Troop 12 Framingham: Train Show Plans

Thursday, March 15, 2012

Train Show Plans

I would like to remind everybody about the model train show this coming Saturday, March 17th. We will meet at Plymouth Church at 11:00am and will be heading out at 11:30am. Please let either Mr Fitzpatrick or me know if you will be attending. We have places in our vehicles for seven Scouts, so we need to know in advance how many Scouts will be attending to make sure that we have adequate vehicle space.

These train shows are interesting on many levels. The engineering side of my brain likes the techno wizardry that people use to create realistic noises and to control the complex movements of multiple trains on interconnected tracks. The other side of my brain, which does not get used very much, appreciates the intricate and artistic details that some people incorporate into their lay outs and buildings. There are always subtle features that you miss at first glance. The people displaying their lay outs like nothing better than to discuss their artistry and hobby. To some of these people it is not a hobby, it is more of a life consuming passion.

The Railroading Merit Badge is quite an easy badge to achieve. Take advantage of this opportunity to get your first or another badge. This is also a fun day out.

Please let me know as soon as possible if you will be attending. Bring along a bag lunch or some snacks to eat. Bring along $10 for the admission fee and some extra money for post-snack snacks and drinks. We should be back on the road by about 3:30pm.

Thanks,

Dick Clarke

Scoutmaster, Troop 12

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Scoutmaster Message!

Eagle Scouts – we have a number of older Scouts that are pursuing the Rank of Eagle Scout. This is the pinnacle of Scouting and it requires a lot of work and perseverance. Please be prepared to help out when they need assistance.

That was a lot of information to put into one newsletter. The intent was to show that Troop 12 is a very active troop. Adventure, however, requires adult supervision, so I am urging parents to play an active role in the troop. We always need adults to help out on trips and activities. Who knows, you might even have fun? My philosophy is that Scouting teaches your sons valuable skills and ideals that will be used long after they graduate from Scouting. I also believe that learning outdoor skills at a young age encourages them to appreciate our natural surroundings and resources and to participate in family outings and camping trips. I have many fond boyhood memories of my time in Scouting. Times might have changed and technology has affected the way that our modern youth amuse themselves. However, we must never let physical activity, respect for country and others, and a love of the outdoors go out of fashion. We can make a difference in the lives of our young people. We can also have fun doing it.

God Bless America – Please remember the victims of the September 11^th attacks on our country and their surviving families and friends. This was an attack on the values of all civilized nations. People from many countries lost their lives as a result of those attacks. Scouting is a true worldwide organization that pledges respect for all others, no matter your country or religion. Scouting organizations in every country share a common mission. Lord Baden-Powell, the founder of Scouting over 100 years ago, once said that he thought that Scouting would end the need for wars. Speaking as a man who spent most of his adult life in the military and fought in many battles, this might appear to be somewhat naïve and inconsistent with his military experience. He put a high emphasis on self-respect, self-reliance and respect for others, which are timeless values that should never be allowed to go out of favor. He tried to do his best daily. We should do the same. Perhaps the world would be a lot better place if more people followed his example and the ideals of Scouting.