Do you like adventure? Do you want to learn outdoor skills and know how take care of yourself and others in the wilderness? Do you want to lead others, learn new skills and serve those in need in your community? Do you want to cook over a campfire with your friends while breathing in fresh air and listening to the wind in the trees overhead? Does hiking to a stream, taking off your shoes and jumping in sound like fun? Would you dare kayak 50 miles down a river knowing you have been taught everything you need to know to do it? Will you feel proud after carrying a meal you planned in your backpack for 5 miles then cooking it for your friends on the trail? Will you build a fort in the woods and sleep in it, knowing you've built it well?
Troop 244 can show you the path to fly like an Eagle. We are seeking interested young men, of any faith from any school to join us in our journey. Visit us on Tuesday nights from 6:30-8:00 at Saint Pius X School to learn more. Please select "Send Email" to request more information.
Thank you to all those who came out and helped support our Family Night. We had a great turnout and as Liz said the Loaves and Fishes parable always seems to pertain to events like this. With that said we had enough food to treat the small sister Sioux troop and Cherokee staff as well. With bribery like this we are well on our way to winning Troop of the Week.
We have had a great week of camp and one thing I have learned is to never be surprised at what these young men and leaders can do. For example did you know-
-a scout can lose his buddy, organize a search posse and comb camp only to have a leader find the “Missing” scout in the tent next door watching a movie with his new friends.
-a scout can eat a full meal at dining hall and still spend $7 at the trading post on candy.
-a scout can procrastinate about wearing their Class A to dinner or needing to leave campsite timely for his daily MB class, but have no problem walking a mile one way to waterfront.
-a scout can often miss the calls for lights out, but seldom miss the call for seconds in the dining hall.
-a question over an unlabeled box of pop tarts can set of an unexpected chain of events that rivals that of the China Syndrome (the movie, not the virus).
Our goal is to have scouts pack after breakfast and lunch so we may leave immediately following the 7:00 closing ceremony at flag. We ask that parents who wish to pick up their scouts and gear directly at CSR be here at 7:30. We should be back at SPX by 8:45 for those picking up there.
Thurs AM Update
Thunderstorms moved through Cherokee yesterday afternoon so scouts had an opportunity to work on their Scuba Steve patch. There was talk amongst some Thrifty scouts looking to build a raft to make their way into town given their earlier attempts via the Camp Jeep were thwarted. Everyone is healthy and looking forward to a great Family Night. We still have a few opening so please sign up using the link below if you have not already. Details on Family Night can be found at the link below.
Here are a few additional pieces of information. Parents should arrive at 5:00. Parents may park in the main lot and utilize the golf cart shuttle service. Parents may drive directly to Sioux Campsite to drop off items however they CANNOT park at campsite. You must park in main lot. We begin eating at 5:30. Please bring utensils to serve your dish. We will have cobbler ame other deserts and head to 7:30 Camp Fire. See you soon!!
Wed AM Update
Scouts and Leaders had another great day at camp. Scouts learned more new skills and we some great Dutch Oven cobbler courtesy of Mr. Kerns. Leaders were able to keep scouts from organizing an anti-shower union under the promises of a great Family Night experience. Scouts appreciate the efforts however this morning there were rumors that Scouts were looking for the keys to the Camp Jeep and reports of signage that reads “Bojangles or Bust” spotted. We look forward to seeing all our parents tomorrow night.
Tues AM Update
Troop 244 is having a great time at camp. Scouts are acclimating well to camp life however leaders are still trying to fix the outdoor AC units. Denny seems to think it’s a freon issue while Alex is leaning more towards a compressor problem. Scott and Tony are the voices of reason while Jennifer serves double duty as Trading Post Director and Director of Fun.
Denny was robbed at the ice cream contest and has appealed to a higher court of cream. We are hinging McFlurry vs Adams. Scouts are healthy however there is growing concern among the Scouts that there will not be enough food at Family Night and a sacrifice must be made. Please sign up for Family Night if you have not done so as Scouts are threatening a shower strike. We need your help to avoid this crisis so please help!!
It's almost time and we can't wait to see all of our scout families. This will be a HOT week of camp with temperatures in the 90's most days. if you haven't started packing probably should get started!!
Scouts should be carrying their daypack daily. School backpacks work just fine. It should include the items Scouts needs at hand (water, sunscreen, money for trading post, snacks, towel or change of clothes for waterfront, scout book binder or folder with paper/pen, MB worksheets, rescue inhaler/epi, etc..)
Please LABEL all scout items as many scouts have the same items (uniform, scout book, water bottles, etc..)
Remember (2) facial coverings are required
Don't forget your forms (enough said)
We will have a parent/scout camp briefing and safety discussion before we depart
Scouts who applied for a POR and were elected and those whose appointments will be announced today before departure. These scouts will complete their POR Goal Worksheets while at camp. We will bring these forms and assign mentors.
Please read through the Camp event info, packing list and home page updates as they will help scouts be better prepared. Feel free to reach out with any questions.
We have two scouts with Eagle projects upcoming on the calendar. Please take a look and register where you can. A quick note we could have up to (8) Eagles earned this year. Way to go T244!!
Previous Updates:
MEETING TIME: Scouts will now meet at the Saint Pius Troop Trailers on Sunday, July 11th @ 12PM. We will brief all parents, organize all gear into (2) transport vehicles and carpool to camp
Please print and bring the COVID Pre-Event form(s), plus any Shooting Sports form, ATV forms and ATV Ecourse certificate that may be needed for your scout.
Scott Hanley our Health Officer will lead the collection of COVID form(s) and any Scout medications and perform a pre-event health screening.
Scouts need to declare their Sleeping Preferences (Tent or Adirondak) and Buddy in the Notes under the calendar event registration on the Troop website. Scouts that do not note this information on website will be assumed to be tenting solo.
Please READ calendar event info and updates on home page for complete details on summer camp.
Transportation Plan and Check-In: Scouts and leaders should arrive at SPX with lunch on board or in hand, day packs and a refillable water bottle. See event info for more info on items that should be in daypack. Scouts should always travel in their Field Uniform (Class A) and should wear a Class B t-shirt under the Field Uniform so they can remove their button-up uniform shirt to prevent overheating.Troop Gear (Class B shirts and hats) are available for purchase online at Troop Gear and Store links to the left. Items may be picked up at the Troop trailer on the day of departure.
Please note Camp Cherokee Scout Reservation (CSR) has limited parking and therefore carpooling is required. We also must check in to camp as a single group so coordinating travel allows this process to flow smoothly. Drivers are needed to transport scouts to camp. Please note on your scout’s online registration if you can drop off or pick-up and any carpooling arrangements you may have arranged. Please know while leaders work diligently to help coordinate scout movement, parents remain responsible for transporting their scout to and from all scouting activities. Please update registration information online to accurately reflect any carpooling arrangements.
Troop and scout gear will be packed into two vehicles at SPX and or the troop trailer and carried directly to the campsite. These two vehicles will be the only vehicles allowed to enter your campsite.
Family Night: Thursday night is Parent/Family night from 5:00-10:00. Parents provide a potluck dinner for scouts and are invited to attend the flag retrieval and campfire ceremony following dinner should you choose. The campfire has a number of fun skits presented by various troops and is where Scouts are "tapped out" for the Order of the Arrow. This event is highly anticipated by your Scouts.You are encouraged to bring a camp chair for dinner.
We ask that each scout family register for at least one slot, but know that some will need to register for two slots to cover all that are needed. Please note on the Sign Up Genius link how many guests will be attending (not including your scout).
Pre-Event Medical Screening Form(s):
The Pre-Event Medical Screening Checklist Form has been updated and now includes BOTH the Pre-Event Medical Screening Questions AND (14) Day out temperature check, https://www.csr.camp/uploads/1/3/6/7/136745610/covid_preevent_checklist_2021-5-26.pdfYou may use this updated form OR bring the (2) individual forms noted in earlier communications.All participants must print, complete and bring these form(s) to the SPX departure area in order to participate.
Activity Forms: (please see earlier announcements/event registration for links and additional info)
Shooting Sports form if participating in Shooting Sports MB OR for any Scout wishing to participate in Twilight Shooting
ATV forms if participating in ATV activity as well as the ATV Online Safety Course Certificate (Ecourse). Ecourse must be completed PRIOR to camp or Scout will be forced to select a different activity.
Thank you to all Scouts and parents who tool the time to come out to our (12) Day Out Summer Camp Prep Meeting. For those in town please note Archer Kerns has an Eagle Project workday on Saturday, July 3rd (please register online)
Summer Camp Updates:
Family Night:
Please use the Sign Up Genius Link below to register for Potluck Family Night on Thursday. We ask that each scout family register for at least one slot, but know that some will need to register for two slots to cover all that are needed. Please note on the Sign Up Genius link how many guests will be attending (not including your scout). https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0D4FA5A82BA4F5C16-2021
Pre-Event Medical Screening Form(s):
The Pre-Event Medical Screening Checklist Form has been updated and now includes BOTH the Pre-Event Medical Screening Questions AND (14) Day out temperature check, https://www.csr.camp/uploads/1/3/6/7/136745610/covid_preevent_checklist_2021-5-26.pdfYou may use this updated form OR bring the (2) individual forms noted in earlier communications.All participants must print, complete and bring these form(s) to the SPX departure area in order to participate.
Activity Forms: (please see earlier announcements/event registration for links and additional info)
Shooting Sports form if participating in Shooting Sports MB OR for any Scout wishing to participate in Twilight Shooting
ATV forms if participating in ATV activity as well as the ATV Online Safety Course Certificate (Ecourse). Ecourse must be completed PRIOR to camp or Scout will be forced to select a different activity.
Logistics:
Please remember CSR is asking scouts to car pool to camp where possible to reduce traffic congestion at check-in. Please note any car pooling arrangements on the Troop website.
We have a scout who has paid for camp that cannot attend. Given the payment is non-refundable if anyone has an interest in attending camp that is not yet registered please reach out to Scoutmaster ASAP.
Dont forget to follow the logistics posted for camp on the event including gear packing, food storage, labeling and pre-treatment of clothes, and applicable items for camp
Other Troop Event Notes:
Please find following information on several of our upcoming events. Please note items highlighted in yellow are time sensitive for attendance, registration and or payment purposes.To learn more about these activities and register please review the Troop “Calendar” or "Upcoming Events" links on the Troop244 Home Page, https://greensboro244.mytroop.us/home.
July 3rd Eagle Project Workday- Archer Kerns (please register online)
July 11th-16th Summer Camp at CSR
August 3rd PLC, BOR and Adult Leader Meeting
LAST CALL - Our Fly Fishing Outing needs to be rescheduled. We are looking at August and September dates to eliminate the need for waders. We have (3) prospective dates, August 14, August 21 or September 18. To easily record scout preferences I have created a dummy event date for Fly Fishing of July 4. Please register if interested and note your date preferences in order and any limitations you may have.We will work towards the date with the highest scouts participation and guide availability.
Please make payment for any events outstanding. Celebration Station Year End Party can be made directly on the troop website. Once you select the event registrants you can click the red button to "Add to Cart". Checkout using the red "View Cart" button under "User" on the Troop home page.
Ecourse Certificate (online safety course) please review ATV Guidelines beginning on page 33 of Scout and Family Guide 2021 -2021 Summer Camp Family Guide
Scouts have a mandatory safety briefing Sunday in camp at 7:00 at Dining Hall
Shooting Sports (to be completed if taking Shooting Sport MB's)
PRE-EVENT CHECKLIST TO BE SUBMITTED THE DAY CAMP BEGINS (this form replaces the original (14) Day Out Form we used previously). This is required for all who enter camp EXCEPT on FAMILY NIGHT)
Form must be started on June 27th or 28th and run through June 11. Completed forms must be brought to camp for check-in.
IF YOU ARE NOT GOING TO BE AT THIS MEETING YOU MUST MAKE ARRANGEMENTS TO GET THE FORMS TO GREG PENDERGRASS, JIM SCHIERMEYER, OR SCOUTMASTER BEFORE HAND.
We ask that ALL scouts who are attending Summer Camp register on Troop website under the event date. We also ask that anyone who is attending Family Night on Thursday register as well and make any notes about potential guests. This helps us plan for Family Night and other camp logistics. A separate Sign Up Genius link for Family Night will follow after our (12) day out meeting.
We have a scout who has paid for camp that cannot attend. Given the payment is non-refundable if anyone has an interest in attending camp that is not yet registered please reach out to Scoutmaster ASAP.
The Troop 244 Philmont Crew is safe and should arrive back in camp tomorrow. Cell coverage is poor at best so we have few updates, but a few pictures are below.
Summer Camp (additional details are on the CSR calendar event on the Troop calendar)
UPDATES:
ALL SUMMER CAMP FORMS WERE DUE JUNE 20th. WHILE SOME RELAYED FORMS TO US, MANY DID NOT. WE WILL COLLECT ALL FORMS AT OUR MANDATORY (12) DAY OUT MEETING ON JUNE 29th at 6:30 at SPX.
IF YOU ARE NOT GOING TO BE AT THIS MEETING YOU MUST MAKE ARRANGEMENTS TO GET THE FORMS TO GREG PENDERGRASS, JIM SCHIERMEYER, OR SCOUTMASTER BEFORE HAND. ALL SCOUTS MUST PROVIDE COMPLETED MEDICAL and COVID FORMS. SCOUTS PARTICIPATING IN SHOOTING & ATV ACTIVITIES MUST COMPLETE THE RESPECTIVE HOLD HARMLESS AND ADDITIONAL COVID WAIVERS AS NOTED.
THE (14) DAY OUT FORM IS REQUIRED TO BE SUBMITTED THE DAY CAMP BEGINS The 14-day temperature/health check form is required for all who enter camp.
(14) Day Out Forms must be started on June 27th or 28th and run through June 11. Completed forms must be brought to camp for check-in. Please print and complete:Pre-Event Medical Checklist + Coronavirus version
Transportation Plan and Check-In:
Scouts will meet at the Saint Pius Troop Trailers on Sunday, July 11th at 11:00 AM. We will collect all COVID forms, medications, gear and then carpool to camp.
Please note Camp Cherokee Scout Reservation (CSR) has limited parking and therefore carpooling is required. We also must check in to camp as a single group so coordinating travel allows this process to flow smoothly. Drivers are needed to transport gear and scouts to this event. Please note on your scout’s online registration if you can drop off or pick-up and any carpooling arrangements you may have arranged. Please know while leaders work diligently to help coordinate scout movement, parents remain responsible for transporting their scout to and from all scouting activities. Please update registration information online to accurately reflect any carpooling arrangements.
Check-In Procedures
Units are requested to plan their arrival at camp to be as close to 1:00 as possible.
Scouts should arrive at camp as a unit, not individually. This makes the check-in process much smoother and faster.
If your unit is sharing its campsite with another unit, please attempt to coordinate your arrival time with the other unit.
Scouts and leaders should be prepared with water-filled canteens during check-in as this is the hottest time of the day!
Scouts should always travel in their Field Uniform. Scouts and leaders should wear an activity or troop t-shirt under the Field Uniform so they can remove their button-up uniform shirt to prevent overheating.
When leaving your meeting place, be sure to place your unit number in the vehicles’ window.
All of the unit’s gear should be packed in no more than two vehicles. These two vehicles will be the only vehicles allowed to enter your campsite.
THIS YEAR ALL CAMPERS LEAVE CHEROKEE SCOUT RESERVATION BY 8:00 FRIDAY NIGHT. THIS IS A CHANGE FROM PAST YEARS WHEN CAMPERS LEFT SATURDAY AM. Scouts are expected to stay at camp Sunday through Friday evening as a group. Early departures are highly discouraged and require completion of a CSR Early Release Form, Camper Early Release Request Formand approved by the Scoutmaster and CSR prior to camp beginning. Please know early departures may impact a scout’s completion of Merit Badge course(s) and reduces the number of Scouts available to perform clean-up and departure chores. For those planning vacation travel or other please know our Scouts are typically back to SPX Saturday around 9:30am.
Family Night-
Thursday night is Parent/Family night from 5:00-10:00. Parents provide a potluck dinner for scouts and are invited to attend the flag retrieval and campfire ceremony following dinner should you choose. The campfire has a number of fun skits presented by various troops and is where Scouts are "tapped out" for the Order of the Arrow. This event is highly anticipated by your Scouts.You are encouraged to bring a camp chair for dinner. A Sign-Up Genius link will be sent out shortly and a link will be included here as well.
Please read troop's updated COVID protocol regarding daily temp checks on (14) Day Out Screening Form. All participants must print, complete and bring to the departure area the Pre-Event Medical Screening Checklist AND the COVID (14) Day Out Screening Forms to be eligible to participate.
All Medications will be collected at SPX at departure. Please bring any medications clearly labeled in original packaging. Prescription medications need to be clearly and accurately labeled in their pharmacy packaging and must be listed on your Scouts medical form.
I have received a number of emails with Scout conflicts due to school, sports, family or other. We are canceling all aspects of tonights meeting EXCEPT the Philmont Shakeout and Prep. We look forward to seeing all Philmont Scouts.
Please find following information on several of our upcoming events. Please note items highlighted in yellow are time sensitive for attendance, registration and or payment purposes.To learn more about these activities and register please review the Troop “Calendar” or "Upcoming Events" links on the Troop244 Home Page, https://greensboro244.mytroop.us/home.
June 8th Philmont Shakeout- REQUIRED FOR ALL PHILMONT SCOUTS
June 11th-26th Philmont Scout Ranch
June 29th (12) Twelve Day Out Summer Camp Meeting and PLC Meeting- All Summer Camp and PLC Scouts are asked to attend. First Year Camp Scouts Attendance Required.
Our Fly Fishing Outing needs to be rescheduled. We are looking at August and September dates to eliminate the need for waders. We have (3) prospective dates, August 14, August 21 or September 18. To easily record scout preferences I have created a dummy event date for Fly Fishing of July 4. Please register if interested and note your date preferences in order and any limitations you may have. We will work towards the date with the highest scouts participation and guide availability.
Please make payment for any events outstanding. Celebration Station Year End Party can be made directly on the troop website. Once you select the event registrants you can click the red button to "Add to Cart". Checkout using the red "View Cart" button under "User" on the Troop home page.
Please let me know if you have any questions, concerns or feedback.
