Trevorum

I've decided to start collecting those old red and white council strips. They've got some history! I'm told there are more than 800 different council names. (whew!) But one has to start somewhere. So if anyone has any extras of these to trade, drop me a messsage and maybe we can work a swap. Thanks! -trevorum

First off, THANK YOU! Thanks for taking time to care about your son's scouting program and volunteering. I am sure you'll get lot's of advice here on the forums (btw, welcome). We love to give advice. Some of it is even good. In no particular order, call your council and find out who is your Unit Comissioner (UC). This person has volunteered to help your unit on behalf of the district and council. Also find our who is your Chartered Organization Representative and meet with them. Sounds like you need to get a membership roster and divide up by age/grade into dens. You need to recruit some parents as Den Leaders and they need to start having weekly den meetings. Is there a reason why no one wears uniforms (other than lack of tradition?) If not, then set the example and wear full uniform. All the time. Tell the pack we'll start wearing uniforms and set a date for your first uniform "contest" (not inspection) Make it fun. Follow the program helps until you feel ready to ad lib. They really help! Good luck! and remember to HAVE FUN!

I witnessed an adult wearing purple loops at a National meeting several years ago. I was told it signified a particular religious CO.

I just wanted to share this Scouting story with y'all. This week, an old friend whom I had not seen in 15 years googled me and dropped me an email. We live in different states and had last been in contact when our children were toddlers but he and his wife had decided to try to reconnect with some lost friends. Turns out we are both Eagles (did not know that about him) and within the last decade we both independently became Cubmasters, Scoutmasters, and Bob Whites. And our sons are both Eagles. We have marveled at our parallel paths in Scouting. A great feeling.

I guess maybe some folks don't include "Courteous" in their 12 points. Does that mean I can decide to drop one, too?

Gold Winger, we all transgress from time to time and so we will forgive you. In the future though, I hope you will, as a Scouter, be more Courteous.

Goldwing, Merlyn's activism may mystify you, but please be assured he is honorable and a worthy adversary (to BSA, not me).

Chicago has always been a nexus for the undead.

As seen on a bumpersticker: "Colbert for Precedent"

I can see the Roman legions on Harleys. Throaty, arrogant, in-your-face.

X is in the eye of the beholder .

"Who are you who are so wise in the ways of science? "

I'm sorry to hear of your run of bad luck. I don't know what part of the country you are in but I find most folks to be honorable citizens. Now and then there is a bad apple, but if you believe in karma things will certainly turn around for you. Stay cheerful.

I participated in an Eagle project this morning. Have known this fellow since he joined the troop in 2001 and have witnessed the many bumps and twists along his path. He has grown to become a fine young man and I am glad to have shared his Scouting experience.

I'm not a grammar cop, but even I know that that funny diacritical mark isn't an apostrophe. REAL apostrophes lean the other direction, don't they?

Joni, I misunderstood and thought your original question was hypothetical. However, Beavah has hit the nail on the head. His advice is excellent (as usual). (This message has been edited by Trevorum)

Joni, as Merlyn suggests, each such case is probably decided locally based on the individual boy, his adult leadership and the CO. As Gern implies, there is a continuum of behaviors which may or may not indicate gender orientation. I suspect many HS-age fellows who are not yet out are awarded their Eagle (though perhaps not as many as a decade ago) because those involved tacitly agree not to formally acknowledge the issue. I personally know of one such case. I also know Scouters who would cheerfully engage in witch-hunts.

Well, folks, turn out the lights and let's go home. Our work here is done. (This message has been edited by Trevorum)

Scouters! Are you afflicted by the scourge of the dreaded Double Apostrophe Syndrome? Today Only! The Secrets of the Ancients Revealed! A simple and time tested remedy to eliminate those annoying double apostrophes! You'll not be disappointed! (This message has been edited by Trevorum)

I suppose the fellow's Scoutmaster could assign him a "Position of Responsibility" that does not involve leadership. Maybe maintaining the troop website. Another interpretation that a younger boy who comes out could be a PL but not an "older" boy. Go figure. (This message has been edited by Trevorum)

I''m mystified by this thing about Al Gore and dancing. Is someone saying that he once claimed to be a good dancer?

"Jane, you ignorant slut!" (sorry, couldn't resist) Pack, you're absolutely right. Mea culpa. (This message has been edited by Trevorum)

I nominate Kudu for National recruiting Tsar!!

I never cease to be amazed.

You''re right, Ed. However, he DID win the Nobel Peace Prize. That is an amazing feat, and I hope all Americans are proud of him, regardless of their politics.