Sat, 07 Mar 2026 03:23:47 -0500WeeblyMon, 23 Feb 2026 21:33:23 GMThttps://sjbsatroop623.weebly.com/scoutmasters-minute/scoutmasters-minute-2162026No Meeting Tonight due to Presidents’ Day!
Find your Class A and make sure it is clean for Scout Sunday this weekend!
  
Feb 22, 9:15am - 12 noon Scout Sunday at the Church!
Wear your class A’s and help out at the Church followed by snacks. We will need Scouts for greeting, ushering, audio-visual, and other tasks. John Allgood will be getting baptized so come show your support!
 
Fernwood Service Hours Opportunity, Registration Deadline March 27
Fernwood Botanical Garden near Buchanan is offering 12 hours of service time for high school students as outlined below. 


From https://www.fernwoodbotanical.org/list-of-events-programs/spring-break-service-learning-2 


SPRING BREAK SERVICE LEARNING
MARCH 31 - APRIL 1, 10:30 AM - 4:30 PM
High school students can earn 12 hours of service by donating their time to Fernwood. Students will learn conservation techniques for lawn maintenance, invasive species management, and best practices to support local wildlife. The program will include yard work in the garden and preserve, hiking to search for early-spring wildflowers, and learning about Fernwood’s Eastern Bluebird program. 
Audience: High school students and young adults
Registration Deadline: March 27
Sign up using the link in the Scoutmaster's Minute.
Students need to register for both days.


March 2, 6pm PLC meeting
Come help plan future meetings!
 
March 13-14 Overnight on the Silversides Submarine
Let us know if you are interested by contacting Ben Rimes before Wed Feb 11! They have a cool museum. See attached flyer for more info.
 
We need to lock in our Summer Camp reservation for 2026!
July 5 - 11 We need to start reserving our spots for the early bird discount.
 
July 18-25, 2026: Mackinac! 
Leadership through service program - July 18-25th
High demand camp - we expect a waiting list this year, so rank up and apply early!
See the attached flyer. Completed applications due Feb 13th. Send them to Mr. Lorenz.
 
Philmont Summer 2027!  - you read that right - 2027.  
Philmont is the premier High Adventure camp and requires extensive preparation and commitment - and early reservations.  We are looking at assembling a crew (or two!) to take on the Southwestern US mountains in the adventure of a lifetime!  If interested in learning more (adults (21+) and scouts (required age 14-20 in Summer 2027)) please let Mr. Lorenz know - goal is to form a crew by end of year.  Detailed dates, preparations, and planning will happen as a crew. 
 
We are missing 2 Marmot tents. 
Please check around your home for these and bring them back ASAP. They are orange in a gray tent sack. Check your usual tent drying or storing areas.
 
Merit Badge Counselors
Come to the meeting and we will fill out the form with you! Help keep the Troop going!
The troop is in need of merit badge counselors. 
The need is most urgent for the Eagle required badges….
(a) First Aid, (b) Citizenship in the Community, (c) Citizenship in the Nation, (d) Citizenship in the World, (e) Communication, (f) Cooking, (g) Personal Fitness, (h) Emergency Preparedness OR Lifesaving, (i) Environmental Science OR Sustainability, (j) Personal Management, (k) Swimming OR Hiking OR Cycling, (l) Camping, and (m) Family Life.
If you are interested in becoming a merit badge counselor look at the options on the list at this link. Talk to Mr. Dansfield or Mr. Langlois to get the forms to sign up]]>Tue, 25 Nov 2025 00:15:28 GMThttps://sjbsatroop623.weebly.com/scoutmasters-minute/scoutmasters-minute-11172025Meeting Activities
Scouts worked on advancements and planned for the upcoming Thanksgiving Feast. Thank you to the Scouts and adults who picked up flags on Saturday!
 
Advancements
Adah Lorenz was promoted to Second Class
Iris Lorenz was promoted to Second Class
 
Thanksgiving Feast Weekend Nov. 21 6pm - Nov. 23 9am at the Church
Scouts who are camping arrive at 6pm Friday to set up camp. All guests attending the Feast are $10 each and should arrive at 5pm Saturday to look around and then eat at 6pm followed by a Court of Honor. Bring your Class A’s! If you didn’t turn in your form already, mark on the form if you are paying by cash, check, or Scout account and email it to me ASAP. Cold weather packing info is at the end of this email. Scouts need to be picked up by 9am on Sunday! Sorry, flyer had the wrong time. The Church needs us out by 9am.
 
Saturday, December 6 at Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN.
Join us for the University of Scouting at Purdue University presented by IU Health; the Nation's Largest University of Scouting! 
Event information available at http://sagamoreuofs.com
 
Mon, Dec 8th, 7-8:30pm, Dodge Ball at St. Joseph High School gym!
Wear gym clothes and running shoes for snacks and Dodge Ball! 
 
Sat, Jan 10, 3:30pm: Matthew and Kevin Svetlev’s Eagle Scout Court of Honor Ceremony
Join us in the Fellowship Hall at the Church to celebrate Matthew and Kevin earning their Eagles! Everyone, please RSVP through the link by Jan 2nd. Any Scouts needing to participate in a Court of Honor for your Communication badge can sign up in the link too. Snacks will be provided after the ceremony. Official invite coming soon.

 
Climb Kalamazoo:  Jan 18-19 Sign ups are open!
Back by very popular demand - Climb Kalamazoo lock-in!  Beginner to advanced - Climb Kalamazoo has 32 rope stations, over a hundred climbing courses - How many can you accomplish?  $62 per scout pays for the equipment and private use of the gym just for our troop - all night!  The weekend AFTER finals -  Sunday Night, January 18th (MLK day is Monday - SJPS has the day off) Plan on leaving the church about 7pm Sunday, return 10am Monday.  To reserve your spot -  fill out this on-line waiver (a parent must also complete the waiver even if not attending) to lock in your spot and commit to paying.  Questions?  Contact Mr. Lorenz at an upcoming troop meeting. 
  
Klondike Feb 6-8, 2026
More details coming soon.


Philmont Summer 2027!  - you read that right - 2027.  
Philmont is the premier High Adventure camp and requires extensive preparation and commitment - and early reservations.  We are looking at assembling a crew (or two!) to take on the Southwestern US mountains in the adventure of a lifetime!  If interested in learning more (adults (21+) and scouts (required age 14-20 in Summer 2027)) please let Mr. Lorenz know - goal is to form a crew by end of year.  Detailed dates, preparations, and planning will happen as a crew. 
 
Cold weather camping packing info from Mr. Walsh (repeat from the past)
Bring a sleeping pad to get you up off the ground. But if it is one that has air inside, also bring a blanket to put on top so it doesn't suck away your body heat. He recommended using a low temperature sleeping bag so check the rating. You want the sleeping bag rating to be 20° lower than what you expect to experience for safety. He said that a 20° bag is probably your best bet but can go lower (forecast for this weekend is in the 20’s so pack the beefiest bag and layers!). He recommends using a mummy bag but if you don't have one you can use a regular sleeping bag and maybe put an extra regular sleeping bag inside of it or add extra blankets. Wear a hat to sleep so you don't get cold. Hooded sweatshirts are nice. Bring Long John's and a long sleeve shirt to sleep in that are different from the clothing that you wear during the day. Dirty and wet clothing are not very insulating. Also bring a different thin pair of gloves to sleep in. He recommended bringing hand warmers but not using them directly on your skin. Make sure you wear a shirt between your body and the hand warmer near your chest and clean dry socks on your feet near the one at the bottom of your sleeping bag. Once you wake up, drop the hand warmers into your boots. Keep your boots inside the tent and try to keep them from freezing. Bring an extra pair of boots or shoes in case one pair does get wet and freezes. Don't let yourself get so hot that you sweat and then get yourself wet. Jeans are not a good idea. Synthetic layers are your best friend. Wool can still insulate when wet. Wear lots of layers! Bring your winter coat, snow pants, face mask/scarf/gater and gloves and make sure to pack extra socks, like 5 or 6 pairs. None made of cotton.


We are missing 2 Marmot tents. 
Please check around your home for these and bring them back ASAP. They are orange in a gray tent sack. Check your usual tent drying or storing areas.
 
Merit Badge Counselors
Come to the meeting and we will fill out the form with you! Help keep the Troop going!
The troop is in need of merit badge counselors. 
The need is most urgent for the Eagle required badges….
(a) First Aid, (b) Citizenship in the Community, (c) Citizenship in the Nation, (d) Citizenship in the World, (e) Communication, (f) Cooking, (g) Personal Fitness, (h) Emergency Preparedness OR Lifesaving, (i) Environmental Science OR Sustainability, (j) Personal Management, (k) Swimming OR Hiking OR Cycling, (l) Camping, and (m) Family Life.
If you are interested in becoming a merit badge counselor look at the options on the list at this link. Talk to Mr. Dansfield or Mr. Langlois to get the forms to sign up]]>Wed, 10 Sep 2025 02:35:36 GMThttps://sjbsatroop623.weebly.com/scoutmasters-minute/scoutmasters-minute-992025Meeting Activities
Scouts built pioneering structures for the Pack Recruiting Night, and worked on advancements. 
  
Next week’s meeting, Mon, Sept 15th, will be at Milton Park from 7-8pm!
We will dress for running around (no Class A’s) and play disc golf. The address is 1524 Niles Ave, St. Joseph, 49085. Park on the nearby streets. If you have a portable disc golf target, or something else we can throw discs at, please bring it. If it rains we will meet at the Church. We will also have a survey to choose our 2026 Summer Camp.
  
This Thursday, Sept 11, 4pm Last tent set up for Church concert on Friday, Sept 12th!
Scouts need to sign up so we know if we have enough people to set up tents and cook (starting at 5pm) for the last concert on Sept 12th!
  
Sept, 11, 6:15pm Help the Pack with their Recruiting Night
Arrive at 6:15 or earlier so you can help set up and welcome prospective Cub Scouts! Wear your Class A’s and share your love of Scouting!
 
Sept 27, Fort Custer Merit Badge Day
https://scoutingevent.com/272-FortCusterMeritBadgeDay
 
Sept 27, Fishing Night
Not going to Fort Custer? Go fishing! More details to come. Bring your fishing gear and have fun with friends. Those 17 and over need a fishing license and we need at least 2 adults.
  
Halloween Campout
We are waiting for a link with more info and sign up details. Think of decoration ideas and dig out those costumes!
 
Thanksgiving Feast Nov. 21-23
We are aware that there may be conflicts. Please fill out this survey about the dates for the Feast. Thanksgiving Feast 2025 If we have too many Scouts with conflicts, we may try to adapt, but that would affect location as the Church is not available for the weekend of the 14th. Hopefully, Scouts will camp out for the weekend and families can join the dinner on Saturday. More details to come. 
 
Saturday, December 6 at Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN.
Join us for the University of Scouting at Purdue University presented by IU Health; the Nation's Largest University of Scouting! 
Event information available at http://sagamoreuofs.com
 
We are missing 2 Marmot tents. 
Please check around your home for these and bring them back ASAP. They are orange in a gray tent sack. Check your usual tent drying or storing areas.
 
Merit Badge Counselors
Come to the meeting and we will fill out the form with you! Help keep the Troop going!
The troop is in need of merit badge counselors. 
The need is most urgent for the Eagle required badges….
(a) First Aid, (b) Citizenship in the Community, (c) Citizenship in the Nation, (d) Citizenship in the World, (e) Communication, (f) Cooking, (g) Personal Fitness, (h) Emergency Preparedness OR Lifesaving, (i) Environmental Science OR Sustainability, (j) Personal Management, (k) Swimming OR Hiking OR Cycling, (l) Camping, and (m) Family Life.
If you are interested in becoming a merit badge counselor look at the options on the list at this link. Talk to Mr. Sparkman or Mr. Langlois to get the forms to sign up]]>Mon, 28 Apr 2025 17:12:16 GMThttps://sjbsatroop623.weebly.com/scoutmasters-minute/scoutmasters-minute-4Meeting Activities
The following Scouts worked on the Citizenship in Society badge: Patrick Conroy, William Conroy, Landynn Peterson, Colin Peek, Colton Smith, Everett, Konnor Bressler, John Allgood, Harrison Rimes, Ian McKim, Kevin Svetlev, Matthew Svetlev and our new Scout guests, They need to finish #5, 6, 7, 8, and 11 on their own if they haven’t already completed that badge.
 
Help needed!
We need adults to be our tent set-up leader and a new Committee Chair. Contact Kurt Sparkman if interested because he is moving away soon! 


Tent Set Up and Church Cookout sign up: Events starting soon!
Scouts need to sign up so we know if we have enough people to set up tents and cook. Parents are encouraged and welcome to join! You will also earn Scout Bucks that you can use for the Thanksgiving Feast, Scout events, and equipment.


Protect our Equipment
Please do not leave tents under the overhang of the shed. They can be stolen. Ask Mr. Dansfield or older Scouts to help you get it into the locked shed for safety. 
   
Need an Eagle Scout Project?
Contact Mr. Dansfield if you need a project. Several people need ramps built. 
 
May 5th, 6pm PLC meeting
Come share your ideas and plan future meetings!
 
May 10th, Blossomtime Parade 
Let us know if you can march in the parade. We need adults and Scouts. Scouts will wear their Class A shirts. Many of our older Scouts have to march with their High School bands. Please contact Mr. Dansfield (Scouts should copy a parent on all communications) or if you can walk with Scouts in the parade and sign up using the link in the Scoutmaster's Minute. We need some adult to stage their cars at the end of the parade to transport people back to the starting area.Blossomtime Parade 2025
 
Car Wash Fundraiser this Summer? 
Please let John Allgood know if you are interested in working in a car wash fundraiser this summer at the Church. It would take a lot of Scouts and can earn you Scout account money.
   
Summer Camp July 27 - Aug 2nd at Camp Rotary: Class sign up is open!
Email Mrs. Essig with names of Scouts committing to go to camp and she can send you a link to finish signing up. Each Scout needs $120 paid on their balance to sign up for Badge Classes. Sign up has opened so use the link from Mrs. Essig to see available classes and then click to update information, scroll down and click on select classes. It is easiest to select the time slot and search for the class, then click on it to add to your schedule. Repeat for each session, feel free to have a free slot for rest or fun. Note any prerequisites. You can print off the prerequisite forms and have them signed when you are done so you can finish the badge at camp. Click this link for info on camp scholarships. https://preview.mailerlite.com/o4r7a4w6c6/2682154896836269348/p1n8/

 
We are missing 2 Marmot tents. 
Please check around your home for these and bring them back ASAP. They are orange in a gray tent sack. Check your usual tent drying or storing areas.
 
Merit Badge Counselors
Come to the meeting and we will fill out the form with you! Help keep the Troop going!
The troop is in need of merit badge counselors. 
The need is most urgent for the Eagle required badges….
(a) First Aid, (b) Citizenship in the Community, (c) Citizenship in the Nation, (d) Citizenship in the World, (e) Communication, (f) Cooking, (g) Personal Fitness, (h) Emergency Preparedness OR Lifesaving, (i) Environmental Science OR Sustainability, (j) Personal Management, (k) Swimming OR Hiking OR Cycling, (l) Camping, and (m) Family Life.
If you are interested in becoming a merit badge counselor look at the options on the list at this link. Talk to Mr. Sparkman or Mr. Langlois to get the forms to sign up.]]>Mon, 13 Jan 2025 20:22:43 GMThttps://sjbsatroop623.weebly.com/scoutmasters-minute/scoutmasters-minute-1142025Meeting Activities
Scouts held elections, practiced knots, had a special guest speaker: Emal Nazari, a Scout who escaped from the Taliban in Afghanistan, and worked on advancements.


NO 7 pm meeting next week, Jan 20th!
Enjoy your day off! The Troop’s calendar is now available in Scoutbook.
 
Election Results
Please congratulate our new Troop Officers:
Senior Patrol Leader: Harrison Rimes
Assistant Senior Patrol Leader: William Conroy
Quartermaster: John Allgood and Konnor Bressler
Historian: Kevin Svetlev
Webmaster: Matthew Svetlev
Bugler: Harrison Rimes with Konnor Bressler as understudy
 
Advancement 
Ian McKim was promoted to First Class
 
Jan 16, 12 noon, work on Tenderfoot physical fitness requirements with the Girls’ Troop!
Scouts will meet Mrs. Essig at the Main Office in the St. Joseph High School, then go over to the track in the gym. Bring running shoes and a bottle of water.
 
Jan 16 Pinewood Derby Build Night 6:30-8pm at the Church
Come help young Scouts make their cars.
 
January 18th, 2-4pm! Blake and Cydney Bacon’s Eagle Scout Court of Honor at The Chapel
Come celebrate Cydney and Blake Bacon finishing their Eagles! They need a few volunteers to help with the ceremony. Helping with a ceremony helps younger Scouts complete their own requirements for earning their Eagles. Email Blake if you can help.
 
Climb Kalamazoo, Jan 19-20
14 youth and 3 adults are ready to go!  Late sign-ups are possible with an extra fee - please contact Mr. Lopez if interested, or with any questions.
We will be meeting at the church at 7pm and carpooling from there.  We have enough drivers, so only plan to drive if you really want to - we'll sort it out in the parking lot.  Bring snacks, drink, sleeping bag, pillow, toiletries, and payment. The waiver you have signed for Climb Kalamazoo Gym was your permission slip. 
 
Mackinac Call Out Nights
The scouts will do a short info session Monday the 27th on 'what is Mackinac Service Camp and why you might want to go'.  This will be out 64th year! The program Motto is: 'Providing Service, creating leaders' and scouts from all across Michigan get the opportunity to have a blast doing just that.  


Formal call-out night options - where you learn more and get/submit applications to go are:
Jan 28th - FCC Church 7pm
Feb 3rd - Portage Chapel Hill Church 7PM
Feb 6th - FCC Church 7pm
 
Zach Arrans’ Quartermaster and Summit Award Court of Honor,  and Wood Badge Beading Ceremony, Feb 1st, 2-5pm
Join us to help celebrate Zach’s monumental achievements in the Scouting America Programs! Ceremony will be at the Fraternal Order of Police, 3470 Angling Rd, Coloma, MI 49038. 
RSVP by January 25.
 
Klondike Derby, Feb 7-9th, 2025
We need some adults to volunteer to camp and work with the Scouts at the Klondike. Let Bobby Hill know if you are interested. Find your warm clothes and sleeping gear! Flyer with info will be at our next meeting on Jan 27.
 
Scout Sunday February 23rd 9:00 a.m.
Wear your class A and help out with the service at 10:30. We will host the congregation after the service. Ask Mr. Dansfield for details. We need Scouts to greet, usher, light candles, possibly run sound and video, etc.
 
Help clean the Scout Shed
John Allgood is leading the cleanout of the Scout Shed. Here is his sign up sheet. He needs several scouts and 2 adults for each time slot. If these dates and times don’t work for you but you want to help, put your name in the undecided column. The Saturday time was cancelled to not interfere with the Bacon’s Ceremony.
 
Check your membership status!
Returning Scouts, check parent’s email for email from noreply@scouting.org saying your BSA membership is up for renewal. Order of the Arrow dues are also due now. https://scoutingevent.com/272-2025OADues
    
We are missing 2 Marmot tents. 
Please check around your home for these and bring them back ASAP. They are orange in a gray tent sack. We can’t use the rest until the missing 2 are returned!
 
Summer Camp July 27 - Aug 2nd at Camp Rotary
Think about what badges you want to earn. More info coming soon.
 
Pack Activities we can help
Jan 16 Pinewood Derby Build Night 6:30-8pm
Jan 25th Pinewood Derby 10am - 11:30ish
Feb 20th Blue and Gold
 
Merit Badge Counselors
Come to the meeting and we will fill out the form with you! Help keep the Troop going!
The troop is in need of merit badge counselors. 
The need is most urgent for the Eagle required badges….
(a) First Aid, (b) Citizenship in the Community, (c) Citizenship in the Nation, (d) Citizenship in the World, (e) Communication, (f) Cooking, (g) Personal Fitness, (h) Emergency Preparedness OR Lifesaving, (i) Environmental Science OR Sustainability, (j) Personal Management, (k) Swimming OR Hiking OR Cycling, (l) Camping, and (m) Family Life.
If you are interested in becoming a merit badge counselor look at the options on the list at this link. Talk to Mr. Sparkman or Mr. Langlois to get the forms to sign up.

​]]>Sat, 26 Oct 2024 19:08:28 GMThttps://sjbsatroop623.weebly.com/scoutmasters-minute/scoutmasters-minute-12152024Meeting Activities
Scouts ate snacks, played games, and worked on advancements. If you missed the meeting, find a Svetlev to get an ornament at our next meeting after the break on Jan 6th.
 
Elections on January 6th!
Click on the following link to sign up for a position. They will use this info to make ballots. 
Help clean the Scout Shed
Email John Allgood if you are available to help clean the shed. 
 
Check your membership status! Renewal due by the end of this year!
Returning Scouts, check parent’s email for email saying your BSA membership is up for renewal. Order of the Arrow dues are also due now. https://scoutingevent.com/272-2025OADues

 
We are missing 2 Marmot tents. 
Please check around your home for these and bring them back ASAP. They are orange in a gray tent sack. We can’t use the rest until the missing 2 are returned!
   
Rescheduled to January 18th, 2-4pm! Blake and Cydney Bacon’s Eagle Scout Court of Honor at The Chapel
Come celebrate Cydney and Blake Bacon finishing their Eagles! They need a few volunteers to help with the ceremony. Helping with a ceremony helps younger Scouts complete their own requirements for earning their Eagles. Email Blake if you can help.
 
Climb Kalamazoo, Jan 19-20
Back by very popular demand from the scouts - Climb Kalamazoo overnight!  5 hours of climbing, option for climbing merit badge as desired.  PLC has selected Sunday Night, January 19th. MLK day is Monday, so SJPS has the day off.  Plan on leaving the church about 7pm Sunday, return 10am Monday.  $55 per scout, fill out this on-line waiver to lock in your spot and commit to paying.  Fuel and Food costs separate.
 
Klondike Derby 2025
We need some parents with woodworking tools to help Scouts rebuild sleds before the Klondike. Let Bobby Hill know if you are interested.
 
Summer Camp
Think about where and when you would like to go to Summer Camp.
 
Pack Activities we can help
Jan 25th Pinewood Derby
Feb 20th Blue and Gold



Volunteers needed
If any parents or volunteers have ServeSafe qualifications, please let us know!


Merit Badge Counselors
Come to the meeting and we will fill out the form with you! Help keep the Troop going!
The troop is in need of merit badge counselors. 
The need is most urgent for the Eagle required badges….
(a) First Aid, (b) Citizenship in the Community, (c) Citizenship in the Nation, (d) Citizenship in the World, (e) Communication, (f) Cooking, (g) Personal Fitness, (h) Emergency Preparedness OR Lifesaving, (i) Environmental Science OR Sustainability, (j) Personal Management, (k) Swimming OR Hiking OR Cycling, (l) Camping, and (m) Family Life.
If you are interested in becoming a merit badge counselor look at the options on the list at this link. Talk to Mr. Sparkman or Mr. Langlois to get the forms to sign up.]]>Tue, 02 Jul 2024 16:27:19 GMThttps://sjbsatroop623.weebly.com/scoutmasters-minute/scoutmasters-minute-712024Bring back large white coolers!
We are missing 3 large white coolers! They are needed for the Mackinac trip that packs up THIS Thursday! If you have one or more, bring them to the shed immediately and email Mr. Lorenz. They do not have enough freezer space for the food they need on the island without the 3 coolers. If you have any tents or other Troop items, bring them too. Lock items in the shed so nothing gets stolen.
 
Meeting Activities
Scouts heard a presentation on how to look out for human trafficking (handout attached), held elections, worked on advancements, played outside and had a meeting to prepare for summer camp.
 
Mackinac group packing this Thursday & Friday, most driving up Saturday to get there before noon!
Find coolers! Check your latest communications from leadership, with your patrol leader, and rides to be sure to be ready and up early enough to get to your destination before noon! You probably need to leave 4-5am to get there on time. 
 
No meeting July 8th!
Most of our leadership will be at Mackinac so we will skip the regular meeting on the 8th. Use your extra time to get prerequisites done for Summer Camp. 
https://scoutingevent.com/Download/272125884/OR/2024_Cole_Canoe_Base_Merit_Badge_Prerequisites.pdf
We will see you again on the 15th.
 
Election Results
SPL - William Conroy
ASPL - Emmet Lorenz
Historian - Kevin Svetlev and Aiden Ehrke
Webmaster - Matthew Svetlev
Quartermaster (2) - John Allgood
Outdoor Ethics Guide - Colton Smith
Scribe - Reuben Lorenz
Bugler - Harrison Rimes
 
Philmont Pictures
For everyone who went to Philmont, check your email for a link to upload your pictures. You will need them for the presentations you will give in the future and we’d like to add some of them to the Troop website. 
 
Tent Sign up! We need non-Mackinac people for July 12, 13, 14th!
We need more people! The link below is for Scouts to sign up for tent setups.  A couple of new things this year.  1) Columns are listed for scout or parent cell-phone numbers so a reminder text can be sent to those scouts signed up.  2) We need 2-3 scouts to help Mr. Dansfield with loading the trailer before a set-up. 3) Parents are also welcome to sign up for the setups.  Their scout will get the credit for the parents' help.

    
Cook for Concerts
Thanks for working this past Friday! We don’t have one in July, see you August 2nd. On concert days, we ask that you arrive at the church around 5 p.m. and begin working with Jim Dansfield and any other troop leaders in preparing the cook tent.  If you're available also for helping set up for the concert itself, please reach out to Mr. Dansfield.  Thank you -- we hope these opportunities are great for service hours and fundraising for the Troop!
Aug 2
Sept 6
 
Summer Camp, July 21-27
Colin Peek and Colton Smith volunteered to figure out recipes, ingredients, and tools needed for cobbler and hot dog mac and cheese for the potluck. We need 25 servings of both. Other Scouts need to bring ideas for skits, songs, and table decorations.
 
We have selected our leaders, the 2 groups will be decided soon. There will be more responsibilities and preplanning needed since we need to cook all meals ourselves that week. We could also do special activities like tubing down a river, so check out what they offer and tell your leaders what you want to try. Reservations are needed before we get there. Get your physical forms ready. They need to be current (done after July 27, 2023).


We are going to Cole Canoe Base! Our Summer Camp week is July 21-27 and the cost per Scout is $385. There is a discount for siblings. Please email aessig@sjschools.org if you want to go to camp. Bring your payment to the next meeting and she will send you a link to update your Scout’s info so you can choose merit badge classes and water adventures. Merit Badge/Activity selection is open! Click on the following link and then update info for your Scout.
Below is the link to all Health forms. Fill out the one for over 72 hours. Always keep your originals and give copies.
https://www.scouting.org/health-and-safety/ahmr/
 
Merit Badge Counselors
Come to the meeting and we will fill out the form with you! Help keep the Troop going!
The troop is in need of merit badge counselors. 
The need is most urgent for the Eagle required badges….
(a) First Aid, (b) Citizenship in the Community, (c) Citizenship in the Nation, (d) Citizenship in the World, (e) Communication, (f) Cooking, (g) Personal Fitness, (h) Emergency Preparedness OR Lifesaving, (i) Environmental Science OR Sustainability, (j) Personal Management, (k) Swimming OR Hiking OR Cycling, (l) Camping, and (m) Family Life.
If you are interested in becoming a merit badge counselor look at the options on the list at this link. Talk to Mr. Sparkman or Mr. Langlois to get the forms to sign up.

]]>Sun, 30 Jun 2024 22:52:03 GMThttps://sjbsatroop623.weebly.com/scoutmasters-minute/scoutmasters-minute-6242024Meeting Activities
Scouts worked on advancements, discussed supplies for Scout summer camp, and played with a bike and trailer again.
 
June 26, 5pm and possibly the weekend, Service Hours Opportunity
Weather permitting. Zach Arrans is working on his Quartermaster Rank for Sea Scouts.  This is the rough equivalent to Eagle Scout.  He is completing his project at the Coloma Rod and Gun Club on Tuesday and Wednesday.  He'd like as much help from Scouts and Adults as possible.  He will be starting each day at 5pm and working till close to dark.  Bring work gloves, water and long pants. Scouts will be moving wooden boards to build an archery platform. Come out and help one of our own.
 
Tent Sign up!
The link below is for Scouts to sign up for tent setups.  A couple of new things this year.  1) Columns are listed for scout or parent cell-phone numbers so a reminder text can be sent to those scouts signed up.  2) We need 2-3 scouts to help Mr. Dansfield with loading the trailer before a set-up. 3) Parents are also welcome to sign up for the setups.  Their scout will get the credit for the parents' help.
    
Cook for Concerts
For Those helping this week: Thank you for agreeing to help serve at FCC's next summer concert, this coming Friday, June 28.  We ask that you arrive at the church around 5 p.m. and begin working with Jim Dansfield and any other troop leaders in preparing the cook tent.  If you're available also for helping set up for the concert itself, please reach out to Mr. Dansfield.  Thank you -- we hope these opportunities are great for service hours and fundraising for the Troop!
June 28
Aug 2
Sept 6
Sign up here: Cook for Concerts
 
July 1st, PLC at 6pm then Elections at our regular 7pm meeting.
Think about what position you want to do. Most Scouts need a leadership position for advancements. There will be a presentation by Caring Connections at the beginning of the meeting. We will be indoors so they can use the screen.
 
Summer Camp, July 21-27
We have selected our leaders, the 2 groups will be decided soon. There will be more responsibilities and preplanning needed since we need to cook all meals ourselves that week. We will need to bring our own food for a shared meal so think of something that feeds 25 that we can make. We could also do special activities like tubing down a river, so check out what they offer and tell your leaders what you want to try. Reservations are needed before we get there. Get your physical forms ready. They need to be current (done after July 27, 2023).


We are going to Cole Canoe Base! Our Summer Camp week is July 21-27 and the cost per Scout is $385. There is a discount for siblings. Please email Mrs. Essig if you want to go to camp. Bring your payment to the next meeting and she will send you a link to update your Scout’s info so you can choose merit badge classes and water adventures. Merit Badge/Activity selection is open! Click on the following link and then update info for your Scout.
​
Below is the link to all Health forms. Fill out the one for over 72 hours. Always keep your originals and give copies.
https://www.scouting.org/health-and-safety/ahmr/
 
Merit Badge Counselors
Come to the meeting and we will fill out the form with you! Help keep the Troop going!
The troop is in need of merit badge counselors. 
The need is most urgent for the Eagle required badges….
(a) First Aid, (b) Citizenship in the Community, (c) Citizenship in the Nation, (d) Citizenship in the World, (e) Communication, (f) Cooking, (g) Personal Fitness, (h) Emergency Preparedness OR Lifesaving, (i) Environmental Science OR Sustainability, (j) Personal Management, (k) Swimming OR Hiking OR Cycling, (l) Camping, and (m) Family Life.
If you are interested in becoming a merit badge counselor look at the options on the list at this link. Talk to Mr. Sparkman or Mr. Langlois to get the forms to sign up.]]>Sun, 30 Jun 2024 22:50:44 GMThttps://sjbsatroop623.weebly.com/scoutmasters-minute/scoutmasters-minute-6172024Meeting Activities
Scouts worked on advancements, looked at supplies for Scout summer camp, and played with a bike and trailer.
 
June 18th 19th, 5pm Service Hours Opportunity
Weather permitting. Zach Arrans is working on his Quartermaster Rank for Sea Scouts.  This is the rough equivalent to Eagle Scout.  He is completing his project at the Coloma Rod and Gun Club on Tuesday and Wednesday.  He'd like as much help from Scouts and Adults as possible.  He will be starting each day at 5pm and working till close to dark.  Bring work gloves, water and long pants. Scouts will be moving wooden boards to build an archery platform. Come out and help one of our own. 6145 Angling Rd, Coloma, MI 49038
 
June 21st 6pm, Elks Club 
Flag retirement ceremony. They would like to have some Scouts in class A's there for their ceremony. Contact Mr. Dansfield for more information.
 
June 23 2 pm, Nexus Climbing
(From Amanda Spitzer) I have:
Adah
Aiden
Freya
Iris
John
Leona
Sophia
Trey
Signed up for the Nexus Climbing School outing Next Sunday at 2.  We've got room for 2 more.
All scouts will need to have a signed waiver form to participate. (Attached)
 
Tent Sign up!
We have a tent set up this weekend. The link below is for Scouts to sign up for tent setups.  A couple of new things this year.  1) Columns are listed for scout or parent cell-phone numbers so a reminder text can be sent to those scouts signed up.  2) We need 2-3 scouts to help Mr. Dansfield with loading the trailer before a set-up. 3) Parents are also welcome to sign up for the setups.  Their scout will get the credit for the parents' help.
Tent Setups 2024
   
June 21 & 22 Lest We Forget volunteer opportunities
Please consider volunteering for the Lest We Forget support the week of June 21-22.  There is a setup on Friday (barriers and signs) and Saturday (tables and chairs), and then a support opportunity on Saturday during the event (helping those in wheelchairs and giving directions - Class A needed).  It will be service time, and you'll definitely enjoy the reenactment on the beach Saturday.  The link to the signup sheet is below.  They have been very good to us in the past, and we love to support them.  Mrs. Burrow is the point of contact for this event.
 
Cook for Concerts
The first concert was a success! If you volunteered, make sure to contact Beth McKim to be sure you get credit for your work. Check the link to make sure you are signed up! This activity can also help toward your Cooking Badge.
 
June 28
July 26 (Summer Camp at Cole)
Aug 2
Sept 6
Sign up here: Cook for Concerts
 
July 1st, PLC at 6pm then Elections at our regular 7pm meeting.
Think about what position you want to do. Most Scouts need a leadership position for advancements.
 
July 12 and 14, Volunteer for the Ladies’ Auxiliary Ice Cream Social
Volunteer to set up and tear down. Contact Amanda Hirsch for details.
 
Summer Camp, July 21-27
We have selected our leaders, the 2 groups will be decided soon. There will be more responsibilities and preplanning needed since we need to cook all meals ourselves that week. We will need to bring our own food for a shared meal so think of something that feeds 25 that we can make. We could also do special activities like tubing down a river, so check out what they offer and tell your leaders what you want to try. Reservations are needed before we get there. Get your physical forms ready. They need to be current (done after July 27, 2023).


We are going to Cole Canoe Base! Our Summer Camp week is July 21-27 and the cost per Scout is $385. There is a discount for siblings. Please email Mrs. Essig if you want to go to camp. Bring your payment to the next meeting and she will send you a link to update your Scout’s info so you can choose merit badge classes and water adventures. Merit Badge/Activity selection is open! Click on the following link and then update info for your Scout.
Below is the link to all Health forms. Fill out the one for over 72 hours. Always keep your originals and give copies.
https://www.scouting.org/health-and-safety/ahmr/
 
Merit Badge Counselors
Come to the meeting and we will fill out the form with you! Help keep the Troop going!
The troop is in need of merit badge counselors. 
The need is most urgent for the Eagle required badges….
(a) First Aid, (b) Citizenship in the Community, (c) Citizenship in the Nation, (d) Citizenship in the World, (e) Communication, (f) Cooking, (g) Personal Fitness, (h) Emergency Preparedness OR Lifesaving, (i) Environmental Science OR Sustainability, (j) Personal Management, (k) Swimming OR Hiking OR Cycling, (l) Camping, and (m) Family Life.
If you are interested in becoming a merit badge counselor look at the options on the list at this link. Talk to Mr. Sparkman or Mr. Langlois to get the forms to sign up.

]]>Sun, 30 Jun 2024 22:49:07 GMThttps://sjbsatroop623.weebly.com/scoutmasters-minute/scoutmasters-minute-6102024Meeting Activities

Scouts checked more tents to see which ones were missing parts or broken, worked on advancements, and played a game. Younger Scouts learned how to set up the cooking rain fly. Philmont and summer camp meetings were held. 
 
Advancement
Leona Spitzer was promoted to Scout
 
Tent Sign up!
We have a tent set up this weekend. The link below is for Scouts to sign up for tent setups.  A couple of new things this year.  1) Columns are listed for scout or parent cell-phone numbers so a reminder text can be sent to those scouts signed up.  2) We need 2-3 scouts to help Mr. Dansfield with loading the trailer before a set-up. 3) Parents are also welcome to sign up for the setups.  Their scout will get the credit for the parents' help.
Tent Setups 2024
   
Philmont 
Our Philmont crew is ready! They will be gone for the next 2 meetings and will tell everyone all about it when they return.
 
June 21 & 22 Lest We Forget volunteer opportunities
Please consider volunteering for the Lest We Forget support the week of June 21-22.  There is a setup on Friday (barriers and signs) and Saturday (tables and chairs), and then a support opportunity on Saturday during the event (helping those in wheelchairs and giving directions - Class A needed).  It will be service time, and you'll definitely enjoy the reenactment on the beach Saturday.  The link to the signup sheet is below.  They have been very good to us in the past, and we love to support them.  Mrs. Burrow is the point of contact for this event.
 
Cook for Concerts
The first concert was a success! If you volunteered, make sure to contact Beth McKim to be sure you get credit for your work. Check the link to make sure you are signed up! This activity can also help toward your Cooking Badge.
 
June 28
July 26 (Summer Camp at Cole)
Aug 2
Sept 6
Sign up here: Cook for Concerts
 
July 1st, PLC at 6pm then Elections at our regular 7pm meeting.
Think about what position you want to do. Most Scouts need a leadership position for advancements.
 
July 12 and 14, Volunteer for the Ladies’ Auxiliary Ice Cream Social
Volunteer to set up and tear down. Contact Amanda Hirsch for details.
 
Summer Camp, July 21-27
We have selected our leaders, the 2 groups will be decided soon. There will be more responsibilities and preplanning needed since we need to cook all meals ourselves that week. We will need to bring our own food for a shared meal so think of something that feeds 25 that we can make. We could also do special activities like tubing down a river, so check out what they offer and tell your leaders what you want to try. Reservations are needed before we get there. Get your physical forms ready. They need to be current (done after July 27, 2023).


We are going to Cole Canoe Base! Our Summer Camp week is July 21-27 and the cost per Scout is $385. There is a discount for siblings. Please email  if you want to go to camp. Bring your payment to the next meeting and she will send you a link to update your Scout’s info so you can choose merit badge classes and water adventures. Merit Badge/Activity selection is open! Click on the following link and then update info for your Scout.

Below is the link to all Health forms. Fill out the one for over 72 hours. Always keep your originals and give copies.
https://www.scouting.org/health-and-safety/ahmr/
 
Merit Badge Counselors
Come to the meeting and we will fill out the form with you! Help keep the Troop going!
The troop is in need of merit badge counselors. 
The need is most urgent for the Eagle required badges….
(a) First Aid, (b) Citizenship in the Community, (c) Citizenship in the Nation, (d) Citizenship in the World, (e) Communication, (f) Cooking, (g) Personal Fitness, (h) Emergency Preparedness OR Lifesaving, (i) Environmental Science OR Sustainability, (j) Personal Management, (k) Swimming OR Hiking OR Cycling, (l) Camping, and (m) Family Life.
If you are interested in becoming a merit badge counselor look at the options on the list at this link. Talk to Mr. Sparkman or Mr. Langlois to get the forms to sign up.]]>