Scoutmaster Minute – 14 April 2024

Greetings Scouts, Parents, and Leaders,

Well that was a wet weekend out at the camporee but the troop did absolutely amazing despite all the rain. I was extremely proud of each of our scouts for keeping up their spirits and competing well at each of the events. As a troop, we took home multiple awards which include 1 third place ribbon, 5 second place ribbons, and 5 first place ribbons. Additionally, we secured 2nd and 3rd place in the cooking contest, as well as the titles of Over top patrol and top troop.

I cannot express how proud I was of each of our scouts braving the rain and sticking it out, this was a tough one but one they will remember for time to come. Despite the challenging weather conditions, they showed great determination and resilience. It was heartwarming to see them supporting each other and pushing through the obstacles together. This experience will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on them, teaching them valuable lessons about perseverance and teamwork.

Troop Meeting: Monday, April 15th, 2024. 7:00 PM – Class B Uniforms if you went to camporee. This will be our last Meritbadge and Advancement night for this quarter. Please remember this is the deadline for advance in preparation for the Court of honor the following week. It is important to stay focused and dedicated during this meeting, as it will set the tone for our upcoming Court of Honor. Let’s make sure to utilize this time efficiently and effectively to ensure that we are all well-prepared.

Please Stop by the front table to sign up for the below events:

  • Sign up to assist with the Capital City District Pinewood Derby on  April 27th
  • Sign up for the Fort Ross Camp Out on May 3rd-5th.
  • Sign up for the Mt. St. Helana Hike: May 18.
  • Sign up for the Fair Oaks Cemetery Project: May 25
  • Sign up for the Scotts Flat Campout: May 31-June 2.
  • Desolation Wilderness Backpacking Trip: July 6th -10th.
  • Sign up for Yosemite Project Campout

Upcoming April Events:

 

 Spring Court of Honor: Monday, April 22, 7:00 PM. We are excited to invite all scouts and parents to join us at our upcoming quarterly Court of Honor. This is a special occasion where we will be recognizing the hard work and dedication of our scouts by awarding them with merit badges, ranks, and various other accolades. In addition to this, we will also be acknowledging leadership qualities, attendance records, and event participation. To make this event even more special, we are kindly requesting families to bring a dessert item to share during the dessert potluck that will follow the ceremony. This will be a great opportunity for everyone to come together and celebrate our scouts’ achievements. Furthermore, we will be discussing the exciting activities planned for the upcoming Spring and Summer seasons. Please mark your calendars for the April 15th troop meeting, as this will be the deadline for advancement. The theme for this Court of Honor is Earth Day, so let’s all come together to honor our planet and our scouts.

 

Pinewood Derby Championships:  Saturday, April 27, 2024, 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM.  Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of the Pit Crew for the Three Rivers and American Rivers District Pinewood Derby Championships to be held at the historic R Street District in downtown Sacramento.  Packs from both districts will compete to be the top racer.  We need scouts to help with the races and games we will be hosting at 12th and R Streets.  This is a pre-approved Service Project for the troop and advancement.  See Dave  or Phil and Amber if you have any questions.  Workers will get a t-shirt, lunch and service hours.  A great way to spend a Saturday.  Please sign up at the Troop Meeting.

 

Summer Camp Orientation: Monday, April 29, 2024, 7:00 PM. Following the Troop Meeting, all scouts and parents of Scouts attending camp are to meet for a special Summer Camp Orientation. It is essential for everyone to gather together (at approximately 7:30 PM) to gain insight into the upcoming Camp High Sierra and Camp Royaneh adventures. This orientation will provide detailed information on what to expect, what to bring, and how to make the most out of this camping experience. Camperships are available for those in need, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder anyone from participating. If you have not yet signed up and are interested in joining us, please make sure to attend this meeting. We are grateful for the kind offers from families willing to support fellow Scouts in need, and all assistance requests will be treated with utmost confidentiality.

 

Troop Parent Meeting: Tuesday, April 30, 2024, 7:00 PM, Atonement Lutheran Church.  Parents are encouraged to attend our monthly meetings to assist your scout and the troop.

 

Special Note:

Yosemite Service Project:  We won the lottery.  Our Troop was chosen to be part of the Yosemite Service Project Team on September 6-8, 2024.  We will be camping in a very special service campground in Yosemite Valley, just below Glacier Point.  Wow!  Spaces are limited so make sure you sign up at the Troop Meeting. We will select service team members based on age, rank and when you sign up.  We are limited to a hard count of 25 Scouts and adults.  Don’t miss out on this rare opportunity to serve and see one of the most beautiful National Parks in our country.  Please see Dave Ishikawa if you have any questions.

Please feel free to reach me if you have any questions, comments, or concerns and again   See you at the Troop Meeting.

Yours in Scouting,

Michael Speer

Scoutmaster T-380B