John S' Eagle Project


Relay For Life - 2008


Memorial Day Parade - 2008


Memorial Weekend 2008 - Veteran's Flags


Deep Sea Fishing - May 2008


Spring Camporee at Schodack Island - May 2008


April Saratoga Battlefield Hike


6/15/2008

Lots of new photos are starting to show up in the photo lounge. Check back often.

Rt. 351 Clean-up in April.


April Rotary Hike

6/1/2008

But apparently not that cold for Adam H pictured below. But, I suppose when ya gotta go ya gotta go... It didn't take long to build a "hazard" sledding run near the Prue-Heyman cabin. Click here to see what I'm taking about!

Journal entry is here.
3/1/2008

Another new event for the Troop and families - snow tubing! Thank you to Larry H for organizing this great day at Willard Mt and sharing his photos with us.


More photos here.
3/1/2008

Troop 528 sets another Troop record - winning the Klondike Derby four out of the past five years and three years in a row! And - this time - BOTH DIVISIONS!  All four sled teams walked away with prizes, including Best Overall Winners in the Hawk Division - Black Rabbits, and Best Overall Winners in the Bear Division - Wolverines! The Tiger Attack team came in Second Place in the Bear Division!  And the Hawks team garnered first place in the Ice Rescue!  Way to go teams!  Read the details here.



More photos here.
1/30/2008

The following submission is the official winning neckerchief design for the troop:



The following two submissions from Sal received "dis"-honorable mention for obvious reasons -

... nice choice of background color - puke-green...


... if I rub his head do I get three wishes?

12/17/07

Take a look at Chuck's great photos taken on the Veteran's Day hike on Mt. Greylock:

Also, be sure to see Denise's photos of some of the boys on the Rotary tower.

12/3/07

Hooray! Procrastination over - a bunch of updates to the website! (Chuck: procrastination is another word for stalling)

11/21/07

Peter K has been elected to the position of Senior Patrol Leader - congratulations!

11/6/07

What a great tradition for the Troop to camp at Cherry Plains State Park in October. Believe it or not, this photo was taken by Craig using his cell phone camera!



Photos and journal.

10/22/07

We could not have asked for a better weekend - great weather, good food, fellowship, fun and especially winning the catapult contest with a new council record of 194' - 26' better than last year's winner!

The program was awesome - an e-PREP "midway" with live emergency preparedness demonstrations - Tyler S was even filmed by Channel 9 in the NYS Police crash sled!  And, of course, the Native American Festival was the best. What did you guys eat for lunch at the festival?  Was it really alligator?

In true Troop 528 tradition, we had great attendance (including super adult coverage - thanks) - Kevin B, Tyler B, Dan C, Jeremy F, Chandler G, Nathan G, Josh G, Bill H, Craig L, Colby L, Patrick M, John M-H, Allan M, Greg M, Matt M, Padraic M, Stefan P, Luke P, Chris S, Eric S, Travis S, Tyler S, Sam W and Sam W!

Photos here.

10/7/07

(L-R) Rensselaer County Legislators Keith Hammond, Ginny O’Brien and Brian Zweig, along with (R) Darius Shahinfar from Congresswoman Kirsten Gillibrand’s office appear with new Eagle Scouts Andrew G and Patrick D at their Court of Honor held at the Poestenkill Fire House on September 19, 2007.

Patrick D and Andrew G, both of Poestenkill, were recently honored by their troop and community for achieving the highest rank in Scouting – the rank of Eagle Scout. Tim L presided over the Court of Honor, which was officially convened by Glen Wallace, Mahikan District Chairman. Troop 528 Scoutmaster Bart H along with troop members Craig L, Andrew K, Tyler S, Travis S, Allan M, Patrick M, Chris S, Ryan L, Mike F, Jeremy M, Doug S, Kirk M and Sal E participated in the ceremony. The invocation and benediction was offered by Br. Peter Furlong. Guests included Mahikan District Vice Chair Bill McLoughlin, Mahikan District Commissioner Frank Traver and Assistant Commissioner Ron Moss. Congresswoman Kirsten Gillibrand was represented by Darius Shahinfar, who presented each Eagle Scout with an American flag that was flown over the U.S. Capitol. Rensselaer County legislator and Poestenkill Town councilman Keith Hammond presented proclamations from the county and town along with his congratulations, as did legislators Ginny O’Brien and Brian Zweig. Richard Cropsey provided congratulations from the VFW. In addition, Patrick D received a very special recognition – the National Medal of Merit, which is awarded to Scouts who have performed an act of meritorious service above and beyond that normally expected of a youth member of the Boy Scouts of America. Patrick was recognized by the BSA National Court of Honor with this medal for his actions in saving his mother’s life when she became injured in an accident. Patrick is a 2007 graduate of LaSalle Institute and is enlisted in the USMC. Andrew is a junior at Averill Park High School. Troop 528 is sponsored by Sullivan Jones VFW Post 7466.

Photos here.

9/23/07

Updated Troop Roster here.
Important message about leader training from Sal here.
Minutes from the last leader's meeting here.

9/23/07

Visit this page for information about merit badges and counselors.

9/20/07

.Rick's photos from Rotary are going up in multiple uploads here. Keep checking back for more.

8/19/07

The new schedule for the Fall is now posted here.

8/16/07

Please click on the following photo to see all of the shots taken at the July White Water Rafting trip on the Upper Hudson. Thanks to Elisa for getting the photos from the rafting company.



8/15/07

Chuck took some wonderful photos of this year's deep sea fishing trip. Please click here to see them.



7/30/07

Have you done your planning for Rotary yet? No, I'm not talking about what you have to buy and pack to bring with you - there's plenty of time for that. I'm talking about your schedule. That's right, planning what you are going to do during the whole week you are at camp. Sure, having fun is #1, but, what if you could have fun AND learn AND earn merit badges? Rotary provides you with enormous opportunities for all of that. All it takes a couple of minutes to do a little planning (remember "Be Prepared"?) Click on the schedule below for a PDF file that you can print, study and make notes! Think about a second choice in case a class is full. What are your friends doing? Make sure you bring your choices to the 7/27 meeting if you haven't turned them in yet.



Wondering what goes on at Rotary? Easy - take a look at some photos of our Troop - 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006.  See anybody you know?  Do you know anyone on camp staff this year (hint - there are three)!

6/28/07

Sorry folks, I'm catching up on my photo editing and posting! This was from the Spring Camporee held at the Schagticoke Fair grounds in May. Please click here to see Sal's and Chuck's great photos!

6/17/07

Any guesses on when this photo was taken?

6/16/07

The Dearborn cabin on the southern edge of Rotary received a new steel roof Saturday thanks to the lean and mean Troop 528 crew helping rangers Glenn S, Ed K and Joel U.

Blatantly ignoring his own safety but ever mindful of the safety of the Scouts in his charge (Travis S, Tyler S, Greg R and Kevin B), Chuck G led the workforce with skill and determination, despite his advanced age and being handicapped by assistants Todd S, Mike F and Rick L. Previous to this weekend, Cliff D and Larry H replaced the electrical service to both cabins. More photos here.

6/10/07

Rensselaer County Legislators Brian Zweig, Kevin Harrington and Ginny O’Brien appear with new Eagle Scouts Ryan L, Chris D and Jason S at their May 30^th Court of Honor.

Chris D, Ryan L and Jason S were recently recognized by their troop and community for achieving the highest rank in Scouting – the Eagle Scout. Dave F presided over the Court of Honor, which was officially convened by Glen Wallace, District Chairman. Troop 528 Scoutmaster Bart H along with troop members Craig L, John S, Scott M, Mike F, Doug S and Tim L participated in the ceremony. The invocation and benediction was offered by Fr. Vaughn. Other guests included District Commissioner Frank Traver and Assistant District Commissioner Ron Moss. District Scouting Executive Mike Maxwell brought personal and official congratulations from the Twin Rivers Council.  Congresswoman Kirsten Gillibrand was represented by Darius Shahinfar, who presented each Eagle Scout with an American flag that was flown over the U.S. Capitol. Rensselaer County legislator and Poestenkill Town Councilman Keith Hammond presented proclamations from the county and town along with his congratulations, as did legislators Ginny O’Brien, Brian Zweig, and Kevin Harrington. American Legion Scouting representatives Bill Sheldon and Kenny Rogers presented each Scout with a plaque commemorating their achievement. Chris is a senior at LaSalle Institute and will attend St. Lawrence University. Ryan and Jason are seniors at APHS. Ryan will attend RPI and Jason will attend Syracuse University.  Troop 528 is sponsored by Sullivan Jones VFW Post 7466.

Pictures here.

6/6/07

More Moose (and clean-up) pictures

I finally got around to posting Sal's very excellent photos here, including a movie clip of the moose in somebody's backyard!

5/13/07

Every time we do the Rt. 351 cleanup, something interesting happens.  We've found a bunch of baby rabbits, baby snakes, and now a moose!  In Poestenkill!  The picture below (taken by Craig L) was of a young moose only minutes away from downtown Poestenkill. We were also able to spot it walking in the tree line parallel to Rt. 351 heading towards Rt. 66. Later in the day, some folks at Bubie's mentioned that the moose returned to wander around the downtown area!
Click    for a larger picture. Click here for more moose photos and also of our work cleaning up Rt. 351. Journal entry is here.

The last Moose sighting I made was at Rotary (inside joke ;-) Anyway, thank you to all who participated for three hours today: Tyler S, Craig L, Matt M, Josh G, Patrick M, Jessica E, Lauren E, Sal E, Padraic M, Stefan P, Travis S, Jacob P and adults Cliff D, Sal E, Rick L, Bart H, Chris P, Jan P and Todd S.
4/28/07

Last weekend a whole bunch of us visited Battleship Cove at Fall River, MA.  For most it was their first visit, for some their second, and for Brian G his third!  No matter how many times we visit Battleship Cove we are completely awed by the sight and complexity of the monster ships and thoroughly inspired by the heroics of those who served onboard and risked their lives to keep all of us safe and free. I have a feeling that visiting Battleship Cove will never grow old - there is always something new to learn, some new story to be told, some battle scene or even just daily life onboard to imagine. This was my second trip to the floating museum and memorials, and I spent time pondering the high technologies used on each of the ships, wondering how they all managed to work without the use of modern electronics and computers!


The Troop contingent explored the historical USS Massachusetts (pictured above), the USS Lionfish submarine, and the Hidensee Russian Missile ship and stayed overnight on-board the USS Joseph P. Kennedy, a WWII Destroyer. (See photos of all of these ships here)

Many also visited the Marine Museum - several of the photos are of the intricately detailed, huge models of famous steamboats, sailing ships and the Titanic. Before attending the talk at the museum about the Titanic, we did not know that it had two "sister" ships - and that all three eventually met their fate in unfortunate ways.

For the record (as an overnight camping trip), the following sailors attended - Tyler B, Kevin B, Brian G, Chandler G, Sam W, Andrew K, Peter K, Craig L, Allan M, Chris M, Matt M, Jacob P, Luke P, Greg R, Travis S, Tyler S, Nick W. Attending officers - Kevin B, Steve B, Chris G, Mike K, Rick L, Dave M, Dave M, Karen M, Chris P, Nancy P, Todd S, J. Ranken, Ken W,  Dennis W.

Journal entry here. Lots of fun and interesting photos here.
4/28/07

Congratulations to Chuck on his 60th birthday. Well, his actual birthday is next week, but Dave M couldn't resist springing a surprise on him at the meeting tonight!  Sal captured a couple of perfect photos here.
4/4/07

Fifteen new Scouts have joined our troop! Please welcome them into our ranks!  Check out the new roster here.
4/3/07

Unfortunately three qualified candidates were not on the OA nomination slate last week. Please come to the April 4th meeting to place your votes.
3/29/07

The official Spring and Summer 2007 schedule is posted here. The new schedule is also available as a .ical or iCalendar file that can be downloaded and then imported into your favorite calendar program. Right-click here and download.
3/24/07

Yes, we like the winter!  Although, this year it seems to have been concentrated in February and March, and it isn't shaking loose yet! So, it was perfectly acceptable to run a snowshoe and ski race across the frozen Poestenkill tundra at night at -25 degrees F - making it seem like we were in Alaska!

More photos here.
3/8/07

Mr. Kevin Hynes, a Biologist for the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation gave an excellent talk about identification of wildlife by their bones. To demonstrate his forensic techniques, he brought in a large collection of animal skeletal remains that included birds, small mammals, a marsupial, deer, moose and bear!

We tried to stump him by bringing in an assortment of bones for him to identify. Didn't work - he knew immediately what they were!  Also taking part in the presentation were our new Scouts from Pack 530 and visitors from Packs 526, 528 and 529. Hope you boys and girls had a great time.  Check out Rick's photos.

The Troop sincerely thanks Mr. Hynes for taking the time to visit with us and share his special friends and skills!
2/28/07

Merit Badges are all about becoming exposed to different skills and professions. So why not nuclear science?

Leave it to those wacky Alpha Phi Omega students at RPI to offer interesting merit badges (you might recall Space Exploration recently). Congratulations to Andrew K for earning the Nuclear Science Merit Badge. Photos are here.
2/28/07

Two feet of snow and lack of firewood didn't stop our "snowbirds" from braving the bitter cold and getting "back to nature" two weekends ago at the second freeze-out at Rotary's Prue Heyman outback In fact, they reveled in it! Sledding, snowshoeing, ice fishing, and helping out at the Cub Scout Snow N Do, kept everyone busy and warm!

Is this a rescue or punishment? Being that the "victim" is Nick W, I will let you guess! Check out all of Chuck's great photos.

The snow-hearty adventurers were: Adam H, Nick W, Pat D, Andy B, Greg R, Zach L, Kevin B, Peter K, Andrew K and Craig L. Adults were Kevin B, Glen S, Chuck G, Cliff D, Mike K, Paul H and Ryan L.

Journal entry is here. Photos are here.
2/28/07

Two patrols set out on the course last Saturday, and two made it back, a bit cold and tired, but better off from having done their best at Scout skills and teamwork. Competing against dozens of other sled teams from the Mahikan District, both of our intrepid patrols of mostly first-timers managed to have a great time and pull off some impressive wins.

The Screaming Eagles patrol, consisting of Tyler B (PL), Kevin B (APL), Sal E, Luke P, Travis S, and Matt M did a fine job in all areas and took First Place in Bear Bag.

The Atomic Turtles patrol, consisting of Peter K (PL), Allan M (APL), Sam W, Nick W, Josh G, and Tyler S, took Second Place in Lashing and Knot Tying, Second Place in Trail Lunch, Second Place in Shelter Building, First Place in Fire Building and FIRST PLACE IN THE BEAR DIVISION, WITH THE HIGHEST SCORE OVERALL FOR BOTH DIVISIONS!

Journal entry is here. Photos are here.
1/25/07

Chuck captured a nice bunch of photos here.
1/25/07

Updated Troop Roster is now posted here.
1/18/07

Well, no snow, somewhat mild temperatures for the season, but still a lot of fun ... and learning. Craig took a bunch out on the orienteering course and no one managed to get lost, well, except Chuck, of course, with his faulty compass ;-) Speaking of lost, I heard that the K's, enroute to Prue-Hayman, stumbled upon a MOOSE! Wish I had a picture.

Anyhow, the roster went something like this: Kevin B, Tyler B, Patrick D, Sal E, Josh G, Seth K, Peter K, Andrew K, Craig L, Ryan L, Scott M, Allan M, Luke P, Jason S, Tyler S, Travis S, Tyler S, Kevin S, Nicholas W, and Sam W. Adults staying overnight were Kevin B, Steve B, Cliff D, Sal E, Chuck G,  Mike K, Dave M, Todd S and Glen S.  Rick's photos here.
1/14/07

I've never been sure if our official Troop year starts on January 1st or with the first meeting in September, but, anyway, since the holidays bring about feelings of nostalgia, it seems appropriate to take a quick look back for a moment to remember the "best of 2006" and consider the road ahead for 2007.

The many milestones that a Troop expects were reached - we recognized three new Eagle Scouts and scores of rank advancements and merit badges achievements. There were some surprises too. Winning the District Klondike Derby was no small accomplishment!  By far the most pleasant surprise was welcoming our new group of Scouts and parents from Wynantskill and Poestenkill. The boys turned out to be great fun, energetic and full of enthusiasm! In a very short time, most of them have now earned or are close to earning their First Class rank, having passed Scout, Tenderfoot and Second Class requirements. Many have completed a variety of merit badges and are proud to wear them on their new merit badge sashes (some of which look longer than the height of their respective wearer;-) We are also grateful for the new parents who did not hesitate to jump in and help with the Troop, many of them strengthening our leadership by volunteering for positions and joining the Committee. The Troop looks to be in very good hands for the next several years!

So what did we do in 2006? I even amazed myself when I looked back at the journal entries! Klondike Derby, two Freeze-outs at RSR, helping at the Cub Scout Snow and Do, two Rt. 351 clean-ups, several Adirondack hiking trips and a canoe trip, Spring Camporee in Kinderhook, Memorial weekend flags and parade, Order of the Arrow weekend, white water rafting, deep-sea fishing, Relay For Life, taking and teaching NY Leader Training, two Scouts on camp staff at Rotary, our awesome week at Rotary, Fall Camporee in Saratoga, camping at Cherry Plains, Veteran's Day memorial service, Eagle Scout projects, and, several service and environmental recycling projects. Wow!

What's in store for 2007?  More of the same, of course, with a couple of slight adjustments. Klondike Derby is a go (think snow), with our Troop manning the lashing station in addition to competing. Two freeze-outs are booked for our favorite cabin (think snow again). And, just to make things interesting, two new items - we are headed for Battleship Cove in April, and we are waiting for word from West Point on the fate of our selection for their Spring camping program. Also, please remember to help comfort our soldiers overseas. Our Troop is making a Damn' Good Beef Jerky donation and your personal contributions, including a note of thanks and good wishes, will go a long way for our brave men and women in harm's way who are protecting our very way of life. See the Special Appeal note to the right.

So, in closing, thank you to all for a wonderful 2006, happy holidays, and hang on to your hat for an awesome 2007!
12/22/06

Here it is - the new Winter Schedule: click me. Also, the Activities page is updated with the new schedule.

12/18/06

Andrew K, Peter K, Craig L and Luke C earned the Space Exploration Merit Badge on Saturday by participating in a program offered by members of Alpha Phi Omega service fraternity at RPI. They spent the morning building model rockets and learning about space exploration, including a visit to the Dr. George Low gallery. Dr. Low was an RPI graduate, president of RPI and was also in charge of NASA during the Apollo missions! Later in the afternoon, each MB candidate had to launch their rocket, retrieve it and re-launch.


More cool photos here.

12/10/06

That's right - the inaugural, annual Turkey-Day weigh-in contest!  (Thanks for the idea Chuck!) Scouts at the last meeting guessed the combined weight of Bart H, Cliff D, Mike F and Rick L. They have to do the same at the next meeting - don't forget to add a few pounds to account for Thanksgiving!


The scout with the most accurate guess wins a fabulous prize!  Since it was "Thanksgiving Eve", your SPL Craig led the Troop in several C.O.P.E. games and team building exercises. More exciting photos here.

11/24/06

Several Scouts, leaders and volunteers assisted Andrew G with moving in to the incredible new shed that Andrew designed and built for the Poestenkill Town Library. You have to see the full pictures to appreciate the design of the shed that carefully replicates the style of the Town Library building.

Journal entry is here. Photos are here.

11/18/06

Our Troop honored our local veterans by participating in the Veteran's Day Memorial Service at St. Henry's church. The service was hosted by the VFW Post.

The color guard was Allan M and Tyler S. Patrick D followed the reading of "Flander's Field" by reciting "We Shall Keep the Faith". Scouts participating were Kevin B, Patrick D, Sal E, Brian G, Joshua G, Andrew G, Andrew K, Craig L, Ryan L, Allan M, Christopher M, Matt M, Jacob P, Stephen P, Travis S, and Tyler S. Adults participating were Cliff D, Ray G, Chuck G, Bart H, Mike K, Tim L, Rick L, Doug S. Photos in the lounge here.

11/11/06

October Leader's meeting notes are here. Email Rick if you need the userid and password.

Freeze-out dates have been selected for 2007:

- January 12th-14th
- February 16th-18th

11/11/06

Handy place to download the official Troop Patrol Lists here.

10/22/06

Cutting down the old elm tree obstructing the junction of trails was a big job, but not for Joel U and Glen S. Armed with the best gear available, they turned a monster of a tree into chunks in short order. Others cleared the overgrown trails, trucked and spread mulch, positioned two new bridges, re-decked the main bridge, built ramps of wood and "norlite", and enjoyed the food cooked by Debbie. L.


Ryan is very appreciative of the tremendous help he received from 33 Scout and parent volunteers. He is also grateful to Dennis W. of the Averill Park Central School District (and our Troop!) for helping to identify the work to be done, and providing the bridges, the bridge decking material and chipping the cleared brush. And, a huge thank you goes to Mr. Steve Valente of LJ Valente Lumber who donated and delivered a truckload of playground mulch. Journal entry here and pictures here.

10/19/06

Luckily we had the "cleaner" side of Rt. 351 to pick-up last Saturday, although it took longer than normal due to a smaller turnout of Scout volunteers.
 
Most likely there were too many activities to compete with on Saturday. Nonetheless, a very fine job was done by Tyler S, Travis S, Kevin B, Craig L, Josh G, Nick W, Adam C, Bob G, Jeremy M, Brian G, Chandler G, Bart H, Todd S, Cliff D, and Rick L. Journal entry here and pictures here.


10/19/06

On Saturday afternoon, a few Scout volunteers finished the roof of the second recycling shed, which was built mostly by Dave M. Thank you Scouts and leaders for completing the roof on shed #2 and also repairing shed #1's roof, the result of poor supervision that is generally attributed to Rick L.


10/8/06

Just back from the official council-wide Fall Camporee that was held from Friday, September 29 - Sunday, October 1st. READ THE FULL, FUN JOURNAL ENTRY HERE.

Thank you to everyone who attended the Camporee and all who helped in various capacities, especially Chuck and Quartermaster/Chef Chris. Thank you Mr. "leave no trace" Wayne for taking care of our trash!  My official census had us at 18 Scouts and 13 adults. Scouts: Andrew K, Peter K, Adam H, Nick W, Brian G, Josh G, Jacob P, Sal E, Tyler B, Luke P, Sam W, Chandler G, Andrew G, Ben L, Kevin B, Aaron U, Luke C, Jacob C. Craig L did double roster duty between the Troop and the Rotary Venture Crew.  Adults: Steve B, Rick L, Sale E, Chuck G, Dennis W, Nancy P, Wayne C, Ellen C, Chris P, Mike K, Kevin B, Joel U and Bart H. Photos here.
10/1/06

Ex-Scoutmaster Keith D was recognized at Family Night by our Scoutmaster Bart H for his contribution of years of service to our Troop as Scoutmaster and Committeeman. Bart expressed how Keith was instrumental in reconstituting the troop after it had disbanded several years ago, and thanked him for his dedication to the troop.

The plaque presented to Keith contains a 1996 photo of Keith and the troop at Rotary summer camp. The inscription reads: "9/20/2006 - Presented to Scoutmaster Keith D with sincere appreciation of your years of dedicated service and leadership, and being a positive role model for the boys of Troop 528."
9/21/06

Click here to see recently uploaded photos from Denise G and Chuck G.

9/16/06

Labor Day weekend is upon us and that means - back to school, and back to Scouting!  Our first meeting of the Fall has us designing a catapult for the upcoming Fall Camporee!



The Harvest Moon is celebrated in late September, on the date that parallels the Autumn Equinox of the solar calendar. At this time, the moon is at its fullest and brightest, marking an ideal time to celebrate Scouting’s Outdoor and Program Harvest. Come join us at beautiful Saratoga Spa State Park. You’ll enjoy camping under the night sky, campfires, songs, great food, and Scouting fellowship. We will be sharing the Park with the Saratoga Native American Festival. You will have an opportunity to rendezvous with our native brothers. 

Exciting events are in the planning stages for Scouts and Cubs alike such as: District Scout Skill Stations, Tours of the Native American Festival, Trailblazer Field Events & Displays, Catapult Competitions for Boy Scouts and Webelos Scouts, Story Teller & Smoke Dancer Campfire Program, Fireworks AND MORE!!

CUB SCOUTS CAN PARTICIPATE IN A SPECIAL “CUB PROGRAM” ALL DAY SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 30TH!!

The Fall Camporee packet is here. 

IMPORTANT BATTLESHIP COVE NEWS
Battleship Cove trip has been scheduled for April 21st and 22nd, 2007. Registration and $20 non-refundable deposit is due September 10th. Total cost is $55. Transportation is by personal vehicle. Please print and fill-out this form and bring it along with your $20 deposit to the 9/6 Scout meeting.

New Fall schedule published - read it here.
9/1/06

What an awesome time at Rotary!  (working on a journal entry and videos)

Sample photos are here. The full set of photos from Tim L and Rick L are here. Note - there are a LOT of photos on that page so please be patient while the page loads.
8/19/06

It was a splashing success!! With very little cost to the troop we had 12 people volunteer to be THROWN down the rapids of the Indian and Hudson River. What a ride! Water levels were very high! Some people were lost, none that mattered I suppose. We had some alumni, Gary and Dave C, come aboard. With Aaron U and Andrew K riding shotgun our raft was on it's way. Becky called out the commands, a great time was had by all on the river and the campers had a good time. An ice - cream dessert was much appreciated. Evening activities did include capture the flag, star gazing and waking Brian up! We wished that more of our Troop had been there since it was so much fun. The site was huge and great. Maybe next year? Bus Stop, Blue Ledges, Cedar Ledges, I can't remember them all. All I know is that EVERYONE had a good time. Participants included: Tyler B, Steve B, Dave C, Gary C, Brian G, Andrew K. Mike K, Peter K, Alan M, Elisa M, Aaron U and Joel U. Journal entry is here.

Photos in the lounge here.
7/28/06

Have you packed yet? Got a flashlight? Batteries? Uniform? Snack? Poncho? See the Summer Camp Checklist to help you prepare for a successful week at summer camp.
8/5/06

Sal's photos of the Deep Sea Fishing Trip have been added to the photo lounge here, offering proof that the sun really did come out that weekend!

Chuck's photos of the Relay For Life event are here.

Cliff's photos of the canoe trip are here.
6/30/06

Andrew K is off to JLT being held this week at RSR  - congratulations Andrew!  Ryan L is a staff member and official instructor at the event, which will be training about 90 Scouts from throughout the council.
6/24/06

This was our Troop's fourth year in a row helping at the annual American Cancer Society's Relay For Life. Scouts, parents and friends arrived Friday afternoon and immediately pitched in unloading cars and setting up dozens of signs. Throughout the evening, our team of 14 Scouts and friends, and 10 parents, constructed and place thousands of luminarias around the Troy High School track. About a thousand more were setup in both bleachers to spell out "HOPE", "CURE", "BELIEVE" and "JUDY". At about 8:30 PM we all started the massive task of turning on the flicker lights in each luminaria, taking about an hour and 15 minutes. The work was well worth it with the luminarias lighting the way to the evening memorials and dedications. They kept the walkers illuminated throughout the evening. Special thanks goes out to Tyler S, Travis S, Sal E, Lauren E, Jessica E, Alaina G, Ryan L, Sarah M, Craig L, Chandler G, John S, Luke P, Aaron U, Brian G and Andrew K. Also greatly appreciated was stellar help from parents and leaders Todd S, Rick L, Debbie L, Susan E, Bart H, Chuck G, Donna G, Chris G, Nancy P and Mike K.
6/24/06

Well, the weather and seas weren't the same as the past two years (as in perfect), but, they also didn't measure up to the hype of heavy seas and torrential downpours that we expected. Despite driving rain, some rolling about and a couple of lunches being tossed, we still managed to get some fishing done and walk away with a reasonable catch.

Returning back to camp we discovered that the storm at sea apparently wasn't as bad as the storm on land - the high winds had launched both of our big canopies sailing, along with a number of tents. Our good neighbors across from our campsite retrieved and dismantled the canopies, now with bent poles and torn covers, and staked down the flying tents. Fortunately, when the canopies lifted off they must have gone straight up in the air because our cherished drip coffee pot remained upright on the stove, unscathed!  After surveying the damage, the troop set out to recover what we could and managed to set up a single canopy, just in time for dinner. Well, wouldn't you know it, the weather for the rest of the evening and Sunday morning was spectacular! We woke up to sunshine and comfortable temperatures. After breakfast and folding up tents, the quartermaster and volunteers packed the trailer while the rest of the Troop went river-side for the traditional beach clean-up service project. I think because Sunday morning was so different from the preceding days, our pace slowed down from the typical pack-and-run frenzy to one that was not only enjoyable but also included time for several Scoutmaster conferences and Boards of Review!  Speaking for the adult leaders, we were astonished as many of our Scouts presented themselves, Scout handbooks, well, in hand, ready to advance in rank. They were truly prepared and had taken advantage of the fishing trip to perform many Tenderfoot, Second Class and First Class requirements. Well done and congratulations!  The following Scouts attended the fishing trip: Andrew G, Zach L, Andy B, Kevin B, Tyler B, Adam C, Brandon C, Jason C, Sal E, Bill F, Chandler G, Josh G, Ben L, Craig L, Allan M, Matt M, Chris M, Jacob P, Nick W. Photos by Chuck here. Read more about where we go deep sea fishing here.
6/24/06

Aaron U and Andrew K fulfilled their obligations to the Order of the Arrow and were inducted as Ordeal members at the Spring OA weekend.  Also at the weekend event, held at RSR, Craig L fulfilled his obligation and became a Brotherhood member.  Learn more about the Order of the Arrow here.
6/24/06

One of our best turnouts ever for honoring our local veterans by placing flags on their graves. We were amazed as we uncovered the resting places of soldiers from WWII, WWI, the Civil War, the War of 1812 and the Revolutionary War. Thank you to all of the parents who helped bring the following Scouts to the cemeteries: Greg R, Chandler G, Nick W, GianCarlo T, Adam H, Tyler B, Brandon C, Keith B, Sal E, Joshua G, Allan M, Matthew M, Bill F, Aaron U, Chris D, Craig L, Luke P, Chris M, Zach L and Andrew G.


Click here to see more photos. Similarly, we had a first-class representation for the Memorial Day parade on Monday. Special thanks to Chris P for towing the green monster.  Matthew M and GianCarlo T presented the Troop wreath and GianCarlo made the following wonderful dedication speech: "We Troop 528 of Poestenkill, N.Y. would like to thank the people who volunteered and gave up their lives to defend our rights and freedom. Also, the veterans who served in the past wars, and were killed, we give you great thanks. If we did not try to protect our country it wouldn't look like this today. God Bless America!"  Thank you to the following Scouts who participated in the parade: Brandon C, Craig L, Jason C, Andrew G, Chris M, Greg R, Ryan L, Steve P, Adam H, Matthew M, Nick W, Peter K, Sal E, Chandler G, Allan M, Andy B, Bill F, Evan S, Andrew K, Kevin B, GianCarlo T, Luke P, Jacob P, Jeremy M, John S, Adam C, Jim P, Zach L.
5/29/06

Our Troop won Second Place in the Gateway Competition! This is particularly amazing because it was the first time we had ever built a gateway. Not only was our gateway lashed together well, it highly reflected the presidential theme with more than a dozen American flags of various sizes, and other camping items.  Congratulations to the crew that erected the gateway, especially Aaron U for doing the prep work and leading the construction effort!

Chuck's photos here. Journal entry here.

5/29/06

A little rain didn't dampen our spirits or stop us from having a great time at the annual District Spring Camporee. In between the fun and visiting with friends, we pulled off some service project work on the grounds of Lindenwald, President Martin Van Buren's home. Doug S and Craig L helped park cars for visiting dignitaries who were present for the reopening of a newly renovated home. Mike K, Peter K and Jacob P served as official color guard for the National Park Service ceremonies. Andrew K pitched-hit as SPL for the weekend when Andrew G's arrival was delayed. The Scouts did a great job building a super gateway containing numerous U.S. flags and other items that fit with the "American Heritage" theme of the Camporee. At the Saturday night campfire, Aaron U and Andrew K were tapped out for the Order of the Arrow by Craig L performing in the role of Kitchkinet for the OA chapter. Aaron and Andrew were invited to complete their membership in the OA by attending the Ordeal Weekend at RSR in June. We gave it a valiant try but ended up surrendering the Tug-of-War trophy to the "heavyweights" of Troop 102. Good job Evan S, Bill F, Craig L, Chris M, Andrew K, Aaron U, Giancarlo T and Tyler B.  The Camporee attendees will receive two patches for their participation - a "National Park Service Volunteer" patch and the official Mahikan District Spring Camporee patch.  They are: Bill F, Evan S, Giancarlo T, Chris M, Craig L, Andrew K, Josh G, Jacob P, Tyler S, Aaron U, Tyler B, Peter K, Matt M and Andrew G.  Thanks to the leaders and parents who attended - Doug S, Dave M, Rick L, Mike K, Chris P, Glen S, Steve B and Chuck G.  Photos here. Journal entry here.
5/21/06

5/7/06

This is a highly enjoyable event - day long fishing on the ocean aboard a clean, chartered 90 foot boat. Never done it before? Don't worry - the crew is great and will help. Want to go for the weekend but not go fishing? Not a problem - you can relax at our campsite on the ocean or visit the many towns in the area. Family and friends are welcome.

More information about the trip is available here.
5/1/06

A good size contingent of 14 Scouts and about 10-11 parents enjoyed two hours in the warm sunshine on a "hike" up and down Rt. 351. And, by the way, we managed to pick up some trash, spot some baby snakes and take a couple photos.  The following Scouts get to log 2 1/2 hours of service work towards their rank advancements: Allan M, Seth K, Tyler S, Jacob P, Matthew M, Peter K, Nick Tyler W, Joshua G, Adam H, Andrew G, Luke P, Craig L, Andrew K and Aaron U. Thanks guys for doing a great job! Journal entry is here and photos are in process.

4/30/06

For several years we have assisted the Rensselaer County chapter of the American Cancer Society at their annual Relay For Life event in June. This year's RFL is on June 16th at the Troy High School track. We need volunteers to setup the Luminarias around the track and in the stands. Please consider volunteering a few hours of your time to this extremely worthwhile and moving event. Go here for more information.
4/27/06

The recent influx of new Boy Scouts has exacerbated our duplicate names problem. While there is only one Bill, we now have 3 Andrews, 3 Christophers, 3 Kevins, 2 Adams, 2 Jasons, 2 Joshuas, 2 Matthews, 2 Peters, 2 Stevens, and 2 Tylers!  Sounds like nickname time!
4/4/06

Recently Cub Scout Packs 530 and 528 graduated a total of eighteen Webelos Scouts to our Troop!  Congratulations on earning your Arrow of Light - wear it proud on your Boy Scout uniform. The boys from Pack 530 graduated last month and many were able to join us at the March Freeze-Out (see the pictures below). They are Kevin B, Tyler B, Brandon C, Joshua D, Sal E and Luke P.  Last Sunday, Pack 528 graduated Chandler G, Joshua G, Adam H, Peter K, Allan M, Matthew M, Jacob P, Travis S, Logan S, Gian Carlo T, Nicholas W and Sam W. Congratulations again and welcome to all of our new Boy Scouts!

The Troop Roster has been updated to include all of our new Scouts.
4/4/06

Courtesy of Chuck G.  Click here for photos.
 

3/22/06

Freeze-out #2 - still no snow - well, what do you expect?  Spring is tomorrow (March 20th). Lots of campers, including five of our new Scouts, found enough to do with a hike to Bernie Pond, capture the flag, Risk, cooking, Frisbee, and just hanging out.
3/19/06

Click here to access the new Spring/Summer 2006 Troop schedule. The annual Order of the Arrow elections will be held on March 15th. It is very important for Scouts to attend and participate in voting. The Order of the Arrow is the BSA's honor camping society. Click here to read more about the OA.
3/14/06

Click here for access to the updated Troop roster.
3/2/06

No snow?  Who cares!  We still had a great time at the first Freeze-out. There was still stuff to do (like cook and eat) and the cold temps and fresh snow Sunday morning reminded us that it's definitely still winter. Special thanks goes out to the leaders who made it possible - Chuck G, Cliff D, Mike F, Doug S, Glen S, Joel U and Bob M. And, a really special thanks for representing out troop (and picking up some service hours) at the Cub Scout Snow-n-do goes out to Greg R, Adam C, Tyler S and Craig L.
2/12/06

So what could be better than snow on the ground, blue sky and sunshine, no wind, and temperatures in the low to mid 40's in January? Placing third, second and even first at a couple of events at the Klondike Derby at Rotary?  Doing it in the upper-ranked Hawk Division?  How about WINNING the whole Derby?  That's right, the capable team of "Black Rabbits" Chris M, Greg R, Tyler S, Andrew K, Ben L and PL Craig L pulled off a stunning victory over 15 troops, approximately 25-30 sled teams by producing an overall score that no one could reach!  (Sound familiar Chernobyl's Brightest?) While the team's skills and teamwork prevailed, their speed and agility were also unmatched - winning the snowshoe race and picking up a second place in the grueling sled race, crossing the finish line only 3 seconds behind the winners!  Final analysis - teamwork, skills, leadership, new sled, organization, excellent coaching, good food and fun - all combined to "bring home the roses" and the winning plaque for the Black Rabbits. Congratulations guys!  And thank you Mike K, Glenn S, Doug S and Chuck G. Also, thank you Peter K for your help and carrying the patrol banner.
1/29/06