We have just posted pictures of our 2008 summer camp week on our web site.  As you view them with your families it will bring back memories of our week together and the fun you all had.

 

We had 19 scouts at summer camp – a number we have not been close to in many, many years.   13 of these scouts had their first summer camp experience, another number we have not seen in a very long time.  The troop walked away with 18 partial merit badges and 45 completed badges.    Yes, the completed badge count would have been much higher had the lake contained fish, and I am sure the majority of the badges will be completed within the next few weeks.

 

Other “firsts” many or all of you experienced:

 

-      You spent a week away from your families

-      You worked on your first merit badges

-      You swam in a lake for the first time

-      You slept outside, under the stars without a tent

-      You ate camp food for an entire week

-      You experienced the heavy rains that fall in the mountains

-      You camped in the mountains and learned that no matter where you walk you are going uphill

 

And you all survived.

 

We also had three parents/future leaders join us who also had their first summer camp experience, and they loved it.

 

We also worked on many rank requirements and gave a Scoutmaster Conference for one Scout rank, three Tenderfoot ranks, one First Class rank, one Star rank, and one Eagle rank.

 

Many see summer camping as the highlight of the camping year, and end to a year of troop meetings and weekend campouts.  I agree this is the highlight of the program, but rather than the  end of the camping year, this is truthfully a beginning for all of you for the coming year. You had fun with all of our troop members that were on staff, you earned badges, ranks, and completed many requirements.  You are on a roll – let’s keep the excitement of Scouting alive!