virginia o

The name of our local newspaper is the: Jackson Citizen Patriot.

I have contacted them as well as many others regarding the situation at Camp Teetonkah. We have an open section which is known as "Voice of the People" however, none of the articles are being published.

They have no problem publishing many of the events at Camp Teetonkah and covering some of the renovations that have taken place, such as the new dining hall which is currently under construction.

Sounds to me as if someone's hands are tied. Through the grapevine, we have heard that they would not publish anything unless the Camp is being affected.

I don't think anyone realizes the effects that this will have on the Camp.

Also, if I may ask, does anyone know how I can contact the Regional Director of the Central District?

We truly appreciate all of the input.

Rangers Sis

I am contacting you today with a very troubling story.

My brother, Carl Rennell, has been the Ranger at Camp Teetonkah located on Big Wolf Lake in Jackson, Michigan for the past 21 years.

On November 2, 2006 his position was terminated and he was notified by means of a note being taped to the office door by James McClelland of the Great Sauk Trail Council located in Ann Arbor, Mi. Later on that day, Bradley Bowersox of the Great Sauk Trail Council contacted him by phone to ensure he had received his notice. He also advised that his last date of employment would be November 16, 2006 and that he was to vacate the property by midnight on December 31, 2006.

He was advised that his termination was due to budgetary cuts, however, there is in existence an endowment earmarked for Camp Teetonkah.

Carl volunteered for 18 years as the Camp Ranger without any reimbursement but his former Assistant Scout Executive, Todd Wardell insisted that he receive a salary. Carl then accepted a salary of 20 hours per week, never working less than 60 hours per week, plus some benefits.

Carl has been involved in Scouting since the age of 6 and is highly respected in all of his participation at every level of Scouting.

He is recognized in this community as a leader and respected by thousands of Scouts at every level.

This has had a devastating effect on not only Carl but also hundreds and hundreds of Scouts throughout the State of Michigan. Parents are questioning who will provide a safe haven for their Scouts while camping at Camp Teetonkah because the Great Sauk Trail Council is advising there will be no Ranger onsite.

There have been sizeable monetary contributions made to the Camp Teetonkah endowment fund, however, when inquiries are made regarding these contributions, these inquiries go unanswered.

Please advise if the National Council can look at this most serious situation and possibly intervene?

If you need to speak to Carl Rennell, his phone number is 517-581-0806

ThankYou,

Virginia Rennell-Overmyer

ginnyjac@sbcglobal.net