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BSAtroop623.com

ScoutMaster's Minutes 12/4/2023

12/10/2023

Meeting Activities
Scouts met at the St. Joseph High School Gym and played dodgeball and had a pitch in of drinks, snacks and pizza.

Monday Dec 11th, 6pm PLC meeting (before regular meeting) at the Church
If you are a member of the PLC, please try to attend. If you can’t make it, tell SPL why.

Monday Dec 11th, 7pm regular meeting back at the Church
We will vote to select Patrol leaders. If you are at least a 1st Class Scout, you can run. Attend so you can tell your patrol why you want to be the leader and cast your vote. Everyone under 1st class attend to vote for your leader.

January 19th-20, Climb Kalamazoo
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 a date of Friday Night, January 19th. Plan on leaving the church about 6:30pm Friday, return 9:30am Saturday (times may change closer to the event date). $55 per scout, fill out this waver to lock in your spot and commit to paying through the Troop. Fuel and Food costs separate. We are limited to 25 Scouts so sign up quickly. The roster has to be turned in a week before the event.

Klondike Derby Feb 9-11, 2024
More info coming soon. Make sure your cold weather gear still fits.

July 6 - 13 is our Mackinac week!
We have big troops wanting to go with us, so do your best to get to 1st Class so you can attend. Selection criteria will be tougher if interest is high.

Summer Camp Preferences needed!
Now that we know our Mackinac week, we need to pick a summer camp location and week. Please let your Patrol Leader know when and where you would like to go to camp. Gerber only has 3 weeks this coming summer and the first one is our Mackinac week. Scroll down this link to see 2024 camp options.
https://michiganscouting.org/outdooradventures/scoutsbsa-summer-camp/#scoutsbsa

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.

ScoutMaster's Minutes 11/20/2023

11/22/2023

Meeting Activities
Scouts worked on advancements, ate leftovers from the feast, worked on separating flags from poles for retirement, and heard the election results. Mr. Hill addressed the BSA’s high standards for safety and how bullying is not allowed and that incidents may need to be reported to police. Bullying is a gateway to abuse that is not acceptable in Scouting. A Scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent.

Advancement
William Conroy was promoted to Star

Election Results
SPL: Blake Bacon
ASPL: Patrick Conroy
Historian: Kevin Svetlev
Webmaster: Matthew Svetlev
Quartermaster: Ryder Bernard
Quartermaster: Colton Smith
Asst. Quartermaster: Johathon Allgood
Bugler: Harrison Rimes
Scribe: Colin Peek
Outdoor Ethics Guide: Levi Leitert

January 19th-20, Climb Kalamazoo
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 a date of Friday Night, January 19th. Plan on leaving the church about 7pm Friday, return 10am Saturday. $55 per scout, fill out this waver to lock in your spot and commit to paying through the Troop. Fuel and Food costs separate.

Klondike Derby Feb 9-11, 2024
More info coming soon. Make sure your cold weather gear still fits.

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.

ScoutMaster's Minute 11/13/2023

11/15/2023

Meeting Activities
Scouts worked on advancements, talked about cold weather camping, sorted patches and received copies of their Scout advancement progress. Please check with your Scout to see if the sheet matches what you think has been completed. If you have any complete blue cards lying around, bring them in to be processed.

November 17-19, Thanksgiving Feast Weekend
We need a volunteer adult to help with the cooking of the turkeys outside this Saturday. Please contact Mr. Hill or Mr. Bacon if you are available to help. Scouts should communicate with their Patrol which condiments each person will bring for their lunch meal of burgers. Bring your cold weather gear, as full of a Class A uniform as you have, polishable shoes, green shorts/pants, and Order of the Arrow sashes (if you have them). No mess kits are needed. Bring water bottles and something for hot chocolate or bug juice. Bring all other usual camping gear (showers are not available so lots of deodorant!). Sleeping outside in tents, hammocks, and inside are available. Families are invited to dress for the weather to attend the flag retirement after the dinner and ceremony. Sunday morning half the Scouts will go to each cemetery to take down the flags and bring them back to the Church.

Repeat of Mr. Walsh’s Cold weather camping Info for Thanksgiving Feast Weekend
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 and gator 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.

January 19th-20, Climb Kalamazoo
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 a date of Friday Night, January 19th. Plan on leaving the church about 7pm Friday, return 10am Saturday. $55 per scout, fill out this waver to lock in your spot and commit to paying through the Troop. Fuel and Food costs separate.

Klondike Derby Feb 9-11, 2024
More info coming soon. Make sure your cold weather gear still fits.

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.

ScoutMaster's Minute 11/6/2023

11/13/2023

Meeting Activities
Scouts worked on advancements, voted in the Troop elections, and had a knot tying relay race.

Cub Scouts still need Den Chiefs
Contact Ben Rhimes at [email protected] to help out.

2024 Annual Dues - DUE BY NOV 1st
BIG THANK YOU to those who have made their dues payments/selections on time! The few who haven't paid I will be sending an e-mail to. If you don't get paid and registered - re-registering next year triggers an extra $25 application fee and paperwork for you to fill out :0

Nov 13th meeting
Come to this meeting to help plan the Feast and work on that requirement for the Communication Badge. Bring your form and payment for the Thanksgiving Feast!

November 17-19, Thanksgiving Feast Weekend
Please mark your calendars and plan to come out for this yummy meal and fun camping time. Scouts working on their communication badge can fulfill some of the requirements planning for and presenting at the Court of Honor at this event. Please let the SPL know that you want to be involved. Scouts will cook the turkeys all day Saturday with the feast on the evening of November 18. Sign up sheet attached below. Last chance to bring forms and money is the Nov 13th meeting!

Repeat of Mr. Walsh’s Cold weather camping Info for Thanksgiving Feast Weekend
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 and gator 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/gaiter and gloves and make sure to pack extra socks, like 5 or 6 pairs. None made of cotton.

Mackinac Service camp - Hold the date(s)! Mackinac committee has published their best guess at dates for 2024 so troops and families can be planning ahead. Mackinac Camp is an outstanding opportunity for meaningful service, leadership development, and a fun time on Mackinac Island for a week. Questions on the program, talk to fellow scouts who attended last year.

January 9th and 25th - 7pm First Congregational Church (2001 Niles Ave, St Joseph) - In-person camp info sessions and In-person applications (Further info sessions possible at troop meetings by request)
January 31st - Deadline to turn in Applications for PLC and for all others to receive preferred application status
Feb 29th - 2024 camp roster set (email confirmations will be sent to all selected scouts)
April weekend TBD - Advanced Leadership Training for scouts honored with PLC responsibilities
May 5th 5-7:30PM Mandatory Practice #1
June 9th 5-7:30PM Mandatory Practice #2
July 6-20th - Requested On-Island Service Dates (7 days in that range will be selected by State Parks by January)

January 19th-20, Climb Kalamazoo
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 a date of Friday Night, January 19th. Plan on leaving the church about 7pm Friday, return 10am Saturday. $55 per scout, fill out this waver to lock in your spot and commit to paying through the Troop. Fuel and Food costs separate.

Klondike Derby Feb 9-11, 2024
More info coming soon. Make sure your cold weather gear still fits.

Philmont 2024 Crew
More weekend practice hikes will happen in the Spring. Until then, there will be day hikes, and as a crew we need to complete trek selections. Trek discussions will be happening at Monday night meetings - if you can't attend a meet be sure to ask others what was discussed!

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.

ScoutMaster's Minute 10/30/2023

10/31/2023

Meeting Activities
Scouts worked on advancements, signed up for positions for the upcoming elections, and watched a Halloween movie. The troop is looking for donations of 5 turkeys (14-16lb each) and 13 bags of charcoal for the feast. Please contact Bobby Hill if you can provide something.
Advancement
Patrick Conroy was promoted to Life

Cub Scouts still need Den Chiefs
Contact Ben Rhimes to help out.

2024 Annual Dues - DUE BY NOV 1st
BIG THANK YOU to those who have made their dues payments/selections on time! The few who haven't paid I will be sending an e-mail to. If you don't get paid and registered - re-registering next year triggers an extra $25 application fee and paperwork for you to fill out :0

Nov 6th meeting, Elections and bring Thanksgiving Feast permission slips and payment!

Nov 7th, 5:30pm PLC meeting
Patrick is cooking. If you have a position, please come to plan the Feast and meetings.

November 17-19, Thanksgiving Feast Weekend
Please mark your calendars and plan to come out for this yummy meal and fun camping time. Scouts working on their communication badge can fulfill some of the requirements planning for and presenting at the Court of Honor at this event. Please let the SPL know that you want to be involved. Scouts will cook the turkeys all day Saturday with the feast on the evening of November 18. Sign up sheet attached below. Bring forms and money to the Nov 6th meeting!

Mackinac Service camp - Hold the date(s)! Mackinac committee has published their best guess at dates for 2024 so troops and families can be planning ahead. Mackinac Camp is an outstanding opportunity for meaningful service, leadership development, and a fun time on Mackinac Island for a week. Questions on the program, talk to fellow scouts who attended last year.

January 9th and 25th - 7pm First Congregational Church (2001 Niles Ave, St Joseph) - In-person camp info sessions and In-person applications (Further info sessions possible at troop meetings by request)
January 31st - Deadline to turn in Applications for PLC and for all others to receive preferred application status
Feb 29th - 2024 camp roster set (email confirmations will be sent to all selected scouts)
April weekend TBD - Advanced Leadership Training for scouts honored with PLC responsibilities
May 5th 5-7:30PM Mandatory Practice #1
June 9th 5-7:30PM Mandatory Practice #2
July 6-20th - Requested On-Island Service Dates (7 days in that range will be selected by State Parks by January)

January 19th-20, Climb Kalamazoo
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 a date of Friday Night, January 19th. Plan on leaving the church about 7pm Friday, return 10am Saturday. $55 per scout, fill out this waver to lock in your spot and commit to paying. Fuel and Food costs separate.

Klondike Derby Feb 9-11, 2024
More info coming soon. Make sure your cold weather gear still fits.

Philmont 2024 Crew
11 of the Philmont crew hiked 13 miles Saturday, and 4 more Sunday, packs loaded! Great experience living off what you can carry, exercising some new muscles and testing out gear. More weekend practice hikes will happen in the Spring. Until then, there will be day hikes, and as a crew we need to complete trek selections. Trek discussions will be happening at Monday night meetings - if you can't attend a meet be sure to ask others what was discussed!

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.

ScoutMaster's Minute 10/16/2023

10/22/2023

Meeting Activities
Scouts worked on advancements and had a dance competition! Ask your Scout how their team did. We will be meeting inside the fellowship hall from now on due to darkness. Scouts must stay in there except for bathroom breaks. No playing anywhere else in the Church.

Cub Scouts still need Den Chiefs
Contact Ben Rhimes at [email protected] to help out.

2024 Annual Dues - FINAL REMINDER - the troop must pay the council the 2024 annual dues - covering mainly insurance, but also programing content and new this year a few perks in camp costs. The cost per scout is $160, and a check (made to troop 623), or confirmation for Scout account funds and payment is needed to Orrin Lorenz. NEEDED BY NOV 1st.

Oct 21, 10am - 4pm Scout Signature Events
See link for more details. This is something you do as a family.
Michigan Crossroads Council - Fall 2023 Signature Events

Oct 23 meeting, sign up to run for positions in upcoming elections, first aid relay, and bring your pictures from scouting events to Kevin Svetlev for troop collection!
Come to this meeting to sign up for 9 positions available in the troop. We will practice first aid, please see text from Patrol leaders for items that need to be brought. We want to collect all the good pictures from camps and other events for the troop archives! Please see Kevin or Beth Svetlev to get your pictures on the drives. These pictures will also help update our Troop website: bsatroop623.com where you can find Scoutmaster forms to rank up. At the home page click more, then troop forms and select the one you need for your rank. Print it, fill it out and bring it to Mr. Hill. See Matthew Svetlev if you want to add anything to the webpage.

Oct 30th meeting, Watch a Halloween movie and bring your friends to join Scouts!

Nov 6th meeting, Elections

Philmont - Four of your adult leaders have completed/refreshed their CPR and Wilderness First Aid certifications with over 20 hours of training each! Keeping our trip safe! Next Philmont practice hike and fitness training planned for the 27th-29th of October - Direct messages sent to those registered for Philmont.

November 17-19, Thanksgiving Feast Weekend
Please mark your calendars and plan to come out for this yummy meal and fun camping time. Scouts working on their communication badge can fulfill some of the requirements planning for and presenting at the Court of Honor at this event. Please let the SPL know that you want to be involved. Scouts will cook the turkeys all day Saturday with the feast on the evening of November 18.

Mackinac Service camp - Hold the date(s)! Mackinac committee has published their best guess at dates for 2024 so troops and families can be planning ahead. Mackinac Camp is an outstanding opportunity for meaningful service, leadership development, and a fun time on Mackinac Island for a week. Questions on the program, talk to fellow scouts who attended last year.

January 9th and 25th - 7pm First Congregational Church (2001 Niles Ave, St Joseph) - In-person camp info sessions and In-person applications (Further info sessions possible at troop meetings by request)
January 31st - Deadline to turn in Applications for PLC and for all others to receive preferred application status
Feb 29th - 2024 camp roster set (email confirmations will be sent to all selected scouts)
April weekend TBD - Advanced Leadership Training for scouts honored with PLC responsibilities
May 5th 5-7:30PM Mandatory Practice #1
June 9th 5-7:30PM Mandatory Practice #2
July 6-20th - Requested On-Island Service Dates (7 days in that range will be selected by State Parks by January)

January 19th-20, Climb Kalamazoo
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 a date of Friday Night, January 19th. Plan on leaving the church about 7pm Friday, return 10am Saturday. $55 per scout, fill out this waver to lock in your spot and commit to paying. Fuel and Food costs separate.

Klondike Derby Feb 9-11, 2024
More info coming soon. Make sure your cold weather gear still fits.

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.

ScoutMaster's Minute 10/9/2023

10/22/2023

Meeting Activities
Scouts worked on advancements and looked at packing for camp and backpacking setups. We will be meeting inside the fellowship hall from now on due to darkness. Scouts must stay in there except for bathroom breaks. No playing anywhere else in the Church.

Packing for Camp Demo from Blake Bacon
Foam pad - cold weather camping, 40 degree sleeping bag, clothes for every day of the week plus 1, toiletries, shower supplies, shower shoes/flip flops, 2 towels - 1 for swimming, 1 for showering, 9 pairs of socks, sleep shirt and shorts, 1 sweatshirt, 6 t-shirts + spare set, 6 shorts, 1 pants, hat, headlamp/flashlight, water bottle, Scout book (in a large ziplock), 1st aid kit, all merit badge stuff in binder or accordion, day bag, rain coat, 2nd pair of shoes, sunglasses, knife/sharpener, Totin’ Chip, Firem’n Chit, health forms and medications. He also demoed rolling your clothes.

Packing for Philmont from Mr. Lorenz and Mr. Bacon
They discussed the difference between internal and external frame bags, how having the bag built for ventilation is nice, recommended trying on everything in a store, and then showed items they carry: 20-25 lb of water and food and crew gear, walking stick, waterproof hiking boots, zip off pants, belt, no cotton T-shirts but some blends are ok? Long sleeve fast drying with pockets shirt, smartwool socks with wicking or socks and sock liners, leave yourself time to break in boots for 50 miles! 3.5 liters of water in various containers, such as 2 nalgenes, 1 collapsible bottle, and a sealed coffee mug, water filter, water purifier, water tablets, fuel canister, cooking system, flashlight or headlamp, toiletries kit (they will take away your deodorant), wipes, 1st aid kit, multitool, poncho frog togs or rain suit, backpack with a removable brain is nice, hat, rain jacket/pants, map pouch, toilet paper, shovel, whistle, compass, quick dry everything, jacket/blazer, gloves, buffs or hat, large ziplock - clean clothes, bag for dirty clothes, stuff for chafing, ditty bag, sunglasses, fire starters, spare battery, cards, sunscreen, insect repellant, tent, foam mat, mess kit, coffee, tea, cleaning pad, fork, spoon, rain cover for pack, camp shoes/backup shoes/crocs, seat pad, sleeping bag, stuff sack, sleeping mat, inflatable pillow, always put stuff in same spot, layer in bag by time of use, stuff sacks or waterproof stuff sacks, pockets on hip straps, 85Lt backpack, see through nalgenes so you can see tablets work.

OA Chapter meeting this Thursday 6:30 pm!
Our next chapter meeting will be October 12th starting at 6:30 pm at the VBISD in Lawrence. We are hosting an ice cream social and inviting anyone who wants to learn more about the OA to attend. (You need not be in the OA.) We are also inviting the Roundtable participants to join us. There will be good information shared about the Eagle Scout process that all troops should be aware of. Please let your troops know that this roundtable will have a lot of good information and ice cream!
Bobby Hill, Carcajou Chapter Adviser

Oct 16th meeting: Dance competition and bring your pictures from scouting events next week to Kevin Svetlev for troop collection!
We want to collect all the good pictures from camps and other events for the troop! Please see Kevin or Beth Svetlev to get your pictures on the drives.

Dues are due
Annual Dues will be $160 for returning Scouts and due before the end of October. See attached flyer for details of benefits.

Oct 21, 10am - 4pm Scout Signature Events
See link for more details. This is something you do as a family.
Michigan Crossroads Council - Fall 2023 Signature Events

Oct 23 meeting, sign up to run for positions in upcoming elections!

Oct 30th meeting, first aid relay

Nov 6th meeting, Elections

For Philmont 2024 attendees:
  Next payment of $542.50 per attendee is due. Please get checks made to Troop 623 handed to Mr. Lorenz or Mr. Bacon this week.
  Upcoming: Gear talk, Philmont training days Philmont Training Weekend, Itinerary selections, Travel options ... Dates/times/locations will be shared at Monday meetings and summary by email.
  Homework: Every scout should at least read the Shakedown Guide Part 1 and Part 2 from this web site: https://www.philmontscoutranch.org/philmont-prep-seminars/
Several of the videos are very good too.

November 17-19, Thanksgiving Feast Weekend
Please mark your calendars and plan to come out for this yummy meal and fun camping time. Scouts working on their communication badge can fulfill some of the requirements planning for and presenting at the Court of Honor at this event. Please let the SPL know that you want to be involved. Scouts will cook the turkeys all day Saturday with the feast on the evening of November 18.

January 19th-20, Climb Kalamazoo
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 a date of Friday Night, January 19th. Plan on leaving the church about 7pm Friday, return 10am Saturday. $55 per scout, fill out this waver to lock in your spot and commit to paying. Fuel and Food costs separate.

Klondike Derby Feb 9-11, 2024
More info coming soon. Make sure your cold weather gear still fits.

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.

Scoutmaster's Minute 10/2/2023

10/22/2023

Meeting Activities
Scouts moved the pioneering projects back to the shed, played a game and worked on advancements. We will be meeting inside the fellowship hall from now on due to darkness. Scouts must stay in there except for bathroom breaks. No playing anywhere else in the Church.

Advancement
Cydney Bacon was promoted to Life

Dues are due
Annual Dues will be $160 for returning Scouts and due before the end of October. See attached flyer for details of benefits.

Oct 7, 9am - ? Help take down Church rummage sale tents and clean up
Arrive 8:30-9am for breakfast then help take down rummage sale tents and move unsold items to trailers. You can earn service hours!

For Philmont 2024 attendees:
  Next payment of $542.50 per attendee is due. Please get checks made to Troop 623 handed to Mr. Lorenz or Mr. Bacon this week.
  Upcoming: Gear talk, Philmont training days Philmont Training Weekend, Itinerary selections, Travel options ... Dates/times/locations will be shared at Monday meetings and summary by email.
  Homework: Every scout should at least read the Shakedown Guide Part 1 and Part 2 from this web site: https://www.philmontscoutranch.org/philmont-prep-seminars/
Several of the videos are very good too.

November 17-19, Thanksgiving Feast Weekend
Please mark your calendars and plan to come out for this yummy meal and fun camping time. Scouts working on their communication badge can fulfill some of the requirements planning for and presenting at the Court of Honor at this event. Please let the SPL know that you want to be involved. Scouts will cook the turkeys all day Saturday with the feast on the evening of November 18.

January 19th-20, Climb Kalamazoo
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 a date of Friday Night, January 19th. Plan on leaving the church about 7pm Friday, return 10am Saturday. $55 per scout, fill out this waver to lock in your spot and commit to paying. Fuel and Food costs separate.

Klondike Derby Feb 9-11, 2024
More info coming soon. Make sure your cold weather gear still fits.

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.

Scoutmaster's Minute 9/25/2023

10/22/2023

Meeting Activities
Scouts met at the St. Joseph High School track and worked on physical fitness requirements.

Oct 2nd, 7pm Regular meeting back at the Church and dues are due
We need to move the pioneering projects back up to the shed area at the next meeting. Annual Dues will be $160 for returning Scouts and due before the end of October.

Oct 3, 5:30-7pm PLC meeting
We will meet at the Church to plan meetings and the Feast.

For Philmont 2024 attendees:
  Next payment of $542.50 per attendee is due. Please get checks made to Troop 623 handed to Mr. Lorenz or Mr. Bacon this week.
  Upcoming: Gear talk, Philmont training days Philmont Training Weekend, Itinerary selections, Travel options ... Dates/times/locations will be shared at Monday meetings and summary by email.
  Homework: Every scout should at least read the Shakedown Guide Part 1 and Part 2 from this web site: https://www.philmontscoutranch.org/philmont-prep-seminars/
Several of the videos are very good too.

November 17-19, Thanksgiving Feast Weekend
Please mark your calendars and plan to come out for this yummy meal and fun camping time. Scouts working on their communication badge can fulfill some of the requirements planning for and presenting at the Court of Honor at this event. Please let the SPL know that you want to be involved. Scouts will cook the turkeys all day Saturday with the feast on the evening of November 18.

Climb Kalamazoo
We need to pick a Friday in January.

Klondike Derby Feb 9-11, 2024
More info coming soon. Make sure your cold weather gear still fits.

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.

Scoutmaster's Minute 9/18/2023

10/22/2023

Meeting Activities
Scouts worked on building a catapult and a rope climb structure for the Cub Scout Join Night. If you need any help with an Eagle project, please ask Mr. Hill.

Our next meeting on Sept 25 will be at 7pm at St. Joseph HIgh School’s football field! Wear comfy exercise clothes and bring a bottle of water. We will work on all levels of physical fitness and have some fun activities even if you have passed all of these requirements.

Scout Accounts
Money from parking and tent setups is in your Scout accounts. Scouts can check with Mr. Lorenz to see how much money they've made this summer. This money can be used for events, camps, dues, camping supplies and Philmont. See Mr. Lorenz for details. Annual Dues will be $160 for returning Scouts and due in October. Please see attachment for details.

Sept 21, 6:30-7:45pm: Cub Scout Join Night!
Wear your class A uniform and tell them all the fun you're having in Scouts!

Sept 22 Order of the Arrow Ordeal weekend at Gerber
Eat before you arrive at Gerber between 6-8pm (arrive as early as you can to set up your tent before Ordeal starts, soon after 8.) Packing info is at the official link below and a more detailed list is attached below:
https://scoutingevent.com/272-2023AreaOAInductions

Here's the old packing list that was used years ago, and really hasn't changed but is a bit better than what's available online now.

Order of the Arrow Event Packing List
Below will be a list of items we recommend you bring to the Ordeal. Keep in mind that these items will not be needed at all events.
Backpack for carrying your gear
Medications (Inform those working check-in of these)
Pillow
Sleeping Bag
BSA Health and Medical Forms B & A
Ground Cloth
Wet Weather Gear
Scout Uniform
Basic Toiletries/towel (for showers on Saturday night)
Pocket knife
2 Water Bottles
Work Clothes Including gloves and a hat with a bill or brim (Some
work projects will involve painting, so bring old work clothes you
don’t mind getting paint on)
Drinking cup
Insect Repellant
sunscreen
Flashlight
work Gloves
Other items for the remainder of the weekend:
● Spending money for the Trading Post (OA items available to members)
● Tent (to sleep in Saturday night) and other clothing appropriate for the weather
Scout book is NOT needed but make sure you have your Totin’ Chip and Firem’n Chit with you.

Electronics
Cell phones are prohibited from the beginning of the ordeal ceremony until after your ceremony Saturday night. You can bring them, but they must be turned off during your Ordeal. Signal coverage is spotty in camp, and it's best to save your battery for important calls.

Property Identification & Gear
Remember, most scouting apparel looks pretty much the same. Label all clothing and items with something so that it will get back to you if lost. Scouters generally go to extreme measures to return lost property, but only if you make it easy. If you do lose something, check the Dining Hall for lost and found. You should also mention it to your Elangomat.

After check-in you will be asked to go to your campsite and set up your tent (to sleep in
Saturday night). Your gear that you do not take with you Friday night can be left in your
tent. There will be people in the campsite while you are not, but do not leave valuables,
money, or required medicines in your gear. It would be good to bring with you a pair of
work gloves with your name written on or in each glove.

Friday Night Food/apparel/shelter
Remember, you may not bring food or candy with you Friday night. We recommend you
pack two bags, one for Friday night and another for Saturday night. Know that if
dangerous or heavy storms come through Friday night, you will be moved to a shelter.
You need to have your Friday gear light and portable and ready. You can roll your gear
tightly into your tarp and secure it all with a light rope that you can throw over your
shoulder. You need to be able to carry your Friday gear several miles in your hands or
hanging from your shoulder.
Be prepared to shield yourself from mild rain or heavy dew, overnight with a tarp. You
will most likely be placed in a camping location along a secured roadway. The ground
will not be soft, so a ground pad can help you get some sleep.
Again, your Friday pack should be minimal, light and able to be worn over your
shoulder. A small bottle of personal sized insect repellent would also be advisable. If
you have medicines you must take, make sure you have those with you in a tight zip
lock baggie. Make sure you also keep all your money with you or locked in your vehicle.
Cell phones and other electronics should be turned off and only used in case of
personal emergency situations. Please do not use radios or MP3 players during your ordeal.

-Bobby Hill

Oct 3, 5:30-7pm PLC meeting
We will meet at the Church to plan meetings and the Feast.

For Philmont 2024 attendees:
  Next payment of $542.50 per attendee is due. Please get checks made to Troop 623 handed to Mr. Lorenz or Mr. Bacon this week.
  Upcoming: Gear talk, Philmont training days Philmont Training Weekend, Itinerary selections, Travel options ... Dates/times/locations will be shared at Monday meetings and summary by email.
  Homework: Every scout should at least read the Shakedown Guide Part 1 and Part 2 from this web site: https://www.philmontscoutranch.org/philmont-prep-seminars/
Several of the videos are very good too.

Sept 21st Become a Den Chief for Cub Scouts
Sept 21, be a den chief 2 nights a month to earn service hours and grow new Scouts. Must be 1st class or above if you aren’t an adult. Contact Ben Rimes for more details. Days of the week TBD.

November 17-19, Thanksgiving Feast Weekend
Please mark your calendars and plan to come out for this yummy meal and fun camping time. Scouts working on their communication badge can fulfill some of the requirements planning for and presenting at the Court of Honor at this event. Please let the SPL know that you want to be involved. Scouts will cook the turkeys all day Saturday with the feast on the evening of November 18.

Climb Kalamazoo
We need to pick a Friday in January.

Klondike Derby Feb 9-11, 2024
More info coming soon. Make sure your cold weather gear still fits.

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.