Scout Notes

Scout Notes - Friday, February 4, 2011

2011-02-04T16:27:00.001-06:00

Merit Badge University – Tomorrow is the first session of our Merit Badge University. Classes start at 9:00 a.m. If you are coming this week but are unable to attend next week make sure that you find out what requirements you will need to complete on your own time. Conversely, if you cannot attend this week get with the instructor of your classes this Monday and find out what you should be working on before next week’s session. Each scout is responsible for the completion of his merit badge so pay attention, ask questions, and do the work.

Scout Officers - We will not be having a PLC meeting.

This Week’s Meeting – This week we will have personal fitness test then work on requirements from MBU. Bring any MBU homework that you need help with and Scoutmasters will be available to assist you.

Highland Park and Richmond Elementary Crossovers – I need at least 3 scouts for crossover ceremonies on Feb. 8th at Highland Park Elem. and March 21st at Richmond Elem. I need three scouts each week to take on speaking roles in the ceremony. These scouts must be able to come early (6:00 p.m.) to the troop meeting on the 7th of February to practice the ceremony. Sign up on the chalkboard. These events can fulfill a requirement for the Communication Merit Badge.

PARENTS: Merit Badge University - WE STILL NEED ONE ADULT TO SLEEP OVER ON THE 12TH-13TH! Please consider volunteering.

Scouting for Food – The weather and activities has put a hiccup in the District’s Scouting for Food plans so we will not need anyone over the next two weekends. We are still going to participate in the drive but after discussing with Eric Rebek, the Cubmaster at our partner pack, we will be postponing our food collection until March.

Merit Badge University/Scout Sunday – Following n Feb. 12th we will be having a lock-in at the Scout Hut and on Sunday the 13th we will be participating in the First United Methodist Church’s Scout Sunday. The fee for this activity will be $6 and will include dinner and snacks on Saturday and breakfast on Sunday. This is an fun and enriching event for the scouts, who will probably be wanting to let off some steam after class work all day, and it also provides a wonderful opportunity for the church to see the wonderful group of young men that they so generously sponsor. WE STILL NEED ONE ADULT TO SLEEP OVER ON THE 12TH-13TH! Please consider volunteering.

Ouachita Trek / Shakedown – There will be a required Ouachita Trek Shakedown for any scout who is planning on attending the trek for the first time Feb. 26-27 at Lake McMurtry. . Rangers and R.I.T.s will be required to go through training, which will either be at the Shakedown or another date. All scouts will need to have a Physical form on file.(See attached file) Information and registration forms are attached. (Including Ranger and R.I.T. applications)

Scout-O-Rama – On Saturday April 2nd the Pawnee Bill District will be having a showcase of Boy Scouting at Boomer Lake. We will be participating in this event by setting up a small camp, talking to visitors about or activities, serving some scout-cooked food, and possibly firing off our Screaming Monkey Trebuchet. We will discuss our participation in this event at future Troop and Committee meetings.

Troop Meetings
Monday, Feb. 7th - Personal Fitness test / Work on MBU requirements
Monday, Feb 15th – Troop meeting at Stillwater Public Schools Board Meeting
Monday, Feb 21st - Personal Fitness Classroom / Achievement Day
Monday, Feb. 28th – Personal Fitness Test

More dates for your calendar
Feb. 5-6 Lock-in / Scout Sunday
Feb. 5th and Feb. 12th Merit Badge University
Feb. 26-27 Ouachita Trek Shakedown at Lake McMurtry
Feb. 28th Possible Eagle Court of Honor
March 12-16 Ouachita Trek
March 28th Court of Honor
April 2nd Scout-O-Rama

Screaming Monkey Bike Jersey

2011-01-31T11:51:00.002-06:00

Everyone knows our wonderful Screaming Monkey logo that was created for our Punkin Chunkin Trebuchet in honor of Deb Miller. Mr. Miller and Neil took the logo to active wear manufacturer Primal Wear and worked with them to create a special cycling jersey and tri top as a tribute to Deb. I have attached a flier about the jerseys.

I encourage everyone to consider purchasing one of these jerseys. They are a wonderful tribute, a great design, and a good price for a premium jersey. Besides cycling I have utilized jerseys for underlayer garments because of their wicking properties.

As an incentive Fran and I will pay $20 of the price of any scout who purchases the jersey and completes the Cycling merit badge this summer. Scouts must order their jersey before Feb 14! We will present the Jacksons to the scouts upon completion of the 50 mile ride requirement. I will also supply the powerbars and bananas for any scout, and adult, on the 50 miler.

To order, visit the following link:

http://www.primalwear.com/c-270-screaming-monkeys.aspx

Scout Notes - Monday, January 31, 2011

2011-01-31T11:41:00.002-06:00

Scout Officers - We will not be having a PLC meeting.

IMPORTANT: This Week’s Meeting – Due to the weather forecast tonight being “Wildly Erratic with a Chance of Nasty” and the next couple of weeks including a lot of work for the scouts tonight’s meeting is going to be a little laid back. Tonight we are going to arrange the OA and Committee rooms for our MBU, work on advancements, have some fun, and drink some cocoa. SCOUTS: If you have not turned in your MBU and Lock-in permission slips and fees please bring those tonight or first thing Saturday morning. Use the time tonight to work on advancements towards rank, especially those below 1st Class, work on partial merit badges, and get service hours signed off. OFFICERS: Use the time to work on your job responsibilities.

Highland Park and Richmond Elementary Crossovers – I need at least 3 scouts for crossover ceremonies on Feb. 8th at Highland Park Elem. And March 21st at Richmond Elem. I need three scouts each week to take on speaking roles in the ceremony. These scouts must be able to come early (6:00 p.m.) to the troop meeting on the 31st of January to practice the ceremony. Sign up on the chalkboard. These events can fulfill a requirement for the Communication Merit Badge.

Merit Badge University – I am still finalizing some of the info for MBU and I will be sending out a final schedule this week. Special thanks to all the adults who have pitched in to put on this event; it is such an important opportunity for the scouts. WE STILL NEED TWO ADULTS TO SLEEP OVER ON THE 12TH-13TH! Please consider volunteering. We are going to alter our plans for Scouting for Food so we will not be needing the help delivering bags on the 5th but we should still need help on the 12th picking up and delivering the food.

Merit Badge University/Scout Sunday – Following n Feb. 12th we will be having a lock-in at the Scout Hut and on Sunday the 13th we will be participating in the First United Methodist Church’s Scout Sunday. The fee for this activity will be $6 and will include dinner and snacks on Saturday and breakfast on Sunday. This is an fun and enriching event for the scouts, who will probably be wanting to let off some steam after class work all day, and it also provides a wonderful opportunity for the church to see the wonderful group of young men that they so generously sponsor. WE STILL NEED TWO ADULTS TO SLEEP OVER ON THE 12TH-13TH! Please consider volunteering.

Ouachita Trek / Shakedown – There will be a required Ouachita Trek Shakedown for any scout who is planning on attending the trek for the first time Feb. 26-27 at Lake McMurtry. More details in attached file. Rangers and R.I.T.s will be required to go through training, which will either be at the Shakedown or another date. All scouts will need to have a Physical form on file.(See attached file)

Scout-O-Rama – On Saturday April 2nd the Pawnee Bill District will be having a showcase of Boy Scouting at Boomer Lake. We will be participating in this event by setting up a small camp, talking to visitors about or activities, serving some scout-cooked food, and possibly firing off our Screaming Monkey Trebuchet. We will discuss our participation in this event at future Troop and Committee meetings.

Troop Meetings
Monday, Jan. 31st - Set up for MBU, Achievement, Cocoa
Monday, Feb. 7th - Work on MBU requirements
Monday, Feb 14th - Personal Fitness test, Clean-up from MBU
Monday, Feb 21st - Achievement Day

More dates for your calendar
Feb. 5-6 Lock-in / Scout Sunday
Feb. 5th and Feb. 12th Merit Badge University
Feb. 5th through Feb. 12th Scouting for Food
Feb. 26-27 Ouachita Trek Shakedown at Lake McMurtry
Feb. 28th Possible Eagle Court of Honor
March 12-16 Ouachita Trek
March 28th Court of Honor
April 2nd Scout-O-Rama

Merit Badge University Schedule

2011-01-29T09:14:00.002-06:00

Saturday Feb. 5th
Classes
1st Session 9:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.
Citizenship in the Community – Instructor Butch Koemel
Citizenship in the Nation – Instructor Jeff Southwick
2nd Session 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Soil and Water Conservation
Lunch – Charles Prewit and Kim Toscano
2nd Session (cont.) 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Soil and Water Conservation
3rd Session 2:15 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Citizenship in the World- Instructor David Cross
Communications – Instructor Kevin Gragg
Scouting for Food – Arista Lopp, Eric Rebek

Saturday Feb. 12th
Classes
1st Session 9:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.
Citizenship in the Community – Instructor Butch Koemel
Citizenship in the Nation – Instructor Jeff Southwick
2nd Session 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Soil and Water Conservation
Lunch – Justin Jones and Julie Koch
2nd Session (cont.) 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Soil and Water Conservation
3rd Session 2:15 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Citizenship in the World- Instructor David Cross
Communications – Instructor Kevin Gragg
Scouting for Food – Mike Shanahan, Eric Rebek, Pam Clower

Scout Notes - Sunday, January 23, 2011

2011-01-23T18:04:00.001-06:00

Scout Officers - We will be having a PLC meeting. On the agenda is the discussion of spring activities.

This Week’s Meeting – This week we will be working on the personal fitness classroom work and cleaning up from Trappers Rendezvous.

Highland Park and Richmond Elementary Crossovers – I need at least 3 scouts for crossover ceremonies on Feb. 8th at Highland Park Elem. And March 21st at Richmond Elem. I need three scouts each week to take on speaking roles in the ceremony. These scouts must be able to come early (6:00 p.m.) to the troop meeting on the 31st of January to practice the ceremony. These events can fulfill a requirement for the Communication Merit Badge.

Merit Badge University – Our Merit Badge University will take place the Saturdays of Feb. 5th and 12th at our Scout Hut from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. We will be offering the following Eagle Required merit badges: Citizenship in the Community, Citizenship in the Nation, Citizenship in the World, and Communications. Permission slip attached.

Merit Badge University/Scout Sunday – Following n Feb. 12th we will be having a lock-in at the Scout Hut and on Sunday the 13th we will be participating in the First United Methodist Church’s Scout Sunday. The fee for this activity will be $6 and will include dinner and snacks on Saturday and breakfast on Sunday. This is an fun and enriching event for the scouts, who will probably be wanting to let off some steam after class work all day, and it also provides a wonderful opportunity for the church to see the wonderful group of young men that they so generously sponsor. Permission slip attached.

Ouachita Trek / Shakedown – There will be a required Ouachita Trek Shakedown for any scout who is planning on attending the trek for the first time Feb. 26-27 at Lake McMurtry. More details in attached file. Rangers and R.I.T.s will be required to go through training, which will either be at the Shakedown or another date. All scouts will need to have a Physical form on file.(See attached file)

Scout-O-Rama – On Saturday April 2nd the Pawnee Bill District will be having a showcase of Boy Scouting at Boomer Lake. We will be participating in this event by setting up a small camp, talking to visitors about or activities, serving some scout-cooked food, and possibly firing off our Screaming Monkey Trebuchet. We will discuss our participation in this event at future Troop and Committee meetings.

Troop Meetings
Monday, Jan. 24h –Personal Fitness, Merit Badge University Preparations
Monday, Jan. 31rd - Personal Fitness test, Scouting for Food
Monday, Feb. 7th - Work on MBU requirements
Monday, Feb 14rd - Personal Fitness test, Clean-up from MBU

More dates for your calendar
Feb. 5-6 Lock-in / Scout Sunday
Feb. 5th and Feb. 12th Merit Badge University
Feb. 5th through Feb. 12th Scouting for Food
Feb. 26-27 Ouachita Trek Shakedown at Lake McMurtry
Feb. 28th Possible Eagle Court of Honor
March 12-16 Ouachita Trek
March 28th Court of Honor
April 2nd Scout-O-Rama

Scout Notes - Monday, December 20, 2010

2010-12-19T22:03:00.001-06:00

Scout Officers - We will be having a PLC meeting this week.

This Week’s Meeting – This week is the Christmas Party! Wear your Class A uniforms. Spartan Patrol members are in charge of bringing desserts and the Narwhals are in charge of bringing side dishes. Leaders need to bring drinks, and everyone needs to bring along a “Dirty Santa” gift. This is a family event so everyone is encouraged to come and celebrate the season!

Upcoming Events – In order to begin making plans for the coming six months I would like everyone to take a few minutes to provide some feedback on which events your scout plans on participating. Please copy and paste the following into an email and indicate if your scout plans on participating or not. (This is not an official sign-up and does not mean that you cannot change your mind.)

1. (Y or N ) Merit Badge University: Saturday Feb 5 and Saturday Feb. 12th
2. (Y or N ) Lock-in/Scout Sunday Feb. 12-13.
3. (Y or N ) Ouachita Trek, March 12-16
4. (Y or N ) Will Rogers Summer Camp, June 19-25
5. (Y or N ) Tres Ritos Summer Camp, July 17-24

Trappers Rendezvous – Please have permission slips, payment, and shirt/hoodie orders and payment at this week’s meeting or make other arrangements with me. Permission Slip attached.

Merit Badge University/Scout Sunday – Saturdays, February 5th and 12th we will be having our Merit Badge University from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. We will be offering the following Eagle Required Merit Badges: Citizenship in the Community, Citizenship in the Nation, Citizenship in the World, and Communications. On the 12th we will be having a lock-in at the Scout Hut and on Sunday the 13th we will be participating in the First United Methodist Church’s Scout Sunday. The cost of both weekends is $20 and includes lunch both Satudays, Dinner on the 12th, and Breakfast on the 13th.

Troop Meetings
Monday, Dec. 20th - Christmas Party
Monday, Dec. 27th - Personal Fitness Merit Badge / Painting Party
Monday, Jan. 3rd - Personal Fitness Classroom material (Important for Merit Badge!)
Monday, Jan. 10th – - Personal Fitness Merit Badge / Prepare for Trapper’s Rendezvous

More dates for your calendar
Jan. 14-16 Trappers Rendezvous, Newton KS
Feb. 5-6 Lock-in / Scout Sunday
Feb. 5th and Feb. 12th Merit Badge University

Scout Notes - Monday, December 13, 2010

2010-12-13T14:47:00.001-06:00

Scout Officers - We will not be having a PLC meeting this week. SPL, ASPL, and Patrol Leaders are to dress in Class A uniforms and bring along work clothes.

This Week’s Meeting – This week we are going to be working around the Scout Hut so, with the exception of the officers listed above, scouts are asked to wear work clothing. We will be finishing the work started as part of the Carpentry merit badge and work on cleaning the Scout Hut. There should be time available if any scouts need to work on any special advancements for rank or merit badges. As with all meetings, BRING YOUR SCOUT MANUAL

Gear - If you have any troop gear, like backpacks and sleeping bags, please return them at Monday’s meeting. Also, if you attended the Webelos Weekend pease check your sleeping bag and make sure that you have the correct bag; we believe that someone grabbed the wrong one. Also, a pair of scout pants went missing after last week’s meeting. Please check to see if you have the wrong/extra pair.

Christmas Party – We will be having our Christmas party at the Dec. 20th meeting. I ask that everyone bring food, drink, or treat as well as well as a present for a “Dirty Santa” gift exchange.

Trappers Rendezvous – Please have permission slips, payment, and shirt/hoodie orders and payment at the Dec. 20th meeting or make other arrangements with me. Permission Slip attached.

Troop Meetings
Monday, Dec. 13th - Carpentry / Advancement
Monday, Dec. 20th - Christmas Party
Monday, Dec. 27th - Personal Fitness Merit Badge / Painting Party
Monday, Jan. 3rd - Personal Fitness Classroom material (Important for Merit Badge!)

More dates for your calendar
Jan. 14-16 Trappers Rendezvous, Newton KS
Feb. 5-6 Lock-in / Scout Sunday
Feb. 5th and Feb. 12th Merit Badge University

Scout Notes - Monday, August 16, 2010

2010-08-11T07:43:00.000-05:00

Scoutmaster Departure – This past Sunday evening I accepted a position with a new company that will require my move to Omaha, NE. At the end of Monday’s Troop Meeting, I attended my last Troop Meeting as your Scoutmaster as I will be starting my new work duties on Monday, August 16th.

I would like to thank each of you for allowing me to be your Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmaster for these past eight years. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed watching each of you develop into strong leaders, having loads of fun along the way. I’ll forever remember Will Rogers, Philmont, Boundary Waters, the Ouachita Trek, Wichitas, Lock-ins, Webelos Weekend, Courts of Honor, Recycling and any number of the many other activities we enjoyed.

Looking forward, please continue down the Scouting path. Seek out new adventure, have fun and challenge yourself to earn the rank of Eagle. As with most things in life, attaining Eagle won’t be easy, but it’s well worth it once you arrive.

Committee Meeting – There will be a special Committee Meeting that will be held on Saturday, August 14th to discuss the Troop’s new year’s activity calendar and transitions issues. The meeting place will be Steve Miller’s house and the time will be 3:00pm. All adult and youth leaders are invited to help provide input. Steve’s house is located at 2110 S. Walking Trail Drive in Stillwater.

Monday Lake Meeting – This Monday will be our last scheduled lake meeting with the canoes for this summer. Please come prepared to finish the Canoe Merit Badge. Mr. Shanahan reminded each of the Scouts that they needed to complete the written portions of the badge. This included the following requirements:
4b: The most common weather and water-related hazards encountered while canoeing and how to deal safely with each one.
5a: Name and point out the major parts of a canoe. For this requirements, please come with a diagram of a canoe noting each of the major parts.

Troop Meetings
Monday, August 16th
Canoe Meeting at Lake McMurtry
Monday, August 23rd
Meeting in the Scout Hut

Upcoming Activities
Relay for Life – We’ve been asked to help with the setup for the Relay for Life and the placement of the luminaries. We will be needed from about 4:30pm until 9:00pm. Tasks will include helping participants in the setup of their areas as well as the filling of luminaries with sand and glow sticks. Dinner will be provided to all that volunteer, which will include sandwiches from Panera Bread. Each Scout participating will receive service hours. Class B uniforms will be appropriate. The date is Friday, August 20th.
Scouts currently signed up include: Gage, Mason, Robin and Jared. Please continue to sign up for this important cause.

Highland Park Scout Night – Please sign up to assist with Scout Night at Highland Park Elementary. We’ll be organizing games for the Cub Scout youth while their parents attend an informational meeting. The date is Tuesday, August 31st from 7:15 to 8:15pm. Please sign-up on August 23rd during our meeting and come in your Class B uniform, ready to play. This is good for service hours, so mark your calendar.

Scout Notes - Monday, August 9, 2010

2010-08-10T19:26:00.000-05:00

Monday Lake Meeting – We will plan to meet at Lake McMurtry on Monday to continue work on the Canoeing Merit Badge. We can use all senior Scouts available to assist with the solo canoe requirements. Due to vacations, it’s possible that we may not have someone to pull the trailer out to the lake, so stay tuned in case we need to reschedule and have our meeting in the Scout Hut.

Black Mesa Campout Recovery – We have tents set up in the Scout Hut from our Black Mesa campout. We need to get these down soon. If there are Scouts available on Saturday, please let me know and we’ll see if we can set up a time in the afternoon to get things put away.

Jamboree Closing Ceremony – If you get a chance, watch the video feed from the closing ceremony at the National Jamboree. I was very impressed with the talk that Mike Rowe, from Dirty Jobs, gave. If you wish to jump to his talk, look for the tag that’s about midway through the ceremony. Worth viewing. Here’s the link:

http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/8639388

Troop Meetings
Monday, August 9th
Canoe Meeting at Lake McMurtry
Monday, August 16th
Canoe Meeting at Lake McMurtry
Monday, August 23rd
Meeting in the Scout Hut

Upcoming Activities
Relay for Life – We’ve been asked to help with the setup for the Relay for Life and the placement of the luminaries. We will be needed from about 4:30pm until 9:00pm. Tasks will include helping participants in the setup of their areas as well as the filling of luminaries with sand and glow sticks. Dinner will be provided to all that volunteer, which will include sandwiches from Panera Bread. Each Scout participating will receive service hours. Class B uniforms will be appropriate. The date is Friday, August 20th.

Scout Notes - Monday, July 26, 2010

2010-07-22T15:39:00.001-05:00

FUMC Van Driver Training – Mr. Southwick will be holding Van Driver Training for adult leaders on Monday, July 26th from 6pm – 8pm in the Scout Hut. All untrained adults are encouraged to attend so that we have drivers for our various outings. Please bring a copy of your driver’s license and auto insurance information.

Swim Test – Scouts that haven’t completed their swim test yet this year should bring their swimsuits and a towel to Monday’s meeting. After we get things started, we’ll take a group over to the YMCA to quickly run through the steps. The test includes: 75 meter swim using a front or side stroke, 25 meters using the backstroke and then a stationary resting float. The 100 meters will be swum without stopping.

National Jamboree – Best wishes to Hunter and his crew as they take off for the National Jamboree.

Troop Meetings
Monday, July 26th
Meet at the Scout Hut to finalize our Black Mesa campout.
Swim Test
Monday, August 2nd
Scout will be returning from Black Mesa, so no meeting is planned.
Monday, August 9th
We should be back at Lake McMurtry

Upcoming Activities
Black Mesa Campout – We will be leaving the Scout Hut at 8:00am on Friday, July 30th. We will plan to return on Monday, August 2nd at approximately 8:00pm.

Relay for Life – We’ve been asked to help with the setup for the Relay for Life and the placement of the luminaries. We will be needed from about 4:30pm until 9:00pm. Tasks will include helping participants in the setup of their areas as well as the filling of luminaries with sand and glow sticks. Dinner will be provided to all that volunteer, which will include sandwiches from Panera Bread. Each Scout participating will receive service hours. Class B uniforms will be appropriate. The date is Friday, August 20th.

Scout Notes - Monday, June 28

2010-06-22T22:24:00.001-05:00

Reading Merit Badge – Mrs. Clower has an opportunity for you if you’re interested in working on this merit badge. From June 22nd through July 1st, Monday through Thursday each week from 09:00am - noon, she’ll be at the Media Center at Skyline Elementary. Four related service hours are required for this MB and helping at the Media Center will count. If interested, please contact Mrs. Clower at (405) 762-6310 to get started on the service hours and the rest of the requirements.

Additional Committee Meeting – There was so much to cover at Monday’s Committee Meeting that a continuation/follow-up meeting has been scheduled for Thursday, July 1st at 6:00pm in the Scout Hut. We will continue to review Eagle Projects and conduct Boards of Review. In addition, we’ll be discussing additional summer adventure options. Although I don’t have the full list that’s being considered, caving at Alabaster Cavern’s has been suggested as well as the Red Rock Ranch. Please come with ideas so that we can make the most of our summer.

Summer Camp – Wrap-up
More pictures added to our website:

http://www.bsatroop818.com/CampingPictures&Pages/2010SummerCamp/index.html

Troop Meetings
Monday, June 28th
Canoe Meeting at Lake McMurtry – East Side
Monday, July 5th
No Meeting Due to Holiday Weekend
Monday, July 12th
Canoe Meeting at Lake McMurtry – East Side

Upcoming Activities
Suggestions? – We don’t have any formal activities scheduled for July and August, with the exception of our Canoe Troop Meetings at the Lake each Monday. If you have any suggestions for consideration, please bring them forward to the SPL so that we may consider during the Committee Meeting on Monday. This can include: Camping Trips, Ball Games in the City, etc.

2010-06-17T10:06:00.000-05:00

Summer Camp – Wrap-up
We’re in the last couple days of Summer Camp. Although it’s been a little wet, the Scouts are having a fun time and getting a great deal accomplished. Some key items as we wrap-up:
Family Night – Join your Scouts on Friday for family night. You may begin arriving anytime after 4:00pm to tour the site. Dinner will be served at 6:00pm in the Dining Hall which will be followed with a campfire that will be full of song and skits.
Saturday – The Scouts will break camp on Saturday morning for their return to Stillwater. Upon arrival at the Scout Hut, they will unload the trailer and clean up the van prior to release. Calls will be made as they approach town, but anticipate an arrival around 11:00am.
Pictures – We have some pictures that were taken by Mr. Gragg that are posted on our website at the below listed address. We will be adding to this as we had a number of photographers shooting pictures

http://www.bsatroop818.com/CampingPictures&Pages/2010SummerCamp/index.html

Summer Camp – Family Night – Friday evening of Summer Camp is “Family Night.” This is an opportunity for families to come visit their Scouts and tour the camp. You may arrive anytime in the late afternoon after 4:00pm.
Dinner will be served in the dining hall at 6:30pm for a nominal charge. We’ll need a count if you’re interested in eating with us, so let us know on Sunday when the Scouts are dropped off at the Scout Hut.
At the end of the evening there will be a campfire that will be full of song and skits.

Youth Protection Training – The BSA Guidelines have changed regarding this training. Although all active adult leaders have been required to take this training, they now must renew the certification every two years. To take training, logon to My Scouting at the following address:

https://myscouting.scouting.org/_layouts/MyScouting/login.aspx?ReturnUrl=%2f_layouts%2fAuthenticate.aspx%3fSource%3d%252f&Source=%2f

Safe Swim Defense, Safety Afloat and Weather Hazards – Leaders that will be assisting with our summer canoe meetings at the lake need to be certified in these three courses. They may be taken on the My Scouting site. Each certification is good for two years.

Troop Meetings
Monday, June 21st
Committee Meeting @ 6:00pm
Summer Camp Recovery
Monday, June 28th
Canoe Meeting at Lake McMurtry – East Side

Upcoming Activities
Suggestions? – We don’t have any formal activities scheduled for July and August, with the exception of our Canoe Troop Meetings at the Lake each Monday. If you have any suggestions for consideration, please bring them forward to the SPL so that we may consider during the Committee Meeting on Monday. This can include: Camping Trips, Ball Games in the City, etc.

Scout Notes - Monday, June 14, 2010

2010-06-08T17:21:00.001-05:00

Summer Camp – Last Minute Items
Summer Camp is just around the corner. Some things to consider:
Departure – We will depart from the Scout Hut on Sunday at 13:00 or 1:00pm, whichever comes first. Please show up no later than 12:30 so that we may load your gear and tie up any loose ends.
Travel Attire – We will travel to and from WRSR in our Class A Uniforms. Under each uniform, please be wearing your swimsuit and have your towel handy. One of the first things you’ll be doing upon check-in is the swim test.
Medications – If you have any medications, please take them with you in the car/van, separate from your personal gear. During check-in you will meet with a medical officer that will want to see your medications.
Water – Bring a Nalgene to carry around camp. It’s summer in Oklahoma, so it’s critical that you drink plenty of water during your time at camp.
Rain Gear – As always, bring your rain gear. A dry Scout is a happy Scoutmaster.
Shoes/Boots – You may not wear open-toe shoes at camp and can only go barefoot in the pool. Because your shoes/boots will get wet, it’s good to have a second pair.
Cots – If possible, please bring a cot for your son. A week on the ground is manageable, but uncomfortable.
Sun Screen/Bug Spray – Be prepared. Don’t be lunch for the bugs or the sun.
Packing – It’s best to pack your personal gear in the large plastic “Tupperware” containers that can be placed beneath/beside your cot. It will keep everything dry and stacks well in the trailer.
Fun – Focus on your advancement and merit badges, but also remember to have fun. Will Rogers is a great camp, full of all kinds of adventure and soon-to-be memories.

Summer Camp – Family Night – Friday evening of Summer Camp is “Family Night.” This is an opportunity for families to come visit their Scouts and tour the camp. You may arrive anytime in the late afternoon after 4:00pm.
Dinner will be served in the dining hall at 6:30pm for a nominal charge. We’ll need a count if you’re interested in eating with us, so let us know on Sunday when the Scouts are dropped off at the Scout Hut.
At the end of the evening there will be a campfire that will be full of song and skits.

Youth Protection Training – The BSA Guidelines have changed regarding this training. Although all active adult leaders have been required to take this training, they now must renew the certification every two years. To take training, logon to My Scouting at the following address:

https://myscouting.scouting.org/_layouts/MyScouting/login.aspx?ReturnUrl=%2f_layouts%2fAuthenticate.aspx%3fSource%3d%252f&Source=%2f

Safe Swim Defense, Safety Afloat and Weather Hazards – Leaders that will be assisting with our summer canoe meetings at the lake need to be certified in these three courses. They may be taken on the My Scouting site. Each certification is good for two years.

Troop Meetings
Monday, June 14th
Summer Camp
Monday, June 21st
Committee Meeting @ 6:00pm
Summer Camp Recovery
Monday, June 28th
Canoe Meeting at Lake McMurtry – East Side

Upcoming Activities
Summer Camp – Here’s some good general information about the camp, and what to bring, check out this link:

http://www.bsatroop818.com/WRSRSummerCamp.pdf

Scout Notes - Monday, June 7, 2010

2010-06-02T15:05:00.001-05:00

Annual Health and Medical Record – I’m sorry to report that we are unable to find the Scout Physcials that we had on file for the Ouachita Trek. I’m hopeful that they’ll still turn up, but they apparently never made it back from the trek and into our records file.

Because we’re unable to find the records, we will need each Scout to and Leader to have another form completed. Or, if you kept a copy for your own records, please provide us with another copy. Below is the link to the website that contains the blank forms:

http://www.scouting.org/filestore/pdf/34605_Letter.pdf

Missing Information: Some forms are still missing Medical Insurance Card information or a completed Section C. If you’ve not provided this yet, please do so when we meet again on Monday, June 7th. A copy of the current status for each Scouter is attached as a pdf to these notes.

Committee Meeting – We will be holding a brief Committee Meeting for all that can make it on Monday the 7th. This meeting will be held during the regular Troop Meeting and will be brief. Items to be covered include:
Summer Camp Prep
OA Election – Possible nomination of a Troop Adult Leader for OA

Summer Camp – Family Night – Friday evening of Summer Camp is “Family Night.” This is an opportunity for families to come visit their Scouts and tour the camp. You may arrive anytime in the late afternoon after 4:00pm.
Dinner will be served in the dining hall at 6:30pm for a nominal charge. We’ll need a count if you’re interested in eating with us, so let us know on Sunday when the Scouts are dropped off at the Scout Hut.
At the end of the evening there will be a campfire that will be full of song and skits.

Personal Management – All budgets will need to be approved no later than Monday, June 7th. Those that don’t have approved budgets will be dropped from the class.

Youth Protection Training – The BSA Guidelines have changed regarding this training. Although all active adult leaders have been required to take this training, they now must renew their certification every two years. To take training, logon to My Scouting at the following address:

https://myscouting.scouting.org/_layouts/MyScouting/login.aspx?ReturnUrl=%2f_layouts%2fAuthenticate.aspx%3fSource%3d%252f&Source=%2f

Safe Swim Defense, Safety Afloat and Weather Hazards – Leaders that will be assisting with our summer canoe meetings at the lake need to be certified in these three courses. They may be taken on the My Scouting site. Each certification is good for two years.

Troop Meetings
Monday, June 7th
Summer Camp Prep
Equipment
Eagle Quest/MB Planning
Committee Meeting During Regular Troop Meeting
Other Activities as Time Permits
Monday, June 14th
Summer Camp
Monday, June 21st
Committee Meeting
Summer Camp Recovery

Upcoming Activities
Summer Camp – Here’s some good general information about the camp, and what to bring, check out this link:

http://www.bsatroop818.com/WRSRSummerCamp.pdf

Summer Canoeing – We will again take a number of our summer meetings out to the lake with our canoes. Tentatively, we’re planning to begin on Monday, June 28th. Adult leaders need to update their Safe Swim and Safety Afloat certifications.

Other
Potential Eagle Project – Habitat for Humanity has a potential project if we have an interested Scout. Please contact Angie at (405) 372-8100 for more details.

Scout Notes - Monday, May 31, 2010

2010-05-27T11:46:00.001-05:00

Scout Notes - Monday, May 24, 2010

2010-05-20T08:45:00.001-05:00

Hut and Van Cleanup – Thank you for everyone that pitched in to help clean the Scout Hut and the Van as we recovered from the Work Day campout. Everything looked good.

Safety at Meetings – I was alerted Monday evening after our meeting that some of our Scouts had been playing in potentially dangerous areas within the St. Francis Xavier property. Specifically:
Recycling Bin – Some Scouts had climbed into the recycling dumpster located in the SE corner of the parking lot.
Window Well – Some Scouts were climbing into the window well that’s located on the east end of the church, next to the alley.
In either case noted above, serious injury or property damage could occur. In the future, please avoid these areas and any other potentially dangerous situations. We want you to have fun, but your safety is our primary concern.

Annual Health and Medical Record – Each Scout and Adult Scout Leader is required to have a current medical health record on file to participate in our camping activities. Below is a link that you may download. Pages 2-3 are to be completed by the Scouter and a physician. Page 4 is to be completed by the Scouter.

http://www.scouting.org/filestore/pdf/34605_Letter.pdf

We have arranged to have the camp physicals conducted for the youth at University Heights Baptist Church on Monday, May 24th. We will be joining Troop 828 with Dr. Bobby Lauvetz conducting the physicals.

If you’re going to take advantage of this opportunity to have a physical, please come to University Heights at 6:00pm with your portion of the paperwork completed. Also, if this is the first time your son is having a physical, please talk to him so that he understands what to expect as there will be a check for hernia.

Here’s the address of University Baptist Heights:
323 South Knoblock Street Stillwater, OK 74074-3020

Troop 828 meets on the second floor of the UHBC building when you enter from the north side.

Red Rock Camp – Some new pictures have been posted on our website, so please take a look.

Knot Tying – Remember to bring your rope to the Troop Meeting.

Troop Meetings
Monday, May 24th
Physicals – 6:00pm at University Heights Baptist Church
Order of the Arrow Elections – These will be held at approximately 8:00pm
Personal Management Merit Badge
Rank Advancement – 2nd Class Swimming Requirement – All first year Scouts that need this requirement, bring your suit.
Note: We will have a very full evening and I hope we can get everything in. Completing the physicals will take priority.
Monday, May 31st
Memorial Day – No Troop Meeting
Monday, June 7th
Summer Camp Prep
Other Activities as Time Permits

Upcoming Activities
Summer Camp – We’ve turned our registration forms into Council so that we could take advantage of the early registration rate. If you’re still interested in attending Summer Camp, please let us know.

Van Training – Mr. Southwick will be conducting Van Driver Training for all adults over the age of 21 that will be driving one of the FUMC vehicles for our Scout outings. The training will take place on Sunday, May 23rd at 1:00pm in the Scout Hut. The training will take approximately two hours. Please bring a copy of your driver’s license and vehicle insurance for FUMC insurance records. Remember, we need as many trained adults as possible to ensure that we’re covered when out on our activities.

Summer Canoeing – We will again take a number of our summer meetings out to the lake with our canoes. Tentatively, we’re planning to begin on Monday, June 21st. Adult leaders need to update their Safe Swim and Safety Afloat certifications.

Other
Potential Eagle Project – Habitat for Humanity has a potential project if we have an interested Scout. Please contact Angie at (405) 372-8100 for more details.

Scout Notes - Monday, May 17, 2010

2010-05-13T14:15:00.002-05:00

Knot Tying – Remember to bring your rope to the Troop Meeting.

Troop Meetings
Monday, May 17th
Committee Meeting – Starts at 6:00pm. All parents welcome.
Campout Recovery
Richmond 3842 Crossover (7:30pm)
Knot Tying
Personal Management Merit Badge
Rank Advancement
Monday, May 24th
Knot Tying
Order of the Arrow Elections
Personal Management Merit Badge
Rank Advancement
Monday, May 31st
Memorial Day – No Troop Meeting

Upcoming Activities
Summer Camp – We’ve turned our registration forms into Council so that we could take advantage of the early registration rate. If you’re still interested in attending Summer Camp, please let us know.

Van Training – We’re in the process of establishing a Van Training Course for our new parents and adult leaders. This training allows us to drive the FUMC vans for Scout functions. If interested, please see Mr. Koemel or myself.

Summer Canoeing – We will again take a number of our summer meetings out to the lake with our canoes. Great opportunity to work on our canoe skills and the merit badge. We will be establishing our preliminary dates during the Committee Meeting with the goal of starting after Summer Camp.

Looking Forward – During our last Troop Meeting we talked about putting together an adventure plan that looks forward a few years. Some thoughts include: Tres Ritos in 2011, Boundary Waters in 2012 and Philmont in 2013. More ideas are sought that will be fun and inspire.

Scout Notes - Monday, May 10, 2010

2010-05-06T15:39:00.001-05:00

Personal Management – We will begin the Personal Management Merit Badge on Monday, May 10th during the Troop meeting. This is an Eagle required merit badge that requires a 90 day commitment from the Scout. Take a minute to look at the requirements before Monday’s meeting. Also, bring a notebook and pen/pencil. Below is a link to a site that lists the MB’s requirements:

http://www.usscouts.org/mb/mb011.asp

Knot Tying – Remember to bring your rope to the Troop Meeting.

Troop Meetings
Monday, May 10th
Knot Tying
Meal Planning – WRSR Work Day
Personal Management Merit Badge - Start
Rank Advancement
Monday, May 17th
Committee Meeting – Starts at 6:00pm. All parents welcome.
Richmond 3842 Crossover
Knot Tying
Personal Management Merit Badge
Rank Advancement

Upcoming Activities
Wilderness and Remote First Aid – Boy Scout High Adventure requires that at least one person attending be certified in this type of first aid. A course is being offered on May 15-16 at Camp Sylvia Stapley, a Girl Scout Camp near Stillwater. Cost is $60. Class size will be limited to 20 participants. Certification is good for two years. If interested, please see me or register with Melanie Armstrong at the following e:Mail address:

mgarmstrong@brightok.net

WRSR Workday – This is our annual campout that prepares WRSR for summer camp. It will begin Friday evening and end Saturday afternoon. The cost of this campout is free to all that participate. The permission slip is on our website on the main page as well as in the Camping/Info Forms page.

Summer Camp – We now need your commitment for Summer Camp. We have our reservation in for the second week, which is June 13 – 19. First Year Scouts need this camp, attending the Eagle Quest activities. Older Scouts will have the opportunity to select from the array of offered merit badges.
Justin Jones has volunteered to be the lead adult for the week. Other adults that will be attending throughout the week include: David Cross, Kenny Quigley and Kevin Gragg. See our website for the permission slip.

Van Training – We’re in the process of establishing a Van Training Course for our new parents and adult leaders. This training allows us to drive the FUMC vans for Scout functions. If interested, please see Mr. Koemel or myself.

Summer Canoeing – We will again take a number of our summer meetings out to the lake with our canoes. Great opportunity to work on our canoe skills and the merit badge.

Looking Forward – During our last Troop Meeting we talked about putting together an adventure plan that looks forward a few years. Some thoughts include: Tres Ritos in 2011, Boundary Waters in 2012 and Philmont in 2013. More ideas are sought that will be fun and inspire.

Scout Notes - Monday, May 2, 2010

2010-04-27T16:52:00.001-05:00

Red Rock Ranch – We will be leaving the Scout Hut at 6:00pm on Friday evening. Please arrive at 5:30 to help load the trailer. Some things to remember for this campout:
Uniform – We will travel in Class A Uniform.
Nalgene – Bring at least one Nalgene for water. We want you hydrated.
Eating – Bring your own utensils, bowl and cup.
Backpack – Bring your gear packed in a backpack. Let’s get used to camping this way.
Have Fun

Here’s a link on the Internet for more information about the ranch:

http://www.redrockranchok.com/

Personal Management – We will begin the Personal Management Merit Badge on Monday, May 10th during the Troop meeting. (Delayed one week due to finals) Ms. Anna Greene will be the counselor. Please sign up on the blackboard.

Knot Tying – Remember to bring your rope to the Troop Meeting.

Troop Meetings
Monday, May 3rd
Campout Recovery – Gear Check
Knot Tying
Personal Management Merit Badge
Rank Advancement
Monday, May 10th
Knot Tying
Personal Management Merit Badge
Rank Advancement

Upcoming Activities
Wilderness and Remote First Aid – Boy Scout High Adventure requires that at least one person attending be certified in this type of first aid. A course is being offered on May 15-16 at Camp Sylvia Stapley, a Girl Scout Camp near Stillwater. Cost is $60. Class size will be limited to 20 participants. Certification is good for two years. If interested, please see me or register with Melanie Armstrong at the following e:Mail address:

mgarmstrong@brightok.net

WRSR Workday – This is our annual campout that prepares WRSR for summer camp. It will begin Friday evening and end Saturday afternoon. The cost of this campout is free to all that participate. The permission slip is on our website on the main page as well as in the Camping/Info Forms page.

Summer Camp – Never too early to be thinking about Summer Camp. We have our reservation in for the second week, which is June 13 – 19. First Year Scouts need this camp, attending the Eagle Quest activities. Older Scouts will have the opportunity to select from the array of offered merit badges.
Justin Jones has volunteered to be the lead adult for the week. Other adults that will be attending throughout the week include: David Cross, Kenny Quigley and Kevin Gragg.

Summer Canoeing – We will again take a number of our summer meetings out to the lake with our canoes. Great opportunity to work on our canoe skills and the merit badge.

Looking Forward – During our last Troop Meeting we talked about putting together an adventure plan that looks forward a few years. Some thoughts include: Tres Ritos in 2011, Boundary Waters in 2012 and Philmont in 2013. More ideas are sought that will be fun and inspire.

Scout Notes - Monday, April 26, 2010

2010-04-22T09:19:00.001-05:00

April Campout – We will be camping at the Red Rock Ranch that’s located along the North Salt Fork River in northern Noble County. We will have the campsite to ourselves and can expect the following features: Fishing, Potable Water, Pavilion, Picnic Tables, Wood Burning Stove, etc. Although we won’t be using the lodge accommodations, as we’ll be in tents, here’s a link to get a flavor of what Red Rock has to offer:

http://www.redrockranchok.com/

We will be reconfirming our counts on Monday, preparing our meals and getting our gear ready. For those that paid for Camporee, but won’t be able to attend this new campout, we will maintain a Troop credit for you.

Personal Management – We will begin the Personal Management Merit Badge on Monday, May 3rd during the Troop meeting. Ms. Anna Greene will be the counselor. Please sign up on the blackboard.

Knot Tying – Remember to bring your rope to the Troop Meeting.

Troop Meetings
Monday, April 26th
Knot Tying
Meal Planning for Campout
Rank Advancement
Monday, May 3rd
Campout Recovery
Knot Tying
Personal Management Merit Badge
Rank Advancement

Upcoming Activities
Wilderness and Remote First Aid – Boy Scout High Adventure requires that at least one person attending be certified in this type of first aid. A course is being offered on May 15-16 at Camp Sylvia Stapley, a Girl Scout Camp near Stillwater. Cost is $60. Class size will be limited to 20 participants. Certification is good for two years. If interested, please see me or register with Melanie Armstrong at the following e:Mail address:

mgarmstrong@brightok.net

WRSR Workday – This is our annual campout that prepares WRSR for summer camp. It will begin Friday evening and end Saturday afternoon. The cost of this campout is free to all that participate. The permission slip is on our website on the main page as well as in the Camping/Info Forms page.

Summer Camp – Never too early to be thinking about Summer Camp. We have our reservation in for the second week, which is June 13 – 19. First Year Scouts need this camp, attending the Eagle Quest activities. Older Scouts will have the opportunity to select from the array of offered merit badges.
Justin Jones has volunteered to be the lead adult for the week. Other adults that will be attending throughout the week include: David Cross, Kenny Quigley and Kevin Gragg.

Summer Canoeing – We will again take a number of our summer meetings out to the lake with our canoes. Great opportunity to work on our canoe skills and the merit badge.

Looking Forward – During our last Troop Meeting we talked about putting together an adventure plan that looks forward a few years. Some thoughts include: Tres Ritos in 2011, Boundary Waters in 2012 and Philmont in 2013. More ideas are sought that will be fun and inspire.

Scout Notes - Monday, April 19, 2010

2010-04-15T16:31:00.001-05:00

April Campout – With the Camporee cancellation, we’ve been left scrambling for an alternative camping adventure. The Scouts voted to go to Perry CCC Lake, but this turned out to not be an option given that two other Troops have already reserved the space. Second on the list was Will Rogers. This is still an option, but the camp is being used by another Troop and Wood Badge.

We will finalize our choice during the Committee Meeting on Monday. If you have any additional ideas for a camping venue, please bring them forward.

Pack 12 Crossover – We will be participating in Pack 12’s Crossover on Thursday, April 22nd. We will have more details at Monday’s Troop Meeting.

Knot Tying – Remember to bring your rope to the Troop Meeting.

Troop Meetings
Monday, April 19th
Committee Meeting – 6:00pm (Scouts needing BOR’s to arrive at 6:30pm)
Knot Tying
Rank Advancement
Monday, April 26th
Knot Tying
Meal Planning for Campout
Rank Advancement

Upcoming Activities
OSU Colvin Center Rock Wall Climb – We will be climbing at the OSU Colvin Center on Saturday, April 17th from 12:45 – 3:00pm. Please come in your Class B Uniform and meet at the East Main Entrance. Parking is permitted, but at a cost of $0.25 per hour for those parents that stay. Below is the permission slip. Please get these in as soon as possible.

Climbing Waiver Form: For the climbing activity, we must also provide a signed waiver and release for each participant. Please use the link below to print out the waiver and have your Scout bring it to the Colvin Center on Saturday. For those that forget, we will have some blank copies that may be signed as you drop your son off. Here is the link:

http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/ClimbingWaiver.pdf

Wilderness and Remote First Aid – Boy Scout High Adventure requires that at least one person attending be certified in this type of first aid. A course is being offered on May 15-16 at Camp Sylvia Stapley, a Girl Scout Camp near Stillwater. Cost is $60. Class size will be limited to 20 participants. Certification is good for two years. If interested, please see me or register with Melanie Armstrong at the following e:Mail address:

mgarmstrong@brightok.net

Summer Camp – Never too early to be thinking about Summer Camp. We have our reservation in for the second week, which is June 13 – 19. First Year Scouts need this camp, attending the Eagle Quest activities. Older Scouts will have the opportunity to select from the array of offered merit badges.
Justin Jones has volunteered to be one of our adult leaders for the week. How cool is that?

Scout Notes - Monday, April 12, 2010

2010-04-09T22:19:00.001-05:00

Pawnee Bill Camporee – The Camporee has been postponed until sometime in the fall. During the Monday Troop Meeting we will be meeting to discuss options for a different camping experience that’s family friendly. Some suggested venues include: Lake McMurtry, Perry CCC Lake and Will Rogers. Anyone with suggestions is invited to the discussion.

Knot Tying – Remember to bring your rope to the Troop Meeting.

Troop Meetings
Monday, April 12th
Knot Tying
Rank Advancement
Monday, April 19th
Committee Meeting – 6:30pm
Knot Tying
Rank Advancement

Upcoming Activities
OSU Colvin Center Rock Wall Climb – We will be climbing at the OSU Colvin Center on Saturday, April 17th from 12:45 – 3:00pm. The cost is $12 per participant. Please come in your Class B Uniform and meet at the East Main Entrance. Parking is permitted, but at a cost of $0.25 per hour for those parents that stay. Below is the permission slip. Please get these in as soon as possible.

http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/ColvinClimb.pdf

Climbing Waiver Form: For the climbing activity, we must also provide a signed waiver and release for each participant. Please use the link below to print out the waiver and have your Scout bring it to the Colvin Center on Saturday. For those that forget, we will have some blank copies that may be signed as you drop your son off. Here is the link:

http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/ClimbingWaiver.pdf

Pawnee Bill District Centennial Camporee – Postponed. A replacement campout will be determined during Monday’s meeting.

Summer Camp – Never too early to be thinking about Summer Camp. We have our reservation in for the second week, which is June 13 – 19. First Year Scouts need this camp, attending the Eagle Quest activities. Older Scouts will have the opportunity to select from the array of offered merit badges.
Justin Jones has volunteered to be one of our adult leaders for the week. How cool is that?

Scout Notes - Monday, April 5, 2010

2010-03-31T15:32:00.001-05:00

Pictures – There are pictures on the Troop Website for the following events: Council MB Fair, Scout Sunday and Mulch Madness. Go to the Camping Pics icon at the home page to find the pictures.

Camping Philosophy – Going forward, we’re going to encourage the Scouts to take a backpack on all campouts, except long-term camps like Summer Camp. The goal is to get the Scouts used to packing a pack so that they’re ready for our hiking adventures. These may be checked out from the Troop.

Knot Tying – Many Boy Scout Troops are losing their ability to effectively tie knots. Some of this is due to the gear that we have that doesn’t require as much knot knowledge as was needed in the past. Regardless, knot tying is very important. To this end, we need everyone to bring their length of rope to Monday’s meeting as we’re going to begin tying knots again, at least one per meeting. If you don’t have a rope, we’ll issue another. Also, this rope will become part of your uniform, worn through your right shoulder loop and under your arm.

Troop Meetings
Monday, April 5th
Knot Tying
Rank Advancement
Monday, April 12th
Knot Tying
Rank Advancement

Upcoming Activities
OSU Colvin Center Rock Wall Climb – We will be climbing at the OSU Colvin Center on Saturday, April 17th from 12:45 – 3:00pm. The cost is $12 per participant. Please come in your Class B Uniform and meet at the East Main Entrance. Parking is permitted, but at a cost of $0.25 per hour for those parents that stay. Below is the permission slip. Please get these in as soon as possible.

http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/ColvinClimb.pdf

Climbing Waiver Form: For the climbing activity, we must also provide a signed waiver and release for each participant. Please use the link below to print out the waiver and have your Scout bring it to the Colvin Center on Saturday. For those that forget, we will have some blank copies that may be signed as you drop your son off. Here is the link:

http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/ClimbingWaiver.pdf

Pawnee Bill District Centennial Camporee – Held from Friday, April 30th through Sunday, May 2nd. This Camporee will be a celebration of Scouting’s 100th anniversary. Special events will be held, featuring historic skills from the early days of Scouting. Also, there’s a very cool patch that will be provided to each participant. The cost will be $27 per participant from the Troop. If you’ve not turned your permission slip in, please complete as soon as possible as we may still be able to accommodate you:

http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/PBDistrictCamporee2010.pdf

Summer Camp – Never too early to be thinking about Summer Camp. We have our reservation in for the second week, which is June 13 – 19. First Year Scouts need this camp, attending the Eagle Quest activities. Older Scouts will have the opportunity to select from the array of offered merit badges.
Justin Jones has volunteered to be one of our adult leaders for the week. How cool is that?

Scout Notes - Monday, March 29, 2010

2010-03-24T17:12:00.000-05:00

Mulch Madness – We will be delivering Mulch for the FUMC on Saturday, March 27th. We will begin deliveries at 09:00am, so please arrive a little earlier. We will meet in the parking lot of the Family Life Center. Please wear your Class B Uniform and bring work gloves. We will be using the Troop Trailer for the deliveries.
We really need Troop participation in this event to help support our charter organization. Service hours will also be recorded for rank advancement.

Court of Honor – We will be holding our Court of Honor on Monday, March 29th to celebrate the accomplishments of our Scouts. All Scouts and family members are welcome to attend. Also, each Scout is asked to bring some goodies and snacks for the celebration after the COH.

Troop Meetings
Monday, March 29th
Court of Honor (Parents and Family are Encouraged to Attend)
Monday, April 5th
Rank Advancement

Upcoming Activities
OA Fellowship – Order of the Arrow members wishing to attend the Fellowship from March 26 – 28, please let Mr. Southwick know so that transportation may be arranged. The 820 van is departing at 6:00pm on Friday and we should be able to join that group.

Mulch Madness – The FUMC will be holding their annual mulch fund raiser for their “Thursday Night Community Dinner” and “Storehouse Food Pantry.” As Scouts, we’ll help to deliver the mulch on Saturday, March 27th.

Court of Honor – We will be holding our Troop Court of Honor on Monday, March 29th. Scouts and their families are invited to participate as we recognize our accomplishments over the course of the past six months.

Life to Eagle Workshop – There will be a workshop for all Scouts that are the rank of Life to help them prepare for their journey to Eagle. This is a great workshop that should be attended by the Scouts and their parents to ensure complete understanding of what’s required. This session will be held in the Scout Hut on Tuesday at 7:00pm and will be taught by Dr. Dillwith.

OSU Colvin Center Rock Wall Climb – We will be climbing at the OSU Colvin Center on Saturday, April 17th from 12:45 – 3:00pm. The cost is $12 per participant. Please come in your Class B Uniform and meet at the East Main Entrance. Parking is permitted, but at a cost of $0.25 per hour for those parents that stay. Below is the permission slip. Please get these in as soon as possible.

http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/ColvinClimb.pdf

Pawnee Bill District Centennial Camporee – Held from Friday, April 30th through Sunday, May 2nd. This Camporee will be a celebration of Scouting’s 100th anniversary. Special events will be held, featuring historic skills from the early days of Scouting. Also, there’s a very cool patch that will be provided to each participant. The cost will be $27 per participant from the Troop. Permission slips are due no later than Monday, April 29th to guarantee our slot, so don’t delay. Here’s the link to the permission slip:

http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/PBDistrictCamporee2010.pdf

Summer Camp – Never too early to be thinking about Summer Camp. We have our reservation in for the second week, which is June 13 – 19. First Year Scouts need this camp, attending the Eagle Quest activities. Older Scouts will have the opportunity to select from the array of offered merit badges.
Justin Jones has volunteered to be one of our adult leaders for the week. How cool is that?

Scout Notes - Monday, March 22, 2010

2010-03-18T15:19:00.001-05:00

Ouachita Trek Pictures – Pictures are on our website. Go to the main page and click on the link. Or, use the link below. Note that I’ve combined pictures from the Shakedown and the Trek.
http://www.bsatroop818.com/CampingPictures&Pages/2010OuachitaShakedown/index.html

Ouachita Trek Cleanup – Please return all gear that was checked out for the Ouachita Trek. Please ensure that all items are clean, dry and ready to go back into our storage areas. These items include: Tents, Rain Gear, Backpacks, Pack Covers, Stoves, Gas Bottles, Sleeping Bags, Sleeping Pads, Nalgene Bottles, Clothing, etc.

Troop Meetings
Monday, March 22nd
Committee Meeting – 6:00pm (All Parents are Encouraged to Attend)
Troop Officer Elections
Knot Tying
Ouachita Recovery
Rank Advancement
Monday, March 29th
Court of Honor

Upcoming Activities
Mulch Madness – The FUMC will be holding their annual mulch fund raiser for their “Thursday Night Community Dinner” and “Storehouse Food Pantry.” As Scouts, we’ll help to deliver the mulch on Saturday, March 27th.

Court of Honor – We will be holding our Troop Court of Honor on Monday, March 29th. Scouts and their families are invited to participate as we recognize our accomplishments over the course of the past six months.

OSU Colvin Center Rock Wall Climb – We will be climbing at the OSU Colvin Center on Saturday, April 17th from 12:45 – 3:00pm. The cost is $12 per participant. Below is the permission slip. Please get these in as soon as possible.

http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/ColvinClimb.pdf

Pawnee Bill District Centennial Camporee – Held from Friday, April 30th through Sunday, May 2nd. This Camporee will be a celebration of Scouting’s 100th anniversary. Special events will be held, featuring historic skills from the early days of Scouting. Also, there’s a very cool patch that will be provided to each participant. The cost will be $27 per participant from the Troop. Permission slips are due no later than Monday, April 29th to guarantee our slot, so don’t delay. Here’s the link to the permission slip:

http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/PBDistrictCamporee2010.pdf

Summer Camp – Never too early to be thinking about Summer Camp. We have our reservation in for the second week, which is June 13 – 19. First Year Scouts need this camp, attending the Eagle Quest activities. Older Scouts will have the opportunity to select from the array of offered merit badges.
Justin Jones has volunteered to be one of our adult leaders for the week. How cool is that?

Scout Notes - Monday, March 15, 2010

2010-03-10T09:35:00.002-06:00

Troop Meetings
Monday, March 15th
No Meeting Due to the Ouachita Trek
Monday, March 22nd
Committee Meeting – 6:00pm
Troop Officer Elections
Knot Tying
Ouachita Recovery
Rank Advancement
Monday, March 29th
Court of Honor

Upcoming Activities
Ouachita Trek – The 31st Annual Ouachita Trek will take place on March 13 – 17. Our group will be leaving from the Scout Hut at 07:00am on Saturday, March 13th. Arrive by 6:30 so that we can pack and be on the road by 7:00am. Some things to remember:
Saturday Lunch – Bring a sack lunch for Saturday. We will stop for gas along the way if you want to pick something up from the convenience store. Yeah, those wieners on the rotisserie are calling….
Personal Food – You may bring food to consume in the van on the way to and from the trek, but don’t bring it on the trail. Also, please don’t trash the vehicles.
Uniform – You must wear your Class A for travel. Some of the attending parents aren’t registered leaders, so they will get a bye.
Post-Trail Clothing – Bring a small bag or backpack with a change of clothes after coming off the trail. You will also want to use this bag to store your Class A while trekking. Our van may be used to ferry crews to the trail, so we can’t have it trashed out with our stuff. Also, there may be showers available at base camp, so bring a towel.
Saturday - Final Shake – If you didn’t bring your backpack to Monday’s meeting, we need you at the Hut at 6:15am to perform a final shake of your pack.
Coffee – If you’re a coffee drinker, I suggest that you bring some individual packets of the instant coffee. Some of the breakfasts will include hot chocolate.
Equipment List – Use the below link to see a list of the minimally required items for the trek. You may bring other items depending upon your comfort level. Remember, you must carry what you bring.

http://www.bsatroop818.com/OuachitaGearList.pdf

Mulch Madness – The FUMC will be holding their annual mulch fund raiser for their “Thursday Night Community Dinner” and “Storehouse Food Pantry.” As Scouts, we’ll help to deliver the mulch on Saturday, March 27th. For those of you wanting to purchase mulch, please follow the below link to their order form. Orders will be accepted through March 15th.

http://www.fumcstw.org/mulchmad10.pdf

Court of Honor – We will be holding our Troop Court of Honor on Monday, March 29th. Scouts and their families are invited to participate as we recognize our accomplishments over the course of the past six months.

OSU Colvin Center Rock Wall Climb – We will be climbing at the OSU Colvin Center on Saturday, April 17th from 12:45 – 3:00pm. The cost is $12 per participant. Below is the permission slip. Please get these in as soon as possible.

http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/ColvinClimb.pdf

Pawnee Bill District Centennial Camporee – Held from Friday, April 30th through Sunday, May 2nd. This Camporee will be a celebration of Scouting’s 100th anniversary. Special events will be held, featuring historic skills from the early days of Scouting. Also, there’s a very cool patch that will be provided to each participant. The cost will be $27 per participant from the Troop. Permission slips are due no later than Monday, April 29th to guarantee our slot, so don’t delay. Here’s the link to the permission slip:

http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/PBDistrictCamporee2010.pdf

Summer Camp – Never too early to be thinking about Summer Camp. We have our reservation in for the second week, which is June 13 – 19. First Year Scouts need this camp, attending the Eagle Quest activities. Older Scouts will have the opportunity to select from the array of offered merit badges.
Justin Jones has volunteered to be one of our adult leaders for the week. How cool is that?

Troop website: www.bsatroop818.com

Scout Notes - Monday, March 8, 2010

2010-03-02T11:29:00.002-06:00

North Face Tent #3 – We’re missing half of the Tent #3 that was taken on the Shakedown. Please bring this to the meeting on Monday.

Climbing at Colvin Center – Mr. Shanahan checked into the Colvin Center to see if we can arrange a time to climb on their wall. For $12 per person, with a minimum commitment of 10 people, we can reserve a two hour timeslot on a Saturday from 12:45 – 9:00pm. Based on last night’s show of hands, there’s a great deal of interest. We hope to come up with a date and time shortly and then will begin signups. Given our busy March, I anticipate that we’ll be holding this sometime in April.

Uniform Reminder – Quick reminder about when to wear your Class A vs Class B uniform:
Troop Meetings – Wear a Class A unless otherwise instructed.
Travel – While in transit, we always travel in Class A, unless otherwise instructed. This includes camping trips.
Fun Night – Class B
Work Activities – Generally we will wear Class B. If travel is required, we’ll wear our Class B under our Class A.
Special Functions/Popcorn Sales – Generally we will wear our Class A.

Troop Meetings
Monday, March 8th
Troop Officer Nominations
Knot Tying
Ouachita Final Shake – Bring Your Packed Backpack
Rank Advancement
Monday, March 15th
No Meeting Due to the Ouachita Trek
Monday, March 22nd
Committee Meeting – 6:00pm
Troop Officer Elections
Knot Tying
Ouachita Recovery
Rank Advancement

Upcoming Activities
Ouachita Trek – The 31st Annual Ouachita Trek will take place on March 13 – 17. Our group will be leaving from the Scout Hut at 07:00am on Saturday, March 13th. Some things to remember:
Saturday Lunch – Bring a sack lunch for Saturday. We will stop for gas along the way if you want to pick something up from the convenience store. Yeah, those wieners on the rotisserie are calling….
Personal Food – You may bring food to consume in the van on the way to and from the trek, but don’t bring it on the trail. Also, please don’t trash the vehicles.
Uniform – You must wear your Class A for travel. Some of the attending parents aren’t registered leaders, so they will get a bye.
Post-Trail Clothing – Bring a small bag or backpack with a change of clothes after coming off the trail. You will also want to use to store your Class A while trekking. Our van may be used to ferry crews to the trail, so we can’t have it trashed out with our stuff.
Final Shake – We request that everyone bring their packed back packs to the Troop Meeting on Monday. We want to make sure everyone has what the need. We won’t divide up the tents until we reach base camp, ensuring that everyone has a partner.
Coffee – If you’re a coffee drinker, I suggest that you bring some individual packets of the instant coffee. Some of the breakfasts will include hot chocolate.
Equipment List – Use the below link to see a list of the minimally required items for the trek. You may bring other items depending upon your comfort level. Remember, you must carry what you bring.

http://www.bsatroop818.com/OuachitaGearList.pdf

Mulch Madness – The FUMC will be holding their annual mulch fund raiser for their “Thursday Night Community Dinner” and “Storehouse Food Pantry.” As Scouts, we’ll help to deliver the mulch on Saturday, March 27th. For those of you wanting to purchase mulch, please follow the below link to their order form. Orders will be accepted through March 15th.

http://www.fumcstw.org/mulchmad10.pdf

Court of Honor – We will be holding our Troop Court of Honor on Monday, March 29th. Scouts and their families are invited to participate as we recognize our accomplishments over the course of the past six months.

Summer Camp – Never too early to be thinking about Summer Camp. We have our reservation in for the second week, which is June 13 – 19. First Year Scouts need this camp, attending the Eagle Quest activities. Older Scouts will have the opportunity to select from the array of offered merit badges.
Justin Jones has volunteered to be one of our adult leaders for the week. How cool is that?

Other
Scout Notes on Blog – Each week I post the Scout Notes on our Troop Blog. If you’re not able to access your e:Mail, but have access to the Internet, you may link into our blog for the latest notes. Just navigate to our Troop website at www.bsatroop818.com and look for the blog link in the lower left corner.

Scout Notes - Monday, March 1, 2010

2010-02-25T16:30:00.001-06:00

Special Note – These past two weeks I’ve heard a number of building rumors about our BSA Council. At first, like many rumors, I tend to brush them off as mere hearsay. They hit a peak, however, this past weekend when my son made me aware that there was an active Facebook page that was raising concerns. (BTW, he’s a college student in Arkansas) Cutting to the chase, I called Bobby Schultz, our Scout Executive in Enid. We discussed the rumors and ended the call with his commitment to issue a letter talking to the various points in question. If you click on the below link, you’ll find a copy of the letter that I received to day. It addresses Summer Camp, the Council Banquet and Scout Day at OSU.

http://www.bsatroop818.com/BobbySchultz.pdf

In the end, as Bobby states, please remember that all that we do is for the Scouts. Change isn’t always popular, but I like to think that Council has the best interest of our Scouts in mind.

Troop Meetings
Monday, March 1st
Knot Tying
Ouachita Shakedown Debrief/Recovery
Rank Advancement
Monday, March 8th
Knot Tying
Ouachita Planning
Rank Advancement

Upcoming Activities

Ouachita Trek – The 31st Annual Ouachita Trek will take place on March 13 – 17. Registrations are in, so we’ll spend the next couple of weeks in preparation.

Mulch Madness – The FUMC will be holding their annual mulch fund raiser for their “Thursday Night Community Dinner” and “Storehouse Food Pantry.” As Scouts, we’ll help to deliver the mulch on Saturday, March 27th. For those of you wanting to purchase mulch, please follow the below link to their order form. Orders will be accepted through March 15th.

http://www.fumcstw.org/mulchmad10.pdf

Court of Honor – We will be holding our Troop Court of Honor on Monday, March 29th. Scouts and their families are invited to participate as we recognize our accomplishments over the course of the past six months.

Summer Camp – Never too early to be thinking about Summer Camp. We have our reservation in for the second week, which is June 13 – 19. First Year Scouts need this camp, attending the Eagle Quest activities. Older Scouts will have the opportunity to select from the array of offered merit badges.
Justin Jones has volunteered to be one of our adult leaders for the week. How cool is that?

Other
Scout Notes on Blog – Each week I post the Scout Notes on our Troop Blog. If you’re not able to access your e:Mail, but have access to the Internet, you may link into our blog for the latest notes. Just navigate to our Troop website at www.bsatrooop818.com and look for the blog link in the lower left corner.

Scout Notes - Monday, February 22, 2010

2010-02-19T13:18:00.000-06:00

Troop Meetings
Monday, February 22nd
Knot Tying
Perry CCC Campout Recovery
Backpack Fitting – Ouachita Backpackers
Rank Advancement
Monday, March 1st
Knot Tying
Ouachita Shakedown Debrief/Recovery
Rank Advancement

Upcoming Activities
Ouachita Trek – The 31st Annual Ouachita Trek will take place on March 13 – 17. The cost of the trek will be $70 per Scout. $10 will cover our transportation costs and $60 will go for the food, park fees, etc. There will also be a Shakedown for all first timers, and rangers, that will cost $10 per Scout. The Shakedown will take place on February 27-28 at Lake McMurtry.
Mason Strom and Robin Clower have volunteered to be Rangers for one or more of the treks. Given their Philmont experience, I would recommend signing up with them as you’ll have a great experience.
The permission slips and ranger applications may be found on the Troop website:
http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/OuachitaTrek.pdf

Check the following link for the Ouachita Information Packet that’s published by the Planning Committee:
http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/OuachitaNote2010.pdf

Also, there will be shirts and jackets available. See the link below for the order form for the jackets and vests.

http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/OuachitaJacketForm.pdf

As noted above, we will also be holding seminars during our regular meetings to discuss backpacking techniques, equipment, protocol, etc.

Summer Camp – Never too early to be thinking about Summer Camp. We have our reservation in for the second week, which is June 13 – 19. First Year Scouts need this camp, attending the Eagle Quest activities. Older Scouts will have the opportunity to select from the array of offered merit badges.
Justin Jones has volunteered to be one of our adult leaders for the week. How cool is that?

Other
Scout Notes on Blog – Each week I post the Scout Notes on our Troop Blog. If you’re not able to access your e:Mail, but have access to the Internet, you may link into our blog for the latest notes. Just navigate to our Troop website at www.bsatrooop818.com and look for the blog link in the lower left corner.

Scout Notes - Monday, February 15, 2010

2010-02-10T17:36:00.001-06:00

Centennial Eagle Scout Banquet – This will be held on Friday, February 12th. Thank you to those of you that signed up to help. Each of you should have received a reminder. Below are the slots.
1:00pm – 2:00pm Setup
5:30pm – 6:30pm Registration
8:30pm – 9:30pm Cleanup

Troop Meetings
Monday, February 15th
Knot Tying
Meal/Campout Planning – Perry CCC Campout
Ouachita Backpacking Demos
Rank Advancement
Monday, February 22nd
Knot Tying
Backpack Fitting – Ouachita Backpackers
Rank Advancement

Upcoming Activities
Perry CCC Lake Campout – We will be holding a cold weather camp on February 19th and 20th. This will be a critical campout for First Year Scouts so that they may get their cooking requirements for three meals. We’ll begin with dinner on Friday and finish with lunch on Saturday. It’s also a great campout for the older Scouts in that you’ll be needed to help teach the younger Scouts. The permission slip is on the website at the below address. Mr. Gragg and Mr. Quigley will be the leaders in charge.

http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/PerryCCCCampout.pdf

Ouachita Trek – The 31st Annual Ouachita Trek will take place on March 13 – 17. The cost of the trek will be $70 per Scout. $10 will cover our transportation costs and $60 will go for the food, park fees, etc. There will also be a Shakedown for all first timers, and rangers, that will cost $10 per Scout. The Shakedown will take place on February 27-28 at Lake McMurtry.
Mason Strom and Robin Clower have volunteered to be Rangers for one or more of the treks. Given their Philmont experience, I would recommend signing up with them as you’ll have a great experience.
The permission slips and ranger applications may be found on the Troop website:
http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/OuachitaTrek.pdf

Check the following link for the Ouachita Information Packet that’s published by the Planning Committee:
http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/OuachitaNote2010.pdf

Also, there will be shirts and jackets available. See the link below for the order form for the jackets and vests.

http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/OuachitaJacketForm.pdf

As noted above, we will also be holding seminars during our regular meetings to discuss backpacking techniques, equipment, protocol, etc.

Summer Camp – Never too early to be thinking about Summer Camp. We have our reservation in for the second week, which is June 13 – 19. First Year Scouts need this camp, attending the Eagle Quest activities. Older Scouts will have the opportunity to select from the array of offered merit badges.
Justin Jones has volunteered to be one of our adult leaders for the week. How cool is that?

Other
Scout Notes on Blog – Each week I post the Scout Notes on our Troop Blog. If you’re not able to access your e:Mail, but have access to the Internet, you may link into our blog for the latest notes. Just navigate to our Troop website at www.bsatrooop818.com and look for the blog link in the lower left corner.

Scout Notes - Monday, February 8, 2010

2010-02-04T17:39:00.000-06:00

Communications/Citizen In the Community MB’s – There will be another opportunity to attend the Stillwater School Board Meeting that will be held on Tuesday, February 9th. Here are the details:
1. The School Board Meeting will begin at 6:30pm. The meeting is held in the Board of Education Building at 314 S. Lewis.
2. You may either show up at the BoE Building at 6:15 or come to the Scout Hut at 6:00pm and Mr. Gragg will get you to the meeting.
3. We will attend only one hour of the meeting, leaving at 7:30pm. Parents will need to pick up their Scouts at the BoE Building.
Note: To keep meeting disruption down, we will plan to have all attending Scouts remain in the meeting room until 7:30 so that we may all leave at once.
4. Scouts must be in Full Class A uniform.

Centennial Eagle Scout Banquet – We will continue a signup on Monday for Scouts to help with the banquet. This banquet that will be held on Friday, February 12th. We’ll need Scouts for the following time slots:
1:00pm – 2:00pm Four Scouts Needed for Setup
5:30pm – 6:30pm Four Scouts Needed for Registration
8:30pm – 9:30pm Four Scouts Needed for Cleanup

Troop Meetings
Monday, February 8th
Knot Tying
Ouachita Backpacking Demos
Rank Advancement
Monday, February 15th
Knot Tying
Meal/Campout Planning – Perry CCC Campout
Ouachita Backpacking Demos
Rank Advancement

Upcoming Activities
Scout Sunday Lock-in and Service – We will be holding a lock-in at the Scout Hut on Saturday, February 6th along with a service opportunity. We’ll then participate in the two church services at the FUMC. Here are the details:
Service – Meet at Scout Hut at 4:30pm. Cleanup at recycling centers.
Lock-in - Begins after the recycling service, around 6:00pm. Cost will be $5 per participant.
Dinner – We will provide pizza. Each Scout is to bring drink and any other munchies
they want.
Breakfast – To be determined at Monday’s meeting.
FUMC Service – We will attend the 8:30am and 11:10am services.
Uniform – Each Scout is to wear Full Class-A Uniform with Scout Pants.

Permission Slip: http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/ScoutSunday.pdf

Perry CCC Lake Campout – We will be holding a cold weather camp on February 19th and 20th. This will be a critical campout for First Year Scouts so that they may get their cooking requirements for three meals. We’ll begin with dinner on Friday and finish with lunch on Saturday. It’s also a great campout for the older Scouts in that you’ll be needed to help teach the younger Scouts. The permission slip is on the website at the below address. Mr. Gragg and Quigley will be the leaders in charge.

http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/PerryCCCCampout.pdf

Ouachita Trek – The 31st Annual Ouachita Trek will take place on March 13 – 17. The cost of the trek will be $70 per Scout. $10 will cover our transportation costs and $60 will go for the food, park fees, etc. There will also be a Shakedown for all first timers, and rangers, that will cost $10 per Scout. The Shakedown will take place on February 27-28 at Lake McMurtry.
Mason Strom and Robin Clower have volunteered to be a Rangers for one or more of the treks. Given their Philmont experience, I would recommend signing up with them as you’ll have a great experience.
The permission slips and ranger applications may be found on the Troop website:
http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/OuachitaTrek.pdf

Check the following link for the Ouachita Information Packet that’s published by the Planning Committee:
http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/OuachitaNote2010.pdf

Also, there will be shirts and jackets available. See the link below for the order form for the jackets and vests.

http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/OuachitaJacketForm.pdf

As noted above, we will also be holding seminars during our regular meetings to discuss backpacking techniques, equipment, protocol, etc.

Summer Camp – Never too early to be thinking about Summer Camp. We have our reservation in for the second week, which is June 13 – 19. First Year Scouts need this camp, attending the Eagle Quest activities. Older Scouts will have the opportunity to select from the array of offered merit badges.
Justin Jones has volunteered to be one of our adult leaders for the week. How cool is that?

Scout Notes - Monday, February 1, 2010

2010-01-28T08:51:00.000-06:00

Lock-in Adult Leader Need – We are in need of adults willing to stay with the Scouts on Saturday evening, February 6th. Mr. Greg Miller has volunteered to lead, but we need at least one other volunteer. Please commit on Monday so that we may have this event for the Scouts.

Communications/Citizen In the Community MB’s – There will be another opportunity to attend the Stillwater School Board Meeting that will be held on Tuesday, February 9th. Here are the details:
1. The School Board Meeting will begin at 6:30pm. The meeting is held in the Board of Education Building at 314 S. Lewis.
2. You may either show up at the BoE Building at 6:15 or come to the Scout Hut at 6:00pm and Mr. Gragg will get you to the meeting.
3. We will attend only one hour of the meeting, leaving at 7:30pm. Parents will need to pick up their Scouts at the BoE Building.
Note: To keep meeting disruption down, we will plan to have all attending Scouts remain in the meeting room until 7:30 so that we may all leave at once.
4. Scouts must be in Full Class A uniform.

Centennial Eagle Scout Banquet – We will continue a signup on Monday for Scouts to help with the banquet. This banquet that will be held on Friday, February 12th. We’ll need Scouts to assist with setup, table bussing, etc. The event starts at 6:00pm and will most likely last until after 9:00pm. Those of us providing service will be needed starting at 5:00pm through to approximately 10:00pm. We till take sign-ups for hour blocks as well as the full night.

Please help to get the word out about this event. We want to get to all active and inactive Eagle Scouts that are in the area. Our goal is to celebrate their achievement, our 100th Year Celebration and help to connect/reconnect with Scouting.

Troop Meetings
Monday, February 1st
Knot Tying
Ouachita Backpacking Demos
Lock-in/Scout Sunday Preparation
Rank Advancement
Monday, February 8th
Knot Tying
Ouachita Backpacking Demos
Rank Advancement

Upcoming Activities
Scout Sunday Lock-in and Service – We will be holding a lock-in at the Scout Hut on Saturday, February 6th along with a service opportunity. We’ll then participate in the two church services at the FUMC. Here are the details:
Service – Meet at Scout Hut at 4:30pm. Cleanup at recycling centers.
Lock-in - Begins after the recycling service, around 6:00pm. Cost will be $5 per participant.
Dinner – We will provide pizza. Each Scout is to bring drink and any other munchies
they want.
Breakfast – To be determined at Monday’s meeting.
FUMC Service – We will attend the 8:30am and 11:10am services.
Uniform – Each Scout is to wear Full Class-A Uniform with Scout Pants.

Permission Slip: http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/ScoutSunday.pdf

Perry CCC Lake Campout – We will be holding a cold weather camp on February 19th and 20th. This will be a critical campout for First Year Scouts so that they may get their cooking requirements for three meals. We’ll begin with dinner on Friday and finish with lunch on Saturday. It’s also a great campout for the older Scouts in that you’ll be needed to help teach the younger Scouts. The permission slip will be coming. Mr. Gragg and Quigley will be the leaders in charge.

Ouachita Trek – The 31st Annual Ouachita Trek will take place on March 13 – 17. The cost of the trek will be $70 per Scout. $10 will cover our transportation costs and $60 will go for the food, park fees, etc. There will also be a Shakedown for all first timers, and rangers, that will cost $10 per Scout. The Shakedown will take place on February 27-28 at Lake McMurtry.
Mason Strom and Robin Clower have volunteered to be a Rangers for one or more of the treks. Given their Philmont experience, I would recommend signing up with them as you’ll have a great experience.
The permission slips and ranger applications may be found on the Troop website:
http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/OuachitaTrek.pdf

Check the following link for the Ouachita Information Packet that’s published by the Planning Committee:
http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/OuachitaNote2010.pdf

Also, there should be shirts and jackets available. The Planning Committee is currently in the process of reviewing designs and options, so stay tuned.

As noted above, we will also be holding seminars during our regular meetings to discuss backpacking techniques, equipment, protocol, etc.

Summer Camp – Never too early to be thinking about Summer Camp. We have our reservation in for the second week, which is June 13 – 19. First Year Scouts need this camp, attending the Eagle Quest activities. Older Scouts will have the opportunity to select from the array of offered merit badges.

Other
Scout Notes on Blog – Each week I post the Scout Notes on our Troop Blog. If you’re not able to access your e:Mail, but have access to the Internet, you may link into our blog for the latest notes. Just navigate to our Troop website at www.bsatrooop818.com and look for the blog link in the lower left corner.

Scout Notes - Monday, January 25, 2010

2010-01-21T10:41:00.000-06:00

Council Merit Badge Fair – The second session of the merit badge fair will take place on Saturday, January 23rd. We will be leaving the Scout Hut at 08:00am sharp, so please be prompt. Also, remember the following
1. Eat breakfast before departure
2. Bring a sack lunch
3. Review your MB requirements online if possible
4. Bring note paper, pen/pencil, etc.

Merit Badge Lost & Found – The following items were left behind by one or more of our Scouts that participated in the first week of the Council Merit Badge Fair. These will be at the Scout Hut on Monday.
Class B Shirt – Currently at the Scout Hut

Communications/Citizen In the Community MB’s – My apologies if any of you missed the last board meeting due to my communication issues. There will be another opportunity to attend the Stillwater School Board Meeting that will be held on Tuesday, February 9th. Here are the details:
1. The School Board Meeting will begin at 6:30pm. The meeting is held in the Board of Education Building at 314 S. Lewis.
2. You may either show up at the BoE Building at 6:15 or come to the Scout Hut at 6:00pm and Mr. Gragg will get you to the meeting.
3. We will attend only one hour of the meeting, leaving at 7:30pm. Parents will need to pick up their Scouts at the BoE Building.
Note: To keep meeting disruption down, we will plan to have all attending Scouts remain in the meeting room until 7:30 so that we may all leave at once.
4. Scouts must be in Full Class A uniform.

Centennial Eagle Scout Banquet – We will begin a signup on Monday for Scouts to help with the banquet. This banquet that will be held on Friday, February 12th. We’ll need Scouts to assist with setup, table bussing, etc. The event starts at 6:00pm and will most likely last until after 9:00pm. Those of us providing service will be needed starting at 5:00pm through to approximately 10:00pm. We till take sign-ups for hour blocks as well as the full night.

Please help to get the word out about this event. We want to get to all active and inactive Eagle Scouts that are in the area. Our goal is to celebrate their achievement, our 100th Year Celebration and help to connect/reconnect with Scouting.

Troop Meetings
Monday, January 25th
Committee Meeting 6:00pm
Scouts Needing Boards of Review need to be available by 6:30pm
Board of Education Meeting
Knot Tying
Rank Advancement
Monday, February 1st
Knot Tying
Ouachita Backpacking Demos
Lock-in Preparation
Rank Advancement

Upcoming Activities
Eskimo Joe’s Scouting Adventure – The shirts are now in and available at Eskimo Joe’s Clothes. Check this link to see an image of the shirt:
http://www.cimarronbsa.org/eskimojoes.htm

Scout Sunday Lock-in – We will be holding a lock-in at the Scout Hut on Saturday, February 6th. We’ll then participate in the two church services at the FUMC on Sunday the 7th at 8:30am and 11:10am.

Several Scouts are in need of a campout to satisfy their cooking requirements for First Class. We can do this a couple of different ways. We can either plan a February campout during the weekend of the 20th or plan to cook three meals during the lock-in. If we do it during the lock-in, we need to consider whether we start at lunch on Saturday with a cooked meal. Given timing, we need to make this decision no later than our meeting on Monday, February 25th.

Ouachita Trek – The 31st Annual Ouachita Trek will take place on March 13 – 17. The cost of the trek will be $70 per Scout. $10 will cover our transportation costs and $60 will go for the food, park fees, etc. There will also be a Shakedown for all first timers, and rangers, that will cost $10 per Scout. The Shakedown will take place on February 27-28 at Lake McMurtry.
Mason Strom and Robin Clower have volunteered to be a Rangers for one or more of the treks. Given their Philmont experience, I would recommend signing up with them as you’ll have a great experience.
The permission slips and ranger applications may be found on the Troop website:
http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/OuachitaTrek.pdf

Check the following link for the Ouachita Information Packet that’s published by the Planning Committee:
http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/OuachitaNote2010.pdf

Also, there should be shirts and jackets available. The Planning Committee is currently in the process of reviewing designs and options, so stay tuned.

As noted above, we will also be holding seminars during our regular meetings to discuss backpacking techniques, equipment, protocol, etc.

Other
Scout Notes on Blog – Each week I post the Scout Notes on our Troop Blog. If you’re not able to access your e:Mail, but have access to the Internet, you may link into our blog for the latest notes. Just navigate to our Troop website at www.bsatrooop818.com and look for the blog link in the lower left corner.

Scout Notes Correction - Committee Meeting

2010-01-15T08:32:00.001-06:00

Please note that the Committee Meeting will be held on Monday, January 25th. We will begin at 6:00pm. Any Scouts needing a Board of Review will need to be ready, in full Class A uniform by 6:30pm. All adult leaders and parents are welcome and encouraged to attend.

Scout Notes - Monday, January 18, 2010

2010-01-14T08:44:00.001-06:00

Council Merit Badge Fair – The second session of the merit badge fair will take place on Saturday, January 23rd. We will be leaving the Scout Hut at 08:00am sharp, so please be prompt. Also, remember the following
1. Eat breakfast before departure
2. Bring a sack lunch
3. Review your MB requirements online if possible
4. Bring note paper, pen/pencil, etc.

Merit Badge Lost & Found – The following items were left behind by one or more of our Scouts that participated in the first week of the Council Merit Badge Fair. These will be at the Scout Hut on Monday.
Red Backpack
Class B Shirt

Centennial Eagle Scout Banquet – We will begin a signup for Scouts to help with the banquet this banquet that will be held on Friday, February 12th. We’ll need Scouts to assist with setup, table bussing, etc. The event starts at 6:00pm and will most likely last until after 9:00pm. Those of us providing service will be needed starting at 5:00pm through to approximately 10:00pm. We till take sign-ups for hour blocks as well as the full night.

Please help to get the word out about this event. We want to get to all active and inactive Eagle Scouts that are in the area. Our goal is to celebrate their achievement, our 100th Year Celebration and help to connect/reconnect with Scouting.

Troop Meetings
Monday, January 18th
Committee Meeting 6:00pm
Scouts Needing Boards of Review need to be available by 6:30pm
Knot Tying
Ouachita Backpacking Demos
Rank Advancement
Monday, January 25th
Knot Tying
Ouachita Backpacking Demos
Rank Advancement

Upcoming Activities
Council Merit Badge University – See the note above. It you’re not yet signed up and wish to attend the second week, please check the below permission slip for details:
http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/MeritBadgeUniversity.pdf

Eskimo Joe’s Scouting Adventure – The shirts are now in and available at Eskimo Joe’s Clothes. Check this link to see an image of the shirt:
http://www.cimarronbsa.org/eskimojoes.htm

Scout Sunday Lock-in – We will be holding a lock-in at the Scout Hut on Saturday, February 6th. We’ll then participate in the two church services at the FUMC on Sunday the 7th at 8:30am and 11:10am.

Several Scouts are in need of a campout to satisfy their cooking requirements for First Class. We can do this a couple of different ways. We can either plan a February campout during the weekend of the 20th or plan to cook three meals during the lock-in. If we do it during the lock-in, we need to consider whether we start at lunch on Saturday with a cooked meal. Given timing, we need to make this decision no later than our meeting on Monday.

Ouachita Trek – The 31st Annual Ouachita Trek will take place on March 13 – 17. The cost of the trek will be $70 per Scout. $10 will cover our transportation costs and $60 will go for the food, park fees, etc. There will also be a Shakedown for all first timers, and rangers, that will cost $10 per Scout. The Shakedown will take place on February 27-28 at Lake McMurtry.
Mason Strom and Robin Clower have volunteered to be a Rangers for one or more of the treks. Given their Philmont experience, I would recommend signing up with them as you’ll have a great experience.
The permission slips and ranger applications may be found on the Troop website:
http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/OuachitaTrek.pdf

Check the following link for the Ouachita Information Packet that’s published by the Planning Committee:
http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/OuachitaNote2010.pdf

Also, there should be shirts and jackets available. The Planning Committee is currently in the process of reviewing designs and options, so stay tuned.

As noted above, we will also be holding seminars during our regular meetings to discuss backpacking techniques, equipment, protocol, etc.

Other
Scout Notes on Blog – Each week I post the Scout Notes on our Troop Blog. If you’re not able to access your e:Mail, but have access to the Internet, you may link into our blog for the latest notes. Just navigate to our Troop website at www.bsatrooop818.com and look for the blog link in the lower left corner.

Scout Notes - Monday, January 11, 2010

2010-01-06T16:34:00.002-06:00

Christmas/New Year’s – I’m hopeful that everyone had a great Christmas and New Year’s. Check the Troop Website for pictures of our Troop Christmas Party.

Council Merit Badge Fair – The first session of the merit badge fair will take place on Saturday, January 9th. We will be leaving the Scout Hut at 08:00am sharp, so please be prompt. Also, remember the following
1. Eat breakfast before departure
2. Bring a sack lunch
3. Review your MB requirements online if possible
4. Bring note paper, pen/pencil, etc.

Troop Finances – We’re in the process of closing the books on 2009 as well as rechartering for 2010. If you’re delinquent on dues or Popcorn monies, be aware that you will be receiving a notice shortly. Remember, the fees that we charge help to pay for our chartering, rank and merit badges, equipment, etc.

Troop Meetings
Monday, January 11th
Knot Tying
Rank Advancement
Monday, January 18th
Knot Tying
Ouachita Backpacking Demos
Rank Advancement

Upcoming Activities
Council Merit Badge University – See the note above. It you’re not yet signed up and wish to attend the second week, please check the below permission slip for details:
http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/MeritBadgeUniversity.pdf

Eskimo Joe’s Scouting Adventure – The shirts are now in and available at Eskimo Joe’s Clothes. Check this link to see an image of the shirt:
http://www.cimarronbsa.org/eskimojoes.htm

Centennial Eagle Scout Banquet – Planning is underway for a gala that will bring together all of the Eagle Scouts that reside within Pawnee Bill District. The purpose will be to honor and reconnect these Scouters. The event will be held at the FUMC Family Life Center on February 12th. Mr. Koemel is serving as a member of the steering committee. Our Scouts will serve at the function in some capacity.

Scout Sunday Lock-in – We will be holding a lock-in at the Scout Hut on Saturday, February 6th. We’ll then participate in the two church services at the FUMC on Sunday the 7th at 8:30am and 11:10am. Details of the lock-in will be worked out in the coming week or so to determine if we include a dinner on Saturday evening or not. Stay tuned.

Ouachita Trek – The 31st Annual Ouachita Trek will take place on March 13 – 17. The cost of the trek will be $70 per Scout. $10 will cover our transportation costs and $60 will go for the food, park fees, etc. There will also be a Shakedown for all first timers, and rangers, that will cost $10 per Scout. The Shakedown will take place on February 27-28 at Lake McMurtry.
Mason Strom has volunteered to be a Ranger for one of the treks. Given his Philmont experience, I would recommend signing up with him as you’ll have a great experience.
The permission slip may be found on the Troop website:
http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/OuachitaTrek.pdf

Check the following link for the Ouachita Information Packet that’s published by the Planning Committee:
http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/OuachitaNote2010.pdf

Also, there should be shirts and jackets available. The Planning Committee is currently in the process of reviewing designs and options, so stay tuned.

Other
Scout Notes on Blog – Each week I post the Scout Notes on our Troop Blog. If you’re not able to access your e:Mail, but have access to the Internet, you may link into our blog for the latest notes. Just navigate to our Troop website at www.bsatrooop818.com and look for the blog link in the lower left corner.

Scout Notes - Monday, December 21, 2009

2009-12-16T14:34:00.002-06:00

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to each of you and your families. I’m hopeful that each of you enjoyed our 2009 adventures and I look forward to what 2010 holds for each of us.

Council Merit Badge Fair – Registration and permission slips for the MB Fair are due on Monday, December 21st. See below for the link to our website for more information.

Troop Meetings
Monday, December 21st
Christmas Party
Monday, December 28th
No Meeting – Christmas Break
Monday, January 4th
No Meeting – Christmas Break

Upcoming Activities
Christmas Party – We will hold our annual Christmas Party on Monday, December 21st. Please make sure you’re signed up to bring treats. Also, remember to bring a wrapped gift for our “Dirty Santa” exchange. The more outrageous the gift, the better.
Remember: All family members are welcome!

Council Merit Badge University – The Council MBU is set for January 9th and 23rd in Enid. We are taking sign-ups and will be taking one of the FUMC vans for transportation. The permission slip as well as the offered MB’s can be found on our website or at the following address:
http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/MeritBadgeUniversity.pdf

Please return the permission slip and the MB selection sheet no later than Monday, December 21st. If you can bring it earlier, do so as the 21st will be a little crazy with the Christmas Party.

Eskimo Joe’s Scouting Adventure – The shirts are now in and available at Eskimo Joe’s Clothes. What a great Christmas gift idea.

Centennial Eagle Scout Banquet – Planning is about to begin for a gala that will bring together all of the Eagle Scouts that reside within Pawnee Bill District. The purpose will be to honor and reconnect these Scouters. The event will be held at the FUMC Family Life Center on February 5th. Mr. Koemel will serve as a member of the steering committee. Our Scouts will serve at the function in some capacity.

Ouachita Trek – The 31st Annual Ouachita Trek will take place on March 13 – 17. The cost of the trek will be $70 per Scout. $10 will cover our transportation costs and $60 will go for the food, park fees, etc. There will also be a Shakedown for all first timers, and rangers, that will cost $10 per Scout. The Shakedown will take place on February 27-28 at Lake McMurtry.
Mason Strom has volunteered to be a Ranger for one of the treks. Given his Philmont experience, I would recommend signing up with him as you’ll have a great experience.
The permission slip may be found on the Troop website:
http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/OuachitaTrek.pdf

Other
Scout Notes on Blog – Each week I post the Scout Notes on our Troop Blog. If you’re not able to access your e:Mail, but have access to the Internet, you may link into our blog for the latest notes. Just navigate to our Troop website at www.bsatrooop818.com and look for the blog link in the lower left corner.

Scout Notes - Monday, December 14, 2009

2009-12-10T15:51:00.003-06:00

Webelos Fun Night, Lock-in, MB Fair – Thank you to all who attended and assisted with our Webelos Fun Night, Lock-in and Merit Badge Fair. I think everyone had a great time.

Webelos Fun Night Lost & Found – I can tell that the boys had fun in that some items were lost during the event. Please let me know if you can help locate the owners. Here’s what I have so far:
1. Brown Corduroy Old Navy Jacket – Resolved.
2. Found: Tan Class A Uniform. No patches or badges, except the United States flag.

Advancement – We will focus on the advancement of our first year Scouts during our regular Troop Meetings. Please bring your books to the meetings so that we know what you need for your next rank progression.

Troop Meetings
Monday, December 14th
Advancement
Monday, December 21st
Christmas Party
Monday, December 28th
No Meeting – Christmas Break
Monday, January 4th
No Meeting – Christmas Break

Upcoming Activities
Christmas Party – We will hold our annual Christmas Party on Monday, December 21st. Please make sure you’re signed up to bring treats. Also, remember to bring a wrapped gift for our “Dirty Santa” exchange. The more outrageous the gift, the better.

Council Merit Badge University – The Council MBU is set for January 9th and 23rd in Enid. We are taking sign-ups and will be taking one of the FUMC vans for transportation. The permission slip as well as the offered MB’s can be found on our website or at the following address:
http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/MeritBadgeUniversity.pdf

Please return the permission slip and the MB selection sheet no later than Monday, December 21st. If you can bring it earlier, do so as the 21st will be a little crazy with the Christmas Party.

Eskimo Joe’s Scouting Adventure – The rollout of the 100th Anniversary Joe’s Scouting Shirt has been delayed. When we have the firm date, we’ll be passing it along. Stay tuned, it’s a cool design.

Centennial Eagle Scout Banquet – Planning is about to begin for a gala that will bring together all of the Eagle Scouts that reside within Pawnee Bill District. The purpose will be to honor and reconnect these Scouters. The event will be held at the FUMC Family Life Center on February 5th. Mr. Koemel will serve as a member of the steering committee. Our Scouts will serve at the function in some capacity.

Ouachita Trek – The 31st Annual Ouachita Trek will take place on March 13 – 17. The cost of the trek will be $70 per Scout. $10 will cover our transportation costs and $60 will go for the food, park fees, etc. There will also be a Shakedown for all first timers, and rangers, that will cost $10 per Scout. The Shakedown will take place on February 27-28 at Lake McMurtry.
Mason Strom has volunteered to be a Ranger for one of the treks. Given his Philmont experience, I would recommend signing up with him as you’ll have a great experience.
The permission slip will be posted on the web shortly.

Other
Scout Notes on Blog – Each week I post the Scout Notes on our Troop Blog. If you’re not able to access your e:Mail, but have access to the Internet, you may link into our blog for the latest notes. Just navigate to our Troop website at www.bsatrooop818.com and look for the blog link in the lower left corner.

Scout Notes - Monday, December 7, 2009

2009-12-02T15:54:00.000-06:00

Webelos Family Night – Let’s get excited! We will be hosting our annual Webelos Family Fun Night on Friday from 6:00pm – 10:00pm. This is a wonderful opportunity to have some fun with a relatively unstructured agenda. We will be serving Dutch Oven Pizzas shortly after 6:00pm which will be followed by Donuts. We will also provide branding for anyone that brings their mugs. (Sorry, we won’t be branding any Scouts as this event….) You can also look forward to great games of 4-Square, Pool, Foosball and whatever else we can dream up.

Parents need not attend this event, but it’s requested that you please pick your Webelos up by 10:00pm.

The Boy Scouts will engage in a lock-in after the Webelos leave.

Advancement – We will focus on the advancement of our first year Scouts during our regular Troop Meetings. Please bring your books to the meetings so that we know what you need for your next rank progression.

Monday, December 7^th

Advancement

Monday, December 14^th

Advancement

Monday, December 21^tst

Christmas Party

Upcoming Activities

Webelos Family Night – We will begin seeing Webelos at 6:00pm. Will need Scouts on-site no later than 5:30pm to finalize setup.

Lock-in/Merit Badge Fair – Scheduled for December 4^th – 5^th. The lock-in will begin at 10:00pm on Friday after the Webelos leave. We will begin the Merit Badge Fair at 09:00am on Saturday. We will be offering two merit badges this year:

Morning Session: Crime Prevention Instructor: Mr. Greg Miller

Afternoon Session: Photography Instructor: Mr. Kevin Gragg

Please review the requirements online prior to the sessions so that you’re prepared.

We will also hold a mini-Eagle Quest that will cover both the morning and afternoon sessions. We’ll work on Tenderfoot, 2^nd Class and 1^st Class requirements.

Harlan, Raife, Joey and Tamaki are highly encouraged to attend Eagle Quest

Please see the Troop Website for permission slips for the Lock-in and Merit Badge Fair.

Christmas Party – Be thinking about our upcoming Christmas Party, which will be held on Monday, December 21^st. As we have in the past, we will have a “Dirty Santa” exchange. For this, please bring a wrapped gift, the more outrageous the better.

Council Merit Badge University – The Council MBU is set for January 9^th and 23^rd in Enid. We are taking sign-ups and will be taking one of the FUMC vans for transportation. I’m checking right now to see what MB’s will be offered. Here’s the permission slip:

http://www.bsatroop818.com/PermissionSlips/MeritBadgeUniversity.pdf

Eskimo Joe’s Scouting Adventure – The rollout of the 100^th Anniversary Joe’s Scouting Shirt has been delayed. When we have the firm date, we’ll be passing it along. Stay tuned, it’s a cool design.

Centennial Eagle Scout Banquet – Planning is about to begin for a gala that will bring together all of the Eagle Scouts that reside within Pawnee Bill District. The purpose will be to honor and reconnect these Scouters. The event will be held at the FUMC Family Life Center on February 5^th. Mr. Koemel will serve as a member of the steering committee. Our Scouts will serve at the function in some capacity.

Ouachita Trek – The 31^st Annual Ouachita Trek will take place on March 13 – 17. The cost of the trek will be $70 per Scout. $10 will cover our transportation costs and $60 will go for the food, park fees, etc. There will also be a Shakedown for all first timers, and rangers, that will cost $10 per Scout. The Shakedown will take place on February 27-28 at Lake McMurtry.

Mason Strom has volunteered to be a Ranger for one of the treks. Given his Philmont experience, I would recommend signing up with him as you’ll have a great experience.

The permission slip will be posted on the web shortly.

My Whereabouts – I will be attending the Webelos Family Night and MB Fair this weekend, but will need to miss Monday’s meeting due to business travel. I should be back for our Troop Meeting on December 14^th.

Other

Scout Notes on Blog – Each week I post the Scout Notes on our Troop Blog. If you’re not able to access your e:Mail, but have access to the Internet, you may link into our blog for the latest notes. Just navigate to our Troop website at www.bsatrooop818.com and look for the blog link in the lower left corner.

Scout Notes - Monday, November 30, 2009

2009-11-24T17:36:00.000-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

Popcorn Monies – We will be collecting the monies from the Popcorn sales this Monday, November 30^th.

Monday, November 30^th

Compass Work – We will work on map orientation as well as size/width estimates.

Final Prep for Webelos Open House / Lock-in / MB Fair

Decorating the Scout Hut for Christmas

Monday, December 7^th

Advancement

Upcoming Activities

Webelos Family Night – We will begin seeing Webelos at 6:00pm. Will need Scouts on-site no later than 5:30pm to finalize setup.

Lock-in/Merit Badge Fair – Scheduled for December 4^th – 5^th. We will be offering two merit badges this year:

Morning Session: Crime Prevention Instructor: Mr. Greg Miller

Afternoon Session: Photography Instructor: Mr. Kevin Gragg

Please review the requirements online prior to the sessions so that you’re prepared.

We will also hold a mini-Eagle Quest that will cover both the morning and afternoon sessions. We’ll work on Tenderfoot, 2^nd Class and 1^st Class requirements.

Harlan, Raife, Joey and Tamaki are highly encouraged to attend Eagle Quest

We may begin decorating the Hut for Christmas on Monday, November 30^th. Let’s get creative!

Mason Strom has volunteered to be a Ranger for one of the treks. Given his Philmont experience, I would recommend signing up with him as you’ll have a great experience.

The permission slip will be posted on the web shortly.

Other

Scout Notes - Monday, November 23, 2009

2009-11-19T15:13:00.000-06:00

Popcorn Monies – We will be collecting the monies from the Popcorn sales on Monday, November 30^th unless otherwise noted. Please don’t bring the money earlier unless you’ve made specific arrangements as we won’t be ready to receive it.

Monday, November 23^rd

Advancement

Compass Work – Scouts needing to work on their compass requirements should bring a flashlight. Weather permitting, we’ll be in the parking lot going through a course.

Monday, November 30^th

Advancement

Prep for Webelos Open House / Lock-in / MB Fair

Upcoming Activities

Pack Art Workshop – Service opportunity to assist Pack 3801 with their workshop. Details as follows:

Saturday, November 21st from 10am. to 2pm. Show up at 09:30am.

Where: 6612 Pecan Drive Stillwater, OK

Webelos Family Night – Looking for adult volunteers to assist with our annual family night. We will need help with donuts, pizza and general crowd control.

Lock-in/Merit Badge Fair – Scheduled for December 4^th – 5^th. Below is the current list to be offered:

Morning Session: Fingerprinting & Pets

Afternoon Session: Coin Collecting/Collections & Photography

In looking at the above MB requirements, I found that Pets, Coin Collecting and Collections to be very individual and not very appropriate for a fair. Would like to consider the following options instead:

Photography Crime Prevention Graphic Arts Pulp & Paper

Space Exploration (will involve some cost for a model rocket) Fingerprinting

We will also hold a mini-Eagle Quest where we’ll work on Tenderfoot, 2^nd Class and 1^st Class requirements. I’m currently seeking adult instructors to help lead this session.

We may begin decorating the Hut for Christmas on Monday, November 30^th. Let’s get creative!

Mason Strom has volunteered to be a Ranger for one of the treks. Given his Philmont experience, I would recommend signing up with him as you’ll have a great experience.

The permission slip will be posted on the web shortly.

Other

Scout Notes - Monday, November 16, 2009

2009-11-10T16:35:00.000-06:00

Pictures on the Web - We have additional pictures on the website from Webelos Weekend as well as new pictures from our Halloween Party. Check them out.

Meeting Schedule

Monday, November 16^th

Committee Meeting – We will begin at 6:00pm. Our SPL and all adults are invited.

All Scouts needing Boards of Review need to show up at 6:30pm in full Class A Uniform.

Advancement

Monday, November 23^rd

Advancement

Compass Work – Scouts needing to work on their compass requirements should bring a flashlight. Weather permitting, we’ll be in the parking lot going through a course.

Upcoming Activities

Lock-in/Merit Badge Fair – Scheduled for December 4^th – 5^th. It appears that the offered merit badges will include:

Morning Session: Finger Printing & Pets

Afternoon Session: Coin Collecting/Collections & Photography

We will also hold a mini-Eagle Quest where we’ll work on Tenderfoot, 2^nd Class and 1^st Class requirements.

We may begin decorating the Hut for Christmas on Monday, November 28^th. Let’s get creative!

Ouachita Trek – The 31^st Annual Ouachita Trek will take place on March 13 – 17. The cost of the trek will be $70 per Scout. $10 will cover our transportation costs and $70 will go for the food, park fees, etc. There will also be a Shakedown for all first timers, and rangers, that will cost $10 per Scout. The Shakedown will take place on February 27-28 at Lake McMurtry.

Mason Strom has volunteered to be a Ranger for one of the treks. Given his Philmont experience, I would recommend signing up with him as you’ll have a great experience.

My Whereabouts – I will be traveling on business during the week of November 16^th, so will miss this meeting. I should be back for our meeting on the 23^rd.

Other

Scout Notes - Monday, November 9, 2009

2009-11-05T15:20:00.001-06:00

Popcorn Sales

The popcorn will be available for pickup during our Troop Meeting on Monday, November 9^th.

Meeting Schedule

Monday, November 9^th

Recovery from Webelos Weekend

Advancement

Monday, November 16^th

Committee Meeting – We will begin at 6:00pm. Our SPL and all adults are invited.

All Scouts needing Boards of Review need to show up at 6:30pm.

Advancement

Upcoming Activities

Webelos Weekend –We’re ready for Webelos Weekend, which will be held on November 7^th and 8^th.

We will preload the Troop Trailer at the Scout Hut on Friday, beginning at 6:00pm. We will then meet at Lake McMurtry for setup on Saturday at 9:00am.

Girl Scout Garage/Bake Sale – Girl Scout Troop 678, which meets in the Scout Hut on Tuesdays, will be holding a garage and bake sale on Saturday, November 14^th. The purpose of the sale is to raise money for the Scouts to travel to Savannah, GA to visit the home of Juliette Gordon Law, the founder of Girl Scouts. In preparation they will begin storing sale items in the Hut as early as Wednesday, November 11^th.

If you’d like to donate items to the Girl Scouts for their sale, please bring them to our Monday Meetings. As long as what we gather is not garbage, they’ll gladly take the donations for their cause.

Lock-in/Merit Badge Fair – Currently scheduled for December 4^th – 5^th. A list of merit badges is posted on the blackboard in the Scout Hut. We will narrow down our offering once Webelos Weekend is complete. The permission slip is on the website.

Eskimo Joe’s Scouting Adventure – The rollout of the 100^th Anniversary Joe’s Scouting Shirt will be held on January 1^st from 11:00am – 2:00pm. The shirt is very cool and all that can attend in uniform is greatly appreciated. I’m told that they will be serving Pepsi product to all in attendance.

Centennial Eagle Scout Banquet – Planning is about to begin for a gala that will bring together all of the Eagle Scouts that reside within Pawnee Bill District. The purpose will be to honor and reconnect these Scouters. The event will be held at the FUMC Family Life Center on February 5^th. Each Troop is being asked to provide a steering committee representative. In addition, our Scouts are being asked to serve at the function. Anyone interested in serving on the committee, please let me know.

Other

Scout Notes - Monday, November 2, 2009

2009-10-29T15:33:00.001-05:00

Daylight Savings Time Ends

Be sure to set your clocks back on Saturday evening as Daylight Savings will end this weekend.

Popcorn Sales

I’ve received word that the ordered popcorn will arrive in Stillwater on Thursday, November 5^th. Stay tuned for an announcement as to when you’ll be able to pick up your order.

Please do not bring any money to the meetings at this time. We will be taking the money on November 30^th, unless otherwise noted.

Meeting Schedule

Monday, November 2^nd

Canoeing Merit Badge – We will plan to complete the “dry land” portion of the merit badge during the meeting. Scouts in need include: Dustin, Marshal, Raife, Nicholas K., Kyle and Gage.

Webelos Weekend Prep

Advancement

Monday, November 9^th

Recovery from Webelos Weekend

Advancement

Upcoming Activities

Popcorn Pickup – Ordered popcorn should arrive in Stillwater on November 5^th. Stay tuned for information from our Kernel as to when the popcorn will be available for your pickup.

Webelos Weekend –We’re ready for Webelos Weekend, which will be held on November 7^th and 8^th. Please volunteer to assist with this fun activity. We can always use some extra hands.

The extended forecast looks like a sunny day!

Lock-in/Merit Badge Fair – Currently scheduled for December 4^th – 5^th. We will be looking for ideas of merit badges to offer. The permission slip is on the website.

Other

Scout Notes - Monday, October 26, 2009

2009-10-22T15:16:00.000-05:00

Popcorn Sales

Popcorn order forms are in.

Please do not bring any money at this time. We will be taking the money on November 30^th.

Meeting Schedule

Monday, October 26^th

Halloween Party – Come in costume and bring some snacks to share.

Monday, November 2^nd

Canoeing Merit Badge – We will plan to complete the “dry land” portion of the merit badge during the meeting. Scouts in need include: Dustin, Marshal, Raife, Nicholas K., Kyle and Gage.

Webelos Weekend Prep

Advancement

Upcoming Activities

Webelos Weekend Planning Session – We will hold a planning session on Saturday, October 24^th at 09:00am in the Scout Hut. All adult leaders, parents, SPL and ASPL are invited to attend to ensure that we have the best experience possible.

Stillwater Household Hazardous Waste Collection – The City will be holding its annual hazardous waste collection on Saturday, October 24^th. Collections will be received at 807 S. Perkins from 08:00 – 13:00. Items that may be dropped off include: Electronics, Pharmaceuticals and Household Hazardous Items. More information may be found at the following website: http://stillwater.org/environmental

Popcorn Pickup – Ordered popcorn should arrive in Stillwater on November 5^th. Stay tuned for information from our Kernel as to when the popcorn will be available for your pickup.

Webelos Weekend –We’re well into the planning phase with the event coming on November 7^th. Please volunteer to assist with this fun activity. We can always use some extra hands.

Lock-in/Merit Badge Fair – Currently scheduled for December 4^th – 5^th. We will be looking for ideas of merit badges to offer.

Other

Scout Notes - Monday, October 19, 2009

2009-10-15T16:27:00.000-05:00

Popcorn Sales

Popcorn order forms are due on Monday, October 19^th during the meeting.

Please do not bring any money at this time. We will be taking the money on November 30^th.

Advancement – We will focus on the advancement of our first year Scouts during our Troop Meetings. Please bring your books to the meetings so that we know what you need for your next rank progression.

Four Scouts didn’t attend Summer Camp and will require a special session during a weekend or during our Merit Badge Fair to play catch-up. These Scouts include: Harlan, Raife, Joey and Tamaki.

Meeting Schedule

Monday, October 19^th

Committee Meeting – We will be doing our final planning for Webelos Weekend. All parents are encouraged to attend. We will begin at 6:00pm in the Scout Hut. For Scouts that need a Board of Review, please be available at the Hut at 6:30pm in full uniform.

Popcorn – Bring your completed order forms to this meeting. We won’t be ready to accept any money yet.

Canoeing Merit Badge – We will plan to complete the “dry land” portion of the merit badge during the meeting.

Advancement

Monday, October 26^th

Halloween Party – Come in costume and bring some snacks to share.

Upcoming Activities

Popcorn Sales – Ongoing through Monday, October 19^th.

Stillwater Household Hazardous Waste Collection – The City will be holding its annual hazardous waste collection on Saturday, October 24^th. Collections will be received at 807 S. Perkins from 08:00 – 13:00. Items that may be dropped off include: Electronics, Pharmaceuticals and Household Hazardous Items. More information may be found at the following website: http://stillwater.org/environmental

A short listing of items that will be accepted include:

• Pharmaceuticals

• Rechargeable Batteries

• Pesticides/Herbicides

• Oil-based Paint and Paint Products

• Household Cleaners and Products

• Fertilizer and Lawn Care Products

• Pool Chemicals

• Craft and Hobby Supplies

• Old Mixed Fuels

Used Oil

(Kitchen and Motor)

• Auto Batteries

• Fluorescent Bulbs

• Auto Tires

• Antifreeze

• Scrap Metal

• Vacuum Cleaners

• Toaster Ovens

Electronic Equipment

(CD/DVD/VCR Players,

Home Stereos, Speakers)

• Computer Components

(Printers, Keyboards, System

Towers)

• Televisions/Monitors

• Microwaves

• Typewriters

• Camcorders

Webelos Weekend –We’re well into the planning phase with the event coming on November 7^th. Please volunteer to assist with this fun activity. We can always use some extra hands.

Lock-in/Merit Badge Fair – Currently scheduled for December 4^th – 5^th. We will be looking for ideas of merit badges to offer.

Other

Scout Notes - Monday, October 12, 2009

2009-10-08T16:38:00.000-05:00

Pictures on the Web

Visit our Troop Website to see pictures from Hornaday Weekend and from our Troop/Canoe Meetings from this summer. These slideshows will be updated again shortly as I know that there are more pictures from these events that are on the come. We will also be posting pictures from our Illinois River Float Trip shortly.

We have also just purchased a Troop Camera that the Scouts will use to record our various adventures. Our hope is to get the Scout’s viewpoint, so hold on tight. There’s no telling what we’ll see.

Canoe/Camp Weekend

We will be gathering at the Scout Hut at 08:00am on Saturday for our Hike/Canoe and Camp Weekend at Lake McMurtry. Please be prompt so that we may leave on time. Some things to keep in mind:

Troop Gear – If you need sleeping bags, pads, a Nalgene or other gear, please see

the adult leaders before we leave the Hut. These may be checked out.

Personal Gear – The forecast says that there’ll be no rain on Saturday or Sunday. Even

so, please bring rain gear, one extra set of footwear and at least one change of dry clothes

and a towel in case you capsize your canoes. The trails will be somewhat muddy and a pair

of shoes that can get wet will be needed for anyone entering the water.

Popcorn Sales

We’re under way with our popcorn sales.

Remember, Popcorn Sales can help you pay for your various camping adventures. The more you sell, the more money you’ll have to pay for things like: Summer Camp, Camporees and other fun activities. In one case we had a Scout that fully financed their year, including a trip to Philmont and Boundary Waters.

Note: Each Scout is expected to sell enough popcorn to cover our annual fee of $75. This fee covers the cost of our annual chartering process, patches and other costs associated with running the Troop. Any income beyond this point will be kept in an account that the Scout will draw upon for activities. If a Scout is not able to sell enough popcorn to make the $75, any difference will need to be “bought out” and settled with the Troop Treasurer.

Key Dates:

Orders Due: Monday, October 19^th.

Popcorn Delivery: We should have the popcorn on Thursday, November 5^th.

Four Scouts didn’t attend Summer Camp and will require a special session during a weekend or during our Merit Badge Fair to play catch-up. These Scouts include: Harlan, Raife, Joey and Tamaki. I hope to be setting up the session sometime after mid-November and will be looking for additional adult assistance.

Meeting Schedule

Monday, October 12^th

Campout Cleanup – Ensure that all camping gear from the previous weekend is cleaned up and put away.

Knots – Learn a new knot. Remember to bring your ropes.

Advancement – Remember to bring your books.

Monday, October 19^th

Committee Meeting – We will be doing our final planning for Webelos Weekend. All parents are encouraged to attend. We will begin at 6:00pm in the Scout Hut.

Popcorn – Bring your completed order forms to the meeting. We won’t be ready to accept the order forms on the 12^th, but please bring them this evening so that we may process the orders.

Canoeing Merit Badge – We will plan to complete the “dry land” portion of the merit badge during the meeting.

Advancement

Monday, October 26^th

Halloween Party - The Scouts will be planning this party over the course of the next couple of weeks.

Upcoming Activities

Popcorn Sales – Ongoing through Monday, October 19^th.

Camp & Canoe Outing – We will be gathering at the Scout Hut at 08:00 on Saturday morning. Please be prompt.

Webelos Weekend – Although not until November 7^th, we’re well into the planning phase. Please volunteer to assist with this fun activity. We can always use some extra hands.

Lock-in/Merit Badge Fair – Currently scheduled for December 4^th – 5^th. We will be looking for ideas of merit badges to offer.

Other

Scout Notes - Monday, October 1, 2009

2009-10-01T16:13:00.000-05:00

Popcorn Sales

We’re under way with our popcorn sales.

Key Dates:

Orders Due: Monday, October 19^th.

Popcorn Delivery: We should have the popcorn on Thursday, November 5^th.

Meeting Schedule

Monday, October 5^th –

Troop Offices – We have our Patrol Leader and most of our non-elected Troop Offices open. After the patrols hold their elections, please see me to select a position. Some of the slots available include: Quartermaster, Chaplain’s Aide, Scribe, Historian and Troop Guides.

Canoe/Camp Prep – We will do menu planning for the canoe trip as well as staging our gear. First Year Scouts that need meal planning should lead our planning efforts with the assistance of our more seasoned Scouts.

Advancement – Please remember to bring your books so that we may work on advancement.

Monday, October 12^th

Campout Cleanup – Ensure that all camping gear from the previous weekend is cleaned up and put away.

Advancement

Upcoming Activities

Popcorn Sales – Ongoing through Monday, October 19^th.

Camp & Canoe Outing – We will be holding a camp and canoe weekend at Lake McMurtry on October 10^th and 11^th on the West Side at the shelter. Note: this is the other side of the lake from where we do Webelos Weekend. Our plan is to start the day with a 5 mile hike and then spend the balance of Saturday canoeing to finish off the merit badge and have some fun. The permission slip is on our website. Mr. Shanahan will be the Scoutmaster in charge.

Girl Scout Garage/Bake Sale – Girl Scout Troop 678, that meets in the Scout Hut on Tuesdays, will be holding a garage and bake sale on Saturday, November 14^th. The purpose of the sale is to raise money for the Scouts to travel to Savannah, GA to visit the home of Juliette Gordon Law, the founder of Girl Scouts. In preparation they will begin storing sale items in the Hut as early as Wednesday, November 11^th.

Webelos Weekend – Although not until November 7^th, we’re well into the planning phase. Please volunteer to assist with this fun activity. We can always use some extra hands.

Lock-in/Merit Badge Fair – Currently scheduled for December 4^th – 5^th. We will be looking for ideas of merit badges to offer.

Scout Notes - Monday, September 28, 2009

2009-09-24T16:30:00.000-05:00

Popcorn Sales

We’re under way with our popcorn sales.

Key Dates:

Orders Due: Monday, October 19^th.

Popcorn Delivery: We should have the popcorn on Thursday, November 5^th.

Meeting Schedule

Monday, September 28^th – Court of Honor. Families are invited to share in the accomplishments of their Scouts. Each Scout/Family should bring some cookies or other set of goodies to share after the Court of Honor.

Monday, October 5^th – We will get back into our normal meeting routine. Please remember to bring your books so that we may work on advancement.

Upcoming Activities

Popcorn Sales – Ongoing through Monday, October 19^th.

OA Fall Fellowship –September 25-27 for the fellowship and ordeal. Mr. Southwick has reserved the van for this trip. Please see him for further details.

Webelos Weekend – Although not until November 7^th, we’re well into the planning phase. Please volunteer to assist with this fun activity. We can always use some extra hands.

Lock-in/Merit Badge Fair – Currently scheduled for December 4^th – 5^th. We will be looking for ideas of merit badges to offer.

Scout Notes - Monday, September 7 & 14, 2009

2009-09-03T16:35:00.001-05:00

Popcorn Sales

The start date for selling popcorn is Monday, September 21^st. We will be handing out the forms during our meeting on Monday, September 14^th.

Meeting Schedule

Monday, September 7^th – Labor Day. No Troop Meeting

Monday, September 14^th -

Troop Meeting – We will meet at 7:00pm for our regular meeting. Some things to remember:

Books – Bring your Scout Books so that we may work on advancement. This is especially critical for first year Scouts.

Ropes – New knot of the week.

Popcorn – We will be handing out the Popcorn Take Order Forms at the end of the meeting.

Float Trip Prep – We will be planning our meals and getting our gear ready for the weekend float trip.

Monday, September 21^st – We will hold our Committee Meeting at 6:00pm in the Fan Room. Any Scouts needing a Board of Review will need to contact Ms. Shipman and then arrive at the Scout Hut no later than 6:30pm in full uniform.

Our Troop Meeting will follow at 7:00pm.

Monday, September 28^th – Court of Honor. Families are invited to share in the accomplishments of their Scouts.

Upcoming Activities

Life to Eagle Workshop – If you’re a Life Scout, please plan to attend this workshop. It walks you through what’s necessary to attain your Eagle rank. It will be held in the Scout Hut at 7:00pm on Tuesday, September 8^th.

Hornaday Weekend – Scheduled for September 11-13 at Will Rogers Scout Reservation. We will be leaving the Scout Hut at 6:00pm on Friday the 11^th.

The Tour Permit has been filed with Council.

Illinois River Float Trip – Scheduled for September 19-20. Anna Hawks has agreed to be the Scoutmaster in Charge. A permission slip is posted on the Website and was handed out last week. Please get these slips in early so that we may get counts to reserve the kayaks.

The tour permit has been filed with Council.

Popcorn Sales – Scheduled to begin on Monday, September 21^st. Start talking to friends and family to get them primed. I’ve sampled the new Campmaster’s popcorn, and it’s great.

OA Fall Fellowship –September 25-27 for the fellowship and ordeal. Mr. Southwick has reserved the van for this trip. Please see him for further details.

Leader Specific Training – This will be held in the Scout Hut for any of our new leaders on Saturday, September 26^th. Cost is $5 per person. Training will begin at 10:00am.

Webelos Weekend – Although not until November 7^th, we need to begin planning for our annual weekend with the Webelos. This includes getting the word out and preparing our activities.

Joe’s Scouting Adventure – Although I don’t have this confirmed yet, it appears that the rollout party for Joe’s shirt that celebrates 100 years of Scouting will be held on January 1, 2010. Stay tuned for further details.

Scout Notes - Monday, August 31, 2009

2009-08-27T14:27:00.001-05:00

Swim Certification

Congratulations to those of you that completed the swim certification. Everyone should be good-to-go for our Illinois River Float Trip in September.

Meeting Schedule

Monday, August 31^st –

Troop Meeting – We will meet at 7:00pm for our regular meeting. Some things to remember:

Books – Bring your Scout Books so that we may work on advancement. This is especially critical for first year Scouts.

Ropes – Let’s get back on track with learning a new knot each week.

Hornaday Weekend – Let’s make sure that we have our gear ready.

Monday, September 7^th – Labor Day. No Troop Meeting.

Monday, September 14^th – We will be prepping for our Illinois River Float Trip. This will include meal planning as well as gathering Troop equipment.

Foosball Table – The table is up and running.

Upcoming Activities

Van Training – We will be holding FUMC Van Training on Saturday, August 29^th from 13:00 – 16:00 in the Scout Hut. This training is open to all adults in the Troop over the age of 21. As active as our Troop is, we need as many certified adults as possible. Please be sure to bring a paper copy of your driver’s license and vehicle insurance card. Mr. Southwick will be our instructor.

Eskimo Joe’s Scouting Adventure – Originally scheduled for Saturday, August 29^th, at Eskimo Joe’s, this event has been postponed. Stay tuned for the rescheduled date.

Hornaday Weekend – Scheduled for September 11-13 at Will Rogers Scout Reservation. This is a great opportunity to get in some camping as well as up to three merit badges on Saturday. Some of the merit badges offered will include: Energy, Fishing, Fly Fishing, Forestry, Gardening, Landscape Architecture, Insect Study, Nuclear Science, Plant Science, Pulp and Paper and Soil and Water Conservation. Stay tuned as more opportunities are being added. Meals will be provided with Mrs. Duck as the chef. Yipeeeee! The cost is $40 per participant and the permission slips are due on Monday, August 31^st for the early bird rate. The permission slip is on our website. Mr. Gragg will be the Scoutmaster in charge.

Popcorn Sales – I have the date of September 21^st as the start date for popcorn sales. Begin warning friends and family that you’ll be coming around as this is our one funds gathering initiative that supports our Council and your camping adventures.

Please also note that we’ve switched popcorn suppliers, from Trail’s End to CampMasters. I had a chance to sample some of the new popcorn and I personally give it a “thumbs up.” There will be greater variety and the taste is much better. There are also magazine coupons that we’ll be selling, which will be new.

OA Fall Fellowship – I have tentative dates of September 25-27 for the fellowship and ordeal.

Leader Specific Training – This will be held in the Scout Hut for any of our new leaders on Saturday, September 26^th. Cost is $5 per person. Training will begin at 10:00am.

Camp & Canoe Outing – We will be holding a camp and canoe weekend at Lake McMurtry on October 10^th and 11^th on the West Side. Note, this is the other side of the lake from where we do Webelos Weekend. Our plan is to start the day with a 5 mile hike and then spend the balance of Saturday canoeing to finish off the merit badge and have some fun. The permission slip will be out shortly. Mr. Shanahan will be the Scoutmaster in charge.

Scout Notes - Monday, August 24, 2009

2009-08-20T16:43:00.000-05:00

Scout Hut Cleanup

Tip of the hat to everyone that helped clean up the Scout Hut on Monday evening. It had been quite a while since we had been in the facility and you did a bang up job of getting it back into shape.

Meeting Schedule

Monday, August 24^th –

Troop Meeting – We will meet at 7:00pm for our regular meeting. Some things to remember:

Books – Bring your Scout Books so that we may work on advancement. This is especially critical for first year Scouts.

Swim Gear – Some of you still need to pass your swim test. If you need this, please come to the meeting with your swimsuit and a towel. We’ll go to the YMCA during the meeting for a quick test. Remember, this is needed for the Float Trip and advancement.

Ropes – Let’s get back in the habit of bringing our ropes and working on a knot a week.

Monday, August 31^st - Regular Troop Meeting at 7:00pm. Will focus on advancement as well as prep for the Hornaday Weekend campout.

Monday, September 7^th – Labor Day. No Troop Meeting.

Monday, September 14^th – We will be prepping for our Illinois River Float Trip. This will include meal planning as well as gathering Troop equipment.

Foosball Table – The table is now in the Hut and I hope to have the handles reinstalled shortly. Thanks to all that signed the thank you card.

Upcoming Activities

Eskimo Joe’s Scouting Adventure – At 11:00am on Saturday, August 29^th, at Eskimo Joe’s there will be a rally for the rollout of a new Joe’s t-shirt celebrating the 100^th anniversary of Scouting. Pepsi product will be supplied to all attendees. If you’re able, please come in uniform.

Hornaday Weekend – Scheduled for September 11-13 at Will Rogers Scout Reservation. This is a great opportunity to get in some camping as well as up to three merit badges on Saturday. Some of the merit badges offered will include: Energy, Fishing, Fly Fishing, Forestry, Gardening, Landscape Architecture, Insect Study, Nuclear Science, Plant Science, Pulp and Paper and Soil and Water Conservation. Stay tuned as more opportunities are being added. Meals will be provided with Mrs. Duck as the chef. Yipeeeee! Although I don’t have the firm cost yet, I’m told that it will be about $40 per participant. The permission slip will be out shortly. Mr. Gragg will be the Scoutmaster in charge.

Illinois River Float Trip – Scheduled for September 19-20. Anna Hawks has agreed to be the Scoutmaster in Charge, but I believe we still need a second adult. We will also most likely be joined by the Perkin’s Troop as they need this trip to complete a merit badge. A permission slip is posted on the Website and was handed out last week. Please get these slips in early so that we may get counts to reserve the kayaks.

Popcorn Sales – I have a the date of September 21^st as the start date for popcorn sales. Begin warning friends and family that you’ll be coming around as this is our one funds gathering initiative that supports our Council and your camping adventures.

OA Fall Fellowship – I have tentative dates of September 25-27 for the fellowship and ordeal.

Leader Specific Training – This will be held in the Scout Hut for any of our new leaders on Saturday, September 26^th. Cost is $5 per person. Training will begin at 10:00am.

Scout Notes - Monday, August 17, 2009

2009-08-14T11:06:00.000-05:00

FUMC Playground Cleanup

I received a very hearty “Thank You” from Chris Ward to everyone that assisted with the cleanup of the FUMC Playground during our last meeting. Job well done!

Meeting Schedule

Monday, August 17^th –

Committee Meeting – This will be held at 6:00pm in the Scout Hut. All adult leaders and the SPL are invited. This is a critical meeting as we’ll begin to form our activity calendar for the new Scouting Year. Note: Updated draft calendars have been uploaded onto our website.

Board of Review candidates need to arrive at 6:30pm in full Class A Uniform.

Troop Meeting – We will meet at 7:00pm for our regular meeting. Please bring your books so that we may work or sign-off on activities.

Foosball Table Donation – I’m still working on the disassembly of the table so that we may move it into the Hut. I will bring a thank you card to our meeting on the 17^th for everyone to sign.

Upcoming Activities

Popcorn Sales – I have a tentative date of September 21^st as the start date for popcorn sales. This will be confirmed as we kick off our new year. Begin warning friends and family that you’ll be coming around as this is our one funds gathering initiative that supports our Council and your camping adventures.

OA Fall Fellowship – I have tentative dates of September 25-27 for the fellowship and ordeal.

Scout Notes - Monday, August 10, 2009

2009-08-05T16:49:00.001-05:00

Saturday Service – Skyline Recycling Center Cleanup

We will be meeting at the Skyline Recycling Center on Saturday, August 8^th at 10:00am for our periodic cleanup activities. Each Scout should show up in Class B Uniform and bring work gloves, brooms, dustpans, and trash bags. We will pickup the area and assist any customers with their recyclables. In addition to the recycling area, we’ll also pickup around the school.

Meeting Schedule

Monday, August 10^th – Troop Meeting at the Scout Hut. Please come dressed in your Class B uniform. We will be helping the FUMC prepare their preschool playground for the upcoming school year. Will involve the movement of playground sand, bush trimming and a thorough washing of the toddler area. In addition to Class B’s, please also bring work gloves. We will also need volunteers to bring the following: Wheelbarrows and shovels for the sand, hedge trimmers, loppers, and one/two long garden hoses. Please let me know if you’ll be able to supply any of these items. I will plan to leave one wheelbarrow and hose in the canoe garage.

Monday, August 17^th – Committee Meeting at 6:00pm in the Scout Hut with Troop Meeting at 7:00pm. Board of Review candidates need to arrive at 6:30pm in full Class A Uniform.

Foosball Table Donation – I’m pleased to announce that Ted Dempsey has donated a very nice Foosball Table to the Troop for installation in the Scout Hut. Ted is a former Boy Scout that I work with who fondly remembers his time in Scouting and Philmont. I presently have the table in my garage where it’ll need to be disassembled so that we may move it in the Hut’s door. I will bring a thank you card to our meeting on the 17^th for everyone to sign.

Upcoming Activities

Illinois River Float Trip – Scheduled for September 19-20. This will be a topic of discussion at the Committee Meeting so that we may begin the formal planning. We will also most likely be joined by the Perkin’s Troop as they need this trip to complete a merit badge. A tentative permission slip is posted on the Website, but be aware that the cost may change as I’m working with the outfitter to gain favorable pricing.

OA Fall Fellowship – I have tentative dates of September 25-27 for the fellowship and ordeal.

My Schedule – I will be traveling on business on Monday, August 10^th, but should be back in town for the Committee and Troop Meeting on the 17^th.

Scout Notes - Monday, August 3, 2009

2009-08-03T14:12:00.003-05:00

Philmont Trek – We’ve returned from Philmont, fresh with stories about the vistas we saw and perils we experienced. Check our website for raw photos from the trek and see one of the participants for stories. Although we faced some serious challenges, I believe everyone had a good time and is glad that they were able to conquer the trek.

Meeting Schedule

Monday, August 3rd – We will plan to hold our meeting on the East Side of Lake McMurtry where we’ll be using our canoes again.

Note: Bring your books to the lake for Summer Camp Sign-offs.

Monday, August 10^th – Troop Meeting at the Scout Hut. Please come dressed in your Class B uniform. We will be helping the FUMC prepare their preschool playground for the upcoming school year. Will involve the movement of playground sand, bush trimming and a thorough washing of the toddler area. In addition to Class B’s, please also bring work gloves. We will also need volunteers to bring the following: Wheelbarrows for the sand, hedge trimmers, loppers, and one/two long garden hoses.

Monday, August 17^th – Committee Meeting at 6:00pm in the Scout Hut with Troop Meeting at 7:00pm.

Upcoming Activities

Illinois River Float Trip – Tentatively scheduled for September 19-20. This will be a topic of discussion at the Committee Meeting so that we may begin planning. We will also most likely be joined by the Perkin’s Troop as they need this trip to complete a merit badge.

Popcorn Sales – I have a date of September 21^st as the start date for popcorn sales. This will be confirmed as we kick off our new year.

OA Fall Fellowship – I have tentative dates of September 25-27 for the fellowship and ordeal.

Illinois Float Trip Canceled

2008-09-04T16:56:00.001-05:00

The recent rainfall has caused unsafe water levels in the Illinois River. For these safety reasons, we will be canceling our planned float trip and campout for this weekend.

Float Trip Reminders

2008-09-02T09:09:00.002-05:00

(This was sent out to participants as Scoutnotes, but here's the info -- in case you deleted the email!)

In order that we can leave on time Saturday morning for the Float Trip, we will be meeting at 5:30 on Friday the night before the trip to load the trailer. If everyone shows up and helps, it shouldn't take more than 20 minutes! All Troop gear will be loaded as well as your personal camping gear that will be left at camp while we float.

REMINDERS:

1. You do not need a lot of stuff! Just a sleeping bag and a change of clothes and personal gear which should easily fit in a school backpack/day pack - no cots!

2. You will need to have your river gear in the van with you (i.e. swim trunks, towel, sunscreen, money, water bottle, sack lunch, etc.) We will not open the trailer until after the float trip! As soon as we arrive at Sparrowhawk, Mr. Coffee will arrange for the kayaks and canoes, so you will have plenty of time to change.

3. You WILL get wet, so plan accordingly for cameras, cash, etc. that you might plan on taking.

4. All participants that have not passed the BSA swim test must be in a CANOE (not a kayak) with an adult lifeguard

5. AS ALWAYS, WE WILL TRAVEL IN OUR CLASS "A" UNIFORMS - THIS INCLUDES SCOUT PANTS.

Remember there is no meeting Monday night, but we will see you all Friday, September 5th at 5:30 to load the trailer!

Planned Lock-in

2008-09-01T16:22:00.002-05:00

Mason and Robin are thinking about a lock-in. Details to follow...

2008-09-01T13:57:00.000-05:00

Testing the blog.

Welcome

2008-09-01T13:50:00.000-05:00

Welcome to Troop 818's new Blog.