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  11. <title>A Scoutmaster&#039;s Blog</title>
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  13. <link>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog</link>
  14. <description>This is a online journal of a scoutmaster&#039;s thoughts on over 37 years as a Boy Scout Leader.</description>
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  23. <title>Eighteen Years Ago&#8230; The &#8220;Melrose Scouting Productions&#8221; Channel Began!</title>
  24. <link>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5764</link>
  25. <comments>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5764#respond</comments>
  26. <dc:creator><![CDATA[stevejb68]]></dc:creator>
  27. <pubDate>Tue, 09 Jan 2024 01:41:04 +0000</pubDate>
  28. <category><![CDATA[Anniversary]]></category>
  29. <category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
  30. <category><![CDATA[channel]]></category>
  31. <category><![CDATA[internet]]></category>
  32. <category><![CDATA[videos]]></category>
  33. <category><![CDATA[YouTube]]></category>
  34. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5764</guid>
  35.  
  36. <description><![CDATA[This is hard to believe. The Melrose Scouting Productions channel on YouTube is 18 years old. I posted the first video on January 9, 2006. The channel now contains over 200 videos featuring Melrose Troop 68 Scouts throughout the decades. I remember when I started the channel. There were not many Boy Scout troops posting [&#8230;]]]></description>
  37. <content:encoded><![CDATA[
  38. <p>This is hard to believe. The Melrose Scouting Productions channel on YouTube is 18 years old. I posted the first video on January 9, 2006. The channel now contains over 200 videos featuring Melrose Troop 68 Scouts throughout the decades.</p>
  39.  
  40.  
  41.  
  42. <p>I remember when I started the channel. There were not many Boy Scout troops posting videos online yet. Melrose Troop 68 was one of the early troops to have its own channel. While the very first video was not Scouting related, it was made by one of our Boy Scouts at the time. (It was actually a school class project.) </p>
  43.  
  44.  
  45.  
  46. <p>I did not have to go far to find videos to start posting. I had been filming troop courts of honor, events, and outings since 1989 for MelTV, the local television access station. Unfortunately, the city closed down the station in the early 2010s. There were several dozen videos, on VHS tape, that could now be posted online for people and former Scouts to continue to enjoy. And, of course, there would always be more videos to create. It gave me a place to share other Scouting related videos that I had collected over the decades.</p>
  47.  
  48.  
  49.  
  50. <p>One of the most fun things I did with the channel was to bring Buttons the Boy Scout to life. Buttons was a puppet I owned that became the comic mascot of the channel. It may have been fun but it was also a lot of work bringing Buttons to life. I have not made a new video featuring Buttons since 2010, but he did have his own following of online fans during those four years.</p>
  51.  
  52.  
  53.  
  54. <p>At the time I write this article, there are 213 regular videos posted to the channel. Many of them features songs and skits from campfire programs and the troop&#8217;s Laughs For Lunch Shows. During the last few months I have began playing with YouTube Shorts. While most of these Shorts don&#8217;t receive many hits, a few have received over 2000 views. One Short even reached 8000 views!</p>
  55.  
  56.  
  57.  
  58. <p>While I have not been very good about posting videos to the channel during the last few years (only 13 videos posted in 2023), my goal is to post videos more regularly during 2024. Why not? After all, we now carry video camera in our pockets everywhere we go. It is not like I have to grab the massive old VHS camcorder anymore.</p>
  59.  
  60.  
  61.  
  62. <p>If you have not seen the channel yet, check it out at <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClUOxM42AYjgLwGyoqgpx1w">https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClUOxM42AYjgLwGyoqgpx1w</a></p>
  63.  
  64.  
  65.  
  66. <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" width="610" height="526" src="http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/mspc-610x526.png" alt="" class="wp-image-5765" srcset="http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/mspc-610x526.png 610w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/mspc-250x215.png 250w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/mspc-768x662.png 768w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/mspc.png 1308w" sizes="(max-width: 610px) 100vw, 610px" /></figure>
  67.  
  68.  
  69.  
  70. <p></p>
  71. ]]></content:encoded>
  72. <wfw:commentRss>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?feed=rss2&#038;p=5764</wfw:commentRss>
  73. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  74. </item>
  75. <item>
  76. <title>Beagle Scout Snoopy Ornaments at Walmart</title>
  77. <link>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5759</link>
  78. <comments>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5759#respond</comments>
  79. <dc:creator><![CDATA[stevejb68]]></dc:creator>
  80. <pubDate>Thu, 30 Nov 2023 23:53:01 +0000</pubDate>
  81. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  82. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5759</guid>
  83.  
  84. <description><![CDATA[In addition to collecting the yearly Hallmark Keepsake Beagle Scout Snoopy ornaments that are released each year, I also collect a few Star Wars ornaments. I do not collect many of the Star Wars Keepsake ornaments due to the price of them, but I do collect the less expensive Hallmark ornaments that are found at [&#8230;]]]></description>
  85. <content:encoded><![CDATA[
  86. <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" width="610" height="458" src="http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/IMG_4415-610x458.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-5760" srcset="http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/IMG_4415-610x458.jpeg 610w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/IMG_4415-250x188.jpeg 250w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/IMG_4415-768x576.jpeg 768w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/IMG_4415-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/IMG_4415-2048x1536.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 610px) 100vw, 610px" /></figure>
  87.  
  88.  
  89.  
  90. <p>In addition to collecting the yearly Hallmark Keepsake Beagle Scout Snoopy ornaments that are released each year, I also collect a few Star Wars ornaments. I do not collect many of the Star Wars Keepsake ornaments due to the price of them, but I do collect the less expensive Hallmark ornaments that are found at Walmart. Imagine my surprise this year when I found not one, but two Beagle Scout Snoopy ornaments at my local Walmart!</p>
  91.  
  92.  
  93.  
  94. <p>The first one, seen above, features Snoopy in a canoe. By the smile on his face you can tell he is enjoying his leisurely ride across the lake or down the river. The colors are sharp and it is well designed. And it is larger than the Keepsake ornament yet costs less which I found interesting. This was on sale for $9.48.</p>
  95.  
  96.  
  97.  
  98. <p>The second one, seen below, features Snoopy as he repels down a mountain side. At least I think he is repelling. It is another great looking ornament that had to become a part of my collection. This one was a little more expensive at a cost at $12.98. I bought two of each ornament.</p>
  99.  
  100.  
  101.  
  102. <p>I have never seen The Beagle Scout ornaments at Walmart stores in previous years. If this has been going on for awhile I guess I am missing some that I may need to find. But I have a feeling these were released this year to help celebrate the 50th anniversary of this Beagle Scout first appearing in the iconic Peanuts comic strip, just like the new balloon during this year&#8217;s Macy&#8217;s Thanksgiving parade. Maybe, if these sell well, we will continue to see new Beagle Scout ornaments each year.</p>
  103.  
  104.  
  105.  
  106. <p>Have you seen these two decorations in your local Walmart? Did you buy them for your tree, or do you need to run out to find them? I did notice them for sale on the Walmart website also, if you do not have a store near you.</p>
  107.  
  108.  
  109.  
  110. <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" width="610" height="458" src="http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/IMG_4416-610x458.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-5761" srcset="http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/IMG_4416-610x458.jpeg 610w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/IMG_4416-250x188.jpeg 250w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/IMG_4416-768x576.jpeg 768w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/IMG_4416-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/IMG_4416-2048x1536.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 610px) 100vw, 610px" /></figure>
  111. ]]></content:encoded>
  112. <wfw:commentRss>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?feed=rss2&#038;p=5759</wfw:commentRss>
  113. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  114. </item>
  115. <item>
  116. <title>2023 Hallmark Beagle Scout Snoopy Ornament</title>
  117. <link>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5754</link>
  118. <comments>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5754#respond</comments>
  119. <dc:creator><![CDATA[stevejb68]]></dc:creator>
  120. <pubDate>Sun, 26 Nov 2023 16:14:14 +0000</pubDate>
  121. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  122. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5754</guid>
  123.  
  124. <description><![CDATA[Christmas is nearly here which means that Hallmark has released their new 2023 Beagle Scout Snoopy Ornament. This year&#8217;s ornament features Snoopy making pancakes for Woodstock and his fellow Scouts over a campfire. It is a great looking ornament. It is nicely detailed, but it is not very large. The cost of the ornament is [&#8230;]]]></description>
  125. <content:encoded><![CDATA[
  126. <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" width="610" height="610" src="http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Snoopy-Beagle-Scouts-Pancake-Breakfast-Keepsake-Ornament_1899QXI7049_06-610x610.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-5755" srcset="http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Snoopy-Beagle-Scouts-Pancake-Breakfast-Keepsake-Ornament_1899QXI7049_06-610x610.jpg 610w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Snoopy-Beagle-Scouts-Pancake-Breakfast-Keepsake-Ornament_1899QXI7049_06-250x250.jpg 250w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Snoopy-Beagle-Scouts-Pancake-Breakfast-Keepsake-Ornament_1899QXI7049_06-150x150.jpg 150w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Snoopy-Beagle-Scouts-Pancake-Breakfast-Keepsake-Ornament_1899QXI7049_06-768x768.jpg 768w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Snoopy-Beagle-Scouts-Pancake-Breakfast-Keepsake-Ornament_1899QXI7049_06-1536x1536.jpg 1536w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Snoopy-Beagle-Scouts-Pancake-Breakfast-Keepsake-Ornament_1899QXI7049_06.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 610px) 100vw, 610px" /></figure>
  127.  
  128.  
  129.  
  130. <p>Christmas is nearly here which means that Hallmark has released their new 2023 Beagle Scout Snoopy Ornament. This year&#8217;s ornament features Snoopy making pancakes for Woodstock and his fellow Scouts over a campfire. It is a great looking ornament. It is nicely detailed, but it is not very large.</p>
  131.  
  132.  
  133.  
  134. <p>The cost of the ornament is $18.99 (USD). It can be found in Hallmark stores and in their online store at https://www.hallmark.com/ornaments/keepsake-ornaments/the-peanuts-gang-pancake-pals-ornament-1899QXI7049.html</p>
  135.  
  136.  
  137.  
  138. <p>I really do like the design of the ornament. My only gripe is that they did not make it bigger. And that the cost of the ornament is a bit expensive. I guess Hallmark knows that there are people like me who collect them and charge accordingly. </p>
  139.  
  140.  
  141.  
  142. <p>Do you collect these yearly? How many do you own? I am only missing the earliest couple of them.</p>
  143.  
  144.  
  145.  
  146. <p>(The pictures have been used from the Hallmark website.)</p>
  147.  
  148.  
  149.  
  150. <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" width="610" height="610" src="http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Snoopy-Beagle-Scouts-Pancake-Breakfast-Keepsake-Ornament_1899QXI7049_01-610x610.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-5756" srcset="http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Snoopy-Beagle-Scouts-Pancake-Breakfast-Keepsake-Ornament_1899QXI7049_01-610x610.jpg 610w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Snoopy-Beagle-Scouts-Pancake-Breakfast-Keepsake-Ornament_1899QXI7049_01-250x250.jpg 250w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Snoopy-Beagle-Scouts-Pancake-Breakfast-Keepsake-Ornament_1899QXI7049_01-150x150.jpg 150w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Snoopy-Beagle-Scouts-Pancake-Breakfast-Keepsake-Ornament_1899QXI7049_01-768x768.jpg 768w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Snoopy-Beagle-Scouts-Pancake-Breakfast-Keepsake-Ornament_1899QXI7049_01-1536x1536.jpg 1536w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Snoopy-Beagle-Scouts-Pancake-Breakfast-Keepsake-Ornament_1899QXI7049_01.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 610px) 100vw, 610px" /></figure>
  151.  
  152.  
  153.  
  154. <p></p>
  155. ]]></content:encoded>
  156. <wfw:commentRss>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?feed=rss2&#038;p=5754</wfw:commentRss>
  157. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  158. </item>
  159. <item>
  160. <title>The Troop&#8217;s 2022 Christmas Party</title>
  161. <link>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5749</link>
  162. <comments>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5749#respond</comments>
  163. <dc:creator><![CDATA[stevejb68]]></dc:creator>
  164. <pubDate>Fri, 30 Dec 2022 22:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
  165. <category><![CDATA[Activity]]></category>
  166. <category><![CDATA[Holiday]]></category>
  167. <category><![CDATA[Christmas]]></category>
  168. <category><![CDATA[party]]></category>
  169. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5749</guid>
  170.  
  171. <description><![CDATA[Since 1986, Boy Scout Troop 68 of Melrose has held a Christmas Party. The parties were first held in someone&#8217;s home but sometimes the parties were held in other venues, especially when the troop&#8217;s membership began to grow. A few parties were held at the city hall. This year&#8217;s party was held in a church [&#8230;]]]></description>
  172. <content:encoded><![CDATA[
  173. <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" width="610" height="400" src="http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/IMG_9401-610x400.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-5750" srcset="http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/IMG_9401-610x400.jpeg 610w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/IMG_9401-250x164.jpeg 250w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/IMG_9401-768x504.jpeg 768w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/IMG_9401-1536x1008.jpeg 1536w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/IMG_9401-2048x1344.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 610px) 100vw, 610px" /></figure>
  174.  
  175.  
  176.  
  177. <p>Since 1986, Boy Scout Troop 68 of Melrose has held a Christmas Party. The parties were first held in someone&#8217;s home but sometimes the parties were held in other venues, especially when the troop&#8217;s membership began to grow. A few parties were held at the city hall. This year&#8217;s party was held in a church facility and followed the troop&#8217;s last court of honor for the year. We invited the second year Webelos to attend the party.</p>
  178.  
  179.  
  180.  
  181. <p>Each Scout was asked to bring a snack for the party The troop provided the pizzas and the beverages. No one went home hungry from this activity. We had food left over.</p>
  182.  
  183.  
  184.  
  185. <p>The first activity was the gift exchange. All the gifts were placed in the middle of the tables. Scouts took turns shaking a pair of dice. If he shook doubles he picked a gift from the center of the table to place in front of him. Once each Scout or adult leader had received a gift the real fun began.</p>
  186.  
  187.  
  188.  
  189. <p>In the past we would open our gifts at this point to see what they were. This year, the Scouts voted to try something different. The gifts would not be opened until the end of the game. Participants had to guess what was in the packages and determine which package they wanted to try to receive.</p>
  190.  
  191.  
  192.  
  193. <p>The Scouts set a ten minute time for the game. Once the time began the dice were passed around the table. Each participant would shake the dice. If he shook doubles he could trade the gift in front of him for a gift in front of another Scout. Whatever gift was in front of you at the end of the ten minutes would be yours to take home. Most Scouts liked what they received but I did notice a couple trades going on after the game ended.</p>
  194.  
  195.  
  196.  
  197. <p>The Scouts moved onto various other games during the evening. Shortly after 9:00 pm we watched a movie. The Scouts choose <strong>Home Alone</strong> for their entertainment this year. There were a couple Scouts who had not seen this movie yet.</p>
  198.  
  199.  
  200.  
  201. <p>We wrapped up the festivities around 11:30 that evening. A winter storm was on the way and we wanted everyone to be home before it began. The Scouts had a lot of fun during this last troop activity for the year.</p>
  202. ]]></content:encoded>
  203. <wfw:commentRss>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?feed=rss2&#038;p=5749</wfw:commentRss>
  204. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  205. </item>
  206. <item>
  207. <title>The 2022 Troop Auction.</title>
  208. <link>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5746</link>
  209. <comments>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5746#respond</comments>
  210. <dc:creator><![CDATA[stevejb68]]></dc:creator>
  211. <pubDate>Thu, 29 Dec 2022 22:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
  212. <category><![CDATA[Activity]]></category>
  213. <category><![CDATA[games]]></category>
  214. <category><![CDATA[troop auction]]></category>
  215. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5746</guid>
  216.  
  217. <description><![CDATA[Melrose Area Scout Troop 68 holds a Troop Auction following its December court of honor. This auction is a tradition that has been held for over 30 years. The first was held in 1987. The Scouts use &#8220;Troop Bucks&#8221; they have earned during the year to bid on prizes. Troop Bucks, which are not real [&#8230;]]]></description>
  218. <content:encoded><![CDATA[
  219. <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" width="610" height="360" src="http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/IMG_9457-610x360.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-5747" srcset="http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/IMG_9457-610x360.jpeg 610w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/IMG_9457-250x147.jpeg 250w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/IMG_9457-768x453.jpeg 768w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/IMG_9457-1536x906.jpeg 1536w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/IMG_9457-2048x1208.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 610px) 100vw, 610px" /></figure>
  220.  
  221.  
  222.  
  223. <p>Melrose Area Scout Troop 68 holds a Troop Auction following its December court of honor. This auction is a tradition that has been held for over 30 years. The first was held in 1987.</p>
  224.  
  225.  
  226.  
  227. <p>The Scouts use &#8220;Troop Bucks&#8221; they have earned during the year to bid on prizes. Troop Bucks, which are not real money, are earned by attending outings, earning merit badges, and earning ranks. The more active a Scout is during the year, the more Troop Bucks he will earn. The Troop Bucks are handed out during the December court of honor. Any bucks not spend may be saved by the Scout to use in next year&#8217;s auction.</p>
  228.  
  229.  
  230.  
  231. <p>There were fifteen prizes for the 2022 auction. The total cost of the prizes was only $120. Some of the prizes were donated. Surprisingly, the most expensive prize was the Boy Scout Handbook at a $25 cost. The item sold for the lowest bid happened to be a Scout web belt. Bids were place in $5 increments.</p>
  232.  
  233.  
  234.  
  235. <p>Once the bidding began it was fun to watch the Scouts. Some items were quite popular and had a lot of bids. Sometimes you could tell a Scout or two was bidding just to raise the stakes, hoping they would not get stuck with the item. Sometimes a Scout really wanted the item but did not have enough Troop Bucks to bid high enough to get the prize. In total, the Scouts bid a combined $3440 for the prizes. </p>
  236.  
  237.  
  238.  
  239. <p>So, what were the prizes and what were the final bids?  Boy Scout Handbook &#8211; $160.  Troop 68 Tee Shirt &#8211; $230.  BSA Web Belt &#8211; $65.  BSA Bolo Tie &#8211; $125.  Merit Badge Sash with Clip &#8211; $350.  Five piece Mess Kit &#8211; $125.  Lock Blade Knife &#8211; $400.  LED Flashlight &#8211; $175.  Smartphone Adjustable Stand &#8211; $205.  Pair of Carabiners &#8211; $150.  Rawling Baseball &#8211; $175.  Sharpening Stone with case &#8211; $310.  Fleece Throw Blanket &#8211; $330.  Gamer 3 Ring Binder (with a hidden $20 bill) &#8211; $450.  Laptop Bag &#8211; $190.</p>
  240.  
  241.  
  242.  
  243. <p>More fun came after the auction ended. Some Scouts were trading their winnings with other Scouts. It seemed that all the Scouts were happy after the trading ended.</p>
  244. ]]></content:encoded>
  245. <wfw:commentRss>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?feed=rss2&#038;p=5746</wfw:commentRss>
  246. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  247. </item>
  248. <item>
  249. <title>The Last Court of Honor for 2022</title>
  250. <link>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5743</link>
  251. <comments>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5743#respond</comments>
  252. <dc:creator><![CDATA[stevejb68]]></dc:creator>
  253. <pubDate>Thu, 29 Dec 2022 01:05:23 +0000</pubDate>
  254. <category><![CDATA[Advancement]]></category>
  255. <category><![CDATA[court of honor]]></category>
  256. <category><![CDATA[awards]]></category>
  257. <category><![CDATA[merit badge]]></category>
  258. <category><![CDATA[ranks]]></category>
  259. <category><![CDATA[recognition]]></category>
  260. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5743</guid>
  261.  
  262. <description><![CDATA[The Boy Scouts of Melrose Area Troop 68 held their last court of honor for the year on December 10 at the Harvest Church in Freeport. Nine of the ten members were in attendance, along with their families and two Webelos from Cub Scout Pack 68. The troop presented 14 merit badges and 3 ranks [&#8230;]]]></description>
  263. <content:encoded><![CDATA[
  264. <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" width="610" height="406" src="http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/IMG_9456-610x406.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-5744" srcset="http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/IMG_9456-610x406.jpeg 610w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/IMG_9456-250x167.jpeg 250w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/IMG_9456-768x512.jpeg 768w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/IMG_9456-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/IMG_9456-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 610px) 100vw, 610px" /></figure>
  265.  
  266.  
  267.  
  268. <p>The Boy Scouts of Melrose Area Troop 68 held their last court of honor for the year on December 10 at the Harvest Church in Freeport. Nine of the ten members were in attendance, along with their families and two Webelos from Cub Scout Pack 68. The troop presented 14 merit badges and 3 ranks during the award ceremony.</p>
  269.  
  270.  
  271.  
  272. <p>The evening begin with a flag presentation which was followed by a Scout Law ceremony. A few Scouts received year pins for their membership in the troop. This was followed by the presentation of the merit badges. Receiving merit badges were:  </p>
  273.  
  274.  
  275.  
  276. <p>Braden Z: Citizenship in the Nation, and Citizenship in the World.   Alex G: Citizenship in the Nation, Family Life, and Personal Management.   Isaiah G: Citizenship in the World, Hiking, and Family Life.   Dawson W: Citizenship in the Nation, Citizenship in the World, Climbing, Genealogy, Programming, and Scouting Heritage.</p>
  277.  
  278.  
  279.  
  280. <p>After a couple skits (short plays) were performed by the Scouts it was time for the presentation of the Ranks. Three Scouts had earned a Rank since the last court of honor in September. They were:  Dawson W &#8211; Tenderfoot Rank.  Braden Z &#8211; Second Class Rank.  Isaiah G &#8211; Life Rank.</p>
  281.  
  282.  
  283.  
  284. <p>The court of honor ended with the Scouts singing Scout Vespers, followed by the retiring of the colors. After the ceremony the Troop held its annual Troop Auction during which the Scouts used their “Troop Bucks” earned during the year to bid on various prizes. The Scouts rounded out the evening with their Christmas party.</p>
  285.  
  286.  
  287.  
  288. <p></p>
  289. ]]></content:encoded>
  290. <wfw:commentRss>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?feed=rss2&#038;p=5743</wfw:commentRss>
  291. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  292. </item>
  293. <item>
  294. <title>Recharter Time. Decisions To Make.</title>
  295. <link>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5738</link>
  296. <comments>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5738#comments</comments>
  297. <dc:creator><![CDATA[stevejb68]]></dc:creator>
  298. <pubDate>Sun, 11 Dec 2022 13:56:00 +0000</pubDate>
  299. <category><![CDATA[committee]]></category>
  300. <category><![CDATA[Cub Scout]]></category>
  301. <category><![CDATA[Leadership]]></category>
  302. <category><![CDATA[cubmaster]]></category>
  303. <category><![CDATA[scoutmaster]]></category>
  304. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5738</guid>
  305.  
  306. <description><![CDATA[The year of 2022 is coming to an end which means that Scouting units of the Central Minnesota Council need to complete their recharters. It also means that those of us who serve as adults leaders have decisions to make. I, for example, have roles in two local Scouting units to consider. First, do I [&#8230;]]]></description>
  307. <content:encoded><![CDATA[
  308. <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" width="610" height="440" src="http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/IMG_8067-610x440.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-5739" srcset="http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/IMG_8067-610x440.jpeg 610w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/IMG_8067-250x180.jpeg 250w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/IMG_8067-768x554.jpeg 768w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/IMG_8067-1536x1109.jpeg 1536w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/IMG_8067-2048x1478.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 610px) 100vw, 610px" /></figure>
  309.  
  310.  
  311.  
  312. <p>The year of 2022 is coming to an end which means that Scouting units of the Central Minnesota Council need to complete their recharters. It also means that those of us who serve as adults leaders have decisions to make.</p>
  313.  
  314.  
  315.  
  316. <p>I, for example, have roles in two local Scouting units to consider. First, do I stay on as the cubmaster of Melrose Area Cub Scout Pack 68 for another year? Second, do I remain as the scoutmaster for Troop 68 for 2023? I can tell you from personal experience that holding these two positions at the same time can be challenging. Every Monday and Tuesday is filled with meetings of these two units, plus the weekend activities.</p>
  317.  
  318.  
  319.  
  320. <p>I took on the role as cubmaster a year and a half ago as the state came out of the covid lockdown. While many Cub Scout Packs did not survive the lockdowns, Pack 68 did, but just barely. The Pack began their new program year in September 2021 with only three Cub Scouts. My first priority as cubmaster was to try to build up the membership. The Pack committee chairman and I worked to get the word out about Cub Scouting. We scheduled to visit the two school open houses in town to spread the word. We were able to increase our membership to 12 active Cub Scouts. The next step was to provide a good program.</p>
  321.  
  322.  
  323.  
  324. <p>Our scoutmaster of 2021 decided to step down from the position at the end of that year. None of the parents were stepping up to take the position. I held a meeting with the parents and the Scouts to discuss the problem. I offered to take the position for 2022 but since I was currently serving as the troop committee chair someone would have to fill that role. A new committee chair was found so I stepped into the role of scoutmaster one more time.</p>
  325.  
  326.  
  327.  
  328. <p>Now we arrive at the end of 2022 and it is time for me to decide whether I should remain in both roles. I think both units have been happy with my performance in each role, and I believe we have had a good year in both units. After all, no one has offered to take over either the cubmaster or the scoutmaster positions.</p>
  329.  
  330.  
  331.  
  332. <p>I have decided to stay on as the cubmaster for Pack 68 for one more year. The Pack committee chair and I worked hard this fall to increase the size of the Pack to 26 Scouts and I feel a responsibility to stay with the Cub Scouts at least until the fall of 2023. Hopefully, by that time, someone will step forward to take over the role so that I have a few months to work with him/her before the end of the year.</p>
  333.  
  334.  
  335.  
  336. <p>I have to mention that I have to give the Pack committee a lot of credit. They have made the role of cubmaster very easy for me through their hard work and commitment to the program. They are the main reason I will remain as the cubmaster for one more year.</p>
  337.  
  338.  
  339.  
  340. <p>I had to think harder about staying on as the scoutmaster of Troop 68 for another year. I have now been an adult leader of the troop for over 42 years. Over thirty one of those years has been as the scoutmaster. The thought has crossed my mind this fall that it is time for me to completely step away from the Boy Scout program and let the current generation take care of the troop. I keep thinking to myself, I have served my time. </p>
  341.  
  342.  
  343.  
  344. <p>The Scout Troop currently has nine active members. We have a good program in place. We will welcome two Webelos Scouts into the troop in February when they graduate into Boy Scouting. Six Scouts plan to attend the 2023 National Jamboree. We have a good committee and they have worked hard this past year to keep my duties as the scoutmaster simpler.</p>
  345.  
  346.  
  347.  
  348. <p>Unfortunately I am not that 21 year old scoutmaster any more. My body reminds me of this regularly. I still enjoy working with the Scouts, but I do not enjoy the behind the scenes work anymore. And I will be honest, some of the decisions made by the National Boy Scout office are making it harder for me to stay with the program. </p>
  349.  
  350.  
  351.  
  352. <p>Do I sign up as the scoutmaster of Troop 68 for one more year? Yes I will, for one more year. Why? The first and main reason is the boys. I want to work with them through their 2022-2023 program. The second reason is that the committee continues to be dedicated to the program. Third, there is a strong possibility that we will have someone ready to take over the role of scoutmaster in the summer of 2023.</p>
  353.  
  354.  
  355.  
  356. <p>So, it looks like I will remain as the Cubmaster of Pack 68 and the scoutmaster of Troop 68 as we move into 2023. Welcome to another year of Scouting!</p>
  357. ]]></content:encoded>
  358. <wfw:commentRss>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?feed=rss2&#038;p=5738</wfw:commentRss>
  359. <slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
  360. </item>
  361. <item>
  362. <title>Disc Golf: Two Courses, One Day</title>
  363. <link>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5733</link>
  364. <comments>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5733#respond</comments>
  365. <dc:creator><![CDATA[stevejb68]]></dc:creator>
  366. <pubDate>Sun, 04 Dec 2022 12:48:44 +0000</pubDate>
  367. <category><![CDATA[Activity]]></category>
  368. <category><![CDATA[games]]></category>
  369. <category><![CDATA[disc golf]]></category>
  370. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5733</guid>
  371.  
  372. <description><![CDATA[The goal for the October 2022 outing for the Scouts of Melrose Troop 68 was to play three disc golf courses in one day. The plan was to start playing in St. Cloud at the Calvary Park course (18 holes), move to the the Millstream Park course (18 holes) after lunch, and finish the afternoon [&#8230;]]]></description>
  373. <content:encoded><![CDATA[
  374. <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" width="610" height="458" src="http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/discgolf2022-2-610x458.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-5736" srcset="http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/discgolf2022-2-610x458.jpeg 610w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/discgolf2022-2-250x188.jpeg 250w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/discgolf2022-2-768x576.jpeg 768w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/discgolf2022-2-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/discgolf2022-2-2048x1536.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 610px) 100vw, 610px" /></figure>
  375.  
  376.  
  377.  
  378. <p>The goal for the October 2022 outing for the Scouts of Melrose Troop 68 was to play three disc golf courses in one day. The plan was to start playing in St. Cloud at the Calvary Park course (18 holes), move to the the Millstream Park course (18 holes) after lunch, and finish the afternoon at the North Park course in Albany (9 holes). Unfortunately, plans need to change sometimes.</p>
  379.  
  380.  
  381.  
  382. <p>Disc golf is usually a popular sport with Troop 68, but due to high school sports, hunting seasons, and family plans there was a small group of Scouts who signed up for the activity. There would be only three Scouts and one friend attending, along with three adult leaders.</p>
  383.  
  384.  
  385.  
  386. <p>It was a cool morning when we arrived at Calvary Park. The Scouts decided to play as one large group instead of breaking up into two smaller groups. I did not have a problem with that but I knew it would increase the amount of time to finish the course. Depending on how well we played we may have to alter our plans a little. The other consideration was that this group did not have a lot of experience playing disc golf.</p>
  387.  
  388.  
  389.  
  390. <p>Due to a number of factors it did take longer to play the Calvary Park 18 hole course. We were about 45 minutes late heading to lunch. It was time to alter our plans for the day. I suggested that we skip the Millstream Park course in St. Joseph and head straight to Albany. The Albany course has nine baskets but 18 tee pads. We could play all 18 holes at Albany instead of just nine, which was the original plan. Since the goal was to be fished playing disc golf by suppertime the Scouts agreed to the change.</p>
  391.  
  392.  
  393.  
  394. <p>We had a lot of fun. We talked a little smack. The Scouts with the top three scores each received a new disc golf throwing disc as a prize. Since we had four new discs, each of the Scouts and the one friend went home with a new disc. </p>
  395.  
  396.  
  397.  
  398. <p>Overall, it was a great activity. The four boys had fun. They improved their game skills, and each went home with a new disc. What more could you ask for?</p>
  399. ]]></content:encoded>
  400. <wfw:commentRss>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?feed=rss2&#038;p=5733</wfw:commentRss>
  401. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  402. </item>
  403. <item>
  404. <title>Rate The Troop!</title>
  405. <link>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5725</link>
  406. <comments>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5725#respond</comments>
  407. <dc:creator><![CDATA[stevejb68]]></dc:creator>
  408. <pubDate>Sat, 20 Aug 2022 01:58:29 +0000</pubDate>
  409. <category><![CDATA[Leadership]]></category>
  410. <category><![CDATA[Program]]></category>
  411. <category><![CDATA[Training]]></category>
  412. <category><![CDATA[yearly program]]></category>
  413. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5725</guid>
  414.  
  415. <description><![CDATA[The Patrol Leader Council of Troop 68 recently held their yearly planning session to create the agenda for the 2022-2023 program year. They did a great job, and I believe they had fun doing it. They did take it quite seriously. As a start to the session, the five Scouts were given a sheet to [&#8230;]]]></description>
  416. <content:encoded><![CDATA[
  417. <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" width="610" height="386" src="http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/2022yps-610x386.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-5726" srcset="http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/2022yps-610x386.jpeg 610w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/2022yps-250x158.jpeg 250w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/2022yps-768x486.jpeg 768w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/2022yps-1536x972.jpeg 1536w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/2022yps.jpeg 1800w" sizes="(max-width: 610px) 100vw, 610px" /></figure>
  418.  
  419.  
  420.  
  421. <p>The Patrol Leader Council of Troop 68 recently held their yearly planning session to create the agenda for the 2022-2023 program year. They did a great job, and I believe they had fun doing it. They did take it quite seriously.</p>
  422.  
  423.  
  424.  
  425. <p>As a start to the session, the five Scouts were given a sheet to rate the troop on 22 subjects. They rated each one on a scale of one to five, One being the most in need of work and Five being the high score. The Scouts were asked to be truthful as they rated each subject. The scores were then added up to create an overall score. We also took the individual scores and added them up together to create an average score.</p>
  426.  
  427.  
  428.  
  429. <p>The Scouts gave the troop good scores. Fourteen subjects had an average score of 5. Seven subjects had a score of 4. One subject had a score of 3. Five of the subjects received an unanimous 5 points. Of a possible 110 points, the Scouts gave their troop an average score of 101 points. Not bad when you think about it.</p>
  430.  
  431.  
  432.  
  433. <p>So, what are the questions? I am so glad you asked. Here are the 22 subjects. Give the &#8220;test&#8221; to your youth leaders and see would they rate your troop and program. If you dare!</p>
  434.  
  435.  
  436.  
  437. <p>a) Are parents involved with the troop?.   5 4 3 2 1</p>
  438.  
  439.  
  440.  
  441. <p>b) Do we have good youth leadership?   5 4 3 2 1</p>
  442.  
  443.  
  444.  
  445. <p>c) Scoutmaster and adult leadership?   5 4 3 2 1</p>
  446.  
  447.  
  448.  
  449. <p>d) Good example being set by youth and adult leaders.  5 4 3 2 1</p>
  450.  
  451.  
  452.  
  453. <p>e) Fundraising, Available funds.   5 4 3 2 1</p>
  454.  
  455.  
  456.  
  457. <p>f) Is good sportsmanship demonstrated?   5 4 3 2 1</p>
  458.  
  459.  
  460.  
  461. <p>g) Cooperation between troop members.   5 4 3 2 1</p>
  462.  
  463.  
  464.  
  465. <p>h) Number of members (scouts).   5 4 3 2 1</p>
  466.  
  467.  
  468.  
  469. <p>i) Good communication within troop.   5 4 3 2 1</p>
  470.  
  471.  
  472.  
  473. <p>j) Is there Positive encouragement within the troop?   5 4 3 2 1</p>
  474.  
  475.  
  476.  
  477. <p>k) Confidence shown by leaders and Scouts.   5 4 3 2 1</p>
  478.  
  479.  
  480.  
  481. <p>l) Is there Good Effort shown by the membership?.   5 4 3 2 1</p>
  482.  
  483.  
  484.  
  485. <p>m) Is the troop Seriousness when it needs to be?   5 4 3 2 1</p>
  486.  
  487.  
  488.  
  489. <p>n) Uniform used and worn properly.   5 4 3 2 1</p>
  490.  
  491.  
  492.  
  493. <p>o) Setting goals, attaining of goals.   5 4 3 2 1</p>
  494.  
  495.  
  496.  
  497. <p>p) Good attendance at meetings and outings.   5 4 3 2 1</p>
  498.  
  499.  
  500.  
  501. <p>q) Has there been good advancement?   5 4 3 2 1</p>
  502.  
  503.  
  504.  
  505. <p>r) Does the troop have Good Activities.   5 4 3 2 1</p>
  506.  
  507.  
  508.  
  509. <p>s) Do the Scouts have a Good attitude.   5 4 3 2 1</p>
  510.  
  511.  
  512.  
  513. <p>t) Is the troop Well organized?   5 4 3 2 1</p>
  514.  
  515.  
  516.  
  517. <p>u) Is the program FUN!!!   5 4 3 2 1</p>
  518.  
  519.  
  520.  
  521. <p>v) Is bullying avoided within the troop?   5 4 3 2 1</p>
  522. ]]></content:encoded>
  523. <wfw:commentRss>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?feed=rss2&#038;p=5725</wfw:commentRss>
  524. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  525. </item>
  526. <item>
  527. <title>The 2022 Scoutmaster Snoopy Hallmark Ornament</title>
  528. <link>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5719</link>
  529. <comments>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5719#respond</comments>
  530. <dc:creator><![CDATA[stevejb68]]></dc:creator>
  531. <pubDate>Mon, 15 Aug 2022 01:15:37 +0000</pubDate>
  532. <category><![CDATA[Holiday]]></category>
  533. <category><![CDATA[Memorabilia]]></category>
  534. <category><![CDATA[Beagle Scout]]></category>
  535. <category><![CDATA[Christmas]]></category>
  536. <category><![CDATA[Snoopy]]></category>
  537. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5719</guid>
  538.  
  539. <description><![CDATA[I have been collecting the Hallmark Scoutmaster Snoopy ornaments for about 15 years now so I was looking forward to picking up this year&#8217;s ornament today at my local Hallmark store. I saw the ornament online a couple weeks ago and it looked like a great addition to the collection. According to the Hallmark website: [&#8230;]]]></description>
  540. <content:encoded><![CDATA[
  541. <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" width="610" height="610" src="http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Snoopy-Beagle-Scouts-Fishing-1799QXI7823_01-610x610.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-5720" srcset="http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Snoopy-Beagle-Scouts-Fishing-1799QXI7823_01-610x610.jpg 610w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Snoopy-Beagle-Scouts-Fishing-1799QXI7823_01-250x250.jpg 250w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Snoopy-Beagle-Scouts-Fishing-1799QXI7823_01-150x150.jpg 150w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Snoopy-Beagle-Scouts-Fishing-1799QXI7823_01-768x768.jpg 768w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Snoopy-Beagle-Scouts-Fishing-1799QXI7823_01-1536x1536.jpg 1536w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Snoopy-Beagle-Scouts-Fishing-1799QXI7823_01.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 610px) 100vw, 610px" /></figure>
  542.  
  543.  
  544.  
  545. <p>I have been collecting the Hallmark Scoutmaster Snoopy ornaments for about 15 years now so I was looking forward to picking up this year&#8217;s ornament today at my local Hallmark store. I saw the ornament online a couple weeks ago and it looked like a great addition to the collection. According to the Hallmark website:</p>
  546.  
  547.  
  548.  
  549. <p><em>Scoutmaster Snoopy and his Beagle Scouts know that great days are ones spent fishing with friends. Celebrate the timeless tradition of scouting with this cute Peanuts Christmas tree ornament featuring Snoopy, Woodstock and their yellow feathered friends.</em></p>
  550.  
  551.  
  552.  
  553. <p>I thought it was a great idea for the design. I was really looking forward to buying two of them, like I usually do every year. I walked into the store, gazed at all the various ornaments on display, and then found Scoutmaster Snoopy. I guess you could say the feeling I felt when I first saw it was&#8230; disappointment.</p>
  554.  
  555.  
  556.  
  557. <p>The design was great, but the ornament was very small. And I do mean small. It looked to be about half the size of last year&#8217;s ornament which was already a bit smaller then the year before. All the other ornaments on the display wall looked to about about the normal size that we have come to expect from Hallmark. So why was this Snoopy ornament so much smaller than the others?</p>
  558.  
  559.  
  560.  
  561. <p>By the way, this year&#8217;s ornament was the same price as last year&#8217;s ornament, even though it was so much smaller.</p>
  562.  
  563.  
  564.  
  565. <p>When I got home I took out the last two previous years ornaments to see just how much smaller this year&#8217;s was. The feeling began to change from disappointment to a little bit of anger. The 2022 model seemed to be about 40% smaller than the 2021 model. Take a look at the pictures below and see for yourself.</p>
  566.  
  567.  
  568.  
  569. <p>If this is how Hallmark plans to treat this series in the future then I may be done collecting Scoutmaster Snoopy ornaments. Yes, I bought this year&#8217;s decoration but I only bought one, not the usual two. I could not bring myself to buy a second one because I felt like I was being ripped off by Hallmark.</p>
  570.  
  571.  
  572.  
  573. <p>What do you think of this year&#8217;s ornament? Do you plan to buy one? What do you think of the size of it? Leave a comment and let me know if you like this year&#8217;s &#8220;The Peanuts® Gang Fishing Friends Ornament&#8221;.</p>
  574.  
  575.  
  576.  
  577. <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" width="610" height="253" src="http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/IMG_7937-610x253.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-5721" srcset="http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/IMG_7937-610x253.jpg 610w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/IMG_7937-250x104.jpg 250w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/IMG_7937-768x318.jpg 768w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/IMG_7937.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 610px) 100vw, 610px" /></figure>
  578.  
  579.  
  580.  
  581. <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" width="610" height="225" src="http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/IMG_7938-610x225.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-5722" srcset="http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/IMG_7938-610x225.jpg 610w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/IMG_7938-250x92.jpg 250w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/IMG_7938-768x284.jpg 768w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/IMG_7938.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 610px) 100vw, 610px" /></figure>
  582.  
  583.  
  584.  
  585. <p>Thank you for stopping by A Scoutmaster&#8217;s Blog.</p>
  586. ]]></content:encoded>
  587. <wfw:commentRss>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?feed=rss2&#038;p=5719</wfw:commentRss>
  588. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  589. </item>
  590. <item>
  591. <title>The Radio Airwaves Skit, 2022</title>
  592. <link>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5715</link>
  593. <comments>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5715#respond</comments>
  594. <dc:creator><![CDATA[stevejb68]]></dc:creator>
  595. <pubDate>Sun, 31 Jul 2022 16:16:27 +0000</pubDate>
  596. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  597. <category><![CDATA[campfire]]></category>
  598. <category><![CDATA[funny]]></category>
  599. <category><![CDATA[Humor]]></category>
  600. <category><![CDATA[Many Point Scout Camp]]></category>
  601. <category><![CDATA[MPSC]]></category>
  602. <category><![CDATA[skit]]></category>
  603. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5715</guid>
  604.  
  605. <description><![CDATA[The Scouts of Melrose Troop 68 performed two skits during the Buckskin closing campfire at Many Point Scout Camp on July 22, 2022, to the enjoyment of the audience. This one, The Radio Airwaves skit, depicts what could happen if your radio stations keep overlapping each other on the way to camp. This skit has [&#8230;]]]></description>
  606. <content:encoded><![CDATA[
  607. <p>The Scouts of Melrose Troop 68 performed two skits during the Buckskin closing campfire at Many Point Scout Camp on July 22, 2022, to the enjoyment of the audience. This one, The Radio Airwaves skit, depicts what could happen if your radio stations keep overlapping each other on the way to camp. </p>
  608.  
  609.  
  610.  
  611. <p>This skit has been a favorite of the Scouts of Troop 68 since we first saw it performed at a campfire program in the 1980s. It is a timeless skit that allows five five to participate in the performance.</p>
  612.  
  613.  
  614.  
  615. <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
  616. <iframe loading="lazy" title="Radio Airwaves Skit as performed by Troop 68 at the 2002 closing campfire at Many Point Scout Camp." width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hz0wdK2WAEE?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
  617. </div></figure>
  618. ]]></content:encoded>
  619. <wfw:commentRss>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?feed=rss2&#038;p=5715</wfw:commentRss>
  620. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  621. </item>
  622. <item>
  623. <title>A New Year Begins For Troop 68.</title>
  624. <link>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5708</link>
  625. <comments>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5708#respond</comments>
  626. <dc:creator><![CDATA[stevejb68]]></dc:creator>
  627. <pubDate>Sat, 05 Feb 2022 17:50:54 +0000</pubDate>
  628. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  629. <category><![CDATA[Leadership]]></category>
  630. <category><![CDATA[scoutmaster]]></category>
  631. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?p=5708</guid>
  632.  
  633. <description><![CDATA[When I began this blog I was the scoutmaster of Scout Troop 68. I spent over 30 years in that position. At the end of 2001 I retired from that position but stayed on as a committee member. I have enjoyed working with the Scouts for over 40 years. Since I stepped down as the [&#8230;]]]></description>
  634. <content:encoded><![CDATA[
  635. <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" width="300" height="299" src="http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/scoutmaster.png" alt="" class="wp-image-5711" srcset="http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/scoutmaster.png 300w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/scoutmaster-250x250.png 250w, http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/scoutmaster-150x150.png 150w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></figure>
  636.  
  637.  
  638.  
  639. <p>When I began this blog I was the scoutmaster of Scout Troop 68. I spent over 30 years in that position. At the end of 2001 I retired from that position but stayed on as a committee member. I have enjoyed working with the Scouts for over 40 years.</p>
  640.  
  641.  
  642.  
  643. <p>Since I stepped down as the troop’s scoutmaster the troop has has four men fulfill that role. As 2021 came to a close our current scoutmaster decided to step down. Unfortunately, no one stepped up to take on the challenge. We currently have a small troop so there is not a large pool of parents to ask.</p>
  644.  
  645.  
  646.  
  647. <p>The year was coming to an end, and without a scoutmaster Troop 68 may come to an end after 41 years of continuous existence. Was it time for the Scout program to come to an end in Melrose?</p>
  648.  
  649.  
  650.  
  651. <p>A part of me thought it may be time to let the program come to an end. After all, if no one wanted to step up to the role then we could not have a troop.</p>
  652.  
  653.  
  654.  
  655. <p>But part of me did not want the troop to end. I have invested over 40 years into the local program. It would be a shame to see it end.</p>
  656.  
  657.  
  658.  
  659. <p>In December 2021 we held a parents meeting. We needed someone to fill the role of scoutmaster. Would someone step up to take the position? Or would Troop 68 come to an end? A name was needed on the recharter at the end of the month.</p>
  660.  
  661.  
  662.  
  663. <p>You have probably guessed that my name went into that slot. During the December parents meeting, after no one offered to take it over, I offered to take on the role for one year, but there were going to be a few changes that I felt would be needed.</p>
  664.  
  665.  
  666.  
  667. <p>I held a short meeting with the Scouts after the meeting with the parents. After all, I did not want to take the position if the Scouts had any issues or concerns. They all seemed to be on board with me taking on the role.</p>
  668.  
  669.  
  670.  
  671. <p>After a decade away from the role I find myself back as a scoutmaster once again. While the program is still the same there has been a few changes to the policies that adults need to follow. I have taken some of the online training to make sure I am ready for the role once again.</p>
  672.  
  673.  
  674.  
  675. <p>In a way I am looking forward to taking on the role for a year, but I also realize I am not as young as I used to be. While I am still dedicated to the program I am not interested in participating in 100 percent of the activities anymore. Parents are going to have to step up to help.</p>
  676.  
  677.  
  678.  
  679. <p>I am looking forward to the year of 2022. I hope we have enough help to make it a great year for the Scouts of Troop 68.</p>
  680. ]]></content:encoded>
  681. <wfw:commentRss>http://www.melrosetroop68.org/blog/?feed=rss2&#038;p=5708</wfw:commentRss>
  682. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  683. </item>
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  686.  

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