/wind gear, to ward off inclement weather and hypothermia; waterproof matches or firestarter, for an emergency warming blaze; a first-aid kit, to handle an unexpected injury; a pocket knife, for its myriad survival uses; and extra food and water, because being lost or injured is bad enough without the pangs of hunger, thirst, and exhaustion.
Beyond these essentials, consider bringing at least one large plastic trash bag, which can keep your gear dry as well as double as an emergency bivy sack. The more durable and brightly colored, the better — the bright orange ones used for highway clean-up are ideal.
— Michael Lanza is author of The Ultimate Guide to Backcountry Travel, from AMC Books.

I would add to this list your 'leave no trace' kits: trowel, toilet paper, plastic 'zipper-lock' baggies, and hand sanitizer.
-Andy

Troop completes 50 Miler

Release of Liability

http://www.sacobound.com/more/ReleaseOfLiability.pdf

To be printed and filled out by everyone in a Saco Bound boat

Thanks,
Andy

Canoe Roster

Canoe # followed by paddlers in BOW then STERN positions

1
John Larsen & Tristan MacLeod

2
Dmitry Steesy & Ian Marnich

3
DJ Hall & Dudley Hall

4
Ethan Chalmers & Andrew Chalmers

5
Ethan Hill & Jim Hill

6
Torin LaLiberte & Ted LaLiberte

7
Zack Mannik & Pat Walsh

8
Ryder Selmi & Bud Selmi

9
Brian Wanek & Ray O'Brien

10
Ben Novak & Ged Owen

11
Ryan Burroughs & Tom Caughey

12
Justin Gamache & Sam Getchell

13
Makenzie Birkbeck & Jordan Pettingill



Floating support:
Marion Owen & Paul Getchell

Gear transportation support:
Micheal Dewar

Canoe Trip Itinerary

Tuesday night 5:30-6:30
Troop shed John Fuller parking lot
-equipt. sign out
-load 'chase' truck w/ gear

Wednesday morning 8am
Saco Bound in Ctr Conway
-canoe overview
-depart
-eat bag lunch (Scout provides own)

Wednesday night 6pm
Saco Landing past Canal Bridge in Fryeburg
-potluck dinner w/ families
-campfire program

Thursday morning on river by 9am
-break camp
-breakfast; eggs and bacon

-lunch PB&J on river

Thursday night camping... Brownfield?
-dinner spaghetti w/ meatballs, garlic bread

Friday morning on river by 9am
-break camp
-breakfast; pancakes

Pull out of river in Hiram... just after noon?

Saturday morning 9am-10
Troop shed
-turn in gear
-trip review

*** Scout must make all scheduled events to qualify for the 50 Miler Award ***

Patrol Log

By now each Patrol should have thier own Patrol book. This book can be a spiral bound or 3 ring binder (I like the binder).

(remember to date and title each entry )

Record the following
Members of Patrol... rank... position in Patrol... MB earned


On Outings -
Date
Outing Location
List of Patrol Members in attendance (in uniform?)
What we did today
Most memorable moments
Notes on:
Preparations; what worked, what didn't.
Gear; repairs needed, things we would bring next time.

At Patrol Meetings;
Date
List of patrol members in attendance (in uniform?)
What we accomplished
What we need to do next

Could have a scrapbook section in the binder... pictures, newspaper articles
Make these books part of your Patrol... decorate it with your Patrol emblem
These books should reside with your Patrol Scribe and should attend every meeting with you.

Link to Saco River map... from Saco Bound

http://www.sacobound.com/images/maps/SacoMap.pdf

Tips for Good River Excursions and Camping from Saco Bound

First, be safe and know before you go.
Check weather forecasts and river conditions.
Always be prepared!
Respect nature and those around you.
Take out more trash than you packed in and practice “Leave No Trace” principles:
1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
3. Dispose of Waste Properly
4. Leave What You Find
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts
6. Respect Wildlife
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors

Now, as you head to the outdoors be responsible and use some common sense. You need to consider, weather, environment, capacity of your river craft and duration of your trip.

Keep your essentials and valuables in a dry bag along with a change of clothes. Keep your keys in a safe place or leave them near you car or at base camp.
First Aid Kit
Shelter: tent, tarp, sleeping bag
Personal items: proper clothing, proper footwear, medications, sunscreen, bug repellent, biodegradable toilet paper, cat trowel and biodegradable soap
Food & Utensils Water – 1 gallon per person per day
Camping Stove or Firewood
Matches / Lighter and a Flash Light
River Map
Cell Phone
Maine state law requires a state fire permit. These can be obtained at swans falls dam while on the river or Jockey Cap store in Fryeburg, ME on rte 302.

Every one in a watercraft must have a USCG approved personal floation device. Please wear it at all times!

Merit Badges and Summer Camp

In our Troop we have been spending a bunch of time talking about and preparing for summer camp.
Sometimes in our zealousness as leaders to get our boys ready for camp we forget that a healthy Scout program is year round. Scout camp is one week out of the whole year. To focus so much energy on promoting camp as THE place to earn advancements and Merit Badges I think we loose sight of the bigger picture. Indeed it is far easier to let camp staff worry about providing MB Councilors. But, I think a lot is lost in doing so. Merit Badge work is designed to broaden the boys horizons and expose them to new people, things and environments. I'm not sure BSA camp is the optimum place for this to happen. By having the boys do the majority of their MB's at camp we are missing a huge opportunity to involve a larger community in Scouting. We, as Scouters, have the opportunity and responsibility to broaden the outreach of Scouting... Procuring Merit Badge councilors amongst non-Scouters is a great way to do this. I'm not suggesting that having Scouts attend a summer camp program isn't important... It is! I think the focus should be on fellowship, group activities and fun. Let's leave the MB pamphlets at home with the Troops and the local community.

Troop Meeting 6/8/09

(Good time for meeting of the adult leadership… 6 or 6:30 prior to the Troop meeting?)



Pre-meeting
Service Patrol (Indians) set up table and chairs for trip sign up
Knot challenge
Patrols attendance


Opening (10 minutes) 7pm sharp
Sr Patrol Opens
Announcements


Skill instruction (20 mins)
'round robin'; rotate by Patrol thru (5 mins each cycle)
All taught by Sr Patrol w/ help of adult leadership (if needed)
· Packing… what to bring, what not to bring
· Menus (planning)… appropriate, healthy, preparation
· Cooking (back packing stove use)… safety, lighting
· Low impact camping… Leave No Trace Principals, waste disposal


Patrol Meetings (20 mins)
Menu planning
Buddy system


Inter-Patrol Activity (20 mins)
Sr Patrol game


Closing (5 mins)
Sr Patrol
SM Minute

Troop 150 Canoe Trip

Preparation
1. Must have commitment from all attending by Troop meeting on Thursday 6/8… no maybes
2. All leadership attending must have BSA Safe Swim and Safety Afloat (available on line)… this is recommended for Patrol Leaders as well.
3. All attendees must have passed BSA Swimmers test, this is an annual test. Once you have signed up we will schedule a testing time and location… according to the BSA this is not optional. For those that can not pass the test there is an option to place them in the canoe of a registered life guard. Please let me know ASAP if you think this may be a problem.
4. Tour Permit filed
5. Reserve canoes

To qualify for the 50 Miler Award we need the obvious… 50 miles. It must be done in 5 consecutive days and must involve a 10 hour service project. A Scout may accompany the Troop for any or all of the trip… but MUST complete all of following in order to qualify for this award.

Day 1 Tuesday June 20, 2006
Meet in the evening to go over final details of the trip
Day 2 Wednesday, June 21, 2006
Meet 9am at Saco Bound in Ctr. Conway
Leave w/ un-freighted canoes
Portage at Swans Falls
Bag lunch
Arrive Saco Landing (Canal Bridge)
Set-up camp
Pot luck dinner w/ families
Day 3 Thursday
Break camp; load support vehicle
Depart Saco Landing
Bag lunch
Canoe perimeter of Lovewell's pond (to gain mileage)
Camp Lovewell's Pond
Day 4 Friday
Break camp… run leg toward Hiram
Camp in Brownfield or Hiram depending on conditions
If we make Hiram Friday we have the option of pulling out that afternoon
Day 5 Saturday
Break camp and head for home
If we made Hiram on Friday we can all meet to stow gear and do a post trip shakedown on Saturday

If we do a river clean-up on our way down stream we should have no trouble meeting our 10 hour service project goals.


THIS IS A FLUID ITINERARY… I WELCOME AND WANT YOUR INPUT

Operation Adventure

WOW!

What a lot of fun we had over the weekend!
True it rained... hard... and most of the time sideways... but, we still had fun. None of the guys had ever been to Hidden Valley before, but, everyone of them can't wait to go back.
I was very impressed with our Scouts, there was no whining or complaining about the weather... infact I'm not 100% certain that they even noticed that it was what most 'sane' people would not venture out in.
We used the archery and rifle ranges in the morning and then had a hiking tour of the campsites...we were supposed to be doing a service project... but, the camp work crews had already completed the cot set-ups for us so we got to spend the whole afternoon on the COPE course. The course was made even more chalgening by the weather. The guys learned a lot and had a great experience.
Dinner was in the dining hall followed by a 'campfire' program and skits. Our guys did a super job with the 'Igor' skit... got lots of laughs and had fun.
The wind howled and the rain pummeled our tents all thru the night but, everyone made it warm and dry.
We broke camp and had a nice breakfast in the dining hall, did a little clean-up followed by a thought provoking service in the chapel. After the service we all headed home.

I hope everyone has a chance to dry out before our next adventure... canoeing the Saco.
See you all Thursday night at the NCCC, 7PM.

-Andy C

1st Scout Master's Minute, presented at COH 5/26/06

Why am I involved in Scouting? It’s because of all of you.

You Scouts are the greatest, the best, hope for America... for the world.


You believe in honor,

…in a world where honor has lost much of its meaning.


You believe in doing your duty to God and your Country,

…in a country where school prayer has been outlawed… and many Americans don't bother to vote.


You believe in the the Scout Law,

…with 12 very demanding and specific points… you commit to ALL of them


You believe in helping other people at all times,

... You do this in a world where, liability is so feared, that when someone cries out for help… many people literally run the other way.


You believe in keeping yourself physically strong,

… You do this in a world where obesity is common place


You believe in staying mentally awake,

…in a country where drug use and drinking is not uncommon amongst your peers


And, you believe in keeping yourselves morally straight,

…you do this in a country where some of our own leaders don't even know the meaning of the term.


You ARE, the greatest, the best, hope for America … for the world ...you are the Future!

… YOU are the reason I’m involved in Scouting…

National Honor Patrol

The very best patrols exhibit enthusiasm, teamwork, and camaraderie - that special spark known as patrol spirit the National Honor Patrol Award is given to patrols whose members make an extra effort to have the best patrol possible.

Your patrol can earn the award by doing the following over a period of three months patrol may earn multiple award patches by meeting the requirements in additional 3 month time periods.

Have a patrol name, flag, and yell. Put the patrol design on equipment, use the patrol yell.

Keep patrol records up-to-date.

Hold two patrol meetings each month.

Take part in at least one hike, outdoor activity, or other Scouting event.

Complete two Good Turns or service projects approved by the patrol leaders' council.

Help two patrol members advance in rank.

Have at least 75 percent of members in full uniform at troop activities.

Have a representative attend at least three patrol leaders' council meetings.

Have eight members in the patrol or experience an increase in patrol membership.

Guys... lets get to work! I want to see all of Troop 150's Patrols qualify for this honor.
Andy