Hello, Troop 457! It’s Mr. Maloney here with your Scoutmaster Minute Podcast for April 23, 2024. Remember to check the show notes for RSVP links and other important information.
First off, let’s give a warm welcome to our new members who crossed over from Cub Scout Pack 457 this past weekend: Luke B., Braydan, Owen, Jacob, Noah, Avery, and Zeke. We’re excited to have you join us on this scouting journey.
A very happy birthday shoutout goes to Dimitri who is celebrating today! We hope you enjoyed your day today, Dimitri!
And speaking of celebrations, congratulations to Mr. Clark, our Committee Chair Emeritus, on his 12-year Scouting anniversary. Your dedication is truly inspiring.
Now, onto some important deadlines and announcements. Please RSVP by Monday, May 6 for the Crossover Campout which will take place Friday through Sunday, May 17 through 19. Also, don’t forget about selling your Hanging Basket fundraiser tickets. If you can’t sell them all, bring any unused tickets to next week’s meeting.
For those who are registered for summer camp, please note that Mr. Matusiak sent an email on April 22 asking for your preferred merit badges. If you didn’t receive this email, it means you’re not registered for summer camp. We need your responses by THIS FRIDAY, April 26. Feel free to contact Mr. Matusiak or myself with any questions. This is a new process for us, so thank you in advance for your understanding.
Our reflection today comes from John Muir, a naturalist and advocate for wilderness preservation, who once said, “The clearest way into the Universe is through a forest wilderness.” As Scouts, we learn how true this statement is through our outdoor adventures. Immersing ourselves in the tranquility of a forest, we learn more than just survival skills; we connect deeply with the universe and our place within it. The simplicity of being in the wilderness teaches Scouts respect for nature, the importance of conservation, and the interconnectedness of all living things. Through hiking, camping, and wilderness exploration, Scouts experience firsthand the profound truth of Muir’s words. It’s in these moments, surrounded by the serene beauty of nature, that Scouts not only discover the wonders of the universe but also uncover new depths within themselves. Let’s step into the forest wilderness to find clarity, purpose, and a deeper connection to the world around us.
Looking ahead to next week, we have the Fishing Derby Campout on Friday, April 26. Remember to pack for potentially wet weather and colder overnight temperatures. Then on Tuesday, April 30, we’ll be having our Lashings 101 Meeting where you can learn more about different types of lashing and how to use them to make useful camp gadgets (all requirements for the First Class Rank)
That’s it for this week, Troop 457. Keep up the good work, and remember to always do your best!