skeptic

And how does this relate to National Forests?

Ditto to Pack. Please reconsider your idea.

Yep; cannot see ANY connection between this and Woodbadge. We all know where you stand. Your trying to relate it to everything does nothing but marginalize your other views. Forests are overused in our part of the country, with the most popular locations full during the peak camping months from late spring through late fall. We pretty much can camp where we want during the winter, though a warm spell is an issue because they often close the overflow areas of the larger camps. But, they also now have hosts, and the price keeps growing for those with basic facilities and hookups. More

From another portion of the Magazine; a segment of West's report. "It must be ever borne in mind that the basis of strength and power of the Boy Scout Movement will not be measured alone by the number of Scouts and Scout officials, the record of activity of the National Council, or the number Local Councils organized; these are but a means to an end. The value of the Scout Movement will be judged by the individual Boy Scout__ his conduct, appear- ance, and the way he puts into practice the Scout Oath and Law, and reveals that he is actually prepared to do things worthwhile because of the

"Old age wipes all material obstructions from our vision. Looking down from up there, one wonders why grown men will spend their time in pursuit of pleasure in place of happiness; why legislators sacrifice the welfare of the people for the sake of party lines; why statesmen do not see that the only thing worth working for is 'the welfare of their fellow men'; why all legislators cannot realize that the practical way to reform the world is by teaching the public the real meaning of American democracy and how to live according to the Boy Scout Oath and Law, according to common sense, according

Shortridge; We pretty much have already started ignoring much of our infrastructure issues. Look at the numerous stories in the media about unsafe bridges and trestles, as well as the awful condition of most roads throughout the country. The really sad thing is that our "so called representatives" still do not understand that this need will generate jobs, both on the government level AND the in the public sector. Those jobs in turn of course will help improve the economy by increasing tax revenue and putting money into the local economies. To me, that is the first place the Federal m

"Go camping and hiking alot." Most important, as we prepare for the ultimate collapse. At least Scouting, when played closely to the original program, will actually be again pertinent; they will "Be Prepared". So now, we have linked this whole discussion back to Scouting.

Basement; While they likely went to Philmont the second time in order for their son to attend the leadership there, there is nothing odd about going more than once to PTC. If you enjoy the Ranch, then doing various courses is simply fun for many of us. I have done five, plus two treks, though has been a long time since the last one. Keep thinking I will go back, but the right course and time frame has not presented itself. Very few places with the high camaraderie as it has.

A declaration on the front page of the magazine/paper. Perhaps this is an area to which we "SHOULD" revisit as an organization. "Volunteer Workers" WHEREAS, the Boy Scouts of America recognizes that its faithful volunteer workers, both in the national and local fields, are the strength and backbone of the Movement, and WHEREAS, we desire at this time to express our loyal appreciation and heartfelt thanks for the splendid service of our volunteer workers. WE, the National Council of the Boy Scouts of America, in the Eleventh Annual Meeting assembled, hereby resolve that

Kudu; What is written is not always the actual case. There are many camp grounds that have sites very close together and have limits on how many can be in them, especially those to which you can drive. But even pack ins often have limits on how many, and can be very close together. And remember, even though you may not agree with LNT, that is a factor in not overwhelming the trails and camping areas with too many bodies. Perhaps you need to come to California and actually visit camping areas. Now days, due to the lack of funds, many areas are simply closed. Then add on fire re

Over the years as SM I have done 25 "official" mile swims at various camps throughout California. My last one was two years ago at Tahquitz when I was 65. During the preliminary quarter, I had my upper denture come loose and fall into my mouth, prompting me to swim to the edge and call the twenty something female director to please come and get them. She was a bit shocked I think. When I did the longer swim, I simply removed them ahead of time. Have done it in the ocean at Emerald Bay and Cherry Valley (had to swim part in open water at that time; was told they stay in the cove now); 6 ti

"Scouting is outing"; without camps, fewer opportunities, especially in some areas. A well run camp pays dividends far beyond the apparent, often from attendees from many years before. In our part of the country, while we have many state and federal camps, they too often are in very poor condition, have become very expensive if they are popular, and you are crowded with people, dogs, noise, and too many times, booze and foul language. Not the place to camp, especially in prime seasons. While national places like Philmont, Sea Base, and Boundary Waters, and the soon to be Summit a

While the onus suffered by pubescent teens struggling with their sexuality is tragic, the BSA policy has to do with adults as leaders. The youth sexuality is rarely an issue, unless the boy himself somehow makes it so. Only then does it become a problem, as the majority of youth of that age are particularly concerned about being seen "differently". And the stigma comes from all directions of the youth culture with which the boy interacts, not just scouting. It is highly unlikely that many troops would seek out youth who may be questioning; it only when the obvious, or perceived position co

Wow!! Wish I were younger. Love this positive Scouting stuff.

As constantly suggested, local CO decision; it becomes a non-issue. But, it still is pretty petty from my perspective, as the only people being effected are the kids in the troop that need to find another CO and place to meet. Their meeting there hurts no one.

Once again, it would be time for the SM to do his job. I once gave a boy an ultimatum almost exactly like this. He chose to leave. The good thing was that he showed up clean and sober a few years later with a fiancee. I did not recognize him, but he did me. He told me who he was, then thanked me for doing what I did. So, you sometimes think you lose, then find out you didn't.

E; to the right of these listings there is a click on about the "original scouter magazines" Terry published briefly. It indicates what transpired, and supposedly allows orders of them. But the order function does not work, so imagine they have long been out of stock. They are really pretty good references; too bad they could not get a foothold. Anyway, take a look at the link.

Just a note that I have listed 5 of the original 7 Journals on line on eBay. Just in case anyone is interested. Includes the GBB cover and Philmont cover.

The hardest part is not feeling "you" failed when you lose one. It took me a long time to realize that "we cannot save them all". On the other hand, when you see the break through, or years later, as an adult, one of them you thought you lost shows up in good shape and says "thank you", it makes it all worth it. Based all on scout age and above. Have to agree that overall, most issues are more parent related, either directly, or the parent simply refusing to admit their child may have problems.

If a monitor feels the urge, maybe you could move this thread to "History". Just a thought.

"This was discussed by the task force, which decided that Journey to Excellence would be better understood by the majority of volunteersespecially new volunteersif the program followed the bronze, silver, gold sequence." Maybe they should have retained the tradition, and let the "newbies" learn the history of BSA and its awards. Kind of like going to red for scouts, and green for senior boys for so many years, even though tradition had it the other way with year pins and tabs for socks. Just an "old guy" blathering on of course.

I like the "BSA should never be more liberal than the city of San Francisco" test. Love it; thanks.

Moose; I believe you are confusing the project with turning in the application as an 18 year old. There is a 90 day limit after the paperwork is accepted in which they should have their board, then another 90 days with a letter explaining to the local council the reason for delay, such as away at college. After that, he has to file a special appeal through National to have the board. At least that is the way I understand the issue. But it has nothing to do with the project. A project can be done before he even finishes the merit badges; it simply has to happen after he becomes Life.

Today, even the standard grocery stores have many options that are far less expensive than regular backpack brands. Knorr has expanded, and is often on sale. Instant stuff is widely available, and if bought in larger packages, can be used for a number of meals in a mix and match way. Easy additions include seasonings, various dried and chopped vegies in bags, and bullion for additional base (though needs to completely dissolve). Add in things such as tuna in a bag, small cans of potted meats (now some are coming in packages too if you can find them. Another great method for simple overnig

Is the question about a folded flag, or one on a staff? Makes a difference. Like most things related to the flag, there are traditions, general instructions, and absolutes. This appears to be a tradition to me.