This week Scouts will be working on First Class Requirement 9(a): Citizenship: Visit and discuss with a selected individual approved by your leader (for example, an elected official, judge, attorney, civil servant, principal, or teacher) the constitutional rights and obligations of a U.S. citizen.  Scouts should read the Citizenship section of their handbook and come prepared with questions to ask.  Scouts should also bring their Handbook, pen/pencil, and paper.

Please check out the new “GOALS” section of the Troop bulletin board.  Scouts can place their name on the chart (all names are in the pencil case holder hanging on the bulletin board) and use one of the dry-erase markers indicating which rank advancement requirement they will be tackling next.  Scouts are encouraged to work together and set common goals.

On Saturday, February 10 at 11:00 a.m., Scouts wishing to complete their aquatics requirements for Second Class and/or First Class can meet at the Minisink Valley High School Pool.   Scouts should bring a swimsuit, towel, flip flops or water shoes, and their handbook.   Scouts also need to have a BSA Health Form, per BSA policy.  This can be the same health form used for summer camp so long as it is not over one year old.  Cost per Scout is $2 cash.   Scouts will be done and should be picked up immediately after demonstrating the requirements and therefore parents/adults are encouraged to stay on the pool deck during this event.  Please respond to the email sent so that we can get an accurate head count of Scouts attending.  Scouts must read their handbook and be familiar with the rank advancement requirements they wish to demonstrate.

Merit Badge College Catalog is now online and registration is open.  Visit Hudson Valley Scouting to see the catalog and for registration information.

On Friday Punxatawney Phil saw his shadow which means six more weeks of winter.  What to do with this time?  Check out this Bryan on Scouting post on the Top Five Merit Badges to celebrate Grounhog Day.