April 2008 - In my Scoutmaster's Minute for our PLC on Tuesday, I asked each of our youth leaders to find a way to help others each day during Spring Break.  Whether it is the simple act of holding the door for someone, helping the elderly neighbor with some yardwork, asking parents what the Scout can do to help out around the house...   The idea is to orient ourselves away from thinking about self and toward thinking about others; away from acting with only self-interest, and towards acting for the betterment of those around us.  True leaders advance when they help others advance...in Scouts and in life March 2008 - There are a few young men who will be coming and going on Saturday, March 8 due to academic and athletic events.  It's been a while since I've put this in writing, but I would like to reiterate my philosophy on the interaction of Scouting and other extracurricular activities.  I believe in a well rounded young man - that means participation on athletic teams, academic teams, church youth groups, drama clubs, etc, not only can coexist with a great Scouting experience but can even enhance it.  There is no movement that provides a better leadership development opportunity than Scouting - this leadership development yields benefits on the field, in the classroom, in the church, in the community ---- for the rest of your son's life.  All that I ask is that you let me or my Senior Patrol Leader know when your son cannot participate so that we can ensure that his responsibilities are covered, and I ask that he comes back when he can. February 2008 - During Scout Sunday, the Boy Scouts of Troop 144 want to express their appreciation of the church community at Blair Road United Methodist Church. The church also sponsors our Cub Scouts, Venture Crew, and the Girl Scouts. We are happy to report that our Boy Scouts have been experiencing a 75% rate of rank advancement. This past year we have been on more than a dozen outdoor trips including skiing, outdoor survival skills, as well as hiking and camping. There have been fundraisers such as yard sales and our spaghetti dinner. More important, we have been working to instill in our young men an "attitude of servitude" - and they have responded with thousands of volunteer hours toward our church and community. Ephesians 6:7 tells us to "Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord not men". Also, 1 Corinthians 4:6 speaks about serving in a wide variety of activities. This past year, Troop 144 has retired over 40 flags, assisted with the church consignment sale, participated in Scouting for Food to assist Loaves and Fishes, and completed many Eagle Projects. This summer 9 young men and 3 leaders are headed to Philmont Scout Ranch. Our scout building is currently under construction and we have future plans of purchasing a bus which will serve not only the Boy Scouts but the whole church. How can you help? You can keep us in your prayers! If you see a youth in the community who could benefit from our great program - send him our way. You can make a donation to Troop 144. Once again, thank you, Blair Road, for your excellent support of our troop!