PETAL_MS_SCOUTER

Is there a website or other source out there that gives declination for various locales? I was looking at an old Scout Fieldbook that gave them for 1985, but noted that the readings change over time. I recently purchased a couple of maps that did not show any declination in the margins. Help !

MK9750, you're not alone. I'm currently loading up a second jacket with patches. I loved checking out the red patch jackets of adults when I was a kid, and I think it's a great advertisement for the program. You constantly get kids and others wanting to look it over and talk about the many outings symbolized by the patches. It's interesting that patches are such a big part of the scouting program, but they make it so hard to wear them. What good do they do sitting at home in a box or hanging on a fake skin? I can't see myself walking about with a patch blanket drapped around me, and I don't think the patch vest is an acceptable option for most adults. Also interesting that kids are encouraged to load the vest, which closely resembles the jacket, with as many patches as possible. I've also heard people suggest using an "unofficial" jacket for patch display. I love the jac shirt, but I've been unable to find something like it in an alternate color on Woolrich or similar websites. Perhaps one day BSA supply will see this as the big revenue source it could be and offer an official "load it til you collapse from the weight of all the activity patches" jac shirt for scouters like us.

I do consider that approach a little over the top. Folks aren't as trusting (and shouldn't be expected to) as in the old days when it comes to their sons. This would really be a surprise if they are telling the dads this. I formerly worked with another unit that struggled with moms on outings (with the exception recruiting type campouts). We usually did a number of day trips and special campouts that were billed as family outings. Ironically, down the road it'll probably be the boys telling you they don't want parents on the trips. Good luck to you ...

My son is working on Music merit badge, but we've loaned his pamphlet to his counselor. Is there a website out there that actually has the merit badge pamphlets on it? If not, wondering if someone with the book would list the five groups of musical instruments in requirement #2. Something like brass, percussion, string, etc. Thanks in advance ...

Espirit de corps !!! I always enjoy staffs that look like they work well as a unit and set the example for the rest of the camp. Can't get enough of the goofy songs and skits at assemblies, meals, and campfires. Also important that they are inclusive of the campers and adult leaders attending the camp. Today's camper may be tomorrow's staffer. Make an effort to make sure your instructors are prepared. It's a big turn off when kids are dismissed early or I get the impression the kids have been "rubber stamped" on advancement.

There are a couple of ways to look at it. First, you might consider attending whatever camp you think the boys might be attending when they enter the Boy Scout program. Kids that feel they have the "lay of the land" that first year at camp are more likely to have a positive experience. School two says search out the camp with strong amenities and program. I covet features such as platform type tentage, a sit-down air conditioned dining hall, and good program resources (ie shooting ranges, etc). I agree that a two to three night experience usually maxes the boys out. I noticed you are from Wisconsin. I was previously active in scouting in the Madison area's Four Lakes Council. When I left in 1999 they were developing a Cub property called the Woodman Center. Although the Boy Scout camp was held at a different property, the program and beauty of that camp rated highly. Best wishes for a great summer at camp.

Just back from a cold weather campout (by Mississippi standards) where the boys slept under tarps. I allowed by son to use my designated "cold weather" mummy bag that I've had for about 12 years. The bag was originally rated at about 10-15 degrees. Everyone survived a night that bottomed out at about 33 degrees, but made me wonder if there's some general lifespan a bag might have before it loses its cold weather effectiveness.

I was in Texas on business this week and was able to squeeze in a quick visit to the new National Scouting Museum near Dallas/Fort Worth that opened earlier this month. I had visited the museum a couple of times at its previous location in Murray, KY. Many of the old favorites have moved over, and the inside part been improved with a lot of interactive things that would appeal to boys visiting. I was somewhat disappointed that the low and high courses that were big boy favorites are not part of the new museum. I'd be interested in critiques of others who have visited the new museum.

I agree it's probably not a good idea for kids to carry one daily at this point. I've been carrying a small Swiss Army BSA pocket knife for about a year. Amazing how often you use one. Kind of like boxer shorts ... once you try it you never go back.

My son recently visited Washington DC and had his picture made beside a statue entitled something like "The National Boy Scout Statue". I'm told that the man (or scout) leading or assisting a young woman in the statue has no pants on. His photo was from far away, so I could not tell for sure. Anyone have any additional info on this scouting oddity?

I've been to summer camp several times, and helping kids battle homesickness is an area I do not excel in. Several years ago a kid I allowed to call home ended up punching his ticket home several days early. Sadly, that translated into him becoming less involved in the troop and he dropped out a few months later. Our troop is taking four new boys this year. Does anyone have troop rules or advice on the subject? Please rest assured that we will be keeping the boys busy. Thanks ...

Pine Burr Area Council's Camp Tiak, located about half way between Hattiesburg and Biloxi, MS. We go next week. Prayers appreciated. It's already hotter than hades down here ...

In the Tennessee area, I also recommend Raccoon Mountain Caverns just outside of Chattanooga. Great wild tour. I think the Cumberland Caverns (near McMinnville, TN) folks also administer some sort of national cave association and could provide a more complete listing.

I just purchased my first requirements book in a couple of years. The 2002 book I purchased said it was current through the end of the year. Some of my old books were good for a two or three year period. Why the change? Is this a scam to make us buy a new book every year?

Anyone out there have access to building plans for a Webelos crossover bridge?