Boy Scout Troop 81

Richardson, Texas

Send e-mail to

View Our Guestbook
Sign Our Guestbook

Past Events / Campouts - 2006

Campouts/Events 2010 - Campouts/Events 2009
Campouts/Events 2008 - Campouts/Events 2007
Campouts/Events 2006 - Campouts/Events 2005
Campouts/Events 2004 - Campouts/Events 2003
Campouts/Events 2002 - Campouts/Events 2001
Campouts/Events 2000 - Campouts/Events 1999
Campouts/Events 1998 - Campouts/Events 1997

CAMPOUT INFORMATION SHEET

Primary Activities: Live Aboard – USS Lexington (Corpus Christi)

Overnight Lock-in – Texas State Aquarium

Camp Location: Corpus Christi via chartered bus

Date: Depart – Friday, January 13, 2006

Return – Monday, January 16, 2006

Gathering Time: 9:30 p.m. at RBF

Depart Time: 10:30 p.m.

Return Time: 6:00p.m. At Blockbuster

Emergency Phone Number: 214-215-7248 (Steve Weaver)

361-888-4873 (USS Lexington)

361-881-1230 (Texas State Aquarium)

ACTIVITIES:

LIVE ABOARD (www.usslexingt n.c m)

The LIVE ABOARD program at the USS Lexington is conducted in a fun-spirited, but military manner. Falling in, stowing your gear, and following orders are all part of this unique and memorable experience. All Scouts and adults will sleep on the ship in official military sleeping quarters. Restroom facilities (heads) on the ship include showers.

Activities on the ship will include viewing a film in the MEGA THEATER, an impressive evening colors event, a game room, movies, and the infamous Ghost Stories. Three squares (lunch, dinner, and breakfast) will be served and are included in the price.

TEXAS STATE AQUARIUM (www.texasstateaquarium. rg)

The Texas State Aquarium is within walking distance from the USS Lexington. After walking to the Aquarium, we will enroll into their program which will include a sleep over at the Aquarium AND a class for the Oceanography Merit Badge. We will be able to complete all merit badge requirements except for a 500 word essay. (With the long trip back, we should be able to complete the 500 word essay on the bus!)

The Texas State Aquarium experience includes sleeping within the exhibits, dinner and a continental breakfast, and the classes for the Oceanography Merit Badge.

Date Time Event Dress Class Assigned

Friday, Jan 13 9:30pm Gather at RBF A All

10:30 Depart for Corpus A (change to B after on the bus)

All Saturday, Jan 14 7:15am Arrive in Corpus B All

7:30am Breakfast – TBD

(Each Scout pays for his own meal)

A All

9:15am Board Bus A All

9:30am Arrive at USS Lexington

A All

10:00am Check-in at

Lexington (You’re In the Navy Now!)

Begin Lexington Agenda

A All

Sunday, Jan 15 10:00am Released at Lexington

A All

10:00am – 12 noon

Service project – Cleaning Beaches

B All

12:00 noon Lunch (Each Scout pays for his own meal)

A All

1:00pm- 3pm

Complete service project – Cleaning Beaches

A All

2:45 pm Check-in at Texas State Aquarium.

Begin Texas State Aquarium Agenda, including work for Oceanography Merit Badge

A All Monday, Jan 16 9.00am Released from Texas State Aquarium

A All 9:00am Clean Bus B All

9:30am Depart Corpus Christi

A (change to B after on the bus)

All 9:45am Breakfast (Each Scout pays for his own meal)

A (change to B after on the bus)

All 12:30pm Lunch (Each Scout pays for his own meal)

A (change to B after on the bus)

All

5:30pm Arrive at Blockbuster A All

LEXINGTON DETAIL AND RULES

TRAVEL TIPS:

What to bring on BUS ONLY Entertainment on BUS ONLY

SNACKS (for down and back) PG13 movies

Water ( Cards, books, piano

Trash bag (1 per person) HOMEWORK (We love it so much!!!!!!)

What to Bring on Trip-

Class “A” Uniform (wear to RBF)

Sleeping Clothes

Class “B” Clothes (on bus ride)

Toiletries & towel (showers on Lexington)

Sleeping bag

Pillow (optional)

Jacket or coat

Pencil & Paper for 500 word essay for Oceanography Merit Badge

Small flashlight (optional)

Small backpack (optional)

Medications

Money (4 meals on road plus spending money; $20-30)

Camera (optional)

NO electrical devices allowed

LEXINGTON TIPS:

Sleeping Area - All campers are assigned specific berthing compartments and must respect the privacy of other campers. Restroom facilities (heads) include showers. Most berthing compartments are climate controlled; however, when all such areas have been filled, campers may be assigned areas having ventilation only.

Lockers – Lockers are available in berthing compartments. Each camper should bring a lock to secure his or their valuables and personal belongings.

Carry-On Food or Drinks – NO CARRY-ON FOOD OR DRINK OF ANY KIND WILL BE ALLOWED ON LEXINGTON. All meals are provided. Vending machines are available.

Fire Drills – Each group will be required to participate in a fire drill, as well as provide additional personnel for the fire watch program.

Others Aboard – Due to other activities that take place on board the USS Lexington, it is possible that a banquet, dinner/dance, cocktails, or other functions may take place during the visit. We must stay clear of those activities so that they will not be disturbed.

Mega Screen Theater – The Live Aboard Program includes a film in the Lexington’s MEGA Theater – the only large format theater aboard a WWII aircraft carrier. The screen is 3 stories tall and 44 feet wide with digital surround sound that is positively riveting.

RULES OF CONDUCT – USS LEXINGTON

1. Discipline is the responsibility of the Troop Leadership chain of command. Any discipline issues may result in a premature conclusion of the trip.

2. Adequate adult supervision must be provided by group or troop leaders. 1 adult is required for every 5 scouts.

3. Absolutely NO running or pushing is permitted on the ship.

4. Restricted areas are well marked for safety. Do not enter these areas.

5. Do not turn switches, valves, buttons, or handles.

6. Closed toed shoes are required at all times.

7. No one is allowed to climb on the aircraft, turn propellers, or open cockpit canopies.

LEXINGTON does have an F-4 cockpit available to sit in and take pictures.

8. No one is permitted to leave the Hanger Deck after dark without permission of the Duty Officer. Anyone leaving the ship after closing time will not be permitted to return.

9. No food or beverages of any type are allowed on the LEXINGTON. No food that is purchased onboard is to be taken off the Hanger Deck or down into the berthing compartments.

10. LEXINGTON is a smoke-free facility. Smoking is permitted on the pier only by adults stupid enough to smoke.

11. Observe silence between the hours of Taps and Reveille. Campers must remain in the sleeping quarters after Taps as it is a definite safety hazard on Navy ships to be up and about with lights off. Those unwilling to comply will be asked to leave.

12. Anyone caught tampering with the fire alarm system is subject to immediate expulsion.

USS LEXINGTON FIRE WATCH PROCEDURES

Live Aboard personnel will designate adult watch standers from each group to provide fire/security watches during the hours of midnight to 6:00 a.m. These watch standers will be known as “Guest Escorts” and will be provided with flashlights, whistles, and vests to identify themselves. There will be three assigned for each occupied berthing areas to stand two hour watches.

At 5:15 p.m. on the day of arrival, watch standers will report to the ship’s Damage Control officer for a briefing on duties. Watch standers will be responsible for the following:

Do a walkthrough of respective berthing areas every 15-20 minutes.

Be alert for any sign of smoke/fire.

Be familiar with all exit routes from the berthing area

Be familiar with location of nearest pull station

Be familiar with use of fire extinguisher

In the event of smoke/fire, pull fire alarm, blow whistle, and ensure that the area is evacuated.

Assist in evacuation from compartment

Know the location of the bunk of the relief person and wake five minutes prior to watch change.

The DC coming on at midnight is in charge of the watch standers and will remain in the Live Aboard office/lounge area to direct actions in the event of an emergency.

TEXAS STATE AQUARIUM RULES AND INFORMATION

1. Each group of 10 Scouts must be accompanied by an adult leader at all times.

2. Arrival is 15 minutes before entrance time.

3. Assemble group in the small parking lot. Then proceed to the exit door on the far right side of the entrance area.

4. Bring your confirmation letter.

5. Noisy or disruptive behavior will result in being asked to leave.

6. All group members and adults must stay indoors after returning from the downstairs tour.

7. No running, chewing gum, drinking, or eating is allowed inside the Aquarium exhibit.

8. Closed toed shoes are required.

TEXAS STATE AQUARIUM OCEANOGRAPHY MERIT BADGE PROGRAM

Objective: To provide programming for Boy Scout troops to fulfill requirements for an oceanography badge.

Grade: 6-12

3:00 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.

1. The group will meet together for introductory information

a. Introduce four branches of oceanography: physical, chemical, geological, and biological.

b. Introduce Physical Oceanography

i. Describe some important properties of water

ii. Define temperature, salinity, and density,

iii. Demonstrate density

iv. Discuss various equipment used by scientists

Group then breaks into 3 smaller groups which ten rotate through 2, 3, and 4.

3:45 – 4:15

2. Describe ocean waves

a. Storm surge, tsunami, tidal wave, tidal bore

b. Sea, swell, surf

c. Explain how breakers are formed.

4:15 – 4:45

3. Discuss weather and currents

a. Discuss circulation and currents of the ocean

b. Describe the effects of the oceans on weather and climate

c. Discuss evaporation/precipitation.

4:45 – 5:15

4. Discuss ocean floor topography and geology

a. Construct a clay model of cross-section of underwater topography showing continental shelf, continental slope, abyssal plain

b. Introduce “benthos”

i. Discuss biological species relating to the continental shelf in the Gulf of Mexico

ii. Observe foraminifera

iii. Discuss geological characteristics of this area; discuss how geologists use benthic species to identify oil and gas resources.

5:15 – 5:45

Scouts will write in their journals about what they have learned.

5:45 – 6:15

Students travel to the Texas State Aquarium main building

6:30 – 7:30

DINNER

7:30 – 8:30

5. Guided Tour. Tour will focus on physical characteristics of selected habitats and how the characteristics affect animals living there.

9:00 – 10:00

6. Evening wrap-up

a. Describe at least five reasons why it is important for people to learn about the ocean.

b. Students write in journals.

10:00 p.m. – 8:00 a.m.

Students sleep in front of Aquarium exhibits

8:00 a.m. – 9:00a.m.

7. Beach walk

a. Describe some of the biologically important properties of seawater

b. Define benthos, nekton, and plankton

c. Describe the importance of plankton in the oceanic food chain

d. Make plankton newts

e. Examine the sample and prepared slides under a microscope

(back to top)

January 2, 2006

Dear Scout Parent,

Troop 81 will be having our annual family camp at Fort Parker State Park. This camp is a highlight of the year as family members join the Scouts to observe the skills they have learned and attend our second Court of Honor of the year. I especially encourage you to be there for your son if he is receiving any advancement at the Court of Honor.

Brothers, sisters, grandparents and friends are all welcome to join this family campout.

The camp begins with lunch on Saturday, February 11 and finishes before lunch on Sunday. If you and your family would like to spend an additional night Friday night, at no additional charge, you are welcome to do so, but no troop activities are planned before Saturday lunch. In the past, many families have taken advantage of Friday night to socialize with others families in the troop (last year a number of people played board games, dominos, watched movies in a group fashion and played cards.) The state park offers comfortable indoor, heated, dormitory-style cabins and a large, warm meeting/dining hall.

The only drawback to this camp is that there are a limited number of beds…96.

Reservations will be accepted based on full payment received for the campout. Please fill out the form below and turn it in to John Benavides with your payment for the camp.

Just a few items to know:

1. Directions to Fort Parker State Park.

a. Take US 75 south to Dallas (about 15 miles)

b. Take IH 45 south towards Houston for about 62 miles

c. Take the TX 14 exit, number 219A, towards Richland/Mexia

d. Take TX 14 south through Mexia for about 24 miles

e. Turn right on Park Road 28

f. Bear left on the park road to the group barracks area

2. Transportation to the park is by family group. There is no caravan. If you need to arrange transportation, please contact another family who is going, since Troop 81 will not be responsible for transporting scouts. If your scout is traveling with another family, make sure that he is carrying a medical release to allow treatment if he is injured while traveling. Copies can be obtained from John Benavides.

3. Lunch and dinner on Saturday and breakfast Sunday morning are provided and will be prepared for you. Volunteers to help in the kitchen are always welcome.

4. Even though we are staying in cabins, it can get cold in February, so bring warm clothes and a sleeping bag or warm blanket. We have a large indoor facility for dining and other activities in case of rain, but do bring rain gear and comfortable shoes that can get muddy, just in case.

5. Dress for Scouts will be class A and class B. Don’t forget scarves for dress Class A for the Court of Honor. Dress for the families is always casual, including the Court of Honor.

6. You may want to bring a lawn chair for the outdoor activities in the afternoon and campfire in the evening.

7. Enclosed is a map of Fort Parker State Park. The park’s Web site is at

http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/findadest/parks/fort_parker/ .

We are looking forward to a fun weekend. Please call me at 972-235-2751 or email me at john_benavides@yahoo.com if you have any questions. See you there!

John Benavides

Troop Committee Chairman

The Troop 81 Web site is at http://t81.freewebpage.org/ .

01/09/06

Troop 81 Family Camp

Fort Parker State Park

February 11-12, 2006 (Saturday, Sunday)

Time Activity Uniform

Saturday 11:00 AM Arrive at State Park and unpack A

11:45 Lunch Setup (____BADGER____) B

12:00 PM Flag Ceremony (______PYRO_______) A

12:15 - 12:45 Lunch B

12:45 Lunch Cleanup (______FOX_________) B

12:45 – 1:30 Patrol Competition Setup (all patrols) B

1:30 – 4:00 Patrol Competitions – Families included B

4:00 – 5:00 Free time (exploring the park, games, TFC makeup) B

5:00 Dining Hall Setup (_____PEDRO______) B

Court of Honor Setup (____MOOSE_________) B

Campfire Setup (_____SHARK_______) B

5:45 Flag Lowering (_____BADGER_____) A

6:00 - 7:00 Dinner A

7:00 Dinner Cleanup (_____PYRO_______) B

7:15 – 8:15 Court of Honor Dress A

Court of Honor Flag Ceremony (__BADGER__)

Court of Honor Opening (__PEDRO__)

Court of Honor Closing (_____PYRO_____)

8:15 Court of Honor Cleanup (_____SHARK_____) B

8:30 – 9:30 Campfire B

9:30 Cracker Barrel Setup (___FOX___) B

10:15 Cracker Barrel Cleanup (_____MOOSE_______) B

10:30 In Cabins B

11:00 PM Lights Out B

Sunday 7:00 AM Reveille B

7:30 Breakfast Setup (_____SHARK_______) B

7:45 Flag Raising (_____PEDRO_______) A

8:00 – 9:00 Breakfast A

9:00 Breakfast Cleanup (______PYRO________) B

9:00 – 10:00 Pack Up and Clean Cabins (all patrols) B

10:00 – 10:30 Campgrounds Cleanup (all patrols) B

10:30 – 11:00 Vespers, Flag Lowering (______SHARK______) A

(back to top)

2006 North Trail District Camporee Information Sheet

March 17 -19, 2006

Primary Activity: Camporee 2006 - Scout Skills

“Masters of Disaster” - Emergency Preparedness

Name of Camp: Clements Scout Ranch, Camp Cherokee

City/State: Athens, TX

Departure Date: March 17, 2006

Gathering Time: 6:00 PM (5:45 for quartermasters)

Departure Time: 6:30 PM

Departure Location: Richland Bible Fellowship

Return Date: March 19, 2006

Return Time: 1:00 PM

Return Location: Blockbuster

Emergency Phone: Craig Christensen: 214-587-5868 (cell)

Check gray notebook for other scoutmasters’ cell phone numbers

Camp Ranger (Ken) home (903) 675-3781

cell (903) 681-2689

Special Instructions; Troop will provide all meals except for Saturday supper. Each scout and adult should prepare a foil pack dinner, at home in advance (see attached instructions).

Each patrol is to have a cooler with ice to hold the foil packs. Patrols should also bring their own drinks.

Directions to Camp Cherokee (Clements Scout Ranch)

Go south on Highway 75 (Central Expwy.) to Interstate 635 (LBJ)

Go East on 635 and continue south through Mesquite.

Take US175 East toward Kaufman and continue Southeast to Athens.

From downtown Athens:

Take State Highway 19 South for approximately 3.3 miles.

Turn right on FM 753 and go approximately 3.8 miles.

Turn left on FM 2970 and go approximately 2.2 miles to the Clements Scout Ranch entrance. (11217 FM 2970, Athens, TX 75751)

At the check-in station take the right fork to Camp Cherokee. 

Troop 81

2006 Camporee Agenda

March 17 - 19, 2006

Date Time Event Uniform Assigned

Friday, Mar. 17 6:00 Arrive at RBF A All

6:30 Depart RBF A All

8:30 Set Up Camp B All

10:30 In tents C All

11:00 Taps C bugler

Sat. Mar. 18 6:30 Fire/Water C By Patrol

6:45 Reveille C bugler

7-7:30 Breakfast C All

7:00 Flagpole Assembly C Shark

7:30 Flag raising A Fox

8:30 Camporee Flag Ceremony A All

9:00 Scout Competion B All

12:00 Lunch

1:30 Scout Competition B All

Camporee Flag Ceremony

Troop 81 Flag lowering

All

Pyro

6:30 Dinner B All

7:30 Campfire / Awards A All

9:00 O.A. Ceremony A All

11:00 In tents C All

12:00 Taps C bugler

Sun. Mar. 19 6:45 Reveille C bugler

7:00 Breakfast C All

8:15 Flag raising A Spartan

8:45 Break Camp C All

9:00 Vespers (Chruch Services) A or B Optional

10:00 Flag lowering A Badger

10:15 Take down flag pole A Fox

(back to top)

Marksmanship Campout Information Sheet

April 21 – April 23, 2006

Primary Activity: Marksmanship: rifle & trap

Camp Location: Camp Wisdom

Address: 6400 W. Redbird Lane, Dallas, Tx 75236

Departure Date: April 21, 2006

Gathering Time: 6:00 PM Troop

5:30 PM Quarter/Grub Masters

Departure Time: 6:30 PM

Departure Location: Richland Bible Fellowship

Return Date/Time: April 23, 2006 11:00AM

Return Location: Blockbuster

Emergency Phone: Brian Moore 214-394-9814

Gale Marvin 214-683-3931

Camp Wisdom Ranger 972-298-3177

To check for a revised return time, call the Troop voice mail: 972-238-8722, ext. 81

Special Instructions

Vehicles, with the exception of the truck and trailer, are not allowed past the parking lot at Camp Wisdom. Be prepared to carry your personal gear, possibly as far as a mile. Put you gear into a backpack or a duffle bag that you can carry. Don’t bring more than you can carry.

Activities

We have reserved the rifle and shotgun ranges. Ribbons will be awarded to individuals and patrols shooting the tightest five shot patterns.

Marksmanship Campout

Schedule

April 21 – April 23, 2006

Date Time Event Uniform Class Assigned

Friday, April 21 6:00 Arrive at RBF A All

6:20 Prayer A All

6:30 Depart RBF A All

7:10 Arrive at Camp Wisdom Parking Lot B All

7:30 Set up camp B All

10:30 In tents C All

11:00 Taps C All

Saturday, April 22 7:00 Reveille C All

7:10 Fire & Water C All

7:20 Breakfast C All

8:00 Flagpole building B Fox & TFC

8:45 Flag Raising A Badger

9:00 Shooting B All

12:00 Lunch B All

1:00 Shooting B All

3:00 Patrol Shooting B All

4:00 Cleaning equipment B All

5:00 Dinner B All

6:00 Flag Lowering A Sharks

6:20 Camp Fire prep (if no burn ban) B Pyro

7:30 Camp Fire (if no burn ban) B All

10:30 In tents C All

11:00 Taps C All

Sunday, April 23 7:00 Reveille C All

7:10 Fire & Water C All

7:15 Breakfast C All

8:15 Flag Raising A Fox

8:30 Break Camp B All

9:00 Police Camp B All

9:30 Flag Lowering A Spartans

9:45 Vespers A All

9:50 Flagpole Deconstruction A All

10:15 Depart A All

(back to top)

May Campout Information Sheet

Primary Activity: Canoeing & TFC

Camp Location: James Ray Scout Ranch

Departure Date: Friday May, 5th 2006

Departure Location: Richland Bible Fellowship

1515 Blake

Richardson, TX

Gathering Time: 18:00

Departure Time: 18:30

Quarter/Grub Masters: 17:30

Return Date: Sunday May 7 th , 2006

Return Time: 13:00

Return Location: Blockbuster

Activities

Older scouts will be canoeing. Younger scouts will be on the trail to first class (TFC)

Lunch Money for Sunday

Please bring money for lunch on Sunday.

Contacts

Weather/Travel Updates: 972-238-8722 ext. 81

Craig Christensen: 214-587-5868

Dennis McCarthy 972-213-7225

Directions to James Ray Scout Ranch

Begin by going north on US 75 to US 70.

At exit 69, take Ramp (LEFT) onto Katy Memorial Expy S towards FM-120 / Pottsboro / Lake Texoma.

West of Pottsboro, FM 120 will turn north, don’t - Keep STRAIGHT onto FM-996

As FM-996 curves north, Road name changes to Cooks Corner Rd (this may actually be the intersection with the little gas station and dead fireworks stand)

Turn LEFT (West) onto Locust Rd

Turn RIGHT (North) onto Mill Creek Rd

Troop 81 – Slippery Falls Campout Schedule

September 16-18, 2005

Date Time Event Uniform Assigned

Friday, Sept. 16 5:45 Grubmasters & Quartermasters A GM’s & QM’s

6:00 Gathering @ RBF A All

6:20 Prayer A All

6:30 Depart RBF A All

8:00 Setup camp B All

10:30 In tents C All

11:00 Taps C All

Saturday Sept. 17 7:00 Reveille C

7:15 Fire and Water C

Breakfast B

Flag Pole Set-up B

7:45 Flag Pole Raising A

TFC program/ Merit Badge C

Dinner B

7:45 Flag lowering A

11:00 Taps C

Sunday Sept. 18 7:00 Reveille C

7:25 Flag raising A

7:30 Breakfast B

7:30 Islanders depart for base camp C

9:00 Break camp B

Police Camp, Latrine Duty B

10:45 Flag Lowering A

10:45 Closing, Vespers A

11:00 Depart A

(back to top)

(printable view)

Subject: Summer Camp 2006 with Troop 81

Date: Mon, 17 Apr 2006 12:34:45 -0600

From: John Benavides

Attached is the Troop 81 Summer Camp registration packet. It contains all of the forms you need to fill out. All fees and forms are due May 22nd. (Please plan to turn in forms at the May 8th baseball game, if possible.)

Medical Records

A new Class 1 medical record should be filled out by parents every year. If your son's Class 2 medical record is over three years old, he will need to have a physical exam by a doctor. If your son has a doctor's appointment scheduled after May 22nd, let us know that his Class 2 medical record will be late. All other forms are still due May 22nd.

Adult Questionnaire

Please let us know if you can drive Scouts to Summer Camp. Please let us know if you can camp with Troop 81 as one of our adult leaders. Please let us know if you plan to join us for Family Night on Friday, whether just for the evening activities or to camp with us overnight. Please fill out the form even if you do not plan to participate at all, just so we know for sure.

Merit Badges

Please spend time with your son as he fills out the merit badge pre-registration form. In each column (each column is a time slot, for example 9:00am - 9:50am), place a "1" in the box representing the merit badge your son would like to take that hour. Some merit badge class have a limit on the number of Scouts allowed, your son should also place a "2" in the box of another merit badge offered at the same time that he would not mind taking if his first choice is full.

Your son should repeat this procedure for each column. In other words, when he is finished, there should be several 1's marked on the page and several 2's.

Note that some classes last two hours. Do not "double-book" by putting too many 1's on the form.

New Scouts must sign up for the Brazos Buccaneer program ("First Year Camper"). This program covers most introductory Scouting skills and incorporates in three merit badges: Swimming, Basketry, and Leatherwork.

The attachment contains guidelines for the merit badges appropriate for each age level. Because the number of openings in each class is very limited, preference will be given to Scouts signing up for age-appropriate merit badges. In other words, there is little chance that a second year Scout will be able to get into the "Small Boat Sailing" merit badge class (recommended for year 3 Scouts).

There is also information about each merit badge, including any prerequisites or required equipment or money. Make sure your son meets the prerequisites (age or swimming ability or whatever) before he signs up for a merit badge.

Summary

Four things are needed at registration:

1. A check for $200

2. An Adult Questionnaire / Driver Sign-up form

3. A Merit Badge Pre-Registration form

4. A Class I/II medical record

Regards,

John Benavides (Troop 81 Committee Chairman)

P.S. If you are in a financial hardship situation, there is a campership opportunity sponsored by the council. You can get the form from Mr. Benavides or find it at the web link:

http://www.circle10.org/programs/camping/summer.html

All campership applications are due by May 15 at the Council office. 

BSA Troop 81

Summer Camp 2006

Summer Camp will be at Camp Constantin/Jack Furst Aquatic Base on Possum Kingdom

Lake from July 9 through July 15. This camp offers new Scouts an excellent first year camper program designed for the new Scout to have fun and learn some basic Scouting skills. The camp offers older Scouts a broad range of merit badge opportunities with special focus on aquatics. It’s a great place to be in the middle of a Texas summer.

The following must be submitted:

1. A check made out to Troop 81 for or a Troop 81 Scout Account Withdrawal Slip.

Registration after May 22nd will cost $210.

2. A completed / form

3. A completed form

a. Make sure all pre-requisites are met

b. Make sure all desired sessions are marked, with no class overlaps.

c. New Scouts must sign up for the Brazos Buccaneer program (“First Year Camper”). This program covers most introductory Scouting skills and incorporates in three merit badges: Swimming, Basketry, and Leatherwork.

4. Updated

a. Scouts must complete a Class 1 medical record annually.

b. Scouts must complete a Class 2 medical record once every three years.

c. Adults under 40 follow the same directions as Scouts.

d. Adults over 40 must complete a Class 3 medical record annually.

e. Camp Constantin does not accept “on file” or “current” for the immunization records. Month, day and year of inoculations be filled in.

After registration, you will be given the following:

A. Summer Camp Fact Sheet, including a “What to Bring to Summer Camp” check list

B. Directions to Camp Constantin and contact information

As always, we need . Drivers will be compensated to help offset the costs of Summer Camp. If you can drive, please indicate this on the Driver sign-up sheet.

As always, we need . The troop cannot attend unless we have an adequate number of adults to supervise approximately 35 boys. New Scouts, especially, benefit from having familiar adult faces around. As a sign of our appreciation, Troop 81 will make partial payment of the camping fee for leaders and their sons. If adults are interested in attending camp as leaders, please indicate on the Camp Questionnaire.

Lastly, we encourage families to attend . The Friday evening festivities include a BBQ dinner, camp water carnival, camp awards ceremony, and the Order of the Arrow "Tap Out". You can bring your own tent, camp and eat with Troop 81 and enjoy some quality time with your son. More information is on the back of this letter. Please indicate on the Camp Questionnaire if you plan to attend.

John Benavides

BSA Troop 81

Parents’ Night

Troop 81 encourages parents to attend summer camp with their son. We’d like adults to attend the whole week, but even a night or two can be beneficial to your son and the troop. At the least, try to attend the last night, Parents’ Night. All family members are welcome. (No pets, please.) Please indicate on the Adult Questionnaire how many family members will attend dinner and activities Friday night and how many will stay and camp for the night.

Wear clothes and shows that are suitable for walking. Visitors may want to bring a lightweight, folding lawn chair.

There is no entrance fee or camping fee on Parents’ Night. The cost for dinner will be $6 per person, payable at the door. Reservations are requested to ensure the camp prepares enough food.

The boys have free time on Friday afternoon. Parents are welcome any time. D/FW traffic is quite congested late Friday afternoon, so an early start lets you spend more time with your son and less in traffic. Cars must be parked in the lot near the headquarters. Troop 81’s campsite is Indian Mound.

Afternoon: Tour camp with your son

6:20 PM: Flag Lowering

6:30 PM: Dinner – buffet style in the dining facility

7:15 PM: Waterfront Activities (“blob” show by staff, regatta and volleyball, raft race with rafts that the boys built, aquatics relay race)

8:30 – 10:00 PM: Order of the Arrow “tap out” ceremony (optional).

We encourage parents to camp with the boys on Friday night. Camp Constantin allows adults to pitch a tent in the Troop 81 campsite, space permitting. Upon arrival, if you are directed to another location, please talk to the Troop 81 camp master before pitching your tent.

Troop 81 discourages Scouts leaving camp Friday night or early Saturday morning with their parents. The camp is a troop event, and the boys must stay together as a troop.

There is merit badge record keeping that must be completed Friday evening and approximately 2 hours of campsite take-down and clean-up on Saturday morning. It is not fair for a boy to leave this work to the others in the troop and leave early.

Troop 81 tries to get away from camp as soon as possible, with departure time from 10 ~ 11 AM. Scouts will not be dismissed from camp until all Scouts are dismissed. Even if a boy rides home with his parents, the final dismissal of the Scout will be at RBFC. We need to see your son back at RBFC to ensure he made it home safely. Your cooperation is appreciated.

(back to top)

Troop 81  -  Wilderness Campout Information Sheet

November 17 – 19, 2006

Primary Activity:           Wilderness Camping (older scouts)

                                    Trail to First Class skills (younger scouts)

Name of Camp:            Camp Meisenbach (Bluffview Campsite)

City/State:                    Athens, TX

Departure Date:            January 17, 2006

Gathering Time:            6:00 PM  (5:45 for quartermasters and grubmasters)

Departure Time:            6:30 PM

Departure Location:      Richland Bible Fellowship

Return Date:                 January 19, 2006

Return Time:                 1:00 PM

Return Location:           Blockbuster

Emergency Phone:        Check gray notebook for scoutmasters’ cell phone numbers

                                    Camp Ranger (Ken)     home    (903) 675-3781 (after 8pm)

cell       (903) 681-2689 

Wilderness Campout Activities

This campout is designed to provide older Scouts with an opportunity to learn wilderness camping skills, as well as to complete certain Camping MB and Wilderness Survival MB requirements.  Younger Scouts and Webelos will participate in Trail to First Class skills and other activities.  

All campers must pack their personal gear to campsite.

Don’t bring more than you can carry for over a mile.

Camp Meisenbach will not allow vehicles to the campsite.  We are not planning on bringing the Troop trailer on this campout so do not over-pack.

Saturday night “wilderness” camp will be near but separate from Base Camp.  Wilderness campsite will be pitched Saturday morning with tarps (no tents). 

Troop will provide tarps or scouts may bring own tarp or fly.  Poles are optional.

Fires will be started without matches.  Backpacking stoves will be used to cook.

Wilderness campers should bring at least 4 tent stakes and a ground sheet or 2 large garbage bags.

Younger Scouts and Webelos will have foil pack dinners in base camp.

TFC and Webelos may have an opportunity to fish from dock (bring own pole and tackle)

All campers should be prepared for rain and very cold weather.

Directions to Camp Meisenbach

Go south on Highway 75 (Central Expwy.) to Interstate 635 (LBJ)

Go East on 635 and continue south through Mesquite.

Take US175 East toward Kaufman and continue Southeast to Athens.

From downtown Athens:

Take State Highway 19 South for approximately 3.9 miles.

Turn right on FM 753 and go approximately 3.3 miles.

Turn left on FM 2970 and go approximately 2.4 miles to the Clements Scout Ranch entrance.

At the check-in station take the left fork to camp Meisenbach. (Camp Cherokee is to the right.)

At fork in road veer left.

Bluffview is the last campsite (on right side of road).  Do not pass the highpower lines or cross dam.

Troop 81  -  Wilderness Campout Schedule

November 17-19, 2006

(back to top)

December 2006 Campout information Sheet

Group Dynamix Lock-in

Primary Activity:

Team and group building activities include indoor climbing gym, movies, indoor sports, pizza, drinks, games, etc.

Location:

Group Dynamix

1215 Trend Drive

Carrollton, Tx 75006

972-416-9646

www.groupdynamix.com

Departure: Saturday, December 9th, 2006

Gathering time: 6:30PM

Departure time: 7:00PM

Departure location: Richland Bible Fellowship Church (RBF)

Return Date: Sunday, December 10th, 2006

Return Time: 8:45AM (estimated, check on voice-mail number below.)

Return Location: Blockbuster (Arapaho and Plano Road)

Troop Return voice-mail number: 972-238-8722 extension 81

Emergency Phone numbers:

Bob Centola's cell 972-333-4992

John Benavides' cell (214) 418-6454

(reception may be poor.)

Cost: $40 per scout (checks to Troop 81) -- includes food & everything.

$6 per adults (grub)

Special instructions:

1. Consent forms required for scouts and adults. Attached and available at web link:

http://www.groupdynamix.com/consent.pdf

2. Eat dinner before you come. Pizza is at late night.

3. Bring comfortable shoes and clothing (athletic or PE clothes)

4. Bring towels, water bottle and drinking cup (with name on it)

5. Bring sleeping bag, board games, videos, music CD's.

6. DO NOT bring video games

7. Bring snacks to share.

Event Consent Form

I, the undersigned, acknowledge that, during the event in which I voluntarily wish to participate, certain risks and dangers are present due to the very nature of the activities. I understand that any activity involving physical play, height, motion or dependence upon other people can result in unintentional injury. I also understand the following types of activities may be offered at the Group Dynamix event.

Group Games

Interactive, inclusive activities that involve group play and group challenges.

Recreation Sports

Modified versions of volleyball, relays, basketball, soccer, etc.

Low Ropes Course

Group challenges requiring trust and teamwork. Participants may be lifting, spotting and supporting one another.

High Ropes Course

Participant is harnessed and in the air on a “suspended obstacle course”. Participants climb a 20' rock wall.

Inflatables

Air-filled inflatable fun systems for racing, climbing, sliding, jousting, “bungeeing” and other play.

I certify that I am fully capable and fit to participating in this activity. Therefore, I assume and accept full responsibility for bodily injury, loss of personal property and any expenses, which may be incurred by me or any minor children in my care resulting from those inherent risks and dangers that are associated with the type of activities listed above.

I have read, understand and agree to the above and so evidence by my signature below.*

_______________________________ _____________________________ __________ ______________

Signature Print Name Age Date

As parent or guardian, I give my permission for my child to participate in the activities listed above that may be included in the Group Dynamix event unless I note otherwise on this form. I also agree that any photographs or video tapes taken by Group Dynamix that include images of my child will be used solely for Group Dynamix marketing.

__________________________________

Participant’s Guardian (if participant is under 18)

*If this form is not completed and signed by the participant or their legal guardian, the participant will not be permitted to engage in any activities conducted by Group Dynamix that require harnesses or any other activities where permission and acknowledgement of risk would reasonably be sought. 

(back to top)

Winter Camp 2006

What: 4 days of fun scouting activities and camping.

Where: Camp Cherokee in Athens, Texas

When: Leave Wednesday, Dec 27 th at 8:00 a.m. from RBF

Return Sunday, Dec 31 at 1:00 p.m. noon at RBF

Cost: $100.00 per person –includes basic camp fees and all food.

Additional fees required for optional scout programs such as C.O.P.E. Course, certain merit badges, etc. Also need some extra money for the trading post.

Signup: Merit Badge Signup Sheet and $25 non-refundable deposit due November 27th. The remaining $75 is due by December 11th.

Any refunds will be dependent upon how many attend camp.

Schedule: Merit badges in morning; games/events/free time in afternoon.

Other: - Good opportunity to complete outstanding merit badges

- Good opportunity to get requirements signed off

-T81 will be doing TFC activities and teaching some MB’s in camp.

- T81 Cold weather camping class will be held at RBF on Thursday, Dec 14 at 7:00 p.m.–we will go over how to deal with cold weather and recommendations on what gear to bring –there will be some handouts.

Visit the following website for complete information: www.miki.org

Feel free to contact Mr. Marvin if you have any questions.

Home: 972-238-7325

Work: 972-718-3907

(back to top)