Hello, Troop 457! Welcome back to ‘The Scoutmaster Minute.’ I’m Mr. Maloney, your Scoutmaster, ready to share the latest troop news, achievements, and some food for thought. Let’s get into it.
Advancement
First up, a big round of applause for Ben, who earned his Scout rank during our last meeting. It’s a significant first step in your Scouting journey, Ben, and we’re all proud of you!
RSVP Reminders & Announcements
Now, let’s touch on some important RSVP reminders and announcements:
- First, Scout Sunday is coming up this Sunday, February 4 at English Lutheran Church’s 9:45AM service. It’s an open invitation – you don’t need to have RSVP or be Lutheran to attend. Scouts should arrive by 9 AM in full uniform (that means khaki shirt with neckerchief, nice pants, and your merit badge sash if you have one). We will process in and sit together as a Troop and Pack at the front left of the church. And don’t forget, we’re hosting a Pancake Breakfast following the service.
- Some unfortunate news regarding the Klondike Derby. We did not have enough Scouts express interest in participating so we will NOT be fielding a sled for this year’s competition.
- We still have a chance to compete against other Troop in Moraine Trails Council at the annual First Aid Meet! The event will be held on March 9 and we’re asking Scouts who are interested in participating to RSVP by February 23. It’s a fantastic opportunity to test your skills and add to our Troop’s legacy in this event. The next time you’re at ELC, check out the bookcase in the upper level of the basement. It displays all the First Aid meet trophies our Troop has won over the years.
Finally, I want to remind everyone that our Troop Zroni Roll Fundraiser is in full swing! Each roll feeds 3-4 people and costs only $16, with $5 from every purchase going towards the selling Scout’s participation in our program. You can order yours by contacting a Troop 457 Scout or online – the link is in the show notes. Scouts, be sure to pick up your paper order form at the next meeting or print one from your inbox later this week. Remember, paper order forms are due by February 20 and online orders will close on February 27.
Scoutmaster Minute
This week, I want to share a thought based on a quote from John Wooden, one of the greatest coaches in sports history. He once said ‘It’s what you learn after you know it all that counts.’ Coach Wooden’s success wasn’t just about winning games; it was built on a philosophy of lifelong learning. In Scouting, we embody this philosophy. Every new skill, merit badge, or leadership role is a chance to learn and grow. It’s not just about the knowledge we acquire but the character, values, and wisdom we develop along the way. Remember, the journey of learning never truly ends. Stay humble, stay curious, and keep embracing new experiences.
This Week’s Troop Activities
Looking ahead to this week’s activities:
- We have Scout Sunday & Pancake Breakfast on February 4. It’s a special day for us to celebrate the founding of the Boy Scouts of America and thank the congregation of English Lutheran Church who have supported us for 84 years.
- Then on February 6, get ready for a fun Game Night. Scouts should bring decks of Uno cards if they have them and a short board game. This will be a fun meeting where we can kick back, relax, and enjoy some fellowship with your fellow Scouts.
That’s it for this week’s ‘Scoutmaster Minute.’ Thanks for tuning in, and let’s make sure to live by the Scout Law every single day. Until next time, this is Mr. Maloney, signing off. Stay safe, stay engaged, and happy Scouting!