USA
UK

HalfEagle.com

Scouting Blogs and News | Archived blog posts from December 2015.

Follow @halfeaglebot for new Scouting blog post announcements!

← December 2015   Browse Archives   February 2016 →

"Math"

Posted to Inside Boys' Life on January 30th, 2016

A book never written: "Math" by Dee Vision. View On WordPress... [more]

How to use a camp saw

Posted to Inside Boys' Life on January 29th, 2016

Video: How to properly use a camp saw. A saw is a helpful tool for cutting firewood, sawing tree limbs or clearing a tree that has fallen across a trail. When sawing for firewood, brace the piece of wood against some kind of solid support and cut... [more]

Goals, Vlogging, and What's next…

Posted to The Scoutmaster Minute on January 29th, 2016

Have a Great Scouting Day! Filed under: blog... [more]

The Advancement Coordinator

Posted to A Scoutmaster's Blog on January 29th, 2016

I have recently accepted the position of advancement coordinator for Melrose Boy Scout Troop 68, so I have been checking out the 2013 Committee Guidebook to see what my new responsibilities will be, and how much work I have gotten myself into... [more]

Food Storage Options

Posted to The Scoutmaster Minute on January 28th, 2016

Hey all… First of all I want to thank you for your patience. In my next post I will do some explaining on the direction of the Blog and where we go from here.. but today I want to share with you some options when it comes to storing and... [more]

The Opening Song

Posted to A Scoutmaster's Blog on January 28th, 2016

As a take a break from writing today I thought it would be a good time to introduce to you, or reintroduce to you, a song performed by the Boy Scouts of Troop 68. Years ago the troop would do an annual show they called Laughs For Lunch. It was a... [more]

A fire can save your life in winter

Posted to Inside Boys' Life on January 28th, 2016

A fire can save your life in winter In cold weather, a fire can be important to staying warm and dry. But even in a survival situation, you should still take the time to build a fire in a way that does not put the environment or yourself at risk... [more]

Leadership, Power, Responsibility, and Service

Posted to Scoutmaster Clarke Green on January 27th, 2016

Anyone who takes on a position of responsibility as a leader will feel pretty self-important at first. After all, you have been chosen, or you stepped in when no one else did. It's a big ego boost to have a title, to have people follow your... [more]

Treasurer vs Advancement

Posted to A Scoutmaster's Blog on January 27th, 2016

Shortly after I retired as the scoutmaster of Troop 68 a few years ago I became the troop committee treasurer. It did not take me long to realize that I did not care to hold that position. It was not that it took a lot of work. It was just that I... [more]

Winter Backpacking on Snowshoes

Posted to My Scout Stuff - A Scoutmaster's Blog on January 26th, 2016

I used to think our camping options were limited once winter came and our favorite hiking and backpacking trails got buried in snow… until I rented a pair of snowshoes! It started with my daughters wanting to do something during Christmas break in... [more]

All about The Witness

Posted to Inside Boys' Life on January 26th, 2016

Games Guru says The Witness video game is visually stunning, incredibly lengthy and altogether mysterious. If you're a gamer, you've likely heard a lot about The Witness (Jonathan Blow for PC, PS4; the-witness.net ). But what's it all about? The... [more]

The New Handbooks

Posted to A Scoutmaster's Blog on January 26th, 2016

Gosh! I do not know if you have heard or not but the Boy Scouts of America have changed the requirements for the Boy Scout advancement program. Scout is now a rank, which means there are seven ranks instead of six. Tenderfoot, Second Class, and... [more]

KNOTS Caption Contest - until 2/15/16

Posted to U.S. Scouting Service Project on January 26th, 2016

February 2016 KNOTS Caption Contest! Winner Announced February 17th! 3 Ways to Enter: KNOTS BLOG | Facebook Page | Email 1) Contest runs until February 15th, 2016 2) Enter your captions (1 and/or 2) and theme or title ideas (optional) 3) Enter as... [more]

The New Year

Posted to A Scoutmaster's Blog on January 26th, 2016

Wow! Has it really been a month since I last posted an article to this blog? I guess so. I suppose I should should a few articles again. In the meantime, have fun watching this video performed by the Boy Scouts of Troop 68 about a furniture store... [more]

Podcast 300 â€" Start, Stop, Continue

Posted to Scoutmaster Clarke Green on January 25th, 2016

What works, what doesn't and what's new? The Scoutmaster blog started with it's first post in October of 2005, just over ten years ago (it's titled "Why Scouting?" ) The first podcast was published on January 25th 2010 – exactly five years... [more]

It's not easy to become a Navy SEAL. The special operations force of the U.S. Navy (it stands for...

Posted to Inside Boys' Life on January 25th, 2016

It's not easy to become a Navy SEAL . The special operations force of the U.S. Navy (it stands for sea, air and land) requires applicants to pass a strenuous test of physical fitness, mental discipline and teamwork. When Scouts from Troop 7 in... [more]

Webelos Crossover Certificates

Posted to Scouter Mom on January 25th, 2016

John M (Webelos Leader – Pack 21, ASPL W4-58-16, Crazy Owl, W4-40-14) sent in these certificates to use at your Webelos ceremonies. Thanks John! The first is the blank John made and the second is an example of how it can be used. Since you... [more]

Surviving your first Blue & Gold Banquet: Final preparations

Posted to Bobwhite's Blather on January 25th, 2016

OK, the big day is approaching and you're hoping your Blue & Gold Banquet turns out all right. You're concerned that the boys will have fun and the parents won't be disappointed. The good news is that by following the Scout motto – Be... [more]

NAACS

Posted to The Scoutmaster Minute on January 25th, 2016

Each year our Order of the Arrow Lodge hosts two gathering events. The first is our Native American Arts and Ceremonies Seminar (NAACS) and the other is the Rendezvous of the Order. The latter being the largest event of the lodge and during which... [more]

Every Scout is a Leader

Posted to Scoutmaster Clarke Green on January 22nd, 2016

We tend to focus only on directive leadership roles when we are thinking about engaging our Scouts in leadership, but every Scout can (and ought to) be a leader. Here's some thoughts you can use to encourage all of your Scouts to engage in... [more]

Why can't they make it easier?

Posted to Bobwhite's Blather on January 21st, 2016

Sometimes, it seems that the Boy Scouts of America gets in the way of fulfilling their own aims. Here's an example, inspired by a post on Google Plus's Scout Nation group, which featured a photo of rank advancement and merit badge insignia and cards... [more]

Issue 471 â€" January 19, 2016

Posted to Ask Andy on January 19th, 2016

________________________________________ I'm on a brief vacation at the moment, so I prepared this in advance. I'll be back next week to answer questions, help solve problems, and guide you to finding what you're looking for. Meanwhile, here are... [more]

Podcast 299 â€" Patience

Posted to Scoutmaster Clarke Green on January 18th, 2016

Are you reactive (like me)? In this podcast I discuss patience and fortitude, two important character traits of successful Scouters. I'll also answer email questions concerning wearing more than one hat as a volunteer, job descriptions for Scouts,... [more]

My 7 Favorite Cub Scout Crossover Ceremonies

Posted to Cub Scout Ideas on January 18th, 2016

Looking for some great Cub Scout crossover ceremonies to celebrate your Webelos' transition to Boy Scouts? Check out some of my favorite ones. The post My 7 Favorite Cub Scout Crossover Ceremonies appeared first on Cub Scout Ideas ... [more]

Surviving Your First Blue & Gold Banquet: Planning

Posted to Bobwhite's Blather on January 18th, 2016

If there is one event in the Cub Scout year that could be considered the high point, it's the Blue and Gold Banquet. Every winter, Cub Scout packs hold a celebration of Scouting's anniversary. Scouts gather, along with their parents, grandparents,... [more]

How to build a Little Free Library

Posted to Inside Boys' Life on January 13th, 2016

How to build a Little Free Library Use recycled materials to make a neighborhood library where people can borrow, return and/or donate books. Visit littlefreelibrary.org to learn how to set up and run your Little Free Library. WHAT YOU'LL NEED An... [more]

January KNOTS Cartoon

Posted to U.S. Scouting Service Project on January 13th, 2016

January 2016 Skunk Jet Sled Cafe Press Items Copyright - U.S. Scouting Service Project | Visit us at http://usscouts.org | News at http://usssp.blogspot.com... [more]

New Structures in the Adventure Areas

Posted to Summit Blog on January 12th, 2016

In early May we began construction on some new structures to help participants, and staff, in each of our Adventure Areas here at The Summit. Each Adventure Area now has a brand spanking new pavilion! I had a…... [more]

12 Ways to Live Like a Scout Today

Posted to Scouting Rediscovered on January 12th, 2016

Question: How can I take the Scouting Oath and Law more seriously in my day-to-day life? An oath is a very solemn thing. It isn't a motto or positive incantation. It is a verbal commitment on one's honor do a certain thing. This is a question I... [more]

Issue 470 â€" January 12, 2016

Posted to Ask Andy on January 12th, 2016

________________________________________ Hi Andy, I recently transferred councils and connected with a new troop. This troop's been around for over 50 years but right now is under brand-new adult leadership. They're trying their best to elevate the... [more]

8 Articles to Help You With Your Pinewood Derby

Posted to Cub Scout Ideas on January 12th, 2016

This collection of helpful Pinewood Derby articles will give you the information you need for a fun and exciting event. The post 8 Articles to Help You With Your Pinewood Derby appeared first on Cub Scout Ideas ... [more]

Write a funny caption for this photo

Posted to Inside Boys' Life on January 11th, 2016

Write a funny caption for this photo What's going on in this picture? What is that lizard doing and what is the grasshopper thinking? If you can think of a funny caption for this photo, just post it in the comment form at the bottom of this page... [more]

The Truth About Virtual Reality

Posted to Inside Boys' Life on January 11th, 2016

The Truth About Virtual Reality Last week, some of the air went out of the virtual reality bubble. The maker's of the Oculus Rift VR headset decided to charge $599 for the headset when it goes on sale on March 28. You'll also have to purchase a PC... [more]

New Rank Requirements â€" Podcast 298

Posted to Scoutmaster Clarke Green on January 11th, 2016

Do I need to get a new Scout Handbook? When do the new handbooks come out? Do we have to get them? When do we start using the new rank requirements, do they apply to every Scout? Answers to these questions and more in this week's podcast. Podcast... [more]

Get off your high horse

Posted to Bobwhite's Blather on January 11th, 2016

When I started as the committee chair of our troop, one of the things that went through my mind was how many things I'd need to be responsible for. I had a pretty good handle on advancement (or so I thought), matters of finance and the rules of... [more]

Top 10 Arrow of Light Ceremonies for Cub Scouts

Posted to Cub Scout Ideas on January 9th, 2016

Many packs hold a special Arrow of Light ceremony to honor boys who have earned Cub Scout's highest rank. Check out the top 10 Arrow of Light ceremonies. The post Top 10 Arrow of Light Ceremonies for Cub Scouts appeared first on Cub Scout Ideas ... [more]

Gloves for Winter Camping

Posted to The Scoutmaster Minute on January 6th, 2016

Gloves are an important part of your winter gear. If you are like me, your hands and your feet are the most important part of staying warm. Once my hands and feet get cold.. that's it.. I want to go home. So I keep my hands and feet warm. The... [more]

Issue 469 â€" January 5, 2016

Posted to Ask Andy on January 6th, 2016

________________________________________ In response to THE MANTOOTH BONE segment I published on December 31st, I've heard from a bunch of Scouts about wanting more! Here's one… I just read the excerpt about Eddie and I showed it to our troop. They... [more]

Cub Scout Requirements Involving Pack Meetings

Posted to Cub Scout Ideas on January 5th, 2016

Find out which Cub Scout adventure requirements can be completed at pack meetings. This is a handy resource for pack planning. The post Cub Scout Requirements Involving Pack Meetings appeared first on Cub Scout Ideas ... [more]

Transitioning to the New Rank Requirements

Posted to Scoutmaster Clarke Green on January 5th, 2016

Now the new year has come Scouts registered after January 1, 2016 must use the new rank requirements. What about Scouts registered before December 31, 2015? The answer is a little complicated, but not too hard to understand; Here's the logic chart... [more]

Accountability In Scouting

Posted to Jabbering All Day Long on January 5th, 2016

This month's blog entry is about Accountability in Scouting. By this I am thinking about the way we run Scouting on a day... The post Accountability In Scouting appeared first on Jabbering All Day Long ... [more]

Scouting Families

Posted to Jabbering All Day Long on January 5th, 2016

I was thinking last night about Scouting families, not this great big Scouting Family we all belong to, but our own individual Scouting families The post Scouting Families appeared first on Jabbering All Day Long ... [more]

Charles L. Sommers Alumni Association, Inc. honors Paul R. Christen

Posted to Summit Blog on January 5th, 2016

The Charles L. Sommers Alumni Association recently released their Fall 2015 newsletter . Dave Hyink wrote an article for the newsletter about the Honorary Life Membership that was awarded to Paul R. Christen. Below is the article. At its February... [more]

Encore Podcast 3 â€" Brick Mason Scoutmaster

Posted to Scoutmaster Clarke Green on January 4th, 2016

Brick Mason, Scoutmaster, Superhero Please enjoy this encore edition while the podcast is on vacation right along with you as you enjoy the holidays with your friends and family. I'll be back on January 11th with podcast 298. You can listen to our... [more]

Where does patrol spirit start?

Posted to Bobwhite's Blather on January 4th, 2016

The cog that turns the wheels of Boy Scouting is the patrol method, and the grease that lubes the axle is something nebulously called patrol spirit. Just what is patrol spirit? It's the sense of friendship and cooperation that exists between members... [more]

Winter camping tips

Posted to The Scoutmaster Minute on January 4th, 2016

Its that time of the year when we break out the winter gear and head out for some chilly, exciting winter camping adventures. I thought it was a good time to throw out some things to consider when getting out there in the cold. We will talk more... [more]

Starting the New Year off Right

Posted to The Scoutmaster Minute on January 2nd, 2016

Happy New Year! Starting the New Year off right for me becomes more and more important each year. I'm not sure what it is, probably just part of the ageing process and gaining a better understanding of what is important [to me]. So as we kick off... [more]

Starting Something New

Posted to Jabbering All Day Long on January 1st, 2016

Well this is something new, I'd like to say a big hello to all the Jabbering followers. Chris has asked me to write... The post Starting Something New appeared first on Jabbering All Day Long ... [more]

Issue 468 â€" December 31, 2015

Posted to Ask Andy on December 31st, 2015

________________________________________ Thank you, one and all! Frankly, I'm shocked and delighted to hear from so many readers asking for a year-end installment of THE MANTOOTH BONE . So here you have it, with my apology for the oversight and my... [more]

← December 2015   Browse Archives   February 2016 →

Want to see more Scouting blogs? Why not check out the main page with the recent Scouting blog posts? Or maybe check out some of the most popular recent blog posts? This page is getting pretty old, so if it's getting a bit dusty just let me know. ;)