Don't Forget the Polar Bear Plunge
Start the New Year off with something different and challenging – join your Scoutmaster and Senior Patrol Leader at SportsCom for the 8th annual Polar Bear Plunge at the outdoor pool this Sat., January 2, 2010. Dennis Harden, the Mansfield's, Whitaker's, Hines', Meyer's and Spivey's have eagerly (?) signed on. Last I heard, Steve and Jarod Dix were still searching for an excuse not to come. Will Luke Clement make it two years in a row? Still no word from Chantal "Back Paddle" Quiterio and Jane "Oshi" Paxton! Maybe the Ervin's will bring Beth over so she won't feel so bad about returning to the Philippines in Jan! The more the merrier! I've got a miserable cold, but I'm hoping the frigid water will kill the germs! Bring an article of non-perishable food for admission. Hot Chocolate, coffee and donuts will be provided starting at 8:30 AM. The plunge itself is scheduled for 10:00 AM. Wear your troop 398 T-shirt plus any other weird garb you might have! Last weather report was predicting 32 degrees on Sat. … we may even get a chance to really "break the ice" … won't that be C-O-O-O-L !!!
Troop Meeting
This Monday, Jan. 4th will be our first troop meeting of 2010.
January Campout
We will be attending the Trail of Tears District Winter Camporee at Camp Tubbs, near Rock Island, TN, Jan. 8th – 10th. The theme will be celebrating the 100 years of scouting. We always look forward to the possibility of snow in Jan!
Since time is short, please reply to this email if you plan to attend!
Super Bowl Barbeque Fund Raiser
Pick up tickets for the Fund raiser tonight. We want to sell as much as possible by Monday, Feb 1st. Tell your customers that they need to buy a ticket in order to make sure they will get their order. You can collect their money when you fill out the ticket or they can pay you when they pick up their order on Feb. 7th. Each scout is encouraged to sell at least 5 orders. Top salesman wins a $165 campership.
Eagle Court of Honor
Everyone is invited to attend Michael Daniel's Eagle Court of Honor at 2:00 PM on Sunday, Jan. 17th at First Presbyterian Church.
Everyone is also invited to attend Drew Fry's Eagle Court of Honor at 3:00 PM on Saturday, Jan. 23rd at St. Mark's United Methodist Church.
Super Bowl Barbeque Fund Raiser
Tickets for the Fund raiser are now available. We want to sell as much as possible by Monday, Feb 1st. Tell your customers that they need to buy a ticket in order to make sure we will have enough to fill their order. You can collect their money when you fill out the ticket or they can pay you when they pick up their order on Feb. 7th.
Each scout is encouraged to sell at least 5 orders. Top salesman wins a $165 campership. For every $10 sold, you will get a chance added to the hat for a drawing for a $100 gift certificate for the store of your choice.
Future Camp Outs
The PLC set the following dates: No camp out in Feb. due to short month and other activities; Mar. 12-14; Apr. 16-18; and Apr 30-May 2
KEY DATES
Jan 2 Polar Bear Plunge 9:30 – 10:30 AM at SportsCom
Jan 4 First Troop Meeting of the New Year
Jan 8-10 District Winter Camporee at Camp Tubbs
Jan 17 Eagle Court of Honor – Michael Daniel 2 PM – First Presbyterian Church
Jan 18 Martin Luther King Holiday
Jan 23 Eagle Court of Honor – Drew Fry 3 PM – St. Mark's UMC
Jan 30 Tennessee Tech Merit Badge University
Feb 6-7 Super Bowl Sunday BBQ Fund Raiser
Feb 7 Scout Sunday
Feb 12 Laser Quest
Feb 27 MTSU Merit Badge University
Mar 5 District Webelos Cross Over
Mar 6 District Adult Awards Banquet – All adult leaders are invited!
Mar 12-14 Troop Camp Out – destination TBAN
Mar 22-26 Spring Break
Mar 29 Troop Court of Honor
Apr 16-18 Troop Camp Out – Backpacking – Walls of Jericho
Apr 30 – May 2 Troop Camp Out – Rappelling/Fishing
May 21-23 Adult White Water School Camp Boxwell
May 29 Flag Placement at Stones River Nat'l Batrtlefield
June 4-6 Adult White Water School Hiwassee River
June 13-18 Summer Camp, Camp Stahlman, Boxwell Reservation
July 2-17 Philmont High Adventure BackpackingTrek to Philmont
Aug 6-8 Youth White Water Canoe & Kayak School Hiwassee River
Aug 20-22 Troop White Water Camp Out Hiwassee River
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Troop 398 News - Dec 31
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Troop 398 News - Dec 11
Everyone is invited to attend Patrick Horne's Eagle Court of Honor at 2:00 PM on Sunday, Dec. 13 at St. Mark's UMC. We try to make each Eagle Court of Honor special, so please come and join with us as we celebrate Patrick's achievement. WE NEED VOLUNTEERS FOR THE COLOR GUARD – Please Email if you plan to attend.
December Camp Out
Please sign up early for the December Campout. It will be at Short Mountain once again on December 18 - 20. We will be sleeping in a heated cabin with beds and mattresses. Bring sleeping bag, warm clothes, work gloves. Saturday morning we will work on service projects. We will go hiking Sat afternoon. We will cook as a troop. Parents and other family members are invited to come up and join us for supper. Mr. Wiser traditionally plans a feast topped off by dutch oven cobblers. Saturday evening we will have a devotional and voluntary gift exchange. If you want to participate, bring a small, appropriate, gift (approx. $5-$10). Those who bring a gift will participate in a drawing to exchange gifts. We usually play board games on Friday and Saturday nights - bring your favorite game. A sign-up sheet will be posted - please be very accurate this time as to the meals you and your guests will eat. We usually have a large crowd so we need to be able to buy the right amount of food.
KEY DATES
2009
Dec 13 Eagle Court of Honor – Patrick Horne 2:00 PM
Dec 18-20 Christmas Camp Out/Family Feast – Short Mountain
Dec 21 Troop Planning Meeting (Leaders only)
Dec 28 No Troop Meeting
2010
Jan 4 First Troop Meeting of the New Year
Jan 8-10 District Winter Camporee at Camp Tubbs
Jan 17 Eagle Court of Honor – Michael Daniel 2 PM
Jan 23 Eagle Court of Honor – Drew Fry 3 PM
Jan 30 Tennessee Tech Merit Badge University
Feb 6-7 Super Bowl Sunday BBQ Fund Raiser
Feb 12 Laser Quest
Feb 27 MTSU Merit Badge University
May 21-23 Adult White Water School Camp Boxwell
June 4-6 Adult White Water School Hiwassee River
June 13-18 Summer Camp, Camp Stahlman, Boxwell Reservation
July 2-17 Philmont High Adventure BackpackingTrek to Philmont
Aug 6-8 Youth White Water Canoe & Kayak School Hiwassee River
Aug 20-22 Troop White Water Camp Out Hiwassee River
Monday, December 7, 2009
Troop 398 News - Dec 6
Court of Honor
Tomorrow's troop meeting will be a Court of Honor. We will meet in the Worship Center in the church at 7:00 PM. Bring in any money you have for popcorn. We'll have some slides to show from recent campouts.
Eagle Court of Honor
Everyone is invited to attend Patrick Horne's Eagle Court of Honor at 2:00 PM on Sunday, Dec. 13 at St. Mark's UMC. We try to make each Eagle Court of Honor special, so please come and join with us as we celebrate Patrick's achievement.
Congratulations
Brandyn Whitaker successfully completed his Eagle Board of Review last Wed. night. Upon approval of the BSA National Council, he will become Troop 398's 100th Eagle Scout. Brandyn is our 7th Eagle Scout this year. The first Eagle Scout of record for Troop 398 was Jim Burkhalter on October 11, 1966. Congratulations, Brandyn!
Service to Country
Zac Mitchell, US Air Force, will be deploying to Iraq later this month. Twin brother, Nat Mitchell is also serving in the Air Force in Texas. Older brother, Isaac Mitchell will be entering the Air Force in January. We are very proud of these past members of Troop 398 – please keep the entire Mitchell family in your thoughts and prayers.
Summer Camp Staff
Staff Interviews for Summer Camp will take place on Saturday, December 13, 2009, 9 am-1 pm at the High Adventure Building at Boxwell Reservation. Any Scouts 15 years or older interested in working on staff should fill out an application and attend. Please contact Crystal Mayfield, Camping Assistant with any questions or if you need any applications for Counselor in Training or Camp Staff. Phone (615) 383-9724 ext 234 or Fax (615) 297-9916.
December Camp Out
Please sign up early for the December Campout. It will be at Short Mountain once again on December 18 - 20. We will be sleeping in a heated cabin with beds and mattresses. Bring sleeping bag, warm clothes, work gloves. Saturday morning we will work on service projects. We will go hiking Sat afternoon. We will cook as a troop. Parents and other family members are invited to come up and join us for supper. Mr. Wiser traditionally plans a feast topped off by dutch oven cobblers. Saturday evening we will have a devotional and voluntary gift exchange. If you want to participate, bring a small, appropriate, gift (approx. $5-$10). Those who bring a gift will participate in a drawing to exchange gifts. We usually play board games on Friday and Saturday nights - bring your favorite game. A sign-up sheet will be posted - please be very accurate this time as to the meals you and your guests will eat. We usually have a large crowd so we need to be able to buy the right amount of food.
Super Bowl Barbeque Fund Raiser
Time to start talking up our BBQ. Start contacting your friends and customer's from last year. We'll have tickets ready for the Dec. 14th Troop meeting. This fund raiser has been a huge success for us each year! It is the perfect answer for meals on Super Bowl Sunday. If you are hosting or know of a party, this is the perfect answer! Tickets will be available for you to pick up at the Troop meeting on Monday, Dec. 14th for our Barbeque take out on Super Bowl Sunday, Feb 7th. We will sell pork for $8.00/pound and turkey for $9.00/ pound. 16 ounce containers of beans and slaw will be $4.00 each. St. Louis style racks of ribs will be $15.00. We will also have mild "Hummingbird" and spicey "Screaming Eagle" sauce for sale. At this point, we don't plan to offer the pork or turkey plates. Orders can be picked up from 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM on Sunday, February 7th at St. Mark's. Let your customers know that we will only plan for a small amount over that which is pre-sold, so it is important that they buy a ticket to reserve their order. Be innovative – offer to deliver! Sell at your own church activities. It is important that each scout get involved and try to sell at least $60 in order for us to do well on this fund raiser. The top youth salesman will receive a $165 bonus for summer camp or a high adventure trip. Please do your part, this is our main fund raiser of the year!
Note Key Date Changes
Youth White Water School and Troop White Water Camp Out dates were changed to Aug 6-8 and Aug 20-22 respectively.
KEY DATES
2009
Dec 7 Troop Court of Honor/ Popcorn Money Due
Dec 13 Eagle Court of Honor – Patrick Horne 2:00 PM
Dec 18-20 Christmas Camp Out/Family Feast – Short Mountain
Dec 21 Troop Planning Meeting (Leaders only)
Dec 28 No Troop Meeting
2010
Jan 4 First Troop Meeting of the New Year
Jan 8-10 District Winter Camporee at Camp Tubbs
Jan 17 Eagle Court of Honor – Michael Daniel 2 PM
Jan 23 Eagle Court of Honor – Drew Fry 3 PM
Jan 30 Tennessee Tech Merit Badge University
Feb 6-7 Super Bowl Sunday BBQ Fund Raiser
Feb 12 Laser Quest
Feb 27 MTSU Merit Badge University
May 21-23 Adult White Water School Camp Boxwell
June 4-6 Adult White Water School Hiwassee River
June 13-18 Summer Camp, Camp Stahlman, Boxwell Reservation
July 2-17 Philmont High Adventure BackpackingTrek to Philmont
Aug 6-8 Youth White Water Canoe & Kayak School Hiwassee River
Aug 20-22 Troop White Water Camp Out Hiwassee River
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Troop 398 News - Nov 24
Poinsettia Orders
Mrs. Sherer would appreciate it if you could get your orders in to her by this Friday, so she can call them in before she goes out of town. However, she can call them in Sunday night at the absolute latest. The best way to send in your order is by email: CpaAU@aol.com or fax: 615-896-8035. You can try her cell phone 618-0569, but she may not have service over the weekend.
Laser Tag
We have reserved Laser Quest in Nashville on Friday night, Feb 12, 2010 from 11:30 PM till 6:00 AM on Sat. Morning. Be sure to add that date to your calendar.
November Backpacking Trip
We had a great trip with 44 participants! The Philmont crews had a chance to get a feel for what they need to do to get ready for next summer and the first timers got some valuable experience and a taste of what backpacking is all about. As always, lots of stories and good food around the camp fire. The weather was great for the most part with a chilly Friday night and enough rain on Sunday to remind us to "Be Prepared". Remember to turn in any troop equipment you were carrying.
Troop Court of Honor
Our Troop Court of Honor will be 7:00 PM Monday, Dec. 7th in the St. Mark's Worship Center. Be sure to get SM Conference and Board of Review finished at the Troop Meeting on Nov. 30. Check with Mr. Perkins to make sure he has entered your advancement in the computer.
KEY DATES
2009
Nov 29 Absolute last date to turn in Poinsettia Orders
Dec 7 Troop Court of Honor/ Popcorn Money Due
Dec 13 Eagle Court of Honor – Patrick Horne 2:00 PM
Dec 18-20 Christmas Camp Out/Family Feast – Short Mountain
Dec 21 Troop Planning Meeting (Leaders only)
Dec 28 No Troop Meeting
2010
Jan 4 First Troop Meeting of the New Year
Jan 8-10 District Winter Camporee at Camp Tubbs
Jan 23 Eagle Court of Honor – Drew Fry
Jan 30 Tennessee Tech Merit Badge University
Feb 6-7 Super Bowl Sunday BBQ Fund Raiser
Feb 12 Laser Quest
Feb 27 MTSU Merit Badge University
May 21-23 Adult White Water School Camp Boxwell
June 4-6 Adult White Water School Hiwassee River
June 13-18 Summer Camp, Camp Stahlman, Boxwell Reservation
July 2-17 Philmont High Adventure Trek
July 31-Aug 2 Youth White Water Canoe & Kayak School Hiwassee River
Aug 13-15 Troop White Water Camp Out Hiwassee River
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Troop 398 News - Nov 19
Planning Meeting
Next week, Nov 23 will be a Troop Planning Meeting only leaders are required to attend. Scouts who need a SM conference or a Board of Review can also attend.
Troop Court of Honor
Our next Troop Court of Honor will be Monday, Dec 7 at 7:00 PM in the Worship Center at the church.
Troop Equipment
If anybody has a troop back packing stove, fuel bottle, ice chest, tent, backpacking saw or any other troop equipment please let us know.
Tennessee Tech Merit Badge University
Mr. Horne is signing scouts up now for this January 30th MBU. Get with him. Participants must be in the 8th grade or higher.
December Camp Out
The December Campout will be at Short Mountain once again on December 18 - 20. We will be sleeping in a heated cabin with beds and mattresses. Bring sleeping bag, warm clothes, work gloves. Saturday morning we will work on service projects. We will go hiking Sat afternoon. We will cook as a troop. Parents are invited to come up and join us for supper. Mr. Wiser traditionally plans a feast topped off by dutch oven cobblers. Saturday evening we will have a devotional and voluntary gift exchange. If you want to participate, bring a small, appropriate, gift (approx. $5-$10). Those who bring a gift will participate in a drawing to exchange gifts. We usually play board games on Friday and Saturday nights - bring your favorite game. A sign-up sheet will be posted - please be very accurate this time as to the meals you and your guests will eat. We usually have a large crowd so we need to be able to buy the right amount of food.
KEY DATES
Nov 23 Troop Planning Meeting (Leaders only)
Dec 7 Troop Court of Honor/ Popcorn Money Due
Dec 13 Eagle Court of Honor – Patrick Horne 2:00 PM
Dec 18-20 ChristmasCamp Out/Family Feast – Short Mountain
Jan 8-10 District Winter Camporee at Camp Tubbs
Jan 30 Tennessee Tech Merit Badge University
Feb 6-7 Super Bowl Sunday BBQ Fund Raiser
Feb 27 MTSU Merit Badge University
June 13-18 Summer Camp, Camp Stahlman, Boxwell Reservation
July 2-17 Philmont High Adventure Trek
Friday, October 23, 2009
Troop 398 News - Oct 22
October Camp Out
We will participate in the Trail of Tears District Camporee this weekend, Oct. 23 – 25 at Smyrna Air Base. We will leave the Eagle's Nest at 5:30 PM. Plan to eat supper prior to that – we will not stop enroute. We should be back on Sunday by 11:30 AM. Cost is $20 which includes food and a camporee patch. We will be constructing a catapult in order top enter the water balloon tossing competition. We will form into patrols for cooking. Food will be provided for the patrols. Plan to attend – this ought to be a lot of fun.
DIRECTIONS: From Murfreesboro, Travel North West on Hwy 41 and exit on Nissan Blvd (Hwy 102) and follow it to the Airport entrance. Exit off Sam Ridley, Hwy 266 left onto Fitzhugh Boulevard at signs to Airport and Tennessee Army National Guard Training Center. Go to guard gate, show photo ID, Identify yourself as a member or guest of Boy Scout Troop 398 , Trail of Tears district and ask for directions to Training Areas 6 & 7. From North of Smyrna, travel South East on Hwy 41 through Smyrna to Sam Ridley Parkway. Exit to the Airport.
Popcorn Sales
Last chance to turn in your orders to Mrs. Hopkins will be this Monday, Oct. 26th. Popcorn pick up will be on November 14th.
Bell Buckle Craft Fair
Many thanks to everyone who turned out to help this weekend. Due to the bad weather, we didn't do as well as we hoped, but we learned a lot for next year.
Troop Planning Meeting
Next Monday, October 26th will be a Troop Planning Meeting. Troop leaders and adult leaders need to attend.
Eagle Service Project
On Saturday, October 31st I will be working on my Eagle Scout Project at the Hope Christian Center, 1325 Wenlon Drive. We will begin working at 8 AM and will finish about 3 PM. Lunch will be provided. We will be working on repairing a deck, and building a basketball and 4-square court. I'd appreciate help from anyone who can make it.
Thanks,
Will Ramsey
November Camp Out
This will be a backpacking camp out November 20-22. We will hike and camp at Savage Gulf. Back packs can be checked out from the troop. A sign up sheet is on the bulletin board.
KEY DATES
Oct 23-25 District Camporee
Nov 14 Food Drive and Popcorn Pickup
Nov 20-22 Troop Backpacking Campout – Savage Gulf
Dec 13 Eagle Court of Honor – Patrick Horne 2:00 PM
Dec 18-20 Christmas Camp Out/Family Feast – Short Mountain
June 13-18 Summer Camp, Camp Stahlman, Boxwell Reservation
July 2-17 Philmont High Adventure Trek
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Troop 398 News - Oct 7
Eagle Service Project
Please send out an e-mail to let scouts and adults know that I am finally having a work day on my project. The work day is this Thursday, Oct. 8th, from 9-3ish depending on how many show up. Lunch will be provided. Make sure that when you come to bring a shovel if you can, gloves, and a hammer. I am also in need of a heavy duty double axle trailer that can haul a bobcat if someone has one that can be used. As well as someone that can operate one. Please have them contact me if they have any questions or even just want to let me know that they can make it. Sorry for the short notice! If anyone needs rides, call me, I or one of my family members will be available to pick them up. Devin Bargatze ; email Devin.Bargatze@att.net
Bell Buckle Craft Fair
For a number of years, we have parked cars for Webb School and we will do so again this year on Oct. 17 & 18. As before, priority will be given to scouts going on the 2010 high adventure trip to Philmont. Proceeds will be prorated among scouts based on hours worked. Workers are needed from 7:00 AM to 4:30 PM on Sat & Sun. Let us know what hours you can work. There are sign-up sheet on the bulletin board or reply to this email.
In addition, for the first time, we will set up a food booth on Maple Street in the heart of the craft fair. A friend of our troop has generously offered to let us set up on his property free of charge. He has also given us permission to camp in his back yard if we want to. Profits will be used to offset some of the costs of the high adventure trip next summer. This is a very ambitious project with the potential to make a very good profit. To pull it off, we need a lot of support from our Troop 398 family. While all high adventure crew members are expected to help out on Sat or Sun, we will need a lot of volunteers. You may not benefit directly this year, but you will at some point because, if successful, we hope to continue to do this each year to help fund future high adventure trips.
We will need a crew to set-up on Friday, Oct 16. We plan to leave M'Boro around 2:00 PM and work till we are done. We will also need 4 crews for cooking/serving. Shifts will be from 7:00 AM to Noon and Noon to 5:00 PM on both Sat and Sun. We will break down on Sun afternoon with volunteers from the 2nd shift. You can work shifts at both the parking and the cooking.
There are sign-up sheets on the bulletin board or reply to this email.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Troop 398 News - Oct 4
Troop Meeting Oct 5th
Yes, we will have a troop meeting during Fall Break for those who are not out of town. We will be working on our catapult for the Fall Camporee, so we need plenty of help. See you there!
Service Opportunity
The Webelos Den Leader from Pack 398 sent out the following request for help. You will receive service hour credit for helping out. Saturday Oct. 10th from 10:00 am till 5:00 pm one of my webelos is conducting a trash pick up at Elam Mill Rd. The county has been notified and the road will be closed during this time. Even though pack 538 has been notified, the response has been very little. If any of your troopers want to join us for a merit badge (service credit), we would welcome them, all trash bags, bottle water,trailers,will be there . Directions…..take Rutherford blvd. to S.E. Broad (or) Manchester Hwy.; turn left, travel down about 4 miles, turn right onto Elam Road, go 2miles and look for the American flag on the stop sign. Then turn left. Then you are there. This is the site of the old mill. We will gather at the dam at 10:00. I think about 3 out of ten of my webelos will be there and poss. one of the webelo:1"s and any volunteer,s we can find, pass this on to your guy's thank's, Brett.
Any one wishing more info ,can call Brett Barrett.
Popcorn Sales News
As of Sept 30th, the troop had sold $3,614 – we're off to a great start! Josh Meyer continues to rake it in; he won a Sony Digital Music Player from the district drawing from all the "fill it up" sheets! He also won the "bow and mallow" for the "fill it up" sheet from the district. Get busy and turn in your orders, there are still prizes to be won!
KEY DATES
Oct 17-18 Bell Buckle Craft Fair Fund Raiser
Oct 19 Popcorn Orders Due
Oct 23-25 District Camporee – Smyrna Air Base – Troops will lash together
catapults and duel it out during the afternoon.(Adult Leader SpecificTraining will be offered on Saturday.)
Nov 14 Food Drive and Popcorn Pickup
Nov 20-22 Troop Backpacking Campout – Savage Gulf
June 13-18 Summer Camp, Camp Stahlman, Boxwell Reservation
July 2-17 Philmont High Adventure Trek
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Troop 398 News - Sept 20
Troop Election Results
Troop elections were held last Monday night. Aaron Browning was elected Senior Patrol Leader as were new Patrol Leaders and their Assistant Patrol Leaders. Tiger Patrol: PL Ben Honey, APL Cristian Quiterio, QM John Meyer. Rattlesnake Patrol: PL Justin Jones, APL Michael Daniel. Raven Patrol: PL Sidney Roy, APL Matt Wells. Viper Patrol: PL Logan Sissom, APL Drew Fry. Wolf/Viking (These two patrols are being consolidated) PL Tyler Croney, APL Ross Hopkins. Troop scribe, Karl Klaus, Chaplin’s Aide, Matt Fowler, Instructor, Tyler Honey.
Aaron is still taking volunteers for the remaining positions on his staff, Asst Senior Patrol Leaders, Quartermaster, Librarian, Historian, Troop Guide. If interested, email Aaron at pennygremlin@gmail.com.
We really appreciate the good job SPL Jarred Dix and the outgoing Patrol Leaders have done over the past six months – Thanks, guys!
Troop Meeting
A reminder the troop meeting this Monday night is a planning meeting, All newly elected leaders should attend the PLC which will start at 7:00 PM. ASM’s will make sure the trailer is ready to go and make plans for the District Camporee. Troop Committee will meet also. We will not turn in popcorn orders this week – add to your orders and turn in next week for a chance at the $25 weekly bonus. Last week, Josh Meyer, won the $25 bonus with over $600 in sales! At-A-Boy, Josh. That’s a pretty good payday – Josh earned over $225 for his Scout account!
New Troop Member
Justin Siler joined the troop Monday night. When you get a chance, introduce yourself and welcome him to our troop.
Additional Philmont Slots
I received the following email from Theresa Stevenson from Troop 320 who is trying to fill out a crew : I have heard a rumor that Troop 398 is going to Philmont next summer - arrival July 5, 2010. I also heard that you may have a waiting list for adults (lucky you!) and may need to fill a scout slot. Our troop has a crew for Philmont, July 7, 2010, but we only have one adult committed (a female who has never been on a campout with the troop) and about 6 scouts interested (four have been to Philmont before and two have never been to Philmont). Would your troop want to work with us to fill the crew since you have the adults we desperately need, or could some of our scouts join your Philmont crew if you have some scout openings that your troop won't fill? Just wondering before the Oct payment is due and we cancel the trip.
If you are interested, please contact Theresa at tstevens@mtsu.edu as soon as possible – the Oct payment must be postmarked by Oct 1.
September Camp Out
Next weekend, Sept 25 - 26 is our camp out. We finally decided on Camp Tubbs near Rock Island. Patrols will have their own camp sites. Mr. Harden and Mr. Perkins will plan the menus and purchase the food for all patrols. Patrols will draw their food and do their own cooking using open campfires and dutch ovens. Scouts will have an opportunity to work on Tenderfoot thru First Class requirements and do some canoeing and fishing. Cost, including camping fees and food will be $15. Patrol Leaders, make sure everyone has a tent loaded on the trailer.
We will meet at the Eagle’s Nest at 5:30 PM on Friday and return about 1 PM on Sunday.
If you did not sign up last Monday night, please email me as soon as possible if you want to attend so that we can have a good count for food.
Driving directions to Camp Tubbs: Follow Hwy 70 to Woodbury and on to McMinnville. Take the Hwy 70 bypass toward Sparta. Approximately 8‑10 miles watch for a Rock Island State Park sign. Turn left at the sign on highway 136. Continue on highway 136 approximately 5 miles past the entrance to Rock Island State Park cross the bridge over the Caney Fork River. The entrance to Charles E. Parish Reservation (CampTubbs) will be the first road on the right. Follow gravel drive past ranger’s house about 3/4 mile.
October Camp Out
We will participate in the Trail of Tears District Camporee Oct. 23 – 25 at Smyrna Air Base. We will be constructing a catapult in order top enter the water balloon tossing competition. Plan to attend – this ought to be a lot of fun!!!
KEY DATES
Sept 21 Troop Planning Meeting (Troop Leaders only)
Sept 25-27 Troop Camp Out
Sept 25-27 Adult Wood Badge Session # 2
Oct 17-18 Bell Buckle Craft Fair Fund Raiser
Oct 19 Popcorn Orders Due
Oct 23-25 District Camporee – Smyrna Air Base – Troops will lash togethercatapults and duel it out during the afternoon.(Adult Leader SpecificTraining will be offered on Saturday.
Nov 14 Food Drive and Popcorn Pickup
Nov 20-22 Troop Backpacking Campout – Savage Gulf
June 13-18 Summer Camp, Camp Stahlman, Boxwell Reservation
July 2-17 Philmont High Adventure Trek
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Troop 398 News - Aug 9
August Camp Out
Our annual Whitewater camp out is this weekend – please email or see me by Monday night if you have not yet signed up. This will allow us to finalize our equipment needs and purchase food. If you need a ride to the river, or, if you have room for a passenger, please check in with Mr. Falana at the troop meeting. I have attached a roster of those who have signed up. Please check it out - I'd like to fine tune this information based on what meals you plan to eat and the nights you plan to camp. Saturday we will serve breakfast at 7:30 AM EST. A shore lunch will be served part way down the river and supper is usually around 6:00 PM. Sunday breakfast will be at 8:00 AM and lunch will again be on the river. You will be on your own for Sunday supper. I assume that everyone paddling both days will eat all meals on Sat and Sun. If you indicated that you will be there for Sat only, please let me know if you plan to have supper with us or if you plan to camp Saturday night and have breakfast on Sunday. Also check the watercraft I have you listed for and email any corrections to me.
We will gather for an organizational meeting at 8:30 AM on Sat. All those who will be renting equipment from Hiwassee Outfitters will leave the campground at 9:30 AM for Reliance. You will sign releases and get lifejackets and watercraft and board shuttlesfor the put in at Hiwassee Outfitters. You will end your float back at Hiwassee Outfitters so cars may be left there. We pay for the rentals on Sat by troop check in order to save the sales tax.
Directions to Gee Creek Campground, 404 Spring Creek Road, Delano, TN 37325
Take I 24 East to Chattanooga. Go north on I 75 toward Cleveland & Knoxville. Get off I 75 at exit # 20 (Hwy 64 bypass). Turn right at the top of the ramp on Hwy 64 bypass. On bypass go 6 miles to Ocoee Exit (Highway 64 East). Turn right onto Hwy 64 East to Ocoee (approximately 13 miles) to Hwy 411 North exit (Maryville exit).At the exit stop sign, turn left on Hwy 411 toward Maryville, Benton & Etowah. Go through Benton (well known in the past for its speed traps!). Continue on Hwy 411 about 6 miles and cross the Hiwassee River bridge. Approximately 1/4 to ½ mile after crossing the river go past the Cowboy Restaurant and turn right on Spring Creek Road at an old antique store (there is a brown sign pointing to Gee Creek Campground). Follow this road until you pass the rangers office. Go about 1/4 mile and then watch for the entrance to Gee Creek Campground on your right. Turn right into the campground then take your first right turn then turn right again into a large field (Overflow/Group camping area). Look for our Troop 398 trailer. Quiet time begins at 10:00PM, so try to keep it down if you arrive late.
To get to Hiwassee Outfitters, 155 Ellis Creek Road, Reliance, TN 37369, go back out to Hwy 411 and turn left. Go back across the Hiwassee River and turn left on Hwy 30 and go to Reliance (approx. 5 miles). Rafters and Funyakers will be getting their equipment from Hiwassee Outfitters.
Dennis Harding
We can all breath a sign of relief – Dennis seems to be okay and he's eager to go to the Hiwassee.
Troop Meeting
We'll be showing a video taken on the part of the Hiwassee River that we'll be floating. Also, Pam Hamrick will be set up to register you in the troop for next year.
Philmont 2010
We may have one open slot remaining on the roster for an 14 – 20 year old. When that is filled, you can get on the standby list by giving Mr. Holtman a $100 deposit (refundable). Members on the standby list do not make any additional payments until they move to the active roster. If there is a chance that you can make the trip, I would suggest you get on the standby list – the odds are good that, out of 36 participants, someone will have to drop out before next July.
KEY DATES
Aug 14-16 Troop Whitewater Weekend at the Hiwassee River
Aug 14-16 OA Fall Ordeal at Camp Boxwell
Aug 24 Troop Court of Honor
Aug 28-30 Adult Wood Badge Session # 1
Aug 30 Eagle Court of Honor for Matt Jones 2:30 PM, Third Baptist Church
Sept 7 Labor Day – No Troop Meeting
Sept 11-13 Adult Rappelling Certification
Sept 14 Troop elections SPL and PL's/Philmont Payment due ($285)
Sept 18-20 OA Fall Fellowship
Sept 25-27 Troop Camp Out
Sept 25-27 Adult Wood Badge Session # 2
Oct 17-18 Bell Buckle Craft Fair Fund Raiser
Oct 23-25 District Camporee – Smyrna Air Base
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Troop 398 News - July 25
Troop Meeting Reminder
Remember that our troop meeting on Mon., July 27th will be held at SportsCom Indoor Pool 7:00 – 8:30 PM. Swim Tests, and swimming requirements can be passed off, or just enjoy the water! Remember to bring $2.00 for admission or $3.00 for adults. Scoutmaster will be available for conferences.
Order of the Arrow News
The Fall Ordeal is August 14th - 16th. If you didn't go through Spring Ordeal; you should go to this.
Reminder to all OA members: if you haven't paid your dues you are NOT a member anymore until you pay the dues.
Questions contact Matthew Wells.
Troop Recharter Time
We need to get accounts with a negative balance paid up and rechartered by the end of August. Mrs. Hamrick will be available at troop meetings starting on August 3rd through August 24th. Please make sure to check in with her no later than the 24th. Please make sure you update any information (address, email, phone no., etc.) that has changed. She will set up a table for recharter and scouts can check in with Mr. Holtman if they want to charge to their account (just like last year.) Annual registration, dues and insurance are still $50.00 plus an additional $12.00 if you want to receive Boys' Life magazine. Mrs. Hamrick plans to have a report of adult training that will be entered into the system. If adults would like to update your training information, bring her copies of your training cards.
Also, she plans to have a report of the Merit Badge counselors that are "actively registered" with the council. Many of our counselors have been dropped from the list over the last couple of years. We need to get everyone current who is serving as a merit badge counselor.
BSA Swim Test
Mr. Doliana has offered to give another test on August 6 at Sportscom at 7:00 PM for those who have not taken the test and want to float the Hiwassee in August. Reply to this email if you need to take the test.
Only registered troop members are required by BSA to pass the swim test to participate in whitewater boating. Family members who are not registered with the troop are not required to take the swim test because they are not covered by BSA insurance and do not use BSA equipment.
August Camp Out
August 14 – 16 Hiwassee River. Reply to this email if you plan to attend or sign up at the troop meeting as soon as possible. For details, see the July 20 newsletter
Philmont Contingent
I need to make a correction to a couple of dates from the last newsletter - We will start home on July 16th, overnight at Tinker and arrive in Murfreesboro in the afternoon on July 17th. The current trip roster is shown below – if you have not signed up, I encourage you to do so, we will normally have several who have to drop out over the course of the year and we will draw from the standby list. I have had several requests from outside the troop, but I want to make sure all eligible troop members have had a chance to sign up first. We currently have one open slot for a scout aged 14 to 20 years. First one to get to Mr. Holtman with $100 gets it!
Notes: Check in at Philmont Base Camp on July 5, 2010: Depart Base Camp July 17, 2010.
All members must be current with trip payments to maintain their position on the roster.
Payments: March 1, 2009 (Philmont $100), September 14, 2009 (Philmont $285),
February 15, 2010 (Philmont $285), June 28, 2010 (Troop 398 travel expenses est. $250-$350).
KEY DATES
July 31-Aug 2 BSA Youth Whitewater Paddling Clinic
Aug 7-9 OA Conclave
Aug 14-16 Troop Whitewater Weekend at the Hiwassee River
Aug 14-16 OA Fall Ordeal at Camp Boxwell
Aug 24 Troop Court of Honor (Tentative)
Aug 28-30 Adult Wood Badge Session # 1
Aug 30 Eagle Court of Honor for Matt Jones 2:30 PM, Third Baptist Church
Sept 7 Labor Day – No Troop Meeting
Sept 11-13 Adult Rappelling Certification
Sept 14 Troop elections SPL and PL's
Sept 18-20 OA Fall Fellowship
Sept 25-27 Troop Camp Out
Sept 25-27 Adult Wood Badge Session # 2
Oct 17-18 Bell Buckle Craft Fair Fund Raiser
Oct 23-25 District Camporee – Smyrna Air Base
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Troop 398 News - June 26
July 4th Fund Raiser
Once again, Troop 398 will be serving barbeque pork and chicken with trimmings, hot dogs and Mom-Made desserts at the Eagle's Nest on Saturday, July 4th from 4:30 till 7:30 PM. Just make a donation and eat yore fill! Proceeds traditionally go to help offset the cost of our High Adventure Trips. We urge all troop family members to attend and tell all your friends. We normally have a nice cool breeze and some great fellowship. You will still have time to make the fireworks at 8:00 PM at SportsCom.
Gary Wiser is heading up the effort again and he will need lots of help. So Gary won't worry too much, email him at bratwiser@aol.com if you can volunteer time or a dessert.
Cooks check in with Gary for starting time
Volunteers for table and chair set up need to be there starting at 1:00 PM
Serving line volunteers need to be there at 3:30 PM
Bring your Mom-Made dessert and a 2 Liter drink by at 3:30
Service Opportunity
St. Mark's has requested that Troop 398 do an Independence Day flag presentation at 8:45 AM on Sunday, July 5th. We will need five sharp volunteers. We will practice Sat. afternoon before the BBQ. Please reply to this email if you are interested.
Bissett Contingent Meeting
Try to have at least one family member in attendance at an important meeting at 6:00 PM this Monday June 29th. It looks like we finally have all travel arrangements confirmed – I will be sending more information in a separate email.
Summer Camp
Just wanted to tell everyone how proud I am of our scouts who attended Summer Camp. They stayed in good heath by drinking plenty of water, endured the heat, the ticks and the rainstorm in good spirits. They did a lot of work on advancement and everyone stuck it out.
Now, be sure to follow up on your advancements: See Mr. Ervin for copies of your merit badge advancement sheets from Summer Camp. He will let you know which ones you've completed and for the incompletes, he will help you get lined up with a merit badge counselor.
For you scouts who were enrolled in Green Bar, see Mr. Bridgers, Mr. Gray or Mr. White about your Second Class or First Class advancement, they will be working out a schedule so you can complete any remaining requirements.
If you owe any camp registration fees, please settle up with Mr. Holtman as soon as possible.
July Camp Out
The July Camp Out will be July 17 – 19 at the Smyrna National Guard Base. This will be an easy, laid back weekend. Activities will include Tenderfoot, Second Class cooking and camping requirements. There will also be canoeing, kayaking, fishing, swimming and the laser rifle range if it is available.
New Eagle
Congratulations to Matt Jones who successfully completed his Eagle Board of Review last week! Good job, Matt!
Thanks from St. Mark's Bible School
We had a really good turn out of scouts and adults Thursday to help with the games and activities of the Bible School Family Night. Everyone did a super job and received a lot of thanks and praise from all involved. AT-A-Boy!
Youth Whitewater Paddling Clinic
We are approaching the registration deadlines (July 1) for the 2009 Youth Whitewater Clinic which will be held July 31st thru August 2nd on the Hiwassee River. This is two full days of skill building taught by certified whitewater instructors. Many of our troop leaders will be participating as instructors or in support. This is a great opportunity to be better prepared to enjoy our own Whitewater Weekend August 14 thru 16. You must register individually online at: http://mtcbsa.org/YouthWhitewater.htm
Philmont High Adventure 2010
Recently, I have had several inquiries about the dates of our 2010 Philmont Backpacking Trek. This is a once in a lifetime adventure and I consider it the high point of the scouting experience. You will be a different person by the time you earn the right to wear the Philmont Arrowhead. The cost will be about $1,200, but we hope to offset some of the cost by cooking at the Bell Buckle Craft Fair in October. We have already made a $50/person deposit in January. Subsequent payments to Philmont are due 9/14/2009, $285.00 and 2/15/2010, $285. These are non-refundable unless someone takes your place. You must remain current with payment to retain your slot on the contingent. Check with Mr. Holtman for the current roster. Scouts must be 14 years of age by 1/1/2010 or have completed the 8th grade and be 14 by July 5, 2010.
We'll probably charter a bus for the trip. We will depart Murfreesboro July 2nd; spend a night at Tinker AFB in Oklahoma, then the next two nights at either Taos, NM or Colorado Springs. We check in at Base Camp on July 5th. We hit the trail on July 6th and return to Base Camp on July 16th. We will start home on July 17th, overnight at Tinker and arrive in Murfreesboro in the afternoon on July 19th. We have reserved 3 crews – crew size is 7–12 members including leaders. We must have a minimum of two leaders per crew but no more than four per crew (18 to 21 year olds do not count against our leader count).
KEY DATES
July 4 Fund Raiser at the Eagle's Nest before MTSU fireworks
July 6 – July 14 High Adventure Canoe Trip to Bissett, Manitoba
July 12-18 National Youth Leadership Training
July 17-19 Troop Camp out at Smyrna Air Base
June 15 Planning Meeting – only Troop leadership attends
July 31-Aug 2 BSA Youth Whitewater Paddling Clinic
Aug 7-9 OA Conclave
Aug 14-16 Troop Whitewater Weekend at the Hiwassee River
Aug 14-16 OA Fall Ordeal at Camp Boxwell
Aug 24 Troop Court of Honor (Tentative)
Aug 28-30 Adult Wood Badge Session # 1
Sept 7 Labor Day – No Troop Meeting
Sept 11-13 Adult Rappelling Certification
Sept 18-20 OA Fall Fellowship
Sept 25-27 Troop Camp Out (Tentative)
Sept 25-27 Adult Wood Badge Session # 2
Oct 17-18 Bell Buckle Craft Fair Fund Raiser
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Troop 398 News - May 14
SUMMER CAMP
June 7 thru 14. We will find out our report time on May 28th. Only two troop meetings left before Summer Camp! Lots left to do.
PHYSICAL EXAMS
Anyone who needs a physical must have the new BSA Health Form with Section A completed and signed by a parent. Dr. Galloway will be at the troop meeting on May 18th to give Summer Camp Physicals. This is the last one scheduled for a troop meeting. All physicals for anyone going to Summer Camp must be turned in to Mrs. Daniels by May 27th so they can be turned in at the Ten Day Out Meeting on May 28th.
SWIM TESTS
The last BSA Swim tests will be given at SportsCom by Mr. Doliana from 7:00 to 8:00 PM on May 28. Pool admission is $2.00 for youths and $3.00 for adults. All registered members of the troop must attempt the Swim Test. You don't have to sign up just be there! Anyone who has not taken the swim test prior to camp will take it on Sunday, June 7th at Camp Boxwell.
FEES
Fees are due on Monday May 18th – we have to pay the balance to council at the Ten Day Out Meeting on May 28th . See Mr. Holtman.
MOSQUITO NETS
Sign up at the troop meeting or email Mr. Warren for a mosquito net (the tents at summer camp do not have nets). Cost is about $10. We should have them by the June 1st meeting.
KEY DATES
May 15 -17 Adult Whitewater Training Part 1 at Camp Boxwell
May 18 Complete Summer Camp Physicals & Pay balance of fees
May 23 Flag Placement at Stones River Battlefield and at Medical Center Parkway
May 25 Memorial Day No Troop Meeting
May 28 Last BSA Swim Test prior to Camp at SportsCom
Summer Camp Ten Day Out Meeting at MT Council (Only Mr. Ervin to attend)
May 29 - 31 OA Spring Ordeal at Camp Boxwell
Adult Whitewater Training Part 2 at Hiwassee River
June 7 – 13 Summer Camp
June 8 No Troop Meeting Summer Camp
June 14 Eagle Court of Honor for Brandon Ray at 2:00 PM at the Riverdale High School Band Room
June 15 Planning Meeting – only Troop leadership attends
July 4 Fund Raiser at the Eagle's Nest before MTSU fireworks
July 4 – July 16 High Adventure Canoe Trip to Bissett (dates subject to change based on transportation)
July 12 – 18 National Youth Leadership Training
July 18 Camp out at Smyrna Air Base
July 31 – Aug 2 BSA Youth Whitewater Paddling Clinic
Aug 7 – 9 OA Conclave
Aug 14 – 16 Troop Whitewater Weekend at the Hiwassee River
OA Fall Ordeal at Camp Boxwell
Aug 28 – 30 Adult Wood Badge Session # 1
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Bissett Trip Meeting - May 11 6:15PM
July 4 – 15. Based on recent communications, I have updated our trip roster. Please review this for changes – several from the standby list have been moved onto the trip roster. Please get with Mr. Holtman if you have not made your $250 payment.
Trip Roster (Let Mr. Warren know if your plans have changed)
Names (Listed in the order you signed up)
Scouts Under 21:
1 Jimmy Mansfield
2 Jared Dix
3 Thomas Simmons
JT Waldron (Withdrew)
4 Reed Spivey
5 Josh Perkins
Thomas Dugan (Withdrew)
6 Asher Paxton
7 Cristian Quiterio
8 Parker Sherer
Justin Jones (Withdrew)
Alex Galloway (Withdrew)
Michael Dodson (Withdrew)
9 Sidney Roy
10 Josh Meyer
11 Drew Hinds
Alex Riner (Withdrew)
12 Brandyn Whitaker
Standbys
Adults 21 and over:
1 Dennis Harden
2 Gore Ervin
Brian Ervin (Withdrew)
3 Hal Taylor
4 Mike Warren
5 Rick Mansfield
6 Steve Dix
7 Tom Falana
8 Everett Simmons
9 David Spivey
10 Jane Paxton (Added Back)
Standbys
11 Chantal Quiterio (Added Back)
12 Patrick Horne
13 Dorsey Horne
14 John Meyer
15 Gary Whitaker
Friday, May 8, 2009
Troop 398 News - May 7
THIS SATURDAY!!
We plan to meet at the Eagle's Nest to do some house cleaning and possibly start loading the trailer for summer Camp. We could use 4 to 5 older scouts or adults to help out. We will meet at the Eagle's Nest at 9:00 AM on Saturday.
The following is a flyer for a separate event this Saturday. We will not participate officially as a troop, but this is a very worthwhile service project and they need a lot of help.
The Trail of Tears Activities & Civic Service Committee Presents Conservation Day, Saturday May 9, 2009 1300 Hours (1:00 PM)Till …
All participants (youth and adults) must submit a properly signed form.
All Troops that can assist rally at the Stones River National Battlefield at the visitor center. Our job BUILD A NEW TRAIL ! That's right, I said a new course/trail for the Battlefield. Due to the tornado a large section of the existing trail is now been deemed closed. Each scout and adult has the chance to do something that will have a deep impact for scouts, visitors, and "notch out" a piece of history in the process. This will be hot dirty work. Bring your gloves, tools and lots of water!
PLANNING MEETING
Next Monday's meeting will be a planning meeting. Troop leadership will attend a PLC at 7:00 PM. There will also be a Troop Committee Meeting and a Asst SM Roundtable. If you are not involved in one of these activities – enjoy a night off!
SUMMER CAMP PHYSICAL EXAMS
Anyone who needs a physical must have the new BSA Health Form with Section A completed and signed by a parent. Dr. Galloway will be at the troop meeting on May 18th to give Summer Camp Physicals.
SUMMER CAMP SWIM TESTS
BSA Swim tests will be given at SportsCom by Mr. Doliana from 7:00 to 8:00 PM on the following Thursdays: April 30, May 7, May 14, and May 28. There will be no testing on May 21st. Pool admission is $2.00 for youths and $3.00 for adults. All registered members of the troop must attempt the Swim Test. Please sign up for the night you plan to attend.
TIME IS RUNNING OUT IF YOU WANT TO ENROLL IN THIS SCHOOL!!!!
Seventh Annual Youth Whitewater Paddling School ---- Middle Tennessee Council, BSA is hosting its Seventh Annual, "Youth Whitewater Paddling School."
When: August 1st and 2nd, 2009 (check-in July 31st at Gee Creek Campground)
Where: Gee Creek Campground in Delano, TN and the Hiwassee River in Reliance, TN
Cost:
School Cost per Scout**: $50 ** $50 fee includes camping, food, equiment, & school fees.
Application/Payment Deadline
Payment must be made at time of application. Deadline for all paperwork and fees - JULY 01, 2009
Do you have Question? Contact us by email:whitewaterschool@yahoo.com
Monday, May 4, 2009
Troop News - May 3
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Special Sale on Scout Uniform Wear
ScoutStuff.org has a BOGO sale on select classic uniform wear
ScoutStuff.org
Sale begins May 1st.
Uniform pants, Switchbacks™, shirts, skirts, belts, socks, get them all while they last in this special, limited one-time offer. Buy one piece of classic uniform wear and get the second one free. Now is your chance to complete your uniform and get out and explore. Not valid on Centennial Uniform items. Other restrictions apply.
And as an extra bonus, Action Shirts are now only $15. Stay cool this summer with these comfortable tops designed with wicking capabilities and a bi-swing back with mesh inserts. Action Shirts not part of BOGO offer.
Offer valid from 5/1/09 to 5/31/09. May be purchased in different item and size combinations. The free BOGO item must be of equal or lesser value. All sales are final but size exchange is accepted. Inventory is limited. Centennial Uniform not included. Action Shirts not included in the BOGO offer. U.S.Ground Shipments only. Not valid on next day or second day shipping. Not valid on previous orders. May not be combined with any other offer.
For ordering online use promotion code: EM3298
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Troop 398 News - Apr 21
EAGLE COURT OF HONOR
Troop 398 will convene a special Court of Honor to present the Eagle Award to Andrew White. All members of the Troop 398 family are invited to attend and celebrate Andrew's achievement. We only have a few Eagle C/H's each year. I would especially like to invite our new troop members and their parents to attend – I am certain you will come away with a new appreciation of the Eagle Award. The ceremony will be held at 2:00 PM this Sunday, April 26th, in the Worship Center at St. Mark's. Class A uniform.
SUMMER CAMP PHYSICAL EXAMS
Dr. Beckman will be at the troop meeting on April 27th to give Summer Camp Physicals. Dr. Galloway will be at the troop meeting on May 4th and May 18th. Anyone who needs a physical must have the new BSA Health Form with Section A completed and signed by a parent before they have the physical exam.
SUMMER CAMP SWIM TESTS
BSA Swim tests will be given at SportsCom by Mr. Doliana from 7:00 to 8:00 PM on the following Thursdays: April 30, May 7, May 21, and May 28. Pool admission is $2.00 for youths and $3.00 for adults. All registered members of the troop must attempt the Swim Test so you can be classified as a Swimmer, Beginner or Non-Swimmer. Please sign up for the night you plan to attend.
MAY CAMP OUT
The camp out for May will be May 1-3. We will set up a base camp at Camp Tubbs at Rock Island. On Saturday, we will be canoeing and fishing on the Upper Caney Fork River. The Brownings have offered to let us use the dock which is on their property just a short distance from Camp Tubbs. This will be a good opportunity for us to work with those of you who are new to canoeing. A sign-up sheet will be posted on the bulletin board. We are looking forward to another great weekend – ya'll come!
SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES
The will be a clean up day at Stone's River National Battlefield and/or the Greenway before Memorial Day weekend. Probably morning and early afternoon. A date has not been set as yet.
Also, on May 23rd, the Saturday before Memorial Day you can help place flags at either the Stones River National Cemetery or the Healing Field on Medical Center Parkway. Sign up with Mr. Horne.
MEMORIAL DAY
There will be no troop meeting on Memorial Day, May 25th.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Troop 398 News - April 9
SUMMER CAMP PHYSICAL EXAMS
Dr. Russ Galloway will be available at this Monday's (Apr 13) Troop meeting to give summer camp physicals. Anyone who needs a physical, should show up with Section A of the new BSA Health Form completed and signed by a parent. Dr. Galloway also will be at the troop meeting on May 4th and May 18th.
APRIL CAMP OUT
By popular request, we are backpacking in the Virgin Falls Natural Area near Sparta. With the heavy rain we've had lately, the falls should be awesome! The camp site on the banks of the Upper Caney Fork River ranks in my top ten favorite spots. It's a fairly easy downhill hike going in with a moderate uphill coming out … okay, there's a couple of short sorta difficult stretches in there also. We will meet at the Eagle's Nest at 6:30 AM on Sat., Apr.18 and return at 2:00 PM on Sunday, Apr.19. Plan your meals either as an individual or with a buddy or as a patrol. The troop has backpacks and tents are available to loan out. If you have a troop tent or backpack and are not planning to make the trip, please return them for others to use. Make sure you sign up at the troop meeting so we can plan for transportation.
TROOP MEETING
Will Ramsey, a Philmont veteran will be providing helpful hints about backpacking this Monday night. Backpacks and tents will be signed out to those who need them.
Order of the Arrow Call out/Tap out Ceremony:
The Wdee Chapter (Trail of Tears District) of Wa-Hi-Nasa Lodge, Order of the Arrow held their 2009 Call out/ Tap out Ceremony on Saturday, April 4. This ceremony was for those scouts from Troop 398 and the other district troops, who were elected to the Order of the Arrow by the members of their respective troops, last month. The Ceremony took place at Camp Boxwell at 7:00 PM around a ceremonial fire.
Those scouts called out from Troop 398 were: Mike Montalbono, Asher Paxton, Alex Riner, Sidney Roy and Reed Spivey.
Adult candidates from Troop 398 for 2009 were: Tom Fowler, Linda Montalbano and Bill Riner.
OA Spring Ordeal is scheduled for 29-31 May at Camp Boxwell.
SERVICE OPPORTUNITY
This is forwarded from the Exchange Club. If you have time, they need some help. You may recall I have been pitching The Exchange Club's Healing Field - Flags of Remembrance project over Memorial Day weekend that honors and memorializes military, law enforcement, fire firefighter, heroes, etc. with sponsored flags. I am now asking for something and it is not money - I am begging for help, assistance, volunteers, community service, etc. as we are probably going to be overwhelmed without some help. This field located on Medical Center Parkway next to the Belk end of The Avenue ( between Maplegrove and Robert Rose ) will become a field of 1500 3' x 5' American Flags on 8' fiberglass poles. Yes, that is 1500 flags and poles whether we have them sponsored or not. The rebar will already be installed so the pole will just slip over the top of the rebar. If I can get 100 people to volunteer around 8:00 AM on that Saturday, only 15 flags per person, we will be finished in less than an hour. If I get 50 people to do 30 flags that will take just over an hour. The Flags will already be assembled. It will be easy to do, and the flags on the poles are not heavy, just due to size you cannot handle more than three or four at a time. We prefer ages 13 and up but families are welcomed to come together and enjoy the beauty of watching that field of Flags grow. Once in place that is going to be an awesome Patriotic sight. If you can assist, please let me know and I will get more information to you. WrightDon@Comcast.net RightDonNews@Gmail.com. This project is an Americanism Project by The Murfreesboro Noon Exchange Club and proceeds go toward the Exchange Club projects including Americanism ( we are the lead group handing out the small American Flags at the Murfreesboro Christmas Parade each year ), Youth Activities, Community Service, and the Prevention of Child Abuse. www.MurfreesboroNoonExchangeClub.org www.healingfield.org/murfreesboro
We are also seeking donated port-a-johns, golf carts, small vans, volunteers the whole weekend to help with the field activities ( selling sponsorship of flags; helping people locate the flag they sponsored with the name of the person on the flag, selling of bottled water, traffic, parking, etc. but nothing strenous ). Don Wright RightDonNews@GMail.com WrightDon@Comcast.net
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Troop 398 News - March 27
TROOP MEETING – MARCH 30
If anyone has Shiloh paperwork, please bring it to this meeting. Mr. Dix will be working with those who went on the Shiloh trip to get it all in order so he can send in your patch or pin order.
If you have borrowed a troop backpack or tent or have any other troop equipment, please bring it in so it can be accounted for. If you plan to go on the Virgin Falls backpacking trip in April, you can check it out again.
Last chance for early registration for Summer Camp; give your $20 to Mr. Holtman. (This will save you $20). $250 is due if you are going on the canoeing trip to Canada this summer.
I suggest that we designate Monday, April 6th as a planning night. We will have a PLC with all youth leaders attending. the rest of the youth would have a night off. A troop Committee Meeting could be held if needed. It would also be an opportunity for us adults to spend some time planning for the future. I would like to do this one Monday per month for a few months and see how it works. If there are no problems, please have the SPL make this announcement.
MARCH CAMP OUT
The cost for food and camping for the Shiloh trip was $13. Pay Mr. Holtman or let him know to take it out of your scout account.
PASSPORTS FOR CANADA
Youth and adults will need a passport or Pass Card to enter Canada. Mr. Perkins reports that the processing time for passports is five to six weeks. You need to get your paperwork in as soon as possible. The passport is $40 more than the Pass Card, but there is a rumor that they may do away with the Pass Card at some unknown time. It might be safer to go ahead with a regular passport. You can go to Walgreens and get passport photo made for $7. Take both copies of the photo along with an original of your birth certificate to the County Clerk's Office. The passport will cost $85.
NATIONAL YOUTH LEADERSHIP TRAINING
This year's course will be held on July 12th througth the 18th at Boxwell Reservation. A scout must be 13 years old and a First Class Scout. If you are not going to Canada, this would be a fun thing to do. The NYLT program is designed to teach a scout everything a polished scout should BE, KNOW and DO in order to have an exciting Scouting Program. Over the course of the week, scouts meet and work in patrols with other scouts from the Middle Tennessee Council. They will gain experience in goal setting, planning, decision making and a host of other leadership skills. Upon completion of the course, scouts will be better prepared to assume leadership positions within the troop. Matt Fowler attended last year and can tell you more about the course. Interested scouts should see the Scoutmaster for an application. If you are accepted in the course, the troop will pay any registration fee.
LATIMER OPEN HOUSE
Several adults have asked when our new wilderness reservation will be open. Scoutmasters and Assistants are invited to an Open House at Latimer Reservation, Saturday, May 2 from Noon until 3:00 PM. Lunch will be provided. Some of will be hiking in to Virgin Falls which is about 2 – 3 miles away on Saturday. It would take some uphill bushwacking to make it to Latimer but it is possible! If you want to attend let me know so I can RSVP.
SERVICE PROJECTS
Michael Daniel s doing his Eagle Scout Project this Saturday, March 28 at the Stones River National Battlefield, volunteers will be working on seeding an area with indigenous plant species, clearing the area of invasive plant species, and removing modern fencing. It will start at 8:30 AM on March 28 at the information center across from the cemetery. The only things you need to bring are a pair of leather gloves and yourself. Lunch will also be provided.
ORDER OF THE ARROW
The following scouts were elected to be candidates this year: Mike Montalbano, Asher Paxton, Alex Riner, Sidney Roy and Reed Spivey. Don't forget that the OA Tap Out will be at 7:00 PM on April 4 at 7:00 PM at Camp Stahlman. Candidates should plan to attend the Ordeal Weekend May 29 -31 at Camp Stahlman.
APRIL CAMP OUT
We will do a back packing trip to Virgin Falls on April 18 and 19.