IMPORTANT INFO ABOUT SUMMER CAMP

Post date: Jun 17, 2016 11:22:37 AM

We are looking forward to a week of fun and excitement at Summer Camp, July 25 - July 31. There is much to prepare for, so please read this post carefully for important information about camp.

What to Bring

See Packing List below. We highly recommend that Scouts pack their personal gear in a plastic footlocker with wheels. Many parents purchase the following:

https://www.walmart.com/ip/Sterilite-Footlocker-Black/16415912

Preparing for Departure to Camp

Sunday, July 25 (Time 11:30 am) - This year's transportation plan to and from Horseshoe will be different from previous practices. On July 25, Please arrive at BUMC before/on 11:30 am. After Debbie collects all medications/medications forms/waiver forms, each parent will drive their scout/scouts to the horseshoe camp along with their individual gear. Troop is not providing transportation this year due to

1) Covid concerns from some parents

2) Difficulty to haul the troop trailer to the horseshoe campsite and shortage of drivers due to most adult leaders not available on July 25 because of their Philmont schedule.

Car pooling among parents is OK on a voluntary basis.

Please arrive at BUMC in full Class A uniform. Please eat lunch before you arrive, or bring a packed lunch to eat on the way, as we will not be stopping on the way to camp.

Adult Campers

For adults who are camping, please verify that you are signed up for the correct dates at this link:

Adult Camper Sign Up

Helpful Hints for Packing

- When packing for camp, remember to pack your swimsuit and towel on top in your trunk, one of the first activities after arriving at camp is the swimming proficiency test.

- Remember that all electronic devices (cell phones, gaming systems, iPods, etc.) should stay at home. If your scout thinks he needs something to do during downtime, bring a book (summer reading!) or work on another badge or rank advancement.

- Be sure to pack a mosquito net and non-aerosol bug spray or an insecticide towel. The inexpensive kind of mosquito net that fits over a single bed/cot is fine and the ceilings over the bunks have hooks for installation.

- Bring sunscreen; a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses are a plus. If your scout is bringing a hammock, be sure to pack two 10' lengths of climbing webbing or rope (nylon is the best option) rated for 400+ pounds, and 2 climbing carabiners - safety is key. If you have your Tote 'n Chip, bring your own bar of soap or balsa wood for carving.

- Battery powered fans are appreciated and will ensure your scout's popularity among his roomies. Pack plenty of extra batteries.

- Although not a merit badge offering, scouts invest a good deal of time in poker; from learning as beginners to advanced gaming strategies. All are welcome and included, especially those scouts who have prepared by packing AWESOME CANDY. Best are individually wrapped candies like Starburst, Jolly Ranchers, etc., 'non-meltables" that can withstand heat. Milk chocolate does not stay neat in the heat.

- Have your scout bring a folding chair and a hanger for his Class A uniform, which will be worn each evening.

- New scouts will work on their swimming merit badge - please pack a long-sleeved button down shirt and long pants. These will be used to learn water survival skills.

- Scouts should bring some cash for sundries and snacks at the Trading Post

Summer Camp Program Guide

Please download "2020-Program-Guide" document (attached at the bottom) and read through, as they cover everything from driving directions to medication policy and procedures, the Scouts' daily itinerary, merit badge offerings (including badge prerequisites) and Trailblazer's program (for new scouts).

Evening Retreat Ceremony

Each night at 5:45 there is a "retreat" ceremony in which all troops at camp participate. You can see all of the troops at camp marching in formation (yes - this is what the scouts having been practicing for!) and retiring the flags for the evening. To see the televised ceremony, click on the webcam at 5:45 at http://webcam.cccbsa.org/

Emailing Your Scout

To send an email to your scout, go to the same webcam link at http://webcam.cccbsa.org/. You will see an area on the webpage where you can enter your scout's name, the troop number (181) and the campsite (Roberts).

Sending Packages to Your Scout

Scouts enjoy receiving packages from their families when they are away at camp. If you want to send snacks, small toys, etc. to your son, use the mailing address below. Be aware that it will take a few days for your package to arrive at camp, so it is recommended that you mail your package by Monday of the week of camp. You can even send your package on Friday before camp starts to ensure arrival early enough during camp week for the goodies to be enjoyed.

Camp Horseshoe

Scout's Name - Troop 181, Week #6

1286 Ridge Road

Rising Sun, MD 21911

If Your Scout Needs Something Urgently

Contact one of the parents who is scheduled to go down to camp - he or she might be able to take something down to your son. See parent camping schedule at Adult Sign Up

Court of Honor Ceremony

There will not be a Court of Honor Ceremony at Camp Horseshoe this year. One will be planned for later in the summer.

Pickup

More information to come about pickup.

Questions? Contact Amy Zhang at (610)731-3823 or hbtm1738@gmail.com