Hello Scouts and Scouters,

Troop Mobilization was a success

During our last meeting the PLC conducted a Troop Mobilization. This is a scenario where the Scouts are first responders to a disaster scene with multiple victims with varying levels of injuries. The boys assessed the injuries, performed first aid, and prioritized the victims by severity of injury for treatment and their “ambulance ride” to the nearest hospital. I was very happy to see the Scouts take this exercise seriously and correctly assess and treat the injuries. Those who are working on the Emergency Preparedness merit badge can count this toward the requirements. Congratulations to Alex O. for planning this successful troop exercise.

“Left and Found”

We are accumulating a large quantity of coolers, shoes, clothes, jackets, and other camping gear that has been left behind after campouts this year. We will set up a table with these items at the next meeting. Please claim your gear before it becomes “troop gear”.

Advancement

There are two more meetings before Court of Honor! You still have to schedule a Scoutmaster Conference and Board of Review. 05/10 is your last chance to complete your Board of Review before CoH. If you want a BoR on 05/03 it will only be possible between 6 and 7 pm by special appointment with Mr. Miller. Plan ahead! It is possible to have your SM conference at Cottonwood if you contact me ahead of time and can wear your full Class A (that includes your handbook).

Scouts – Bring your books to the troop meetings! Consider it part of your uniform.

Patrol Leaders – Make sure you know what each of your scouts needs to advance and make sure they have the opportunity to complete their requirements. Remember – “First Class in the first year” is our goal.

Elections Postponed – Now Saturday, 05/22, during the campout.

We will hold our elections during the next campout. If you haven’t yet signed up for next year’s position you must do so now. New Patrol Leaders must be First Class or above to run for office and must also complete Oak Leaf and NYLT training before or during your time in office. We will need up to eight Patrol Leaders so I encourage all scouts who are willing to put in the extra effort to run for these important positions.

BSA Swim Test – Monday, 05/10 – for Scouts AND ADULTS

In order to participate in some of the activities during our May campout each scout AND ADULT will have to pass the BSA swim test. This is also required for any water-related activities at summer camp. We will hold this meeting at the Plano Aquatic Center at 2301 Westside Drive, Plano TX, 75075 during our normal troop meeting time. This is located near Plano Senior High, Independence Pkwy and W. Park Blvd. We will not be providing transportation so everyone will need to meet at the pool.

Next Campout – Lake Texoma, fishing, boating, elections, special year-end campfire

May 21-23 is our Lake Texoma campout. Details will be posted soon. You must pass the BSA swim test in order to participate in the boating activities.

Next meeting – 05/03 – MONEY MONDAY™!

Because our last two meetings before the campout are swimming and Court of Honor, this Monday is Money Monday™. Please bring your money for food and your permission slip for the campout. The boys will be planning menus, working on advancement, and playing a game brought to you by the Narwhal Patrol. See you there!

Yours in Scouting,
Scoutmaster Payette