jbroganjr

I still think the boy should be removed from the troop. If this was one or two incidents, then a suspension would be in line, but the wanton killing of an animal and behavior towards other scouts in addition to a blatant disregard to the PLC tells me that this kid has to go. This also does not address the mothers constant threat of physical abuse. By this troop doing nothing, this behaviour is being condoned. If you where to ask the PLC their thoughts, what would they say, suspend, keep or let go? I'd bet they'd move for removal, as kids are much tougher with rules and conducts of behavior than us adults. One thing that springs to my mind is that is we cannot expect an abnormal thinking adult to abide by the social contract, which scouting does serve. A person who readily resorts to threats of physical violence and who's son demonstrates this violence is not going to be made a better person because of scouting, rather the rest of your troop will suffer from this experiment. I think, in this case, with the facts presented as such, you have to let them go. Even though that will cause the mental stress/dilema of scouters who believe we have to keep each kid. Good Luck I believe any charter org. will back you up on an expulsion with this type of behavior, especially since it is not isolated, rather continuing bad behavior. jbroganjr

Well I have always let the boys know where the phone is and tell them to talk to me first about calling to go home. I also strongly stress to parents about homesickness, what not to say to the scout (like " I miss you too!" - guarrantied to come pick him up), but instead to ask about activities, etc. It is also important for the parents to understand that their son needs a goal(s) whether it is a merit badge, etc. (Talk to the SM of camp about what topics would be good for their son first, typically homesick kids will not want to willingly talk about all the fun stuff they do during the day as it hurts their argument to go home). I also encourage you to use your older scouts as buddies for younger scouts. This year, with 2-3 scouts, 2 of which had no scouting outing exp. I started the fishing mb with them mid day. The one (actually 2 leaders YP) on one really helped with the boys (no they did not earn the badge yet) and this, I believe, got them to participate in the new scout program in the afternoon. I had to send one boy home this year. His homesickness, IMHO, was a battle of wills with his mom. She said stay (or "no") and that was not acceptable to this scouts lifestyle. I could have put up with it, but it got to the point of greatly affecting the other 12 new scouts. Even my SPL, who as a young scout was terminally homesick, said to send him home, after exhausting his patience. When this happens, immediately focus on the rest of the group who stays. Get them busy. This year, our first year scouts started all the fires in camps, under older scout supervision, really boosted their confidence. Spent a lot of time on Bravery SM each night. Its a thin line keeping vs. sending home. Most who make the week stay in scouts, but sometimes the experience of staying makes them quit anyway. make sure the homesick kids are eating and drinking, using latrines. Talk with med officer at camp, let them know your position on staying leaving. Beware the fake vomiters (yes this kid liked to stick his fingers down his throat, yeah scouting) though was never able to achieve his goal. Also, a stern line (on Wed.) w/ this scout made all his symptoms disappear, though he still finageled his way home. Good Luck There are no easy answers or magic pills. Each kid is different.

Even if they triple your scout pay, 3 x 0 is still nothing. Since there is a history here of trouble, and the fact that threats and violence are absolutely not to be stood for, It is time for your troop to kindly show them the door. I would have done this the instance the toad was killed. I definitately would not tolerate a couple of times of a kid disappearing and creating a lost scouter situation. Scouting is supposed to be fun, get rid of this scout, otherwise the troop and rest of the boys will leave you first. Tx. Jbroganjr

Great Points...though I don't agree with the no phone deal. I tell my new scouts that they are now big guys, and there is the phone, BUT they should be trustworthy and let me know if they call home about homesickness. This experiment worked real well in years past, not so good this year. I had a scout go home this year. I believe this was a battle between mom and scout, and this may have been the first time mom said no to the scout and the scout was not about to allow this pattern of behavior continue. Now I know that all of us scouters are paid handsomely to deal with these problems, but this kid had gotten so out of control that we had to deal with 10 seriously homesick kids. We are going over this matter, to see what we can learn from it and hopefully prevent it in the future, but sometimes you gotta cut bait. The good news is all the scouts who made it. This new bunch is one of the most immature scouts we've had in a while, most being young for there grade. I held a mini ceremony commending their bravery at end of camp, with parents there. I've also schedule, through PL's, follow meetings with the new scouts in the weeks following camp to re inforce a positive experience. Hopefully next year they will all stay and yes, I will continue my "you can call home anytime policy...it just takes a good pre camp parents meeting to cover those calls. Thanks John Brogan, Jr

Came back last night from a presentation of wood beads to a good friend of mine and as is normal, the after meeting discusion between scouters from the area began. The topic that came up and i have seen this in threads, is that all training is going to be geared toward developing leadership skills, not outdoor skills. Hello, is Texas asleep???? While leadership skills are an important goal of scouting, best realized by the boys by doing instead of being told, it is the outdoor experiences that are the enticements of scouting. If we present to a boy an opportunity of being outdoors, with his friends and peers, in charge of themselves (under the supervision of TRAINED leaders, they eagerlly sign up. If we present it as a leadership conference and (IMHO) a corporate minor league mind set, well I see us killing a successful program [Why is it we are always fixing things that ain't broke???] I found myself a little more disheartened. Thanks J

I agree that this fast track mentality is absurd...it has now created the 13 yr old eagle for pete's sake. Luckily, my troop and SM expect a scout to be able to do the task required... and not immediately after learning them, normally 2 to 4 weeks after "completion" of the requirement. So you quessed correctly, we do not get to many 1st class ranks earned by the end of one year. It normally takes One year, a lot of outdoor experiences and two summer camps. One of the greatest helps though in having the boys master the rank and want to achieve the rank is the normally overlooked Webelos requirements...which are essentially the joining requirements for a troop. I am an ASM and a CM (as well as a district guy). In my pack, I stress strongly that the last 3-4 months of webelos should be concentrated on learning the joining requirements. When the boys bridge and can show the SM that they know the oath and law and how to tie a square knot etc. it is an easy path then to get them to state what the stuff means, how to improve on knots etc. And we rely heavily on the older boys to do this. In fact we will set aside either one campout or one Saturday, where the older boys work with the new scouts to est. the basics of how Boys Scouts work and how to work on their requirements. Doing it this way, I normally get new scouts to earn tenderfoot by end of the first camp. That is a great morale booster for the scout. Yes it can be done, but never at the expense of looking good on paper and failing completely when it counts (like high adventure)

Yes, the prices are a bit steep, but I wonder how much national's cut is on the price. More importantly, is how badly designed the uniforms are, especially the pants. I am no longer a Little Kid and don't feel the need for the stretch waist band whose only purpose seems to be to let my shirt fall out as I bend over to start/cook on a fire, etc. And what knucklehead thought it a good idea to have a pocket on top of a pocket? Did they think it a wise choice to have bulging material as you fill both pockets? And having a square bottom pocket I find lends itself to letting the things in that pocket escape when sitting down. Why can't the extra pocket be put on the the side of the thigh, so it's not in the way of a pack waist strap. I have heard many men like the womens' yellow shirt, though I have never heard of any women likeing the yellow shirt. But If we scouters have it bad, has any one ever said to themselves, Boy that profession looks good in that blue blazer!!!! Thanks John

I think that the only new merit badge to be created should be named "Exploiting Innocence" where we teach the boys that there is always more to the headlines. I hope everyone else in scouting is out promoting the good that scouting promotes in youth, as Hell will freeze over before there is a national campaign. I am happy to report that the many people I encounter feel that scouting is on the right path. thanks john

Here are a few ideas, some will take some effort in preparation. Medieval Themed - there are re enactor groups out there who would gladly come and help. Some activities - archery, catapult competion, storm the the castle, axe throw... Civil War Themed - lots of time needed to get re enactors lined up. We had one in 2000, North and South, troops were participants in the drills and re enactments. Use period cooking recipes, methods. Even had a 1863 church service with an antique organ in the middle of the field. Here is one I am working on now, it is not complete - the Posh Resort Inn Camporee - Each patrol or troop will come up with: outdoor restaurant, with ambience, furniture and settings, prepare a 5 star meal, outside, complete with waitors and maitre dee and menus. I want to get area cooks to come in the morning (yeah that will be fun for people who work nights like chefs) to do cooking demo's. I also plan a simple district wide game(s) to blow off energy. Pioneering - different task for different level scouts. Our district is holding a mountain man camporee next year, w/ re enactors, rifles, lumber competitions, etc. Also big w/ cubs/boy scouts - Rockets, science themes (wizadry), pirates, "Survivor" type competitions, jungle themes, For cubs - I personally like to have a slide making station at all our camporees for something other than a patch to take home. I have found that taping together 50-100 refigerator boxes guarantees hours of fun for boys, launching pumpkings off catapults is another fun activity, district wide games, scavenger hunts (nature, etc). Jamboree On The Air (JOTA) is big in October [Ham Radio] For cubs/and some boy scouts, the Big Book of Fun has great ideas to anchor events and set the tones. Always have more to do than is possible!!! and have a back up still. I hope that helps

There are lies, damn lies and statistics - Mark Twain It is incredibly scary to read this post, almost to the point of getting out torches and going on a gay witch hunt. It does sound to me that most of the respondents in this column have never known or worked with homosexuals, except the one reply about the only difference is choice of partner. I also come away with the impression that these arguments are religious based, which is fine, but show me in the new testament where it is written that we should cast out the homosexuals. When I read it it, it says to love one another, accept those who are not like you [Jesus commands his disciples to accept the gentiles remember] and redeems the prostitute Mary Magdalen. It also commands that only those without fault shall cast the first stone. Yes I know there are all sorts of Old Testament stories like Sodom and Gommorah concerning homosexuals, but if you are going to use them for your argument, I will direct you to the stories of Ruth and her "prostitution" for the servant Mordaccai and his revenge on his enemies. I don't believe those stories have a place as the law in this land or time. Descrimination in any form is ugly, whether that is pc or not. The same arguments for descrimination against gays today where used against blacks and immigrants. People hated JFK because he was Catholic. At the turn of the century, employment ads had the letters NINA - No Irish Need Apply. It is sad that you need hate and descrimination to foster your own beliefs and give you the false sense of moral strength. To thine own self be true - William Shakespeare.

I believe the access issue is a whole lotta of nothing but politicians blowing hot air. Access to public institutions does not need another law. BSA will prevail on this issue. Please keep in mind, IMHO, that BSA knew this would be one of the downsides of fighting the Dale Case. As for charter organizations abandoning BSA, many of them have their hands tied by public law...the same law BSA is standing upon. It will mean a rededication of parents to find new charter organizations to keep up the great scouting program. It is my wish that the hypocrosy of many scouters be realized... It is o.k. to discriminate against homosexuals but nobody better discriminate against us... I think taking a dose of our own medicine is a worthwile endeavor, as it puts us in other peoples shoes. The only difference is that we will be allowed to continue scouting.

While I support the decision in regards to a group having the right to associate and limit association, as per the 1st amendment, I have a problem with showing (teaching?) boys discrimintation. I viewed the program in question last night and while the subject is controversial, I came away with the following thoughts. First, the program is correct in stating that no where does BSA state that homosexuals are not allowed in there handbooks, registration forms etc. Second, I believe all the scouts shown on last nights program exemplified the boy scout law and oath. In fact, there was a comment that some of the kicked out scouts where poster boys for scouting. Steve Cozza exemplifies the scout oath and law above the other scouts, because he is doing what he feels is right and that takes courage and bravery. Third, It was chilling to see that BSA national, while extolling 1st amendment rights cut off another citizens right, namely David Rice, but refusing to renew his registration. I would personally like to know more about that situation, because if he was not promoting the alternate scouting for all in the troop, I don't think he would be in the wrong. If you don't agree with that statement, then how do you feel about Southern Baptists who preach dominance over women from the pulpit on Sundays and run a troop during the week. Same senario, different themes. David Rice is not gay, has 50 years in scouting and worked with a scout who is upholding his version of duty to country and obeying the scout law. As for the no comment from BSA, well I believe that our organization should be more forthcoming, not just on this issue, but also in promoting what a great thing scouting is. In conclusion, while that program appears one sided, I do commend the producer for trying to convey different points of view on the subject, it is too bad BSA ducked on the response. I would also hate for scouters and scouts to turn this into a gay bashing forum for I know as well as you, that that attitude is against scouting principles. Using words like attacking boy scouts, too much attention to homosexuals, etc. is a way of inciting the hateful garbage speech that takes away from the core issues and plays into the hands of the media.

Contact the council training chair (a volunteer) and ask him/her for this information. Better yet, ask the council to put on a one day training session.

I completely disagree with the idea of not using a theme. All patrol competitions can be tailored to a theme. A theme makes things "new" and can be used to help promote/sell the idea to the boys, so that not only do they just show up, but, can grab ownership of the idea/theme and prepare for the camporee. Themes are also important in carrying over to the cub side of things. Our district has made the mistake of splitting cub/boy scout camporees and in doing so have thrown out a great recruiting tool. Having run the the last three camporees I wholehearted encourage all scouters not to be lazy, but use the a theme...it gets the brain working!!! yis

In addition to colors you mentioned: Dk Blue for Webelos badge, thin black lines for act. pins, purple for world conservation, purple/silver for any religious awards. I also suggest Blue and Gold flights for the arrows, as it is cubs they are coming from.

This recently happened in our district. A CM left, no one would take his place. the previously CM stepped in temparily. Again, no one would take the job. The district stepped in (Contact your districts Commissioner and Unit Commissioner). You might not have a unit commissioner, but every district has a DC. Our DC & Dist. Executive went to the next pack night, and after their talk, got two co leader CM. Sometimes it starts out that way, with two, but normally within the year, One individual becomes the lead dog. I hope this helps along with the other good advice posted above JBroganJr. CM, ASM and CRTC

First off, what is the theme? Many ideas can be incorporated into a theme. I am assuming (a dangerous adventure that ;-}, that a cub o ree is the same as a cub camporee (without the camping) Ideas: Get the Cub Scout How to Book, The sports and academic pin book, and peruse the scout books (wolf/bear/webelos) for activities, make them fit the theme and you should have enough ideas for 20 units to do. Also, what games do you like to do? Pick a couple that the boys can do either solo or as a den or as den/den competition. I'm a big believer in having a slide making station. Examples I've seen in the last year: Medieval Theme: Took the science pin for webelos, added a lot of fun ways to do the expirements and called it Merlin's Workshop. I have run the last two cub camporees for our district and I had the following: For the spring '00, Civil War themed: Obstacle course (Called the underground RR course), The mine field game, a geopgrahpy game, a scouting game (look at a bunch of objects for 10 seconds and tell what you remember) Stretcher races to the front lines. Supply movement, cubs moved 200 lbs of gear on sleds using fulcrams and pipes in a race. Fall '00 Fall Fun: Science station, pumpkin bolwing, bobbing for apples on a string, mummy wrap races (dens/pairs of scouts, raced to wrap another cub in T.P. to make a mummy, a HUGE refrigerator box maze, Rocket launches, Ham Radios, Slide Making, Magic Wand making station (craft) and A Haunted Hike.

I currently live on both sides of the communication sword, nicely put as a two way street... but sometimes your D*&^ if you do and D*&^ if you don't. As cubmaster, I put out a monthly Pack Newsletter, handed out to DL's at pack night to hand to every boy in their den. The pack (80+ boys) has a great bunch of leaders who understand the need to communicate effectively, but we seem to always have a few families who don't get the message... They normally are the same families month to month who don't bother to read the newsletter, rarely show up but get incensed when little johnnie did not know about some "cool trip" or camp. Newsletters are great for those who read them!!! The pack also encourages DL to put out their own newsletters concerning the den. It is important that the CM and the committee work together to get the info out. I wish we had a committee secretary (I don't like that word) or information person to help accumulate the info for the newsletter. It is also important to keep in mind, that with many district or council wide events, at least in our council, that the info on these evetns seems to come last minute. Please don't punish the pack for that. In our registration packet, the committee chair and I put in the years calender, if we don't have an exact date, we put TBA in that month. Also, as a den leader... please get to roundtable where you can learn first hand about district events. It's also a great place for fellowship, getting answers, learning new ideas, etc. It's only once a month and worth the extra "hour". Good Luck, YiS John CM, ASM and asst. CRTC

I currently live on both sides of the communication sword, nicely put as a two way street... but sometimes your D*&^ if you do and D*&^ if you don't. As cubmaster, I put out a monthly Pack Newsletter, handed out to DL's at pack night to hand to every boy in their den. The pack (80+ boys) has a great bunch of leaders who understand the need to communicate effectively, but we seem to always have a few families who don't get the message... They normally are the same families month to month who don't bother to read the newsletter, rarely show up but get incensed when little johnnie did not know about some "cool trip" or camp. Newsletters are great for those who read them!!! The pack also encourages DL to put out their own newsletters concerning the den. It is important that the CM and the committee work together to get the info out. I wish we had a committee secretary (I don't like that word) or information person to help accumulate the info for the newsletter. It is also important to keep in mind, that with many district or council wide events, at least in our council, that the info on these evetns seems to come last minute. Please don't punish the pack for that. In our registration packet, the committee chair and I put in the years calender, if we don't have an exact date, we put TBA in that month. Also, as a den leader... please get to roundtable where you can learn first hand about district events. It's also a great place for fellowship, getting answers, learning new ideas, etc. It's only once a month and worth the extra "hour". Good Luck, YiS John CM, ASM and asst. CRTC

My suggestions, fortunately, or unfortunately, will require some work, and hopefully fun... 1. Fun, creative and new camporee ideas... our district just did one in the spring where the boys became reenactors in a Civil War theme. Camporee had about 40 re-enactors, divided between two camps. Boy Scout Camping was set up different... campsite set up as military streets, all cooking done on fires, no lights, except lanterns (flashlights in tents only). The weekend was set up as a drill, practice, lessons on life in 1863, and concluded with a re-enactment. Yes, it was a lot of work (I was on committee) 2. Troop displays... maybe at a community day/fair, etc. Go and build a cool signal tower or impressive bridge, put those scout skills to use and show them off to the community. 3. Get the boys to JLT, call your DE. 4. Plan far ahead for need camp ideas, our troop just returned from Florida (we're based in NJ) where the older boys (14 yrs+) were the crew on a 65 foot bareboat charter. Sailed from Key West to the dry Tortugas. Too much cool fun to mention. 5. Adult leaders may have to "hands on" guide some different ideas until the boys can take them and run. 6. BE CREATIVE, HAVE FUN, MAKE SURE THE BOYS HAVE FUN!!! THANKS John