ManyIrons

Ron, Chap. 10 of the Scoutmaster Handbook covers the conferences in good detail. As with KS, I do my conferences during the meetings so being in uniform isn't an issue. However you're right, there is no requirement for a uniform. It is a method of Scouting not a requirement. Nowhere does it say "participate in a Scoutmaster conference (or board of review) in uniform". Of course I don't engage anyone in that discussion -- my time is better spent encouraging Scouts to see the benefits of wearing the uniform.(This message has been edited by ManyIrons)

Ed & OGE, I really like those suggestions. "God Bless the USA" and "Chariots of Fire" would definitely get my goose-bumps going, and "Forever Young" would probably generate a kleenex shortage. Excellent choices. Ed I like your point that "eagle" needn't appear in the title. I seems natural to want a song that mentions the word "eagle", but you're right it isn't necessary -- the music needs to fit the images. Anyone else have any suggestions -- I've already got 5 in only 2 posts! 0

Just to qualify my process. I "pre-load" the scoop with a layer of non-dairy creamer before I start our ceremony. This way the creamer hits the fire first (and all at once) and provides a better effect. The amount you need probably depends on the size of the scoop you use. The more creamer the better the effect. You may want to test-drive the process first. I set the pre-loaded scoop inside the container we keep the ashes in and cradle the container in my one arm. At the prescribed moment I reach into the container and draw out the scoop. The

I'm looking for music suggestions to accompany PowerPoint presentations at Eagle courts of honor. It's become somewhat of a tradition in our troop of late to show a brief presentation covering the boy's Scouting career. Personally I love seeing the old photos and watching them grow from Cub to Eagle. However; if I have to listen "Fly Like An Eagle" by Steve Miller one more time I just may lose it. Any suggestions out there? I'd like to make a list of these and put it into our troop ceremonies binder. Any assistance is appreciated.

I just started doing this with my troop last May. The boys really enjoy it -- partly because of the traditional aspect, but possibly also because I add some non-dairy creamer in with the scoop of ashes. The fire flares a bit when the creamer hits it (I'm told that sugar works also). They haven't figured out the secret yet and I'm hoping it'll stay that way for a while.

Greetings encourager from yet another fellow "Lawn Guylander". Although, truth be told, I'm a former LI'er. I left home for college and the military 20+ years ago and haven't lived there since. Of course all my family is still there and we go back for a visit every couple of years. Anyway, welcome to the forum, there's always room around this campfire. ManyIrons Oh, and just for the record -- Suffolk County!!

I agree with jd, use those "involved" parents everywhere you can and don't sweat the small stuff. As a new leader (Scoutmaster) myself I've learned quickly to use my available resources. When I need things done I either ask a specific leader/parent directly or simply request a volunteer. I've been fortunate to have willing participants and their talents allow me to focus on the Scouts. Best wishes!!!

Thanks OGE, I too collect items to put in my "Scouting Brain Book" for future reference. I appreciate the addition.

Thanks OGE, BTW where did you get this -- i.e., who can this be attributed to? Bob White, makes a good point. The list as written is directed toward Scouters (especially #5), but all is not lost eagle90. You could change it slightly to make it a pledge to your Scouts to provide them with the opportunity to Climb mountains . . , Sit around campfires . . . , etc. Granted it doesn't meet the true definition of a Scoutmaster Minute, but it can still be a very powerful message to your Scouts.

That's a good point FScouter, I'd forgotten about that aspect. But I still think that BSA could authorize the wear of official Scout patches on an official Scout jacket. Again, I wish they would at least state a reason why it isn't authorized. Even if it was "we don't like the cluttered appearance". I may not agree with it or like it, but at least I'd know why. Sign me, Abiding, but wondering somewhere in Illinois

Whether approved or tolerated, I wish national would just state why it is currently not authorized. Has anyone ever asked the question and gotten an answer?(This message has been edited by ManyIrons)

. . but for now the "honey-do" list beckons. I thought that once I reached the much-vaunted status of a Senior Forum Member the cut-off messages would cease. [sigh]

Okay, I can get the 4-looper to work most of the time (still wrestling with the mental visualization part of it). An interesting knot forms in the middle when I do it right, but I can't quite decipher it. Note: My Handbook of Knots by Des Pawson shows a Sheepshank Man 'O War with only 4 loops. Ashley's book also shows it with 4 loops (#1163-1165), although he does have a 5-loop sheepshank (#1166) he calls the "Two Hearts That Beat As One". Despite his illustration it's still eluding me. I'll practice some more later -- but for now the "honey-do" list bec(This message has been edited

ARRRRGGGGGGGHHHHHH!!! Let's just say I'm not gettin' a square knot in the middle. This one may be my Gordian Knot. MI

Okay, if we're talking about favorite knots I've gotta go with: - Clove Hitch on a bight. The boys are amazed to see it "snapped" onto a post or upturned chair leg. [i get a big kick out of it too!] - Sheepshank, when also tied in a bight (in this case 3 successive overhand loops), is another one that elicits lots of "whoa!" and "cool!" from the boys in my troop. I never liked this knot until I learned to tie it this way. (This message has been edited by ManyIrons)

Most Useful: In my experience, the Two Half Hitches. Most Used: Two Half Hitches, Tautline Hitch, Clove Hitch. References: I have a few books that I use. Two good online references are: http://www.scoutingresources.org.uk/knots_index.html http://www.folsoms.net/knots/

I was a Scout for all of a few months back in the 60s. After dropping out, I didnt have any contact with Scouting until the early 90s when my eldest son joined Cub Scouts. Initially I was just a Dad, but quickly joined the ranks as a leader when my son announced he wanted to quit because all we do is glue popsicle sticks together. Over the ensuing ten years Ive served as a Bear den leader, Webelos den leader, assistant Scoutmaster and just recently I was selected as the new Scoutmaster for our troop. Im not sure any recruiting lessons can be derived from my experience. I heard all the

I didn't think about the double fees, but at least it's good to know that you can be a youth/adult member at the same time.

Welcome TI_Lifeguard, it's good to see another youth member in the forum. Your perspective can be helpful to us adult Scouters. My oldest boy, who is nearly finished with his eagle requirements (and closing in on his 18th birthday), is also pondering his next move in Scouting. I think he's leaning toward Venturing, but time will tell. Technically, I think he/you can be dual-registered as an adult leader with the troop and as a venture crew member. Does anyone with better credentials have the answer to this one?(This message has been edited by ManyIrons)

Welcome 1soul4him, there's always room around this fire ring! The best way to get started is just to start asking questions. There's some good info to be had/shared in this forum.

Welcome to the forum xsrossiter. I too have only seen the unit-sized advancement chart -- I suppose you could trim it It's only $1.90. There is a "My Scout Advancement Trail" booklet. According the the online catalog (www.scoutstuff.org) it is "Designed as a companion to The Boy Scout Handbook, this book helps a Scout track his progress through the ranks of Tenderfoot, Second Class, and First Class. Item #WW33499B $1.35". This is different from the plaque mentioned by boleta. If it's incentive/inspiration you're looking for, you might want to check out the Scout Oath, Law, a

Another good selection Terry. "Good on ya" to you too Mr. OGE! (This message has been edited by a staff member.)

Congratulations Hops. I too have been impressed with your example. Good on ya!!

Houston, I'm breaking up!! (Please don't tell me it's Norton!) . . . and will be my inspiration as I continue to strive to "deliver the promise".

My post is getting cut off -- here's the rest: I absolutely love the old books, primarily for their discussions on spirit, skills and leadership, but also for their illustrations. My favorite gem found thus far is from the Handbook for Scoutmasters (1941), Chapter 4 - Giving the Boy Scouting: "We build on what we find. It is upon what the boy brings to us, what he is and what he wants, that we must build what we hope him to be - what he in his heart of hearts wants to be." That sentence speaks volumes to me, and will be my inspiration as I continue to s(This message has be