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Scouting Blogs and News | Archived blog posts from August 2013.

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52 to 16 Update

Posted to The Scoutmaster Minute on September 29th, 2013

It has been a long while since I have talked about my backpack, and now that we are getting into the colder weather camping mode, I thought that I would update my progress to a 16 lb base weight in 52 weeks. Well, here is the bottom line. I think... [more]

Scoutmaster Mike Asbell's Wild Saunter Blog

Posted to Scoutmaster Clarke Green on September 29th, 2013

I follow Scoutmaster Mike Asbell blog Wild Saunter , a collection of quiet meditations on a simple theme: go take a walk in the woods. Well worth a look! "There is nothing so sanative, so poetic, as a walk in the woods and fields." ~ Henry... [more]

Issue 365 â€" September 28, 2013

Posted to Ask Andy on September 28th, 2013

________________________________________ Dear Andy, In a recent column you said there's no place for merit badges in the troop meeting program or on campouts. I thought there was a portion of troop meetings for skills instruction. In our troop, we... [more]

End of the Trail

Posted to Scoutmaster Musings on September 28th, 2013

I walked 30500 steps on the trail today. I traveled about 23 miles today. We slogged our way to the western terminus!!! A few pictures and congratulations, and then into the Ice Age center to get out of the cold rain. I guess the directions for the... [more]

Why We Have Scoutmasters

Posted to Scoutmaster Clarke Green on September 28th, 2013

A ripping good yarn from John Thurman's Patrol Leader's Handbook was aimed at helping the Scouts of 1950 catch the spirit of their work as patrol leaders. I offer it here to spark your imagination, and to answer the question ‘why do we... [more]

Zombies, Boy Scouts, and Girl Scouts

Posted to A Scoutmaster's Blog on September 28th, 2013

It is Friday night. More than likely, somewhere in this country there is a group of Boy Scout teens watching a horror movie of some sort. While in decades past these movies may have included Frankenstein, the werewolf, Dracula, or the mummy,... [more]

Planning and Running a Traditional Award Ceremony / Court of Honor

Posted to Scouting Rediscovered on September 26th, 2013

[Note: The term “Court of Honor” generally refers to an advancement awards ceremony today. That is the way I will be using the term in this post. If you want to know about what the term “Court of Honor” used to mean, check... [more]

Work At Philmont

Posted to Philmont Scout Ranch Youtube Videos on September 26th, 2013

http://www.philmontscoutranch.org Each summer Philmont Scout Ranch hires over 1,000 summer staff to facilitate programs for more than 26,000 Scouts, Venturers and leaders. For over 75 years, programs in Philmont's 137,000 acres of mountainous... [more]

This 1930 summer camp flier shows how much has changed, how much hasn't

Posted to Aaron on Scouting Magazine on September 26th, 2013

Summer camp season may be over (sadly), but we can still have a little fun looking back. And I mean way, way back - to 1930 and summer camp in the Kansas City Council. Michael Dulle, membership coordinator of Overland Park, Kan., Troop 0459, sent... [more]

Pioneering incidents

Posted to Ropes and Poles on September 26th, 2013

The 'incident hike' is a pioneering exercise for the whole patrol. The general idea is that a patrol of Scouts will hike along a predetermined route, in the wilderness, in camp or in town, and solve a series of 'incidents' or 'obstacles' along the... [more]

… the more things remain the same.

Posted to Scoutmaster Clarke Green on September 26th, 2013

Feeling alone? Frustrated with your youth leadership? Does it seem as though every effort to get them motivated falls short? Wish for ‘the good old days' when ‘Scouting really meant something' and boys were able to think for themselves?... [more]

Genealogy Merit Badge for Boy Scouts

Posted to Scouter Mom on September 26th, 2013

Genealogy Merit Badge for Boy Scouts Posted in CultureScholarshipBoy Scouts who enjoy delving into their family history can earn the Genealogy merit badge. There is a local LDS church which holds a skill center for this badge every year. Some of our... [more]

Camp Phillips

Posted to Scoutmaster Musings on September 26th, 2013

I walked 66000 steps on the trail today. I traveled about 30 miles today. We put in a long day, but it went quickly hiking and visting with the new people we met on the trail. Nearly to Haugen, a man with a dog came down the trail towards us. He... [more]

Cub Scout Law of the Pack Activity

Posted to Cub Scout Ideas on September 25th, 2013

Do any of you remember playing the game Pick Up Sticks where you dropped a handful of sticks on the table then tried to pick them up one at a time without disturbing the rest? This activity was inspired by that game! It will help the boys learn or... [more]

Nationwide open house on Oct. 29 will help spread the story of Scouting

Posted to Aaron on Scouting Magazine on September 25th, 2013

It takes a village to recruit new Scouts, and here's the latest example of that Scouting village uniting for the greater good of the BSA. Packs, troops, teams and crews are invited to celebrate with the LDS church on the evening of Tuesday, Oct. 29... [more]

Look for "Red Lantern" Moments

Posted to Scoutmaster Clarke Green on September 25th, 2013

2012 Red Lantern Recipient Jan Steve's, shares her inspiring story of ‘the challenge of a lifetime' in the Edmonds News. The fastest musher in the history of Alaska's Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race ran the 1000-plus mile course from Anchorage... [more]

An experience, or a checklist?

Posted to Adventures and Accidents on September 24th, 2013

I just got my latest issue of Eagle's Call magazine (formerly Eagle Scout Magazine). One article is about the recipients of the latest National Eagle Scout Service Project of the Year Award. The winner rebuilt a playground at a cost of over $35,000... [more]

Cub Scout Leader How To Book Online in PDF Format

Posted to Cub Scout Ideas on September 24th, 2013

I feel like I've hit the jackpot! I found a copy of the Cub Scout Leader How To Book online in a pdf format! I have a printed version that I purchased a few years ago, but it's in the bookcase upstairs–not very convenient. It's great to... [more]

Five Patrol Method Fundamentals

Posted to Scoutmaster Clarke Green on September 24th, 2013

Patrols are much more than a convenient way to divide a large group of Scouts into smaller, more manageable groups. Patrols are the single unique feature of Scouting and the indispensable method for achieving the aims of Scouting. Most of became... [more]

Tuesday Talkback: When youth leaders aren't allowed to make decisions

Posted to Aaron on Scouting Magazine on September 24th, 2013

Father (or Mother) knows best? Maybe, but that's not how a Scout troop, Varsity team or Venturing crew is supposed to work. Scouting is a youth-led, youth-run organization. Your responsibility as an adult leader is to train the young men and women,... [more]

Get Scouting Parents Involved

Posted to A Scoutmaster's Blog on September 24th, 2013

Cub Scout Parents Sometimes I write decent posts to this blog that some people find helpful. Sometimes I like to steer you to other Scouting blogs that have already wrote posts that you may find helpful. This is one of them. There is a blog called... [more]

The Heavy Weight of Responsibility

Posted to Scouting Rediscovered on September 24th, 2013

Once upon a time there was a Patrol Leader. He was smart, he was a good Scout, his Patrol admired and trusted him, and he could do no wrong. One day that changed, though. It was a camping trip that was not unlike any other, and the Patrol Leader... [more]

Scoutmaster Podcast 188

Posted to Scoutmaster Clarke Green on September 23rd, 2013

This edition of the Scoutmaster Podcast features Deena Mather's weather fun facts, a discussion of five fundamentals of the patrol method, and answers to email questions concerning families on camping trips, too much adult leadership, and fixing... [more]

After a Jamboree Summer, Trading is Hotter than Ever

Posted to ScoutStuff Blog on September 23rd, 2013

Do you or your Scout have a BSA patch collection you'd like to add to and enhance? Perhaps it's one that's been a might neglected of late and could use some nurturing. Or maybe it's the collection you've always wanted to start… Well there's never... [more]

Proud of my Bobwhite

Posted to Adventures and Accidents on September 23rd, 2013

A few weeks ago I went to Wood Badge again. This was my third time being on staff and this time I had an easy job--Assistant Scoutmaster over Troop Guides. The best part of this year's course was that my wife got to go with me. We were a little... [more]

Edison Is Not A Cub Scout?

Posted to A Scoutmaster's Blog on September 23rd, 2013

You know me, I love a good comic strip that includes a Scouting theme to it. I recently came across one in Pinterest (yeah, what can I say?) that made me chuckle a bit. It was a panel from the The Brilliant Mind of Edison Lee comic, probably from... [more]

Your "open door" policy

Posted to Bobwhite's Blather on September 23rd, 2013

Committee chairs have a lot of people who either report to them or who they serve in one way or another. The Scoutmaster or Cubmaster, the various coordinators on the committee, the chartered organization representative and the unit commissioner all... [more]

What is a Varisty Scouting Program?

Posted to Scouter Adam on September 23rd, 2013

Hello all: I wanted to give a quick shout out to a good blog that I recently became aware of via Twitter. His Twitter name is @fishgutts and he's funny. He is also LDS and a Varsity Coach. Huh, what? Varsity is between Troop and Venturing... [more]

The Spirit of Adventure

Posted to The Scoutmaster Minute on September 23rd, 2013

This weekend our Troop set out again looking for adventure. It really didn't dawn on me till we were an hour into the cave, but the cave represented that spirit of adventure that seems to define our Troop. Stepping outside of our comfort zone,... [more]

Keep Calm

Posted to A Scoutmaster's Blog on September 23rd, 2013

You see these "Keep Calm and …" signs all over the internet. Most of the time they are okay. Sometimes they are annoying. But this one I thought was just right for this blog, especially since many councils, packs, and troops are in the midst... [more]

Friends from Home

Posted to Scoutmaster Musings on September 22nd, 2013

I walked 58800 steps on the trail today. I traveled about 28 miles today. What a wonderful day! Last year on my Superior Hiking Trail trek, a scout from home and his family surprised me on the trail and hiked with me. Guess what? Towards the end of... [more]

900 Miles

Posted to Scoutmaster Musings on September 22nd, 2013

Just crossee the county border to Chippewa county. According to the Ice Age Trail guidebook, that is 900 miles behind us and less than 200 to go! The day is gorgeous - clear and cool. We're chasing the setting moon towards Cornell and then on into... [more]

How to Fix Scout Patrol Problems

Posted to Scoutmaster Clarke Green on September 21st, 2013

Here's a question I recently received asking how to fix Scout patrol problems: I'm a Scoutmaster with less than a year under my belt and I'm faced with a ‘good problem' ; we're growing. We currently have 4 patrols and we anticipate that we... [more]

Fall 2013 Voice of the Scout Surveys Will Kick Off in Late September

Posted to Scout Wire on September 20th, 2013

The fall 2013 Voice of the Scout survey cycle will launch in late September and be open through late October. Part of making this valuable program a success is to prepare your council membership by getting the word out. You can find customizable... [more]

WBtv #27 - April 24, 2013, "Membership Standards Resolution"

Posted to BSA Internal Communications Youtube Videos on September 20th, 2013

The National Council Executive Committee developed a resolution to be presented to the voting members of the National Council at its annual meeting next month. As was expected, there were a variety of opinions on just about every aspect of this... [more]

WBtv #29 - June 19, 2013, "New Membership Policy"

Posted to BSA Internal Communications Youtube Videos on September 20th, 2013

Now that a new membership policy has been adopted, what exactly will that mean for the BSA? Specifically, what will and will not change? Above all else, every member of Scouting is expected to live up to the high standards of the Scout Oath and... [more]

WBtv #30 - Sept. 19, 2013, "Summit High Adventure"

Posted to BSA Internal Communications Youtube Videos on September 20th, 2013

Our members have an amazing diversity of opportunity for outdoor adventure at our national high-adventure bases and local council facilities. Our new Paul R. Christen National High Adventure Base at the Summit is no exception. To learn more about... [more]

Bringing innovation into recruitment

Posted to Chief's Corner on September 20th, 2013

It's vital to the sustainability of any organization to continually attract new members and fresh talent, and that's why our fall Scouting recruitment is one of my favorite times of the year. While all groups and activities serving our young people... [more]

How to make an invis

Posted to Boys' Life Magazine Pinterest on September 20th, 2013

How to make an invisible bookshelf -- Boys' Life magazine... [more]

2014 Summit Bechtel

Posted to Boys' Life Magazine Pinterest on September 20th, 2013

2014 Summit Bechtel Reserve Programs | Boy Scouts of America... [more]

2014 Summit Bechtel

Posted to Boys' Life Magazine Pinterest on September 20th, 2013

2014 Summit Bechtel Reserve Programs | Boy Scouts of America... [more]

The Buzz - August 27

Posted to Boys' Life Magazine Pinterest on September 20th, 2013

The Buzz - August 27, 2012, "New Merit Badges Now Available" And the most popular merit badge in 2012 was... [more]

Get Your Own Persona

Posted to Boys' Life Magazine Pinterest on September 20th, 2013

Get Your Own Personalized Eagle Scout Knife... [more]

The Buzz - April 25,

Posted to Boys' Life Magazine Pinterest on September 20th, 2013

The Buzz - April 25, 2013, "Game Design Merit Badge"... [more]

Charleston, West Vir

Posted to Boys' Life Magazine Pinterest on September 20th, 2013

Charleston, West Virginia is your gateway to the Jamboree!... [more]

Alaska Adventure

Posted to Boys' Life Magazine Pinterest on September 20th, 2013

Alaska Adventure... [more]

Camping at Antietam

Posted to Boys' Life Magazine Pinterest on September 20th, 2013

Camping at Antietam... [more]

Troop 89 climbs Moun

Posted to Boys' Life Magazine Pinterest on September 20th, 2013

Troop 89 climbs Mount Whitney... [more]

Colorado Scouts Keep

Posted to Boys' Life Magazine Pinterest on September 20th, 2013

Colorado Scouts Keep Right On Climbing... [more]

Being an Eagle Scout

Posted to Boys' Life Magazine Pinterest on September 20th, 2013

Being an Eagle Scout... [more]

Troop 89 climbs Moun

Posted to Boys' Life Magazine Pinterest on September 20th, 2013

Troop 89 climbs Mount Whitney... [more]

Troop 89 climbs Moun

Posted to Boys' Life Magazine Pinterest on September 20th, 2013

Troop 89 climbs Mount Whitney... [more]

Programming Merit Ba

Posted to Boys' Life Magazine Pinterest on September 20th, 2013

Programming Merit Badge Welcome... [more]

Jamboree on the Air

Posted to Boys' Life Magazine Pinterest on September 20th, 2013

Jamboree on the Air... [more]

Being an Eagle Scout

Posted to Boys' Life Magazine Pinterest on September 20th, 2013

Being an Eagle Scout... [more]

LFL and Exploring Today: New LFL Board, 2014 Conference Top Sept. Issue

Posted to Scout Wire on September 20th, 2013

Click to open September issue The September issue of Learning for Life and Exploring Today has been published and is available online. In this issue, read more about the creation of the first-ever board of directors for the Learning for Life... [more]

Autodesk FormIt, 3d modelling on your tablet, now for Android too

Posted to Ropes and Poles on September 20th, 2013

I wrote about Autodesk's Formit software a few months ago as a tool for pioneering cosntruction drawings . At the time, it was only available on iPad, but it has now launched for Android as well . Officially, it's only supported on tablets (7" or... [more]

BSA-Pearson Publishing Update: Latest Developments, Expanded FAQ

Posted to Scout Wire on September 19th, 2013

A New Publishing Model for the BSA The Boy Scouts of America is in the process of transitioning to a new publishing model aimed at reducing costs, improving efficiencies, and offering customers a wider range of content in a variety of formats. As... [more]

Video Clips for Early Rank Requirements

Posted to My Scout Stuff - A Scoutmaster's Blog on September 19th, 2013

While we're on the subject of Rank Advancement for 11 year old scouts (or a new Scout patrol), take a look at these video clips to help you get though the early rank requirements: Notice in the lower left corner of that page, these can also be... [more]

High Adventure at the Summit

Posted to Wayne Brock TV on September 19th, 2013

Our members have an amazing diversity of opportunity for outdoor adventure at our national high-adventure bases and local council facilities. Our new Paul R. Christen National High Adventure Base at the Summit is no exception. To learn more about... [more]

Are you Serving Scouts or Expecting to be Served?

Posted to Scoutmaster Clarke Green on September 19th, 2013

As a camp director one summer, years ago, several Scouters complained that our dining hall steward was getting out of hand. We served all our meals family style and Scouts served as waiters. Waiters arrive before the meal to set the table, serve... [more]

10 things I learned staffing Wood Badge at Philmont

Posted to Scouter Adam on September 19th, 2013

Reblogged from Bryan on Scouting: Just like your favorite film, Wood Badge is even better the second time around. Last month, I served as a Troop Guide for Wood Badge course S2-571-13-3, known within the Dallas-based Circle Ten Council simply... [more]

Minnesota Venturers try underwater basket weaving - no, seriously

Posted to Aaron on Scouting Magazine on September 19th, 2013

Note: Not a real patch. In Crew 9820, they're taking the joke of "underwater basket weaving" to new heights. Or, technically, new depths. Last weekend, the Minnesota Venturing crew, which specializes in scuba diving, went below the surface in their... [more]

Hammock Basics

Posted to The Scoutmaster Minute on September 19th, 2013

I'm sorry if this week is real video heavy on the blog… but sometimes video is a great way to get the information out there. This video is all about the basics of hammock camping. I have been getting lots of questions as to what type of gear... [more]

Fish and Wildlife Management Merit Badge for Boy Scouts

Posted to Scouter Mom on September 19th, 2013

Fish and Wildlife Management Merit Badge for Boy Scouts Posted in ConservationBoy Scouts who are interested in learning more about conservation and wildlife can earn the Fish and Wildlife Management merit badge. Copyright Scouter Mom - A resource... [more]

Finance Impact e-Letter: 2014 Budget-Building Bulletin Is Out

Posted to Scout Wire on September 19th, 2013

Click to open Sept. 15 issue The September 15 issue of the Finance Impact Department's e-Letter has been published and is available online. In this issue of the e-Letter , learn how to create a comprehensive, accurate budget for your council's 2014... [more]

Troop 536

Posted to Scoutmaster Musings on September 19th, 2013

Troop 536 in Medford, WI rocks! Here is their scout hut right in the city park. It is a very cool meeting place and their scoutmaster is letting me rest here overnight. He is a great example of being helpful, friendly, and kind all at once. He is... [more]

Buzz

Posted to Scoutmaster Musings on September 19th, 2013

I walked 24548 steps on the trail today. I traveled about 12 miles today. Just after we finished dinner last night, the rain started. It diminished to drizzle around 7am so we broke camp. The drizzle, fog, and general gloom hung in all morning as... [more]

LDS Nationwide Scouting Open House Planned for October 29

Posted to Scout Wire on September 18th, 2013

On October 29, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will host a nationwide Scouting Open House Night. On this evening, the church will invite packs, troops, teams, and crews from all chartered organizations to join them as they open... [more]

Tomahawk Throwing for Scouts

Posted to Scoutmaster Clarke Green on September 18th, 2013

Tomahawk throwing for Scouts? Really? I was a little wary about the whole idea (you should be too!) so I checked the Guide to Safe Scouting just to be sure and here is what I found: Archery and Knife and Tomahawk Throwing These are approved... [more]

AGC National Office

Posted to BSA Internal Communications Youtube Videos on September 18th, 2013

... [more]

Philmonts Tabasco Donkeys Wagon Wheel

Posted to The Scoutmaster Minute on September 18th, 2013

Ran into this today while bouncing around YouTube… after spending the last 3 and half days on the PCT, I really got the Philmont itch, the Tooth of Time is Chewing on me. Our last night at Philmont at the closing camp fire they played this... [more]

10 things I learned staffing Wood Badge at Philmont

Posted to Aaron on Scouting Magazine on September 18th, 2013

Just like your favorite film, Wood Badge is even better the second time around. Last month, I served as a Troop Guide for Wood Badge course S2-571-13-3, known within the Dallas-based Circle Ten Council simply as Wood Badge 106. Loyal blog readers... [more]

Water Purification System

Posted to The Scoutmaster Minute on September 18th, 2013

In this video I demonstrate the way that I carry and purify my water. Water is an essential part of backpacking, and in the discussion of hammock camping systems this becomes a large part of how we camp and the gear we use within the system. My... [more]

New and Improved Hiring Tools Available on the HR Gateway

Posted to Scout Wire on September 18th, 2013

The hiring season is upon us and we've just launched some new and updated resources to assist with the recruiting and employment process. What's new? Recruiting Plan: A complete checklist for all points in the recruiting process, including steps... [more]

A couple much needed days

Posted to The Scoutmaster Minute on September 18th, 2013

Just got home from a couple much needed days on the Pacific Crest Trail. My buddy Mark and I hit the trail on Sunday for a few days of lolly gagging south bound from Timberline Lodge down to Frog Lake. Here is the video I shot. I also shot some... [more]

Die, Mosquitos, Die

Posted to Scoutmaster Musings on September 17th, 2013

I walked 43162 steps on the trail today. I traveled about 21 miles today. We called it a short day at Rusch Preserve where there are some free campsites and a pump well. The well water is brown. :-( This is also the start of the 10mile side trail... [more]

Help Populate Your JTE Dashboard With New Camping Manager Tool

Posted to Scout Wire on September 17th, 2013

Annual camping data is now due. The data will be collected using a new Camping Manager tool that is being deployed to my.scouting.org . The camping tool is now available for each council to enter camping data from September 1, 2012, through August... [more]

Join BSA in celebrating its 100-year partnership with the LDS church

Posted to Aaron on Scouting Magazine on September 17th, 2013

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was the first sponsor of the Boy Scouts of America way back in 1913. One-hundred years later, the LDS church brings more Scouts into the movement than any other chartered organization. Next month,... [more]

FREE Guide: 2013 Cub Scouts "Getting Started Hints"

Posted to Cub Scout Ideas on September 17th, 2013

This is the time of year when many packs welcome new Cub Scouts and new leaders. Returning Scouts and leaders are tackling a new rank. Most of us are in planning mode, and we're scouring the internet for good ideas. At Cub Scout Ideas, we have... [more]

Tuesday Talkback: What do you do when a Scout has a patch sewn on wrong?

Posted to Aaron on Scouting Magazine on September 17th, 2013

You'll notice it right away, of course. You'll see Tristan across the room at your pack or troop meeting this week and instantly spot the unit numerals on the wrong sleeve, the rank patch on the wrong pocket or the World Crest way too low on his... [more]

Tiger Cub Scout Immediate Recognition Emblem

Posted to Cub Scout Ideas on September 17th, 2013

When we started our scouting adventure, I struggled and struggled with getting the beads on the Tiger Cub Scout Immediate Recognition emblem. My husband (the engineer in our family) had some fancy way, but I could never figure out how to do it... [more]

Reminder: 2013 Shooting Sports Grant Applications Being Accepted

Posted to Scout Wire on September 17th, 2013

Shooting sports programs are popular activities for Scouts of all ages, and the Boy Scouts of America adheres to its longstanding policy of teaching its youth and adult members the safe, responsible, and intelligent ways to handle, care for, and... [more]

Advancement Plan for Eleven Year Old Scouts

Posted to My Scout Stuff - A Scoutmaster's Blog on September 17th, 2013

Over the weekend, I taught my first Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmaster Leader Specific Training course. I think the class went well but kinda felt bad for all the brand new 11-year-old scout leaders who would have benefited from more info... [more]

Advancement Plans for Eleven Year Old Scouts

Posted to My Scout Stuff - A Scoutmaster's Blog on September 17th, 2013

Over the weekend, I taught my first Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmaster Leader Specific Training course. I think the class went well but kinda felt bad for all the brand new 11-year-old scout leaders who would have benefited from more info... [more]

Remembering PTC Media, a podcast website.

Posted to A Scoutmaster's Blog on September 17th, 2013

I was contacted tonight on Facebook by a fellow Scouter from Illinois. Kevin Miller was wondering what is going on with PTC Media these days. For those of you new to this blog, PTC Media was a website featuring a collection of Scouting related... [more]

Romford Scouts walk for Paul

Posted to ScoutBaseUK on September 16th, 2013

Scouts from Romford District have raised over £18,000 in memory of their former District Commissioner, Paul... [more]

Taking STEM on the Road

Posted to Chief's Corner on September 16th, 2013

One of our priorities is to find new ways to take Scouting into underserved neighborhoods. That mission gets even better when you can throw high technology into the mix! The National Capital Area Council just launched its new STEM (Science,... [more]

Rev Up Your Camp's Activities With ATV, PWC Program

Posted to Scout Wire on September 16th, 2013

Applications are available for the 2014 All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) and Personal Watercraft (PWC) Program. If your council has previously participated, you need to complete the application and board resolution for 2014. If you have not done so, you... [more]

Use Webelos to Teach Tigers

Posted to Cub Scout Ideas on September 16th, 2013

To help get our new Tiger den leader off to a good start, I led the first Tiger den meeting this year. Boy, it brought back memories! Little guys wanting to know if they were having snacks and what they were having for snack. Tigers asking if it... [more]

Scoutmaster Podcast 187

Posted to Scoutmaster Clarke Green on September 16th, 2013

This edition of the Scoutmaster Podcast features a discussion of numbers and breakthroughs, and answers to email questions concerning training, assistant Scoutmasters sitting on boards of review, discipline problems with Scouts and what to do if... [more]

Micromanaging: a bad idea

Posted to Bobwhite's Blather on September 16th, 2013

We've all been there, I'm sure. We've worked for, or with, someone who quite figuratively can't see the forest for the trees. Someone who fusses over every small detail of a project, process or workplace and who directs even the … Continue... [more]

2014 OA Lodge Matching Service Grant Applications Due October 31

Posted to Scout Wire on September 16th, 2013

If your OA lodge is planning a council camp or service center project during 2014, you can apply now for a 2014 OA Matching Service Grant. All lodges applying for the grant must have been a 2012 JTE lodge and should not have received a grant from... [more]

Scouts speak up at party conference

Posted to ScoutBaseUK on September 15th, 2013

Scouts took the opportunity to have their say and quiz MPs at the Liberal Democrat Party Conference in Glasgow... [more]

Share the celebrations

Posted to ScoutBaseUK on September 15th, 2013

Two new videos are available for members to help promote the Scouting... [more]

Rain Did Not Dampen Their Spirits

Posted to A Scoutmaster's Blog on September 15th, 2013

I walked into my house shortly after nine o'clock tonight and I smelled it almost immediately. Smoke! No, it was not the house on fire or anything like that. It was me. More specifically, my clothes. You see, I stopped by the Birch Lake State... [more]

Issue 364 â€" September 14, 2013

Posted to Ask Andy on September 14th, 2013

________________________________________ Dear Andy, I was a Scout in my troop and now that I've aged out I'm an Assistant Scoutmaster. I have some concerns about how the troop's being run and I'm hoping to get some clarifications from you on a few... [more]

Top of the World

Posted to Scoutmaster Musings on September 14th, 2013

I'm on top of the lookout tower on the high point of the Ice Age Trail! It's all downhill to Minnesota from here. Sweeping views all around, including Rib Mountain way down by Wausau. It's all gresn now, but in a few weeks it will be a kaleidoscope... [more]

How Long Does it Take to Be a First Class Scout?

Posted to Scoutmaster Clarke Green on September 14th, 2013

Someone asked me how long, on average, does it take to be a First Class Scout? We know statistically Scouts who become First Class within the first year tend to stay in Scouting longer. I am pleased when Scouts advance because that's one indicator... [more]

Flag Folding

Posted to An Hour a Week... left over after Scouting on September 13th, 2013

We just had a Court of Honor and the Scouts played a few games against the adult volunteers and parents. We've been working on a back to the basics theme and have been focusing on basic scout skills, so the games were lighting a fire with flint and... [more]

wipeout-200x148

Posted to Boys' Life Magazine Pinterest on September 13th, 2013

wipeout-200x148... [more]

kingdomhearts-200x14

Posted to Boys' Life Magazine Pinterest on September 13th, 2013

kingdomhearts-200x148... [more]

pokemon-200x148

Posted to Boys' Life Magazine Pinterest on September 13th, 2013

pokemon-200x148... [more]

skylanders-200x148

Posted to Boys' Life Magazine Pinterest on September 13th, 2013

skylanders-200x148... [more]

The First Trailer fo

Posted to Boys' Life Magazine Pinterest on September 13th, 2013

The First Trailer for Ender's Game Looks Surprisingly Awesome!... [more]

A Very Obvious Cat T

Posted to Boys' Life Magazine Pinterest on September 13th, 2013

A Very Obvious Cat Trap... [more]

The Easiest Way to G

Posted to Boys' Life Magazine Pinterest on September 13th, 2013

The Easiest Way to Get Free Stuff... [more]

Happy Mother's Day F

Posted to Boys' Life Magazine Pinterest on September 13th, 2013

Happy Mother's Day From Monsters U... [more]

Happy Mother's Day f

Posted to Boys' Life Magazine Pinterest on September 13th, 2013

Happy Mother's Day from Monsters University... [more]

Happy Mother's Day f

Posted to Boys' Life Magazine Pinterest on September 13th, 2013

Happy Mother's Day from Monsters University... [more]

Animated Visulizatio

Posted to Boys' Life Magazine Pinterest on September 13th, 2013

Animated Visulization of Every Meteorite Strike on Earth... [more]

Write on! Constitutional essay contest gives Eagle, Life Scouts a shot at cash

Posted to Aaron on Scouting Magazine on September 13th, 2013

You the Life Scouts and Eagle Scouts of the Boy Scouts of America, in Order to form a more perfect understanding of the U.S. Constitution, establish awareness of our nation's Founding Documents, and secure some Free Money, do indeed need to enter... [more]

Cub Leader Questions? Read 'For the Love of Cub Scouts'

Posted to Scoutmaster Clarke Green on September 13th, 2013

Where do you go find answers to Cub Leader questions? During the years I spent as a Cubmaster and Webelos Den Leader formal training sessions helped , but the most valuable advice I received at the time came from those long talks in the parking... [more]

Another Journey Begins

Posted to Scouter Adam on September 13th, 2013

Last night at Roundtable it became official that I am the new Pioneer District Cubscout Roundtable Commissioner. I have stepped down as the District Training Chair. As I have told and continue to say, I have not left training all together, but I... [more]

2014 Programs: Getting The Word Out

Posted to Summit Blog on September 13th, 2013

Getting the word out to your council about 2014 high adventure programs at Paul R. Christen National High Adventure Base at the Summit has never been easier. The team at the Summit has put together a digital marketing package over at... [more]

Rafting the Umkomazi River with a bamboo and tractor tube raft

Posted to Ropes and Poles on September 13th, 2013

These photographs from Andrew Friedemann are of a run down the Umkomazi river by 1st Hillcrest Scouts in the 1980s. In the contruction photo on the left, you'll see that the rafts are made with bamboo poles. Andrew says: "On the Umkomaas we used to... [more]

To the young men

Posted to Adventures and Accidents on September 12th, 2013

This is the "lecture" I would really like to give to our Teachers quorum this Sunday: "I want to talk to you guys for a minute. Something happened this week that I can't stop thinking about. We had several young men show up here on Wednesday night,... [more]

Tech blog Gizmodo: Summit treehouse 'looks just like an Ewok village'

Posted to Aaron on Scouting Magazine on September 12th, 2013

I can think of no higher praise than the words used today to describe the Summit's Sustainability Treehouse. Alissa Walker, who writes for the popular technology and design blog Gizmodo, said in a blog post that the treehouse "looks just like an... [more]

Scoutmaster Specific Training

Posted to An Hour a Week... left over after Scouting on September 12th, 2013

Last month I conducted Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmaster Specific Training for our District. Well, ostensibly it was for the District, but for whatever reason, only volunteers from our Troop came to be trained. This training, if you haven't... [more]

Electronics Merit Badge for Boy Scouts

Posted to Scouter Mom on September 12th, 2013

Electronics Merit Badge for Boy Scouts Posted in ScienceThe Electronics merit badge introduces Boy Scouts to the concepts and devices which make a lot of the technology they use possible. Copyright Scouter Mom - A resource for adults and youth... [more]

Trail Angels

Posted to Scoutmaster Musings on September 12th, 2013

I walked 53389 steps on the trail today. I traveled about 26 miles today. A funny thing happened on the way to Polar today... Papa Bear read in the Ice Age Trail guidebook that a bar-n-grill in Polar, WI is hiker-friendly and may let you camp... [more]

A memorial for Scouts

Posted to ScoutBaseUK on September 11th, 2013

Volunteers in Birmingham have launched a project to fund a Scouting Memorial which will honour members who have suffered through... [more]

Nostalgia, Tradition, and the Relevance of Scouting

Posted to Scoutmaster Clarke Green on September 11th, 2013

Whenever two or three Scouters get together talk eventually turns to the relevance of Scouting in ‘modern society'. Some think we've diminished the ideals of 'manliness' , traditional patriotism, bootstrap initiative, competitiveness and... [more]

Saluting America's Heroes, Remembering 9/11

Posted to Chief's Corner on September 11th, 2013

September 11 th will always be a difficult day for Americans as we struggle with the horrific memory of the terrorist attacks on New York and Washington, D.C., and the crash of Flight 93 in Pennsylvania. As painful as that memory can be, it's also... [more]

Athletics Troop Program Feature for Boy Scouts

Posted to Scouter Mom on September 11th, 2013

Athletics Troop Program Feature for Boy Scouts Posted in FitnessThe Boy Scout Planning Guide suggests a Athletics Troop Program Feature for October 2013. This athletics program feature offers the opportunity to plan a month's worth of troop... [more]

Wood Badge C6-438-12-2

Posted to A Day In The Life... John's Notes on September 11th, 2013

This weekend is it for me. After several years of trying to get to Wood Badge, the weekend is finally here. I was able to make my schedule work this time around so starting this Friday through Sunday (then another weekend at the end of the month),... [more]

Hammocks in Scouting

Posted to The Scoutmaster Minute on September 10th, 2013

It seems as though there has been a lot of talk about hammock camping in the Scouting community lately. And boy does that make me happy. I have been a hammock camper now since 2010 when I got turned on to the most comfortable way to camp at the... [more]

Hammock Camping for Scouts

Posted to Scoutmaster Clarke Green on September 10th, 2013

Our latest ScoutCircle presentation featured Derek Hansen, Scoutmaster and hammock camping guru. If you are curious about hammocks and how Scouts can use them take the time to watch the presentation. Derek is a great speaker and shares all of the... [more]

Cub Scout Bobcat Requirements: Balloon Bust Game

Posted to Cub Scout Ideas on September 10th, 2013

Don't you just love those cute little Tigers? They are adorable! But then you try to teach them the Cub Scout Bobcat requirements. Between the boys asking when they're going home and if they're getting a snack, it's hard to keep their attention!... [more]

A memorable Reunion

Posted to ScoutBaseUK on September 9th, 2013

Last weekend hundreds of volunteers from the UK and abroad came together for Reunion at Gilwell... [more]

International Commissioner vacancy

Posted to ScoutBaseUK on September 9th, 2013

We are looking for a volunteer to lead and further develop our international relationships with the World and Regional Scout... [more]

2014 High Adventure: Video Bonanza

Posted to Summit Blog on September 9th, 2013

You like high adventure ? Well, belly up to the visual smorgasbord over at the Summit's YouTube channel . Get amped for all the high adventure waiting for you in 2014 at the Paul R. Christen National High Adventure Base at the Summit. When you've... [more]

Scoutmaster Podcast 186 Sharing Information with Youth Leaders

Posted to Scoutmaster Clarke Green on September 9th, 2013

This edition of the Scoutmaster Podcast features a discussion of the new youth membership standard ( see this post for more information) and some thoughts on training and mentoring Scouts. Derek Hansen joined us on Scoutcircle.org for this great... [more]

Enter to win BSA-themed sunglasses, Scouting magazine patches

Posted to Aaron on Scouting Magazine on September 9th, 2013

Can wearing sunglasses count as doing a Good Turn? Sure, if you're sporting Merit Shades . Every time you purchase a pair of the new officially licensed Boy Scouts of America sunglasses, Merit Shades donates a pair of sunglasses to a child in... [more]

BSA Announces Membership Fee Increase for 2014

Posted to Scout Wire on September 9th, 2013

The BSA is increasing its membership fee from $15 to $24 per year for all registered Scouts and adults effective January 1, 2014. For those who join after the beginning of the year, the fee will be prorated at $2 per month. This does include units... [more]

Choking 101

Posted to Scouter Adam on September 9th, 2013

Over the weekend, actually on our way home Elliot started to choke on corn chips he had eaten. I was driving, but heard it same time my wife Debora did. She keyed in on it and asked questions of him. Elliot could not reply, but was gasping for... [more]

More on "sports parents" and Scouting

Posted to Bobwhite's Blather on September 9th, 2013

In February, we posted an article titled Signing Day in which we explored the high-profile world of high school athletes committing to play sports in college and how the "race to the top" ends up costing parents, families and youth dearly, …... [more]

Latest Version of MyScouting Tools Released

Posted to Scout Wire on September 9th, 2013

Many of you may have heard at this year's Top Hands that a second version of the new MyScouting Tools was recently released to our Key 3 unit and district volunteers on my.scouting.org . This release moves toward our vision of volunteer... [more]

Coating my Tarp with Never Wet

Posted to The Scoutmaster Minute on September 9th, 2013

Living up here in Oregon, we spend our fair share of our camping time in the rain. Rust-Oleum has a product called Never Wet that is designed to not only protect but shed water, dirt and grime off of what ever you coat. I thought, this should work... [more]

Recruit Parents, Youth With New 'Cub Hub' Site

Posted to Scout Wire on September 8th, 2013

You may have heard rumors or even seen the teasers on Facebook … and it's all true! At long last, parents have one online source they can turn to that pulls together Cub Scout-related content and social media onto one site. Called "Cub Hub," the... [more]

Trio of New Videos Will Help You Tell Scouting's Story in Your Area

Posted to Scout Wire on September 8th, 2013

How do you tell Scouting's story to youth in your council? If you haven't harnessed the power of video yet, the BSA has released three new clips that will make it easier to show the powerful effect that Scouting can have in your area. Each of the... [more]

ScoutCircle Features Hammock Camping, Sunday September 8, 9-10 PM EST

Posted to Scoutmaster Clarke Green on September 7th, 2013

Join us at ScoutCircle.org Sunday, September 8th 9-10PM EST to discuss hammock camping with our guest Derek Hansen the author of ‘The Ultimate Hang'. ScoutCircle is a live presentation followed by a live question and answer period. Be sure... [more]

Finance Impact e-Letter: Sept. 1 Issue Covers Recent Court Ruling, Scouting Alumni Association Discounts

Posted to Scout Wire on September 7th, 2013

Click to open the Sept. 1 issue The September 1 issue of the Finance Impact Department's e-Letter has been published and is available online. In this issue of the e-Letter , we look at the New Jersey Supreme Court ruling regarding donor intent and... [more]

Changing Forests

Posted to Scoutmaster Musings on September 7th, 2013

I walked 37688 steps on the trail today. I traveled about 17.5 miles today. A few separate trail segments were completed today with a wide range of terrain and plantlife. We ended the day with a roadwalk. Check out my current location on the map... [more]

Help Your Units Plan Their High-Adventure Trips With New Videos

Posted to Scout Wire on September 7th, 2013

Are your council's units still trying to figure out where to head for some high-adventure action and excitement next year? Check out these new promotional videos from our high-adventure bases at Philmont, Northern Tier, Sea Base, and the Summit …... [more]

Notice anything special on the crest of the new USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier?

Posted to Aaron on Scouting Magazine on September 6th, 2013

As the only Eagle Scout ever to become U.S. president (so far), Gerald Ford stands among the most successful men ever to emerge from the Boy Scouts of America. That legacy continues with the USS Gerald R. Ford , a $13.5 billion, 1,106-foot... [more]

Snake

Posted to Scoutmaster Musings on September 6th, 2013

We met this little guy on the trail this morning. Anyone have a guess as to what kind of snake he is? The temperature is steadily risng today and our forested trail walks are done - only road walking for the next hour or so until our friends find... [more]

Liability Insurance for Council-Owned Watercraft

Posted to Scout Wire on September 6th, 2013

Under the Boy Scouts of America's general liability program, councils are charged for liability insurance for boats owned by the council and used in Scouting activities. All watercraft liability charges are billed quarterly by the national office... [more]

What is that anyway?

Posted to Scoutmaster Clarke Green on September 6th, 2013

With apologies to my past and future tent mates I offer this slightly risque, yet truly funny infographic from the Adventure Journal via Walter Underwood What is that anyway?... [more]

Update: 1st Hillcrest Scouts Suspension Bridge

Posted to Ropes and Poles on September 6th, 2013

Last year I blogged about a suspension bridge across a ravine in Kwa-Zulu Natal by 1st Hillcrest Scouts , built in 1984. At the time I only had the information from the Veld Lore newspaper to go on, but Andrew Friedemann , who was the Scouter who... [more]

2014 OA Lodge Matching Service Grant Applications Due October 31

Posted to Scout Wire on September 6th, 2013

If your OA lodge is planning a council camp or service center project during 2014, you can apply now for a 2014 OA Matching Service Grant. All lodges applying for the grant must have been a 2012 JTE lodge and should not have received a grant from... [more]

Half Way

Posted to Scoutmaster Musings on September 6th, 2013

I walked 54800 steps on the trail today. I traveled about 26 miles today. HALF WAY!!! Our campsite is almost exactly at the halfway point of the trail. Check out my current location on the map. I know the actual trail miles change as new sections... [more]

Images of a Movement: Thursday Spotlight (9-5-13)

Posted to Scouting Rediscovered on September 5th, 2013

It's been too long since I did one of these posts! You may have noticed that I use a lot of old-time Scout photographs throughout this blog. There are a handful of reasons for this. For one, they go great with the theme of this blog, as I am... [more]

UK Scouts prepare for World Scout Jamboree

Posted to ScoutBaseUK on September 5th, 2013

UK Scouts are currently forming friendships, fundraising and for the 23rd World Scout Jamboree, Japan in... [more]

Challenges of leadership

Posted to Adventures and Accidents on September 5th, 2013

I just got back from Wood Badge. This was my third time on staff. I'll post more about this experience later, I'm sure. Part of the effect of Wood Badge is that it gets me thinking. I have now been involved in Scouting for about five and a half... [more]

Watch highlights of the Scout-built race car's Florida debut

Posted to Aaron on Scouting Magazine on September 5th, 2013

Good news: The real-life race car built entirely by untrained Scouts and Venturers at the jamboree in July didn't fall apart in the middle of its racing debut Saturday in Florida. Better news: The car, helmed by friend of Scouting Scott Lagasse... [more]

What did the troop affected by explosion in West, Texas, do with extra money?

Posted to Aaron on Scouting Magazine on September 5th, 2013

The Scouts and Scouters in West, Texas, have taken "to help other people at all times" to a new level of awesome. First, let me recap. On April 17, 2013, a deadly explosion at West Fertilizer Company left a tight-knit community in pain. Fifteen... [more]

'Ideal Scout' Statues Available for Your Council Office, Volunteer Recognition

Posted to Scout Wire on September 5th, 2013

Have you ever wondered how your council can get its very own copy of the famous "Ideal Scout" statue (also known as the McKenzie statue or "The Boy Scout") to use at your office or as recognition items? The Cradle of Liberty Council, which owns the... [more]

FYI (if you're a teenage girl)

Posted to Scouter Adam on September 5th, 2013

Reblogged from Given Breath: Dear girls, I have some information that might interest you. Last night, as we sometimes do, our family sat around the dining-room table and looked through your social media photos. We have teenage sons, and so naturally... [more]

Sloppy Debbie's 1 po

Posted to Scouting Magazine Pinterest on September 5th, 2013

Sloppy Debbie's 1 pound extra lean ground beef 1 Can Chicken Gumbo Soup 1 Tablespoon Mustard (to taste) 1 Tablespoon Catsup (to taste) Cook and drain ground beef. Add remaining ingredients. Simmer until hot and bubbling. Serve over bollio rolls or... [more]

Sawyer 3-Way Water Filter Review

Posted to Scoutmaster Clarke Green on September 5th, 2013

Over the past thirty years of camping I've owned or used several different pump-type filters and tried different chemical purification options. Each has their merits and drawbacks. Pump-type filters have been prone to mechanical failure, tricky to... [more]

Philmont's 2015 registration period opens Oct. 29; watch this new promo video while you wait

Posted to Aaron on Scouting Magazine on September 5th, 2013

It seems like just about everyone wants to go (or go back) to Philmont. And so when it comes to the hiking mecca's 12-day and seven-day summer expeditions, demand far exceeds supply. That's why Philmont Scout Ranch has in place a lottery system,... [more]

Disabilities Awareness Merit Badge for Boy Scouts

Posted to Scouter Mom on September 5th, 2013

Disabilities Awareness Merit Badge for Boy Scouts Posted in CharacterBoy Scouts can learn to understand and appreciate each individual's strengths and challenges while working on the Disabilities Awareness merit badge. Copyright Scouter Mom - A... [more]

Get Ready for 2013 Jamboree-On-The-Air and -Internet!

Posted to Scout Wire on September 5th, 2013

Jamboree-on-the-Air and Jamboree-on-the-Internet will be held October 19 and 20, 2013. JOTA and JOTI are annual World Scouting events that provide an opportunity for Scouts to communicate with other Scouts from around the world! Visit JOTA's... [more]

Two roads diverged

Posted to Scouter Adam on September 5th, 2013

Two roads diverged in a yellow wood, And sorry I could not travel both And be one traveler, long I stood And looked down one as far as I could To where it bent in the undergrowth; - Then took the other, as just as fair, And having perhaps the better... [more]

Cub Scout Gathering Activity: Beans in a Can

Posted to Cub Scout Ideas on September 5th, 2013

Do you need a quick game to get the boys moving? Have they sat just a little too long and need to stretch? Do you need a simple Cub Scout gathering activity? Just whip out an empty can and some dried beans so the boys can play Beans in a Can! ... [more]

How Scouting can make history hi-tech

Posted to Chief's Corner on September 4th, 2013

I can't say enough about how important it is for young people get training in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math, or " STEM ." That's why this Eagle Scout project caught my eye to share with you. 17-year-old Alex Monseau of Troop 43 in... [more]

John Muir

Posted to Scoutmaster Musings on September 4th, 2013

John Muir had a huge impact on the wild places of our country. He founded the Sierra Club. This memorial park to him has a spring-fed kettle lake and a trail around which is part of the Ice Age Trail. Yes, we walked the loop :-). This was after our... [more]

BSA Membership Standards Implementation Resources

Posted to Scoutmaster Clarke Green on September 4th, 2013

The BSA has recently released their initial implementation resources addressing the change to membership standards voted on at this year's annual meeting. Membership Standards Implementation Resources Upon approval of the membership standards... [more]

Eagle Scout says rank 'more of a launchpad than a final destination'

Posted to Aaron on Scouting Magazine on September 4th, 2013

Ever heard of a Scout "Eagling out"? That's the unofficial term for a young man earning Boy Scouting's highest rank and leaving the program shortly after. Well, that idea's lost on newly minted Eagle Scout Andrew Arnold from Monterey, Calif. Not... [more]

We are not Experts

Posted to Jabbering All Day Long on September 4th, 2013

While reading the blog In Kirsty's Words. came across an interesting post We Are Your Leaders and it opens with the line we are not experts The post We are not Experts appeared first on Jabbering All Day Long . Related posts: One time offer Do we... [more]

Scout Camps are Boring! â€" Part 3

Posted to Scouting Rediscovered on September 3rd, 2013

Where's the Enthusiasm? Ask a boy today if he'd like to go spend a week in the woods away from civilization, and you're going to get variety of responses. Unfortunately, many of those will be negative. Ask a kid the same question in the... [more]

Reaching new heights

Posted to ScoutBaseUK on September 3rd, 2013

An intrepid Scout leader is among the first to ascend an unexplored mountain range in the... [more]

Take centre stage

Posted to ScoutBaseUK on September 3rd, 2013

Have you gained your Queen's Scout Award? Are you ready for an additional challenge? Why not take centre stage at Windsor... [more]

BSA membership fee increased to $24; what does your $24 get you?

Posted to Aaron on Scouting Magazine on September 3rd, 2013

The Boy Scouts of America will increase its annual membership fee for youth and adults to $24 from $15, beginning Jan. 1, 2014. For those who join after the beginning of the year, the fee will be prorated at $2 per month. This does include units... [more]

5 Things You Probably Didn't Know About The Summit

Posted to Summit Blog on September 3rd, 2013

So. The Summit. For the last three years we've been talking about all the cool stuff there, all the activities that would be available for the 2013 National Scout Jamboree. And now, with the jamboree under our belts, it's time to take a deeper dive... [more]

Aldo Leopold Center

Posted to Scoutmaster Musings on September 3rd, 2013

We're up before daylight and on the trail through fog and sunrise. It's cold this morning - about 44 degrees - so we walk to warm up. All roadwalks today heading to Portage and we've reached the Aldo Leopold center. Very nice building (with... [more]

Are You Sharing Too Much Information?

Posted to Scoutmaster Clarke Green on September 3rd, 2013

Information educates the mind, experience develops skill. Too much information can be paralyzing. We live in the information age. Our Scouts get plenty of information, much more than they can do anything with. What they really need is experience... [more]

Issue 364 â€" September 2, 2013

Posted to Ask Andy on September 2nd, 2013

________________________________________ Dear Andy, I read your column with the question about Scoutmasters taking over the announcements really hit home-it could have been written about me! We have a good troop that's active, uniformed, and... [more]

Scoutmaster Podcast 185 The Colorado Experiment 4

Posted to Scoutmaster Clarke Green on September 2nd, 2013

This edition of the Scoutmaster Podcast features our fourth installment of 'The Colorado Experiment" tracking the progress of a new Scoutmaster and new troop, and your messages in the mailbag. We started tracking the Colorado Experiment in Podcast... [more]

What Cub Scout membership coordinators need to know

Posted to Bobwhite's Blather on September 2nd, 2013

Cub Scout packs are making plans to get their programs going for the next year of fun and excitement. Join Scouting nights are getting scheduled and all the recruiting materials are being updated. But Scouting's raw material is membership, for... [more]

Happy Anniversary

Posted to Jabbering All Day Long on September 2nd, 2013

Happy Anniversary to my wonderful wife – thank you for seven wonderful years. TTFN Kiff ©ChrisMeadows2013 Hello Reader – Are you new to Jabbering All Day Long can I suggest that you check out our Starter for Ten Page which will... [more]

Gibraltar Rock

Posted to Scoutmaster Musings on September 2nd, 2013

I walked 24378 steps on the trail today. I traveled about 11 miles today. Picking up right where we left off at the Lodi Marsh, we started hiking at 5pm today. The hike into Lodi was great! The trail was well maintained, the temperature was... [more]

Bottle Sling Knot Infographic

Posted to Scoutmaster Clarke Green on September 1st, 2013

The bottle sling knot has been around for centuries. This ancient method of forming a sling for the neck of a jug or bottle this knot was described in detail by the Greek physician Heraklas in his first century book on surgical knots and slings... [more]

Back On Trail

Posted to Scoutmaster Musings on September 1st, 2013

Leaving for the trailhead in an hour. Anxious to get moving again and looking forward to the 20 degree drop in temperature and new terrain to cover. We picked up more supplies for the next month and that's one of the best parts of long hikes - I... [more]

August 2013 Customer Photos!

Posted to Official ClassB Blog on September 1st, 2013

Hello and Happy Fall to you all! As the leaves begin to change and the weather becomes cooler, we expect to see our customers changing gears to plan for new activities. It looks like many of you have still been able to enjoy some outdoor fun and... [more]

Monthly Contest

Posted to Scoutmaster Musings on August 31st, 2013

I get back on the trail tomorrow, picking up where we left off around Lodi, WI. The high humidity and heat stayed around longer than hoped and rides to the trailhead worked out that made Sunday the best day to start. 450 miles completed and 650... [more]

Leaving a Legacy…Part I

Posted to True North Scouting on August 31st, 2013

There is a discussion on Scout Nation, about a Cubmaster crossing over with his son and there not being a replacement…nobody is stepping up to assume the role. On the same note, the CC, an ACM and the treasurer are all crossing over at the... [more]

Found on Pinterest â€" Seasonings in a Straw

Posted to Scoutmaster Clarke Green on August 31st, 2013

This tip comes from Field & Stream Magazine via Pinterest: Use straws to store salt, pepper, and spices for camping trips. Heat one end of a clear plastic straw with a lighter, then crimp it with your fingers or a multitool. Fill the straw... [more]

Joe Theismann: Values of the Scout Law 'don't leave you'

Posted to Aaron on Scouting Magazine on August 31st, 2013

As a Dallas Cowboys fan, it hurts me a little to type this, but here goes: Joe Theismann is the man. I mean, how many Super Bowl-winning former quarterbacks can recite the Boy Scout Law without notes? The former Life Scout and Washington Redskins... [more]

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