TThheee S nSSiigggnnaallleeerr · 20-22 Venturing campout 23 TLC/BOR/patrol meeting 27-29 Webelos Weekend 28 Nursing Home visit 30 Troop meeting (Soles for Souls presentation) May

264 The Signaler - Troop Newsletter

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Website: http://www.troop264olney.net E-mail: [email protected]

Upcoming Dates and Deadlines (Refer to calendars for specific times.)

Troop 264 – Meeting time 7:30 PM Mondays

Venturing Crew 264 -- 6:30 PM Mondays

(Venturing Crew activities in RED)

--------------------------

SPL Election on April 9

All scouts! Turn out at the April 9 troop meeting to elect a new

Senior Patrol Leader for the coming months! Candidates may be

nominated or stand for themselves, but each must be at least age 15

and Star rank. We have excellent candidates in the troop but only

one can be elected.

Candidates: expect to give a short introduction of yourself and

reasons why the scouts should select you.

New patrol leaders and assistant patrol leaders will be selected by

the individual patrols.

Jon Godfrey’s Eagle Project Continues

Jonathan’s shoe collection project continues into June, with

something like 2,000 pairs of shoes collected. Jon has invited Soles

for Souls – the organization to which the collected shoes will be

sent – to come to the April 30 troop meeting to tell us what

happens to these shoes and who benefits. Clean out your closet

and your basement and bring any unwanted shoes that day!

Earth Day (Sun. April 22) with Pack 1074

Pack 1074 at Belmont Elementary is planning a local hike for about

30 Cub Scouts on Sunday April 22, and has asked for several T264

scouts to “teach the boys something during the hike” related to the

environment. If you can help, Mr. Dale Bickel has the contact

information and will be happy to share it with you.

Summer Camp -- July 29 – August 4

Philmont Backpacking – July 10 – 24

Philmont Cavalcade – July 31 – August 11

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April

1 Last day of NYC trip 2 Patrol meeting 8 Easter 9 Troop meeting 9 Last day of spring break (MCPS) 10 District Roundtable 12 Venturing Roundtable 15 10 mile hike /Appalachian Trail (Parks/Hoffman) 16 Patrol meeting 19 Troop Adult Meeting, 8 PM, Brookville Academy 20 Sharp Street food bank, 4:15 PM 20-22 Venturing campout 23 TLC/BOR/patrol meeting 27-29 Webelos Weekend 28 Nursing Home visit 30 Troop meeting (Soles for Souls presentation) May 4 Pack 1074 bridging 5 10 mile hike (Hoffman / Parks) 5 - 6 Philmont Cavalcade riding prep (Gina H.) 6 Ventures shooting, 1 PM 7 Troop meeting 9 District Roundtable (Vikings) 10 Venturing Roundtable 11-13 Laurel Caverns 14 TLC / BOR / patrol meeting 17 Pack 434 bridging 17 Troop Adult meeting 18 Sharp Street food bank 19 20 mike hike (Hoffman/Parks) 21 Troop meeting 25-28 Philmont prep backpacking (WV) 26 Legion Flags 28 Memorial Day – NO meeting

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http://www.geocities.com/crossroadstroop264

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Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat

1

NYC (Vikings)

Merit Badge Madness

(to noon)

2

Patrol meeting

Spring break (MCPS)

3

Spring break (MCPS)

4

Spring break (MCPS)

5

Spring break (MCPS)

6

Spring break (MCPS)

7

8

Easter

9 Troop meeting

Open: Eagles

Skill: Crusaders

MB: Hawks

Spring break (MCPS)

10

11 District Roundtable

(Eagles)

12 Venturing Roundtable

13

14

15 10 mile hike - AT

(Hoffman/Parks)

16

Patrol meeting

17

18 19

Troop adult meeting,

8 PM

20

Sharp Street Food

Bank, 4:15 PM

21

22

23 TLC/BOR

Patrol meeting

24

25

26

27

Webelos Weekend

28 Nursing home visit

(Eagles)

Webelos Weekend

29

Webelos Weekend

30 Troop meeting

Soles for Souls

presentation

(Jon Godfrey)

Backwoods crew rehearsal many Sundays late afternoon – see article below

April 2012

The Signaler - Troop 264 Newsletter

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Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat

1 2 3 4

Pack 1074 bridging

ceremony

5 10 mile hike

(Hoffman/Parks)

Philmont Cavalcade

Prep (overnight)

6 Philmont Cavalcade

Prep (overnight)

Ventures shooting 1 PM

7 Troop meeting

Open: Crusaders

Skill: Eagles

MB: Hawks

8

9

District Roundtable

(Vikings)

10

Venturing Roundtable

11

Laurel Caverns

(late arrival at

campsite)

12

Laurel Caverns

13

Laurel Caverns

14

TLC/BOR

Patrol meeting

15

16 17 Troop Adult meeting,

8 PM

Pack 434 bridging,

7 PM

18

Sharp Street Food

Bank, 4:15 PM

19

20 mile hike

(Hoffman/Parks)

20

21 Troop meeting

Open: New Scouts

Skill: Vikings

MB: Crusaders

22

23

24

25

Philmont Prep Hike

(Mountains of WV)

26 Legion Flags

NO nursing home visit

Philmont Prep Hike

(Mountains of WV)

27

Philmont Prep Hike

(WV)

28 Memorial Day

NO meeting

Philmont Prep Hike

29

30

31

Backwoods crew rehearsal many Sundays late afternoon (except Memorial Day weekend) – see article below

May 2012


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Sun. 4/15 - 10 miler - Appalachian trail hike from Key's Gap north to Harper's Ferry, WV

(This hike will complete the entire WV section of the AT in a single trip!)

Sat. 5/05 - 10 miler - Mount Marshall, Virginia

Sat. 5/19 - 20 miler - To be determined

“Friends of Scouting” Campaign

Scout Parents/Guardians, Scouters, and Supporters of Troop 264 It’s not too late to contribute!

The Friends of Scouting (FOS) Campaign continues. This annual fundraiser is vital to Scouting in the National Capital

Area Council (NCAC) and to Troop 264. The funds collected provide support for the professional Scout staff, Scout

shop, Scout camps, Scouting programs and organized events, and adult training programs.

A letter from me dated January 25 was mailed to each Scout family. Enclosed with the letter were an information

pamphlet/contribution form, and a self-addressed envelope to facilitate the return of your check or pledge. If you did not

receive the letter, or have misplaced it, please let me know and I can provide you with another copy. If you have already

given me your contribution, thank you very much. If you haven’t yet completed the contribution card and written your

check (payable to NCAC-BSA), please consider doing it now, and return it to me as soon as possible.

Thank you for your support.

Norman Strickman

FOS Campaign Coordinator

(301) 570-4712

Nursing Home Visit – April 28

The April 28 nursing home visit is assigned to the Eagle Patrol.

The March 31 nursing home visit was assigned to the Hawk patrol. Two scouts – Brian H. and Heath K. – as well as

Mrs. Ann H., Mr. Rob K., and Mr. Martin Predoehl – attended. Heath brought his cello and played six pieces, which

were well received by the residents.

Patrol leaders, it is your responsibility to inform the members of your patrol early and arrange for patrol scouts to

attend.

Hiking Opportunities for Scouts and Parents – April - May

The hiking merit badge group is planning several 10+ mile day hikes (10 mile hikes in a single day). We'd like to open

these hikes up to the entire troop and troop parents. They are excellent ways to get out and see the world, practice for

Philmont, and explore some new places! Details about our hikes are below:

So, here is more information about these hikes:

The hikes move from fairly easy to challenging in difficulty.

We will hike rain, snow or shine (hoping for LOTS of shine though!)

We will hike from morning until we are done. For the first couple easier hikes, it should take about 3-4 hours to

complete the hikes (so you can get an idea of the time commitment) .


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We will eat lunch on the trail each day so bring lunch and trail snacks and, of course, your 10 hiking essentials.

Interested in coming on one or more of these hikes? Please email me at [email protected] and tell me Name(s)

and whether the people are scouts or parents.

Hoping you can come on some of these! ~ Mr. Hoffman [email protected]

Webelos Weekend – April 27 - 29

Webelos Weekend is only a few weeks away! Webelos and parents from Cub Scout packs will have the opportunity to

camp with troops for two nights. There is a range of activities for the Cub Scouts. T264 will be running the knot tying

competition this year, so practice up on your knots – you may be challenged. Venturing Crew 264 has offered to take

care of the food over the weekend. Information about signups will be provided by the Greenspons within the next few

weeks. And see pages 27 and 28 in this Signaler.

Please sign up early, it’s important for planning to know how many to expect.

Cub Scout packs wishing to camp with T264 should contact Mrs. Pam Greenspon at [email protected] , the sooner

the better. Additional information about Webelos Weekend from the White Oak District is included toward the end of

this Signaler near the permission slips.

Laurel Caverns – May 11 - 13

Scouts — If you have not done this outing before, you will find this trip well worth the cost and effort!

You may pick up two merit badges this weekend!

This is also open to Venturing Crew 264 members as well as new scouts registered with the troop.

By popular demand, and for the sixth year in a row, Troop 264 is headed back to Laurel Caverns at Uniontown,

PA, three hours distant from Olney. Mr. Wiersma has made initial reservations for up to 24 scouts and crew

members (hereafter scouts, to keep this readable) to do the Climbing Merit Badge (climbing and rappelling inside the

cave!) at 9 AM on Saturday May 12. Even if you already have the merit badge, you can do the climbing and

rappelling again (you just have to pay the money, of course). New scouts can only participate if they are registered

with the troop before May. All scouts doing the climbing merit badge must be at least 12 years old for the

Climbing merit badge (new rule this year adopted by the Caverns), and ALL scouts doing the Climbing merit

badge, will be expected to KNOW the knots and first aid requirements listed below. We will have some knot

and first aid sessions between now and May.

Scouts who are not yet 12 years old may do the Upper Caving as described below, and they can do the merit badges

(except for Climbing merit badge).

Saturday afternoon at 2 pm, scouts and adults will explore the DARK parts of the caverns with a guide, using

flashlights. Scouts 12 and older can do the Lower Caving, scouts under age 12 on May 1 MUST do the Upper

Caving. For Sunday morning at 9 AM, Mr. Wiersma has arranged for interested scouts to do either the Forestry

merit badge or the Geology merit badge (scout’s choice). The merit badge should be complete by about 1 PM and

return to Olney is expected at about 4 PM. There is also some discussion underway with Mr. Carr about doing the

Architecture merit badge as there are two Frank Lloyd Wright (famous architect) houses within 15 miles (Kentuck

Knob and Fallingwater).

Scouts doing the Saturday morning Climbing merit badge must travel up to Laurel Caverns Friday evening, so that

we can be ready to go at 9 AM Saturday. This year the campsite at Laurel Caverns is closed, so Mr. Wiersma is

mailto:[email protected]


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making arrangements to stay at a camp some distance away. Because of the nature of the activities, costs are higher

than the usual campout. But hey, it’s not every camping trip scouts can get up to two merit badges in a weekend! And

climb and rappel inside a cave!

This was a fun trip last year and should equally be so this year. Contact Mr. Dirk Wiersma,

[email protected] at the earliest opportunity if you are interested.

_____________

A quick summary of the activities and costs follow. Two costs are shown for the individual activities: the first is for the

scout while the second is for the adult observer (an adult not participating in the merit badge, but who is watching the

merit badge activities).

___________

_____ $44 / $9 -- Climbing Merit Badge. Scouts have the opportunity to complete the Climbing merit badge in one day.

Scouts act as climbers and belayers on a climbing wall, and rappel three times off of a 40 foot high ledge inside the cave, all

under the guidance of Boy Scout certified climbing instructors Scouts must complete the First Aid and the climbers’ knots

requirements for the merit badge BEFORE arriving (we will work on them), and may be asked to demonstrate such knowledge

before climbing. This activity will take place on 9:00 AM Saturday morning, until about 12:30 PM.

Scouts who already have the Climbing merit badge may participate (and they too will be expected to

know the same knots and first aid requirements), but priority will be given to those scouts working on the merit badge. But as

there are 26 spaces potentially available for scouts, we expect to be able to accommodate all interested scouts.

_____ $20 / $20 -- Cave Exploration. After lunch on Saturday, scouts and scouters will descend with a guide into the

UNLIGHTED portion of the cave, armed with flashlights only, to see what lies below. At the bottommost point of the tour,

Lower Cave participants will be more than 400 feet below the elevation of the entrance. Most passageways in the cave are 40

feet high and similar in width, but there is a short section near the beginning of the unlighted section that is narrow with some

crawling required. No observers here, scouts and scouters tread the same path and hard hats for all. Expect to see bats and climb

over rocks big and little, and have fun too. No one was left behind in the cave last year, but we’ll try harder this time.

Scouts age 12 and over by May 11 are eligible for Lower Caving, scouts not yet 12 MUST do the less strenuous Upper Caving.

But don’t be fooled into thinking this is a kiddy walk. There are boulders and narrow places to be traversed. We will require at

least 2 adults in both the Upper and Lower Caving activities. No difference in cost for scouts and scouters since this activity is

for fun, not a merit badge.

____$17 / $9 – Geology Merit Badge. (Sunday morning at 9:00 AM.) If we have at least 6 paid scouts (and I’m sure we will),

those scouts have the opportunity to complete the Geology merit badge by 1:00 PM. This gives you the opportunity to walk

through a few areas of the cave that you did not see Saturday. At least 2 adult observers are required. OR

____$10 /no charge for observers – Forestry Merit Badge. (Sunday morning at 9:00 AM.) If we have at least 6 paid scouts,

those scouts have the opportunity to complete the Forestry merit badge by 1:00 PM. At least 2 adult observers are required.

____$22 / $22 – Meals and patch. $22 per person for meals on Saturday (breakfast and supper) and Sunday breakfast. We will

do troop cooking. Participants should bring a bag lunch for Saturday since there is not enough time to return to the campsite

between the Climbing and Cave Exploration activities. Part of this cost also includes a Laurel Caverns patch for all

participants.

____ Camping costs to be determined, but we expect they will be quite reasonable.

To sign up, contact Mr. Dirk Wiersma, [email protected] . A few Geology, Forestry, and

Climbing merit badge books are available from the troop library (see Jonathan S.), or may be purchased at the Scout

store, or ordered online through http://www.scoutstuff.org . It’s important to read the merit badge books

(particularly for the Climbing MB) so that you understand what’s expected. Scouts that are prepared will spend more

time climbing and rappelling instead of reviewing the book material with the counselor.


http://www.scoutstuff.org/


7

--------------------

FIRST AID SUMMARY FOR THE CLIMBING MERIT BADGE: KNOW THESE!

Heat Reactions result when the body can no longer keep cool.

Heat Exhaustion: Person feels dizzy, faint, nauseous, headache, pale or sweating heavily, treat for Heat Exhaustion. Lie down; raise

feet, cool person with wet cloth and fan. Sip water slowly.

Heat Stroke: Occurs when body’s heat control system shuts down. Skin may be wet or dry but will flushed and hot. Pulse will be very

fast and person may be unconscious. Cool rapidly through immersion or with cold packs. Treat for shock and seek medical attention

ASAP. When victim is able to drink give them all the water they want.

Hypothermia: Occurs when a person is so cold they can no longer keep warm. In extreme cases death can result. Hypothermia can

sneak up on climber/camper, especially on a cold windy day. A person with hypothermia will be shaking, possibly teeth chattering. As

the condition worsens the person will get more confused. If you see these symptoms on a person they need to be warmed up. Move

person to tent or shelter and remove wet clothing and place in a blanket or sleeping bag. Give them warm drinks only if the person is

alert enough to drink. In extreme cases the person must be actively warmed. Place them in a sleeping bag and climb in with them.

Frostbite: Cold weather, especially if it is windy, brings with it the threat of frostbite. Frostbite occurs when a portion of the body

becomes frozen. The area of frostbite will stiffen and become grayish white in color. This area needs to be warmed back up if there is no

danger of refreezing. Put cold feet on someone else’s bare belly or put hands in your armpits to warm them up.

Rope Burns: Rope burns or friction burns can occur anytime climbers allow the rope to pass too quickly through their hands, or when a

fast moving rope comes in contact the body. A rope burn is characterized by raw red skin and sometimes blistering. If a burn does occur

treat the area with mild soap and water to prevent infection. The best protection against rope burns is to wear gloves.

Stings and insect bites: Carefully scrape away the stinger with the edge of a knife blade or credit card. An ice pack might reduce pain

and swelling. Hydrocortisone cream applied to insect bites will help with itching. In cases where there is a severe reaction, get medical

help.

Tick Bites: Pull tick out with tweezers by grasping close to skin and gently pulling until it comes loose. If the tick has been embedded

for more than a day or was difficult to remove, see your doctor.

Snakebite: Snakebite is rare and seldom fatal. Get medical help ASAP. Remove rings and any other jewelry that might be a problem

with swelling. Have victim lie down and keep them calm, this will slow down the spread of the venom. Apply a broad constricting band

2-4 inches above the bite to slow spread of the venom. Make sure that the band is not tight enough to cut off the blood circulation

completely. Periodically check for pulses on both sides of the band.

Abrasions and Blisters: For abrasions clean disinfect and cover the wound. For blisters, stop immediately and apply moleskin to

protect the blister. If the blister breaks, treat it like an abrasion or minor cut.

Sprains: A sprain is caused by a twisting, wrenching or lifting movement that tears or stretches tissues surrounding a joint. Elevate the

area for and apply a cold compress for 15-20 minutes. If your first aid kit has an ice bandage apply that to the affected area.

Fractures: Broken bones can be either closed (simple) or open (compound). If you suspect a fracture don’t move the injured area to test

for pain. Look for these signs:

1. Tenderness to touch over the site of the break.

2. Swelling or bruising at the fracture site.

3. An unusual or abnormal shape, position, or movement of bone or joint.

4. A grating sound or feeling

5. Inability to move the injured limb.

6. The victim may have heard or felt a bone snap.

7. A compound fracture will have all the above plus an open wound.

Splint the injured limb and get medical help ASAP.


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~ By Mr. Ron Hoggard for the Climbing MB, 2007

KNOTS FOR THE CLIMBING MERIT BADGE: KNOW THESE!

For all these knots (especially the Double Fisherman’s Knot, which is not well illustrated below),

see http://www.animatedknots.com !

Climbers’ Knots

http://www.animatedknots.com/


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Waiver Release Forms must be completed by each Climbing Merit Badge participant, and by each Cave Exploration

participant as follows:

• Each scout participating in the Climbing MB must complete the waiver form at

http://www.laurelcaverns.com/ClimbingandRappelling.htm, along with a parent or guardian.

• Each scout AND each adult participating in the Saturday afternoon Cave Exploring must

complete the form at http://www.laurelcaverns.com/awarenessandreleaseform.htm (Lower Caving) or

http://www.laurelcaverns.com/uppercavingreleaseform.htm (Upper Caving).

Completed waiver forms must be given to Mr. Wiersma by May 7. If you are doing both, you must complete both

forms. Permission slip is on page 29 of this Signaler but it cannot replace the Laurel Caverns’ forms.

Troop Picnic and Court of Honor – Sunday June 10

Early warning is given that the annual Troop Picnic and Summer Court of Honor will be held on June 10, early

afternoon, at the Smith Center (adjacent to Meadowside Nature Center). Please put this date on your calendars.

Scouts, work on completing rank advancements and finishing “partial” merit badges so that they may be awarded on

this date. Turn in the blue cards for completed merit badges to Mr. Matyas as they are finished.

“Navy Way” Basic Boot Camp – July 14

Tim and I were at the Naval Academy recently and found an advertisement for 2 "boot camp" events the Academy

offers to the younger Boy Scouts (ages 10 to 12).. We plan to sign up our middle son (who will be bridging to Troop

264 soon) for these events and thought we would offer the information to the Troop to see if there was any interest from

other new Boy Scouts. Details are below:

The U.S. Naval Academy invites young Boy Scouts (10 through age 12) to participate in a "Navy Way" Basic Boot

Camp. In two hours, recruits will experience a little of what it's like to be a Navy swabbie. Recruits are issued a "Dixie

cup" cap. They learn Navy terms, march, chant, follow orders and eat in a simulated mess. Basic Boot Camp runs from

10am to noon on Saturday July 14th and costs $37 (which includes lunch).

http://www.laurelcaverns.com/ClimbingandRappelling.htm

http://www.laurelcaverns.com/awarenessandreleaseform.htm

http://www.laurelcaverns.com/uppercavingreleaseform.htm


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After completing the Basic Boot Camp, Scouts can stay at the Academy and attend the "Navy way" Advanced Boot

Camp, which runs from 1:30 - 4pm (same day, Saturday July 14th). This session includes lessons in seamanship

training, knot tying, semaphore, and precision marching and drilling. The cost of this session is an additional $37.

A promotion ceremony is held immediately following each session and parents are able to observe both sessions, and

then attend the promotion ceremonies.

I am happy to collect registrations for the Troop. I will need the following information by June 15th [best much earlier

than that]: Name of the Scout, Age, Address, Telephone, E-mail address, Name of parents, daytime phone number, size

of head (circumference in inches above ears), and money.

Thanks! Shannon Garrity [email protected] or [email protected]

Advancement Camp at Camp Twin Echo, near Ligonier PA July 8-14 or July 15-21

Week 1 -- July 8 - 14, 2012

American Heritage

Archeology Citizenship in the World

Entrepreneurship Geneolgy

Pioneering Railroading Robotics Scouting Heritage

Surveying

Advancement Camp is an opportunity to earn up to 6 of the 10 merit badges offered in a single week. It is held at

Camp Twin Echo, a Boy Scout camp near Ligonier, PA, about 3½ hours distant. We do not do this as a troop, scouts

must register and make travel arrangements individually. Cost this year is $300 per week, choose whichever week

has the merit badges you want. Carpooling may be possible if more than one scout attends the same week.

The troop’s summer camp at Goshen Scout reservation is July 29 to August 4, a week later than normal this year to

avoid conflict with Philmont backpacking. That shift also removes the usual conflict with the second week of

Advancement Camp.

A list of available merit badges, and related information is available at

http://lhc-bsa.org/Camping/Advancement%20Camp

If you have questions, we can put you in touch with T264 scouts that have attended past Advancement Camps.



http://lhc-bsa.org/Camping/Advancement%20Camp


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Week 2 -- July 15 - 21, 2012

Aviation Drafting Emergency Prepardness

Entrepeneurship First Aid

Geocaching Radio Space Exploration

Weather Wilderness Survival

Summer Camp at Goshen Scout Reservation – July 29 to August 4

Summer camp information is included toward the end of this Signaler, including costs and a list of which merit badges

will be available. Sign up early: the sooner we can request specific merit badges for scouts, the better chance there is of

getting them. Parents may also go to summer camp for all or part of the week. See pages 30 and 31 in this Signaler.

Daniel Agre’s Eagle Project Eagle Project at Sharp Street Food Bank

On Saturday, February 4, Daniel Agre started his Eagle Project at Sharp Street Church in Sandy Spring to clean out

the basement, paint the walls and build some shelves to use for food storage for the Food Bank. Troop 264 has been helping

out at the Food Bank for several years. We began the work with the help of six other scouts and parents to move out all of

the stuff that had been kept in the basement for many years. Next we washed the walls (which were very dirty). A few

hours later, the basement was unrecognizable from its previous condition. The dirt stained floor was swept and vacuumed

and the walls were covered in a two coats of white paint.


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Two weeks later on Saturday, February 18th, the crew regrouped at Sharp Street to build wooden shelves along two

of the walls. We purchased about eight 4’ x 8’ pieces of plywood for the flat part of the shelves and about fifty 8-foot studs

for the supports. We measured and calculated the lengths of the wood we would need for the shelves and for the various

vertical supports, and then measured and cut the wood pieces to the appropriate lengths. When all the wood had been cut,

we first nailed the shelf frames together, then nailed the shelf frames to the vertical supports, moved the shelve sections

against the walls and finally bolted the shelves to the wall. The building process took all day but the final product made

everything worth it. The shelves were very sturdy and looked good too! When I returned to the basement the following

week to pick up a letter, the shelves were already filled with canned goods for the Food Bank. The shelves will help the

Food Bank store their canned goods as well as help them stay organized.

Special thanks to Chris Cymerman, Jimmy Bickel, Matthew Ponce, Mr. Bickel, Hunter Reichard, Joe Silberberg,

Col. Joseph Stull, Aaron Agre and my parents for helping out.

~ By Daniel Agre

Adopt A Soldier Program - Serving Our Troops Since 2005

The Adopt A Soldier Program was initiated in January 2005 by Boy Scout Troop 264 in Brookeville-Olney, Maryland.

The 75+ scouts and their families wanted to express their appreciation for our military personnel, both home and abroad,

by sending letters of encouragement and care packages with a few comforts of home. Since its inception, over 150

soldiers and three K9 units have been adopted by the scouts, and more than 500 care packages have been sent. Boy Scout

Troop 264 has been assisted by, and has received donations from various Cub Scout, Girl Scout and Brownie Troops,

and other local organizations. We thank all who have contributed and those who continue to participate in our mission to

support our troops.

On a monthly basis, the Scouts and their families prepare care packages for our adopted soldiers with candy, gum,

powdered drink mixes, assorted snacks, magazines, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, lip balm, etc., accompanied by cards and

letters.

Anyone who would like to assist the Scouts by donating any of the above items is asked to contact Mrs. Josey Simpson

at 301-512-5439 or email: [email protected] . Your participation in our Adopt A Soldier Program is

very important and your efforts are greatly appreciated. Please continue to keep the young men and women who sacrifice

so much for your freedom and for our country in your thoughts, in your prayers and in your hearts.

God Bless America ... Land of the Free ... Because of the Brave

SUPPORT OUR TROOPS



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The Backwoods Crew A Scout Chorus open to All Boy, Girl, & Venture Scouts & All Registered Adult Leaders!

Rehearsal Time: Most Sundays 4:15-5:45 PM

[Note: Interested new folks should call Mr. Sherman (301-651-9639) to be sure about a particular Sunday’s meeting time]

Rehearsal Location: Mr. Sherman's House; 45 Bryants Nursery Rd, Cloverly, MD 20909 (near Blake HS)

Food!: Pizza, drinks & snacks provided (but ya have-ta sing for it!)

All guys and gals, youths and adults who are registered in any capacity with the BSA or Girl Scouts (GS) are welcome

to join the BWC, regardless of musical ability. The only requirements are that you get a kick out of singing with

others, and that you make a real effort to attend as many rehearsals as possible. You also need a Class-A uniform for

performances. BWC's growing repertoire includes songs that are fun and lively (e.g., Y.M.C.A. (adapted to

B.S.ofA.)), patriotic (e.g., God Bless the USA), reverent/interfaith (e.g., On Eagle's Wings) and folk/inspirational (e.g.,

"Colors of the Wind" from Pocahontas). Performances are at events such as Webelos weekend and District Camporee

campfires, and by request at Eagle or Gold Award Courts of Honor and other special Scout or community events, as

our schedule permits. Practice sheet music, MP3 files and CD's provided. All you need to bring is yourself, your voice

and an enthusiastic musical spirit. Listening to provided practice audio tracks on you iPod, SmartPhone, home stereo

or computer between rehearsals is strongly encouraged! We rehearse most Sundays (4:15PM to 5:45PM;

pizza & snacks provided). For now, rehearsals are at Mr. Sherman's house (45 Bryants Nursery Rd, Cloverly, MD 20905).

Directions: From Olney head South on Norwood Rd; cross Norbeck Road/Route 28. Take a left onto

Bryants Nursery Rd across from Blake HS. Go ~0.2 mi and take a right into driveway at mailbox number 45.

Come check us out (no pressure, promise!)

For more information, or to get on the BWC email list, contact:

Mr. Gary Sherman, Asst. Scoutmaster, Boy Scout Troop 264, Brookeville-Olney, MD

[email protected] or at Verizon cell 301-651-9639.

Petersburg, VA Civil War Hike and Camp – March 3 - 4

It was a small group of scouts and adults that headed south on a rainy Saturday morning to Petersburg, VA.

But the rain lightened as we went south. We arrived at Fort Lee, which adjoins the Petersburg National Battlefield Civil

War site, and went in search of the Scout Hut next to which we would camp. Not having found it, we came across a

gentleman / scout leader who not only knew where it was, but made a special effort to get us the key to the building.


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The Scout Hut is the location that Troop 912 uses for there meetings on base, and as a place to store scouting items. There

is also an on-base Cub Scout pack that meets here. Inside the building, we were able to use the buildings plumbing for

water and whatever, but we camped in tents outside.

Leaving the base, the public entrance to the park was only a short distance away. In the Visitors’ Center, we watched a short film on

the battle for Petersburg (an important railway junction). The Union forces wanted to seize the Confederate capital, Richmond, but

could not do so. So General Grant moved south toward Petersburg and began to attack on June 15, 1964; General Lee extended his

lines south from Richmond, arriving June 18. This began the

longest siege in American warfare, complete with trenches,

shelling, and miserable muddy winter living conditions. It was

not until April 1865 that the Union forces were able to cut off

the last rail line into Petersburg, forcing Lee’s retreat on April

2, 1865. Pursued by Grant’s forces, General Lee surrendered at

Appomattox a week later.

Jeremy N. took the lead on the 10 mile hike around the battlefield, and showed that

he was well versed in the history of this place. He needed little more than a glance

at the site information boards to then tell us what had occurred here and the

significance of it in the larger context of the battle. It did not rain while we were

on the hike, and the sun even broke through late in the day.

At one point, Union sappers (Pennsylvania miners) ran a tunnel under Confederate

lines and filled it with gunpowder. This was detonated, blowing a massive hole in

the ground right under the feet of Confederate soldiers. Union soldiers attacked but

the Confederates rallied and drove back the Union forces. The tunnel entrance and

the pit are still to be seen today; we were told that before the creation of the battlefield park, the site was occupied by a golf course

whose final hole was this selfsame pit where so many soldiers were wounded or killed.

Back at the Scout Hut, we set up camp and the scouts began the chili Jeremy hasd arranged for supper. These scouts knew well what to

do and needed no adult help. The chili was excellent and there was little left over despite the small group. Scouts washed up and stored

the gear, after which they went for an hour-long walk about the base.

Sunday morning, we stopped for a breakfast at Denny’s (paid for by the adults) and we returned to Olney late in the morning. Special

thanks to Jeremy N. for arranging this outing with minimal assistance, I only wish more scouts had been there to take advantage of his

skills and knowledge.

~ Mr. Dale Bickel

Participants: Jeremy N. William S. Jim B.

(10 mile hike) Mr. Rick J. Mr. Bob I.

Mr. Kevin K. Mr. Dale B.


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Manassas, VA Civil War Hike – March 10

For the Hiking and Backpacking merit badges, Mr. Hoffman and Mr. Parks arranged a day hike at the Manassas

Battlefield in Manassas, VA. This was not only about the hike, but about the historical aspects of the place too. There

were two major Civil War battles here (“First Manassas” and “Second Manassas”), both scenes of some of the bloodiest

fighting of the war, and both resulted in defeats for the Union army.

[At the present time, neither summary nor picture nor participant list has reached the Signaler. We hope to have

something for next month. ]

Boys Lost in the Woods – March 17

At 8 AM on the 17th, SPL Anthony J. got a call from Scoutmaster

Bogan: there are two boys missing in the woods behind Belmont

Elementary and we need to pull together troop scouts to find them.

Anthony contacted the patrol leaders who then started a phone chain

to alert scouts of the what , when, and where. There were failures in

the phone tree: one scout is reported as yelling “it’s happening!” into

the phone and hanging up without telling the other scout where to go

or what the emergency was; another was said to ask a mom if a scout

could come to the phone, and then hung up before the scout could

answer the call. So some scouts never got the word. Nevertheless,

Stop putting rocks in my pack!


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within 30 minutes a group of scouts had arrived in the Belmont

Elementary back lot and were receiving instructions from the SPL.

Anthony divided the scouts into two groups and the search parties went

off into the woods with first aid kits and materials to make stretchers, if

needed. It was not long before one group found Tommy B. lying at the

foot of the tree with wounds on his face and injuries to his limbs.

Scouts administered first aid and carried him out on a makeshift

stretcher.

Peter B. presented more of a challenge. The search party could not

locate him even though, as Peter later said, he heard them passing by

within feet of where he lay. (This shows how difficult it can be to

locate someone in unfamiliar terrain, and that with no leaves on the

trees and plants.)


17

Peter was found after he had made himself somewhat more obvious

to the searchers.

Participants may use this exercise to fulfill Requirement 7 of the

Emergency Preparedness merit badge.

Patrols should consider how to improve the phone tree within their

patrols in the event of future events.

What did you bring, what should you have brought, and how might

you make your response better next time?

Lost and Wounded:

Tommy B. (Quesadillas), Peter B. (Hawks)

Viking patrol: Jim B. Joshua F. David R. Peter K. Kevin C.

Hawk patrol: Anthony J. Justin S. Patrick S. Nate K. Ryan K. (was not called, so late)

Crusader patrol: Joel P. Bradley N.

Eagle patrol: Jonathan G.

Quesadilla patrol: Emmett H. Eric L. Nick S. Luke R. Evan N.

Puma patrol: Kepono U. Jacob G. Ben S. Samuel H.

CPR at St. John’s – March 19

Big turn-out for the CPR course taught by Ursus Lifesavers & Aquatics, consisting of scouts, Venturers, and adults. The

course lasted two hours and there was a knowledge test at the end. CPR completion cards have been mailed directly to the

participants by Ursus. Here’s the list of who completed the course, for a two year certification (V = Venturers):

Peter B. Jim B. Lara C. (V) Joshua Fi. Brenden F. Eric F. John F. Jonathan G.

Tyler H. Andrew H. Anthony J. Elizabeth J. (V) Ryan K. Nate K. Peter K. Brandon O.

Gerad S. Jacob W. Michael W.

Mr. Alfred B. Mr. Dale B. Mr. James C. Mr. Jorge C. Mr. Keith H. Dr. Paul F. Mr. Micah H. Dr. Laura H.

Mrs. Helen J. Mr. John K. Mr. Patrick O. Mrs. Sandra O. Mr. Dirk W.

Troop 264 at Pack 774’s Skills Night – March 23

Pack 774 at Oakdale Emory Church invited several troops to come and make a presentation on different skill. T264 scouts

set up a backpacking tent, and with a stocked backpack,, explained what backpacking is, what gear is used, how far one

hikes, and other things. They also talked a little about the national High adventure bases (Northern Tier and Philmont) to

which all of the participating scouts have been or will be this summer. The presentation was well received by the Cub

Scouts and their parents.

Special thanks to these scouts who came out on short notice for a 2½ hour session with Pack 774:

Anthony J. Ryan K.

Jim B. William S.

Joshua F. Kevin C.


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Seneca Greenway Trail to C&O Canal Towpath

Backpacking – March 24-25

This overnight backpacking trip was intended as

real-world practice for our upcoming July Philmont

backpacking trip. This enabled us to take a hard

look at several matters that could be at issue at

Philmont -- personal and crew gear, the stamina and

preparedness of the scouts and adults, and how well

the crew members interact with each other. I’m

pleased to say that all passed with flying colors,

including the scouts and adults who had not

backpacked before. For example, not one person

wore cotton jeans, all wore pants of synthetic

material that dries quickly.

That was important inasmuch as it rained most of

the time we were out. During the day there were

occasional light showers requiring rain gear (rain jackets at a minimum) and it remained gray most of the day.

We started at the point where the Seneca Greenway Trail goes under MD Route 28. In the small parking lot there, we unloaded the

backpacks out of the vehicles, then shuttled Mr. Barth’s vehicle to a lot on the C&O Canal about a mile distant from the site where we

would camp. (No overnight parking is allowed along the Seneca Greenway.) Having return, all started hiking in the rain, which

continued off and on for the next few hours. The trail was narrow and muddy in places, with the occasional fallen tree across the path to

go over or duck under, and would up and down further away from Seneca Creek than I would have expected. 4.4 miles in, the trail met

up with a road and there was a paved pulloff right next to Seneca Creek. Here we had our lunch.


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Another 2.2 miles brought us to the C&O Canal just a short distance from the point where Seneca Creek empties into the Potomac River

(left picture, immediately above). Here we took a break for about 15 minutes, then hiked NW along the smooth gravel trail for another

3.3 miles to the Horsepen Branch hiker/biker campsite. Here we set up a tarp over the picnic table and another under which we stowed

out packs, to keep the rain off. After setting up tents, the four drivers hiked a further 1.1 miles to Mr. Barth’s vehicle, then we retrieved

all the cars at the Route 28 parking lot and drove them to White’s Ferry parking lot. Mr. Barth then brought the adults back and they

hiked the 1.1 miles back to the campsite, to find the boys had already cooked supper on backpacking stoves, and were working on

starting a fire.

The scouts played a game of cards, but toward 9 PM the rain started up again and continued more or less steadily throughout the night.

It seems no one’s tent got wet inside. Next morning, a simple breakfast and we packed up the wet gear. We made a decision not to hike

the miles to White’s Ferry due to the threat of more rain but hiked the 1.1 miles back to the parking lot, where once more Mr. Barth

ferried the drivers to get our cars. On our return, we packed up and left for Olney.

~ Mr. Dale Bickel

Sharp Street Food Bank – March 16

No report of any scouts attending the March 16 food bank has reached the Signaler this month.

The next food bank setup will be on Friday, April 20 at 4:15 PM. All assistance is welcome.

Merit Badge Madness – March 30 – April 1

Fifteen scouts and two adults were signed up for Merit Badge Madness, and it is said to have gone well. But given how

late in the month this outing occurred, we’ll save the article for the May Signaler. Participants are encouraged to send

articles or photos to [email protected] .

New York City – March 30 – April 1

This also was too late for inclusion in this Signaler, so we’ll wait for the May Signaler to summarize this unique outing.

Participants may submit comments and photos to [email protected] .




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To Get Leadership Credit for Den Chief Service

If you are serving as a Den Chief for leadership credit, prior to your BOR must notify Mr. Matyas. You should obtain a

note from your Pack Den Leader and/or cubmaster. This letter should include: (1) the dates you served as a Den Chief

(at least six months); (2), The Pack and Den you served with; and (3) include the signature(s) of the Den Leader,

Cubmaster, and /or Pack Committee Chairperson and the date they signed off. Submit this letter to Mr. Matyas prior to

your BOR. (301)-570-0610, [email protected].

Den Chief Fast Start training (required) may be taken in about 30 minutes online at

http://www.scouting.org/Training/Youth/DenChefTraining.aspx . Print copies of the completion certificate, as you

will need to give one to the den leader and one to Mr. Matyas.

To earn the Den Chief Service Award, you must serve the pack faithfully as a den chief for one full year.

Assistant Scoutmaster Training

The District and Council are offering opportunities for training of Scoutmasters and Assistant Scoutmasters this winter

and spring for interested adults. This training consists of 3 parts:

Online training: Set up a personal account at http://myscouting.scouting.org. Under the Training section, under

E-Learning, and on the Boy Scout tab halfway down the page, you should complete Youth Protection Training, This Is

Scouting, and Weather Hazards. You may also take other courses as desired or needed. Each takes about 30 minutes

and at the end, you will receive a completion certificate. Print two copies of the completion certificate, keep one in a

safe place where you can find it again, and give the other to Mr. Gary Matyas to be entered into the troop database.

The second part consists of a one day classroom course, with adults from other troops. Presently there is a Scoutmaster

Specific Training session in Montgomery County on

April 10/17/24: http://www.boyscouts-ncac.org/registration/calendardetail.asp?orgkey=2663&ActivityKey=113547

(3 Tuesdays, Montgomery General Hospital in Olney)

The third part is Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills (IOLS), which requires a weekend campout with other

adults taking the same training. IOLS sessions will likely be scheduled in the spring and fall:

April 13 -14: http://www.boyscouts-ncac.org/registration/calendardetail.asp?ActivityKey=1004230 (Springfield, VA)

or: April 28 -29: http://www.boyscouts-ncac.org/registration/calendardetail.asp?orgkey=2663&ActivityKey=1141784

(near Harper’s Ferry –further away but easier to get to than Springfield).

Once the adult completes all of these items, he or she is considered trained and can proudly wear the coveted

Assistant Scoutmaster patch.

Again, please make sure you give copies of any completion certificates or cards to Mr. Matyas to be entered in the troop

database!

Do You Need to Review Your Knots?

If you need to review your knots prior to your next BOR or the next campout, check out

http://www.animatedknots.com. It is very good for visually demonstrating how to tie knots. Click on the Scouting

Emblem for knot demonstrations.


http://www.scouting.org/Training/Youth/DenChefTraining.aspx

http://myscouting.scouting.org/

http://www.boyscouts-ncac.org/registration/calendardetail.asp?orgkey=2663&ActivityKey=113547

http://www.boyscouts-ncac.org/registration/calendardetail.asp?ActivityKey=1004230

http://www.boyscouts-ncac.org/registration/calendardetail.asp?orgkey=2663&ActivityKey=1141784

http://www.animatedknots.com/


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District Roundtable

Our Boy Scout Roundtables feature informative discussions on topics from youth leadership training, using OA more

effectively in your troop, and summer camp experiences. Each month there are wonderful presentations, from wood

carving to Dutch oven cooking, to help your unit leaders provide new ideas and opportunities for your troop. Come see

what great new locations your troop might want to visit!

Troop and Cub Scout Roundtables:

The People’s Community Baptist Church, 31 Norwood Road, Silver Spring, MD 20905, second Wednesday of the month, 7:30 PM

Venturing Crews have a separate Roundtable:

Gaithersburg Presbyterian Church, located on Highway 355 north of the Shady Grove exit of Interstate 270, 610 S. Frederick Avenue, Gaithersburg, MD 20877, second Thursday of the month, 7:30 PM

Patrols are assigned to cover this event on a rotating basis, as listed on the calendar pages in the Signaler, and must send

one adult to take notes and report back at the following Troop Adult meeting.

Getting Credit for Troop Activities

It’s important that everyone who participates in Troop 264 campouts, trips, and community service activities gets credit

for their hard work. The Signaler provides the permanent record of everyone who attends these events. Patrol leaders

need to take responsibility for collecting the names of participants in their patrols and send those lists, preferably by

email, to the Signaler staff by the monthly deadline. E-mail lists to [email protected]. This month’s deadline:

February 24.

Troop Activity Policy

Please be reminded that it is troop policy (and common courtesy) for a scout or scouter to pay the costs associated with an

event he or she has signed up for but did not attend, without being asked. No-shows increase the costs to the troop and the

participants, require the troop to reserve unneeded space and transport excess equipment, and results in wasted food and

materials. We realize that situations inevitably will occur that prevent a scout from attending events, and ask that the scout

or scouter contact the person organizing the event right away. If the conflict is raised early enough, adjustments can often

be made where food has not yet been purchased or reservations have not been finalized.

Resources for Planning Troop Outings

On the troop website, under “Outings” at http://www.troop264olney.net/outings.html, you will find links to

information about places the troop has visited, as well as:

Guide and Checklist for Planning Troop Outings, which provides a step-by-step guide for Scouts and adults to plan a

successful trip;

Troop Outing Expense Accounting spreadsheet, to help Scouts and adults ensure that costs of troop outings are fully

covered;

http://www.troop264olney.net/outings.html


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Historical Hikes and Camping Summary Form, that Scouts and adults can download and complete or update with

new information about particular hikes and campouts that can then be sent to the troop webmaster [presently Mr.

Bickel] for uploading to the troop website; and

Links to completed summary forms containing information about various historical hikes and campouts the troop has

done, including information about Scout patches or medals that can be earned and information about accessibility for

physically-challenged Scouts or adults.

For further information about any of these tools, contact Mr. Bob Irvin at [email protected].

2012 High Adventure – Backpacking at Philmont – July 10 - 24

19 scouts and adults are signed up for two backpacking crews, dates of the trek are Thursday July 12 to July 24, 2012.

Arrangements have been made to fly out on Monday July 10 to Colorado Springs, and we will be camping at the Air Force

Academy there.

Cost overall is expected to be about $1600 per person. Mr. Russell has so far collected the all the payments due to

Philmont, and we will soon be collecting the funds to cover the flight and charter bus and activities before we reach

Philmont. Adults will need to have 2½ weeks of vacation available.

There will be prep hikes and gear shakedowns in the coming months. (The first 2012 Philmont prep hike, on March 23-34,

went very well despite the rain.) And start getting ready on your own: walking is best! You will then be prepared for

Philmont. Philmont participants must meet the height/weight chart shown in the current BSA medical form, Part D. Start

thinking about when you are going to get your medical form completed! The two backpacking crews must choose their

treks by April 3, each crew must pick 5 treks in the order preferred

The backpacking crews are as follows:

Crew A Crew B

Ryan K Enrique A.

Michael R. Miguel A.

William S. Jeremy N.

Conor E. Brandon O.

Anthony J. Peter B.

Kevin C. Sam J.

Andrew H. Gavin M.

Mr. Dale B. Mr. Pat O.

Mr. Mark R. Mr. Kirk J.

Mr. Al B.

2012 High Adventure – Cavalcade at Philmont – July 31 – August 11

In light of interest from Venturing Crew members and T264 scouts, Mr. Russell submitted a request for the troop to make a

Cavalcade at Philmont. The troop was not initially selected, however, it was notified as being #6 on the wait list. On the

evening of August 19, 2011, Mr. Russell received an offer to the troop for a Philmont Cavalcade.

A Cavalcade is an 8 day trek at Philmont with riding horses. Cavalcade participants must take care of the horses

during the entire outing. The first day is mainly training on handling and riding horses. No Cavalcade participant may

Philmont note: Crew A is confirmed for Trek 22 in the South Country. This

itinerary includes Mount Phillips.

We will be choosing what we want to do in Colorado Springs on the day before

we head to Philmont: Pikes Peak or Royal Gorge.

Air reservations have been locked in and money for the airfare will be collected

in the near future.



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weigh more than 200 pounds, that limit is NOT negotiable. Maximum crew size of 15, only four of whom may be adults

(21 and over). Presently we have 10 spaces filled (including all four adult leader spaces), so there are five scout/Venture

spaces still open. This trek can and does contain young ladies, and appropriate female leadership will be maintained

as required by the BSA. The dates of the trek are August 2 to 10, allow two days at the beginning and one at the end for

travel (so keep July 31 to August 11 open). A second installment payment will be collected in February. Minimum age

is 14, or 13 and have completed the 8th grade (Philmont’s requirements, not ours). Total cost per person will be about

$1600. Presently the crew is in the midst of arranging airline and rental car arrangements for the crew.

There are many issues still to be sorted out and more information will be passed along as these matters are resolved.

Mr. Keith Evans, [email protected], is coordinating the Cavalcade process, questions and requests to sign up may

be directed to him.

The first overnight horseback training outing is scheduled for May 5-6 and is being arranged by Gina H. All Cavalcade

participants should try to attend this and other planned prep outings.

2013 High Adventure – Seabase – NOT!

Neither the troop nor the crew was successful in the Seabase lottery, as we learned in the past few days. Both troop and

crew are on the waitlist and we will see what develops. In the meantime we will take a look at alternatives for a high

adventure outing. Many are run by local councils and can be just as challenging and satisfying as the national BSA high

adventure bases.

Video Training for Tenderfoot, Second Class, and First Class

Scouting.org has videos available to help scouts with the rank requirements of Tenderfoot, Second Class, and First

Class. These short videos include the current requirements listed for Tenderfoot through First Class.

http://www.scouting.org/scoutsource/Applications/RankVideo.aspx

Recent Changes to T264 Adult Leadership Positions

New people have taken over (or are taking over) some of the adult tasks that keep the troop humming along.

Barbary Levy – Scout and adult registrations [email protected]

Tim Garrity – Scout and adult roster [email protected]

David Smissons – Adult training coordination [email protected]

Julia Pinto – Tour plans [email protected]

Al Barth – Treasurer [email protected]


http://www.scouting.org/scoutsource/Applications/RankVideo.aspx






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T264 Scout Leadership

Check your patrol data and advise [email protected] of any corrections! New SPL, ASPLs, and patrol leaders to be elected April 9.

Senior Patrol Leader: Anthony J. Assistant SPLs: Jeremy N.

Enrique A.

Jonathan G.

Troop Offices:

Chaplain’s Aide: Joshua F. Librarian: Jonathan S.

Scribe: Michael R. Troop Quartermaster: William S.

Historian: Miguel A. Instructor: Vacant

Troop Guides: R.J. G., Sam J., Peter K. OA Representative: Anthony J.

Buglers: Kevin C. & Peter B. Signaler Editor: Jim B.

Patrol Offices:

Eagle Patrol: Crusaders Patrol:

Patrol leader: Jake A. Patrol Leader: Bradley N.

Asst. patrol leader: Conor E. Asst. Patrol : Ryan K.

Patrol quartermaster: Brandon O. Patrol quartermaster: Ryan K.

Hawk Patrol: Viking Patrol:

Patrol leader: Peter B. Patrol Leader: Miguel A.

Asst. patrol leader: John F. Asst. Patrol Leader: Andrew H.

Patrol quartermaster: Peter B. Patrol quartermaster: Jim B.

Signaler reporter: William S.

New Scouts patrols (Pumas and Quesadillas):

Patrol leader: Rotating basis The ASPLs are designated to work with the patrol leaders, as follows:

Asst. patrol leader: Rotating basis Enrique A. Crusaders and Vikings

Patrol quartermaster: not yet selected Jeremy N. Hawks and Quesadillas

Jonathan G. Eagles and Pumas

Inventory and Missing Gear

In the coming weeks, we will be doing an inventory of the troop’s gear so that we can found out what we have, what we

need, and what hat ot bee repaired before the summer season arrives. You can help by looking around at home for tents,

stoves, fuel bottles, water bottles, etc. Bring the wayward gear to any of the patrol quartermasters above, the Troop

Quartermaster, William S., or Scoutmaster Bogan, or to any troop meeting.

The more gear we can account for, the lower the cost to the troop, and ultimately to you. Thanks in advance!



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INFORMATION PAGE

Attention: Board of Review (BOR) Procedures

Some years ago we set up a new procedure for scouts to follow for requesting Board of Reviews. Being a large troop, we needed to give the

adults sitting on the BORs some lead-time. Recently the procedure has been sliding and the adults are getting short notice because of last

minute BORs being scheduled. Therefore we are restating our policy. FORGOT THE PROCEDURE? NO PROBLEM – It is

almost always on one of the last pages of each Signaler edition. Also, you can look at any past edition of the Signaler for this information.

Signaler Submittal Deadlines: Information Due to Reporters: April 25. Signaler posting date: May 1

Editor: Jim B. 301-774-0416 [email protected]

Webmaster Mr. Dale Bickel 301-774-0416 [email protected]

Reporters: William S.

301-260-8605

[email protected]

Signaler Adults: Mrs. Laura Evans 301-260-1042 [email protected]

Mr. Dale Bickel 301-774-0416 [email protected]

Adult Advisors:

Scoutmaster: Mr. Dennis Bogan 301-774-2768 [email protected]

Treasurer: Mr. Al Barth 301-570-0869 [email protected]

Troop Committee: Mr. Mark Russell 301-774-1077 [email protected]

Order of the Arrow (OA) Mr. Rick Justus 301-774-7833 [email protected]

Advancement Chairman: Mr. Gary Matyas 301-570-0610 [email protected]

SPL: Anthony J.

Adult activity coordinators – please submit information about upcoming activities to Signaler Staff (electronically or hardcopy)

by the deadline. Please contact a Signaler reporter if you would like to have a Scout generate the announcement for you. If any

information about or participants of activities have been left out of the Signaler; corrections will be made in the next issue.

Please send any corrections to The Signaler at [email protected].

The Signaler is posted on the troop’s website, www.troop264olney.net. Notice is sent by E-MAIL when the new

Signaler edition is posted. To get on the e-mail list, or to be removed or make corrections, please send an e-mail to

[email protected] (Mr. Dale Bickel).

The Signaler Staff

BOR Any scout needing a Board of Review should call Mr. Walt Greenspon @ (301-774-5394) no later than two Sundays

(8 days) before the scheduled Board of Review. Failure to give proper notification will delay your BOR until the next month. Get

your Scoutmaster Conference prior to calling Mr. Greenspon. If your scout is scheduled for the BOR, he must bring an adult with

him. That adult is needed to sit on a BOR for another scout. This way we can accommodate all scouts striving for advancement.

Dress Code for BOR: Class “A” shirt, neckerchief, slide and scout pants (khaki or black pants can be substituted).

A scout hat is preferred.

More Assateague Island photos



mailto:%20%[email protected]






http://www.troop264olney.net/



26

BOARD of REVIEW (BOR)

Any scout needing a Board of Review should call Mr. Greenspon @ (301-774-5394) no later than two Sundays (8 days) before the scheduled Board of Review. Failure to give proper notification will delay your BOR for a month. If your scout is scheduled for a BOR, he must bring an adult with him. That adult is needed to sit on a BOR for another scout. This way we can accommodate all scouts striving for advancement. Scout dress code for BOR will include Class “A” shirt, neckerchief, slide, and scout pants (khaki or black pants can be substituted). A scout hat is preferred.

SCOUT SPIRIT for ADVANCEMENT

We all recognize that Scout Spirit is hard to evaluate. We know Scout Spirit includes being helpful and cheerful, but it is more than that…it’s giving back. In an effort to assist Patrol dads in recognizing Scout Spirit, the following guidelines are offered. Our troop believes that prior to each advancement, participation in the following activities exemplify the essences of Scout Spirit:

A minimum of 1 nursing home visit

Participation in at least 1 fundraiser

At least 4 overnight outings per year

Good deeds done outside of scouts The Patrol Dad, not a senior scout, is responsible for signing

off on Scout Spirit prior to your Scoutmaster Conference.

SCOUTMASTER CONFERENCES

Any scout needing a Scoutmaster Conference for advancement up through First Class, needs to contact one of the following for a conference: Mr. Greenspon 301-774-5394 Mr. Laing 301-570-4235 Mr. Predoehl 301-774-0974 Mr. Matyas 301-570-0610 Mr. Freedman 301-774-7766 Mr. Bickel 301-774-0416 Mr. Irvin 301-570-5548 Mr. Kennedy 301-774-5014 Mr. Long 301-924-4365 Scoutmaster Conferences for Star, Life, and Eagle must be held with Mr. Bogan - (301)-774-2768, [email protected]. Preparation for the scout’s BOR must include being prepared to answer skill, citizenship, first aid, and merit badge questions.

BOR for STAR and LIFE SCOUT ADVANCEMENTS

While ropes and compasses are provided for younger ranks, by the time you are ready for Star and Life advancement, you should be responsible enough to bring your own knot rope and compass for your BOR. We are requiring all scouts who are advancing to Star or Life to bring a knot rope and compass to their BOR.

LIFE and EAGLE SCOUTS as ADVISORY BOR MEMBERS

If you are a Life or Eagle Scout and would like to sit on a Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, or Star BOR, as a “Technical Expert”, call Mr. Greenspon on 301-774-5394. You would be the fourth person on the Board. While you wouldn’t have a vote, you would have input into the decision-making process and add invaluable knowledge and insight by asking questions that perhaps scouters wouldn’t think to ask. This is a great way to give back to and maintain the quality of your troop.

AAADDDVVVAAANNNCCCEEEMMMEEENNNTTT IIINNNFFFOOORRRMMMAAATTTIIIOOONNN PPPAAAGGGEEE


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Permission Slip for Webelos Weekend April 27-29, 2012

I give permission for my son __________________________________________ to participate in T264’s

Webelos Weekend campout at Spencerville, MD. In an emergency, please notify

__________________________________________________ (indicate name(s) and relationship to your son or daughter) at

_____________________________ (phone). If this person cannot be reached, I authorize qualified medical personnel

to administer any necessary aid or treatment to my son for illness or injury.

My son or daughter is allergic to the following medications or foods: ____________________________________________

________________________________________________ ______________________

Parent or Guardian Signature Date

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


28


29

Permission Slip for Laurel Caverns May 11-13, 2012

I give permission for my son __________________________________________ to participate in T264’s

campout at Laurel Caverns, Uniontown, PA. In an emergency, please notify

__________________________________________________ (indicate name(s) and relationship to your son or daughter) at

_____________________________ (phone). If this person cannot be reached, I authorize qualified medical personnel

to administer any necessary aid or treatment to my son for illness or injury.

My son or daughter is allergic to the following medications or foods: ____________________________________________

________________________________________________ ______________________

Parent or Guardian Signature Date

Laurel Caverns’ waiver

forms also required: see

article at page 9 !


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TROOP 264 SUMMER CAMP 2012

CAMP BOWMAN

GOSHEN SCOUT RESERVATION Troop 264 has reservations for Camp Bowman at the Goshen Scout Reservation for the week of

28 July – 4 August 2012. This is a patrol cooking camp. In my experience the boys and adults

eat better when the boys do the cooking than in camp dining hall.

The fees for Camp Bowman Are:

BOYS ADULTS

Paid by 23 Apr $330 $260

Paid by 28 May $360 $280

Paid after 28 May $390 $300

The fee schedule is established by the council, thus Troop 264 has no control over the timing.

A charter bus will be available for a fee of approximately $80.00 in addition to the above fees.

We encourage campers to travel by bus. No other transportation will be provided by the troop. The camp is approximately 210 miles

from Olney.

Parents are welcome!

INFO: Doug Long 301 924 4365 (H)

4405 Skymist Terrace 301 738 5153(W)

Olney, MD 20832

REGISTRATION FORM

NAME: ___________________________________ BIRTH DATE: _____________

ADDRESS: _______________________________

_______________________________ BUS: Y/N _____

_______________________________

E-MAIL: _______________________________ T-SHIRT SIZE ______

TELEPHONE: ____________________________

PARENT(S): _____________________________

PARENTS SIGNATURE: _________________________________

Parent Attending: ___________________________

New scouts generally start in the

First Year Camper program which

focuses on completing

requirements for Tenderfoot and

Second Class as well as a few

merit badges.

Is the scout a new scout with

T264?

Y N


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Camp Bowman

Merit Badge Schedule

Documents

TThheee S nSSiigggnnaallleeerr · 20-22 Venturing campout 23 TLC/BOR/patrol meeting 27-29 Webelos Weekend 28 Nursing Home visit 30 Troop meeting (Soles for Souls presentation) May