Memorial Day Ceremonies

Welcome!

The Scouts in Troop 321 did a fine job representing Scouting today. They helped the VFW prepare their hall for the town's Memorial Day ceremonies after the event weathered out, they held the door and greeted veterans and guests, and they participated in the ceremonies with all due decorum.

It's great to for the boys to see the flag ceremony they learned as Cubs performed by combat veterans from both recent and long ago wars.

I regret that I can't tell you exactly how many times the veterans complimented the boys for their good behavior and helpfulness both today and last week decorating the cemetery with American flags, but it's a large number. Our participation means a lot to our city's veterans, and it shows they haven't been forgotten by America's youth.

Our newest media star

Lunch, by the way, was exceptional. Post members and the lady's auxiliary brought in a very nice potluck with a large variety of special treats.

The Troop also owes a special cheer for Danny P who stood before Channel 10's camera and bright lights to represent our Troop in very good form. Nice job!

I've also posted an album with this morning's highlights.

Memorial Day Flag Planting

Scouting helps more than just Scouts

Sometimes we get so caught up in Scout activities, especially service projects, that we forget the impact we have on other people.

Today I saw Scouts in uniform cleaning up litter and planting flags in preparation for Memorial Day ceremonies this coming Monday, and I saw a lot more than that.

I saw a dozen or more grizzled veterans paying their respects. They, too, saw our boys carrying forward the tradition of honoring those who served during the most difficult times.

I also saw younger children following the example set by the Scouts, and I couldn't help but think, "this means something."

I hope that today, this weekend, and Memorial Day, we can catch our breath, look around, and see how our actions bring a a little brightness or a smile to someone don't even know.

Bit by bit, our actions make this world a better place.

Spring Camporee

"The hint is in the name..."

We did it! We pulled off our 2nd Spring Camporee with perfect weather and nary a hitch. We didn't even have any mosquitoes!

Around 90 Scouts and parents from the Pere Marquette area and beyond camped out for the weekend. We had another 60 Cubs and parents join us on Saturday for games, dinner, and campfire fun.

Oh, where to begin?

While setting up the day before the big event, three of our intrepid leaders failed to notice a 1500 pound moose sneaking through the campsite. Who knew a moose could tip-toe?

Throughout the event, Pete cooked up some fantastic meals for the "Parent Patrol". Ladies, if you want breakfast in bed, this is probably your best shot.

The boys didn't do so bad with the, either. Not surprisingly, we had a lot of sausage and pancakes to work through Saturday morning. Hats off to DJ, by the way, for volunteering to help with dishes. That's the spirit!

North Country Trail presentation

Speaking of cooking, Carl & Robert entered the Dutch oven competition for adults, but there were too few entrants to award more than participation ribbons. The judges looked happy with the entries and walked away quite full. I'm pretty sure the other Scouters were just too intimidated to try.

But nevermind all that, the Scouts had a lot of Scouting fun. Events included first aid, single line rope bridge crossing, and a bunch of team building activities culminating in a super-long-pokey-thing.

Our special guest speaker explained our nation's trail systems and introduced the newly created North Country Trail. We'll be hiking ten miles of it on June 6th, by the way. Perhaps one day one of these Scouts will venture forth to hike the whole route. That would be quite an adventure!

Security!

When the Cubs arrived, Chad taught the little guys how to make popcorn in a #10 tin can. Gary hosted a bean bag toss. Other Troops set up a human billiards game, fire making stations, round ball games, and more. This was a really great way to show off our area's Troops to future Boy Scouts and their parents.

As the Troops settled into their dinner chores, the Cubs dug into hotdogs and beans and fruit salad for dinner. There were s'mores, too, right? There are always s'mores!

The Cubs (or parents) who weren't completely knackered by this time stayed for the Scout's campfire - and what a campfire! Songs, skits, and walk-ons galore gave everyone a good laugh. We even had a mystery visitor, but you'll have to visit the photo album to see him for yourself. Any guesses?

Winter Camping

Digging in for the night

Troop 321 now boasts three new Polar Bears! But that's how the story ends.

The story begins with five adults and a passel of Scouts loading up gear for the drive to Camp Hiawatha. We didn't need the trailer because we'd have to hike a half mile through deep snow to our campsite with only packs and sleds for our load. Our load included all the potable water we'd need. I expected complaints, but there weren't any. What a difference two years makes!

We arrived, we unpacked, we organized the Scouts into work crews with Sebby enthusiastically in charge, and we got to work on dinner. Pete, one of our professional chefs, planned a simple, fool-proof dinner: pizza, fruit, and salad. Over what, you may ask, a fire in the snow? Well, not exactly. We had the run of the camp's staff kitchen, and Pete planned accordingly. We ate well. Very, very well.

Chef Pete

Our evening continued with cards and games and a fire in the fire place. Eventually the boys retired to their cabins. Fortunately, the leaders had their own. We turned in early(ish).

Hungry tummies encouraged the boys to quickly assemble into their work parties the next morning. This brought us our first surprise for the trip. It turns out, Jackson has a super-power no one knew about. Jackson is able to turn out absolutely perfect pancakes - including the very first one. Who knew? So we feasted on bacon, sausages, pancakes, and fruit - a high calorie meal for a high calorie day.

While the cleanup crews polished off the dishes, Darryl set up his tip lines. His new auger made quick work of the ice, but that remained his only lake-related success. One of these days, he's going to catch a fish in Bunting Lake. I just hope I'm still alive to see it.

The Eternal Optimist

The boys spent the remainder of the day getting clobbered with snowballs by a couple of girls too young to join the Scouts even if they could. The girls planned ahead with a mobile stockpile of slush-balls, so the boys really didn't have a chance. 

Between battles, everyone built forts and snow caves for sleeping in. Some caves survived, some didn't. Robbie set up the best cave under a picnic table. He's now one of The Three. Fortunately, the staff kitchen included a staff clothes drier, and so the troops took periodic breaks to dry out and warm up. In spite of everyone's best efforts, we never ran out of hot chocolate or coffee. 

Thus the boys played and made meals and cleaned up and sat by the fire and played some more. And yes, the adults napped while Jennifer snapped photos and gave them away. Harrumph. 

At least one Scouter's favorite lunch

We celebrated Pete and Darryl's birthdays Saturday evening, and then the boys settled in to their snowy nests. Those who didn't last the night (or the evening) tended to suffer from inadequate gear rather than lack of desire. Darryl reported resting poorly, however. I suppose guardian angels seldom rest. He checked on the boys every hour or two throughout the night.   

When morning arrived three Scouts popped out with boyish grins and rosy cheeks. We ate homemade biscuits with sausage and gravy along with Chef Pete's special oatmeal. The trek back to the parking lot seemed a lot easier, and I have no doubt some boys dozed most of the way home - three of them dreaming of their Polar Bear patches.

For more food photos and various snowball shenanigans, check out the trip's album!

Our next campout will be the Spring Camporee. With luck, most of the snow will have melted.

Cub Winter Games

I sure didn't see any slow children

Ishpeming Cubs and Scouts have been instrumental for the past five years or so in making the Cub Winter games a great success, and this year was no different. This year's event also boasted a record number of volunteers from area Troops who set up and ran a variety of activities. The weather held out, with light winds, light snow, and warm(er) temperatures reaching into the upper twenties. Of course, the boys stayed warm racing around and climbing snow mounds between events.

Highlights:

• the best Cub-run flag ceremony ever!
• nine stations
• fourteen groups
• invading Ogre army demolished
• new Cub bowling records set
• possible UP 200 entrants identified
• hot soup and hot chocolate
• the bake sale raised over $290 for Ryan Koski's recovery
• the chili sale raised $110 for Crew 356

Darryl did a great job as the event's master of ceremonies, chief judge, and media spokesperson. He even stayed late to help mop up, though I think he was avoiding the dog house at home. Thanks, also go to the Willey's who ran the obstacle course and to Carolyn and Grace who ran the bake sale - and to all the folks who brought donations. Linda also helped keep the kitchen running (we've honestly never seen a kitchen without pots) and cleaned up afterwards.

Our own Scouts helped run three events and were a credit to the Troop. This is such a change from just a few years ago when they were the ones racing around and rolling in the snow. We're proud of them and our adult volunteers. We turned a dreary winter day into something really memorable for a lot of young boys. 

We've also seen a steady increase in help from the area's Troops - with Troop 372 already volunteering for a bigger role next year. Special thanks go to Chuck Suckow who brought out a very large trebuchet and Paul Salfai who organized behind the scenes and kept registration running smoothly. I wish I could list all the troops that helped out, but I took more photos than notes. 

Speaking of photos, don't forget to check out the event's album. You'll see a lot of boys having a lot of fun. Some are even eating fruits and vegetables. 

Scout Ski Day at Marquette Mountain

Grabbing some air

Can winter weather get any better? The sun was out, the temperatures went up to a balmy 26F, and the lunches were  hot. Oh, and the snow, though not powered, was nicely groomed.

Our Troop joined Scouts and Scouters from Troops, Packs and a Crew from across the U.P. to enjoy the slopes, the lifts, and some good company. Four Scouts earned their Snow Sports merit badge, though none from our Troop this year. It's a difficult badge to get because it requires more than just basic skills.

A Tin Turtle lunch gave the boys a break and the energy to blast on throughout the afternoon. Some parents skied, some enjoyed down time in the Alpine lodge, and most enjoyed both. This was a great opportunity to meet Scouters and parents from around the area. No doubt we'll see some again at next week's Cub Winter Games or May's Spring Camporee.

Oh, and as is often the case, don't forget to check out the event's album!

Klondike Derby

The boys have come a long way in their fire building skills

Wikipedia describes the Klondike Derby as a winter Scouting event that tests skills and leadership along the theme of the Klondike Gold Rush. However, here in the Pere Marquette area, the derby tested patrols from five area troops along a decidedly more Hobbity theme - specifically Peter Jackson's third movie of his Hobbit trilogy

In addition to carrying staffs and dragging a sled, the boys practiced lashings, compass reading, orienteering, knot tying, shelter building, and, of course, fire building. They also raced against the clock, winched their sled up hill, and defended against invading orc hordes.

The exercise and hot soup kept the boys warm, and a dozen volunteers kept everything else running smoothly. What a great tradition!

And if you've never seen a horde of invading orcs, you'll want to check out the event's photo album.

UP 200

Scouts, mushers, and dogs all having a grand time

The Wild called. It was grateful. Dozens of mushers and over a hundred dogs safely crossed the trail's casino intersection thanks to a little help from Troop 321's Scouts and volunteers. Yes, it was bitter cold. And snowing. And the wind came right off the lake, but that didn't discourage the Troop.

Carl set up a comfort station. Darryl brought pallets to burn. The boys arrived with the enthusiasm of youth. Between halting cars and helping huskies, the boys wolfed down hot dogs and hot chocolate. Never mind the snow and ice, this event looks like fun because it was fun.

The dogs wagged their tongues, the mushers thanked us, and the motorists were patient. What a great UP tradition!

Don't forget to check out the whole photo album, too!

Cardboard Classic!

Number 13. Naturally.

The Cardboard Classic was a smash hit this year! That is to say, we had a 30% increase in participants for the third year running and, of course, most of the sled catchers got caught by surprise at least once.

All the new teams caused significant delays, and the races went on until nearly 4:00. Fortunately, the temperatures were well above last year's, the light snow was simply beautiful, and Marquette Mountain served hot lunches!

The Troop only fielded one one sled against a field of ten, and the sled exploded half way down the course, but the boys were laughing far too much to be called disappointed. And isn't that what it's all about?

We should probably start thinking about sled designs for next year. Or maybe we can do it tomorrow...

The Minion's magnificent malfunction

Oh, and don't forget to check out all the fun times in the race's photo album, too!

Bobbing with Cubbies

Climbing the Walls

Cub Scout Pack 321 invited the Troop to climb some walls and go swimming with them at NMU's PEIF, and the Troop gratefully accepted. Parents brought snacks, a few cameras, and a lot of encouragement.

They boys had a great time climbing and snacking for an hour before racing off to the pool.

Things got interesting in the pool. Promotions to Second Class and to First Class require some basic water safety and rescue skills. Robert provided the instruction, the PEIF provided a life saving ring, and the boys took turns tossing the ring and getting rescued. Several of the Cubs got involved just for fun, too.

Without a waterproof camera, though, you'll just have to use your imaginations. However, you'll find an album of rockwall climbing by following the link.

Drug Abuse Prevention

Body Armor - Just Like in the Video Games!

Promotion to Second Class requires participation in an anti-drug, tobacco, and alcohol program. Fortunately, we have a State Police post right down the road!

The Troopers were wonderfully informative and fielded everyone's questions. Even the adults learned a few things.

By far, though, the trip's highlight consisted of a trip to the garage where the boys got to see a lot of really nice gear - and give a couple of robots a spin.

You can seem more photos from this event in our album by following the link.

Thank you Michigan State Police!

Tree Planting

Cub, Scout, and National Guard all lend a hand

Cliffs Natural Resources provided funds for tree planting in an undeveloped area along 7th Street in Ishpeming, and they called on the Troop 321 for help with the labor. Our Scouts answered that call.

Not too long from now, the area will become a small park and picnic spot. In another twenty years or so, our boys will be able to bring their children here and share with them the story of its beginning - with saplings, dirt, buckets of water, and a great Scout spirit.

Kevin Corkin, Hiawathaland's District Executive, lent a hand, and our friends from ABC News 10 were there to cover the activity. In addition, two of our Scouts gained some experience with interviews. Cliffs also donated $500 to the Bay-Lakes Council in appreciation of our efforts. Great work guys!

See our album for more photos!

Court of Honor

Scouts leading the way

Today we celebrated our Scouts' achievements in earning both Merit Badges and promotions. Our boys put in some good work these past few months, and they deserve the recognition that goes with it. 

We also welcomed our new Troop members including the boys who crossed over this spring and the boys who joined our Troop from other units. Together we're going to have a great year!

And, of course, we are especially grateful to all the parents who have helped make this possible. Whether its making a dish for the potluck, sharing rides, joining us on camp-outs, or serving as an official BSA Adult Volunteer, we couldn't do it without you.

And so as we honored our Scouts this evening, I'd like to add, "Great job everyone!"

And don't forget to check out the event's album!

Memorial Day Ceremony

"Lest we forget"

Wikipedia defines Memorial Day as "a federal holiday in the United States for remembering the men and women who died while serving in the country's armed forces."

This holiday allows Scouts to learn that war is not a Hollywood movie but a very real part of our history that sadly affects families, loved ones, and whole communities. At the same time our nation's wars have allowed us to continue to live in a free and proud land. Participation in Memorial Day ceremonies gives our Scouts an opportunity to demonstrate their reverence and reflect on bravery.

Today's event proceeded flawlessly, and we all have reason to be proud of our Scouts. Last year our boys were invited to sit with the veterans on stage. This year, the veterans invited us to stand alongside the stage, where the crowd could see us clearly, and they did so - with sisu.

Our group also included Cubs from Pack 321: Tyler W, and Matthew C. They're going to make fine Boy Scouts one day!

At the end of the ceremony, each of the men in the honor guard thanked and shook hands with each of our Scouts. It was a proud moment for them and their parents.

More photos are available in our album.

Memorial Day Flag Planting

Scouting: passing the flag down the generations

Scout Oath (or Promise)
On my honor I will do my best
To do my duty to God and my country...

Today we had the opportunity to help those who served their country by serving them, their families, and our community.

In spite of a last minute change in date and time, many Scouts from Troop 321 gave up the first bit of their sunny three day weekend to perform a very important duty: decorating the graves of veterans interred here in our town.

Our Scouts joined many war veterans and blanketed the cemetery with about 1,700 new American flags. Afterwards, the men from the VFW invited the boys over to their newly re-opened hall for hot dogs, potato salad, chips, sodas and cake.

We'll join them again on Memorial Day where we, as part of a larger community, will gather to remember those who served and died for our country.

Additional photos are available in our album.

Copper Country Merit Badge Day

Danny got wrapped up in First Aid

Ten Scouts and a handful of parents took a road trip to the Copper Country to give the boys a chance to earn a Merit Badge today. Merit Badges offered included first aid, fingerprinting, insect study, fish and wildlife management, and chess.

The boys came away with signed "blue cards", an appreciation for Michigan Tech, and some really great ideas - some of which did not involve bugs.

This was a great way to spend a dreary, damp, and chilly spring Saturday. We've got more great photos here in our trip album!

Klondike Derby

Exiting the secret entrance into Laketown

Bilbo and Thorin's company continued their quest for the Arkenstone this year. Threatened by orcs and spiders, they crossed a river, forest, and lake, and faced hunger, injury, and many other challenges. Yet they maintained their spirits with song and cheer and hot soup until at last they found the fearsome dragon, Smaug, high in the snowy mountains.

Troop 321 fielded two patrols, and both were awarded numerous ribbons for their many achievements. Next year they will have the chance to complete their quest and return safely home. Will they make it? We can only hope.

Some Scouts chronicled their exploits in song and others with many images, each according to the custom of his land. Our local bards were out as well to share our exploits with the world. Thanks also to the many adult volunteers from our Troop and from Pere Marquette zone for all the work they put into this event. It's a big deal, and the boys enjoyed it immensely.

Lock-in!

The night went a lot like this...

It's winter and the boys sometimes get squirrelly, so what's a Troop to do? Lock. Them. In! It's an idea so brilliant, it makes you wonder why we don't do this every month... Volunteers? Anyone?

So we locked the boys in, and we had a enough volunteers that Carl didn't have to wander the hallways muttering to himself. And the boys and their brothers and their friends went about the very serious business of having fun.

Video games abounded with Flappy Birds causing the most buzz - and frustration. Next door a non-stop game of  "capture the fort" dominated the gym. The boys turned hockey sticks into rifles or canons, a scooter became a scout car, and with only a little prodding, they conscripted two trash cans on wheels to serve as battle tanks.

It's also true that a few sleeping bags saw limited service as sleeping bags, but that wasn't discouraged. There's more evidence of good times here in this album, too!

Pack 321 Webelos Cross Over...

On My Honor...

... with a little help from their friends in Troop 321 and Boy Scouts' honor society, Order of the Arrow.

Families, Scouts, and leaders all attended this significant and solemn event, and many of the boys from Troop 321 participated.

These former Cubs will now choose a Troop to join, and we expect many of them will choose ours.

Additional event photos may be found in our album page.

Cub Winter Games

They're working - see the clipboard?

Cub Winter Games? We've been there, done that, and brought home the ribbons as Cubs. As Scouts, we’ve got the Klondike Derby to look forward to in a couple of weeks, so what have we to do with Cub Winter Games anymore now that we’re a lot older?

The answer is easy: we help run the games! From set up to take down and all points in between, Troop 321’s Scouts were on hand to lend a hand.

In addition, we helped raise nearly $200 for Nelson William's family, and we've got a whole album of fun uploaded and ready to view, too. Great job guys!