ScoutMaster Minute

 

Greetings!  As the new Scoutmaster for Troop 697 I am looking forward to working with the scouts and families to make this a terrific year.  Even though I've only been scoutmaster for a couple weeks I had to hit the ground running.

 

The District Spring Camporee (25-27 April) at the Blue Ridge Environmental Center was a busy and productive weekend.  Our scouts not only had to absorb a large amount of Emergency Preparedness information but had to meet the challenge of wet weather.

 

Starting this month scouts spent an early Saturday morning, under the leadership of the new SPL, David Slutz, helping to clean up Route 123 and finished with the Arthritis Walk on May 17^th.  There is still possibility of a canoe trip (stay tuned!).

 

June will be a busy month with Summer Camp preparation and the infamous Cook-o-Ree.  Come to the meeting to find out when and where the campout will be.  

 

Most of all, please join me in thanking Steve Smith for his faithful service to the troop.  His leadership and dedication have left a lasting impression on both present and past scouts.  “Good luck Steve, see ya at Rountable”.

 

Yours in Scouting

Tony Ramos, Scoutmaster

 

Farewell Message from Steve Smith
Departing ScoutMaster
2000-2008

Troop 697 Family,

 

First I apologize for not sending this note out sooner...

 

On Thursday evening 24 April, Tony Ramos assumed the position of Scoutmaster for Troop 697.   For over 7 1/2 years I had the honor of being Scoutmaster, a position that I truly enjoyed.   It has been a pleasure to work some of the finest young men our country has to offer and see them grow into impressive young men.  It was a very rewarding experience.  I know that Tony Ramos will do a fabulous job with the Troop and lead them to new levels of success and achievement.

 

It is my plan to stay active in scouting at the district level as the Boy Scout Roundtable Chair and with the Troop as an Assistant Scoutmaster.

 

There are so many people I could thank for my wonderful years as Scoutmaster.  Hundreds of scouts and just as many great parents.  I have also been blessed with a great group of volunteer leaders who gave so much of themselves for our sons.

 

I especially want to thank my wife and daughters who have graciously watched as I headed off to scout meetings, campouts and other events over the last three years. 

 

It has been a great experience.  My best to Tony and to the Troop for continues success.

 

There is nothing better for our sons in the country today than Scouting, do the best you can to keep them involved.

 

Yours in Scouting

 

Steve Smith, Past Scoutmaster -- 2000-2008