Oh No I Am Lost
The Hug-A-Tree Foundation began as a result of the tragic death of a young boy during a family campout in San Diego County. The boy got lost on a popular trail and was found dead four days later. His parents and some searchers formed the Hug-A-Tree Foundation to help kids stay safe if they do get lost in the wilderness.One of the biggest concerns of children when they get lost is that their parents or... [More]
By: Scott Robertson On: 2009-12-14Bow Drill Fire
Have you ever wondered how to start a fire using a bow drill? I have and will eventually be trying this on my own. In the mean time here is a good article I found on how to do it. http://www.natureskills.com/bow_drill_fire.html... [More]
By: Scott Robertson On: 2009-12-14Meal Planning
When planning out meals for you group there are a number of things you need to keep in mind including: group size, allergies, costs, equipment, skill levels, and the dietary needs do to weather and activities. For example active vs lounging around camp and cold vs hot weather. Regardless if it is cold or hot hydration needs to be a priority. Also don't forget about space and weight to get you, your gear, food, etc... [More]
By: Scott Robertson On: 2009-12-14Trail Rules & Etiquette
Before you leave make sure some know where you are going and how long you will be gone. If plans change make sure you notify that person Never hike alone Be prepared, think about what gear, clothing, food, water, etc you may need and what you will need if something bad happens. Don't go over kill as hauling a ton of gear is no fun... [More]
By: Scott Robertson On: 2009-12-14Open Source Scouting
As most of you know I am a geek that swears by Linux and a variety of other open sourse software. Today I am going to toss out some software that is available for free and may help you with in Scouting, home, or your kids education. All the software mentioned is available for Windows, Mac and Linux.Open Office: This is an office suite similar to Microsoft Office, which includes a word processor (word), spreadsheet... [More]
By: Scott Robertson On: 2009-12-14Three Things Needed For Fire
When I teach the Firem'n Chit to Scouts one of the things I teach them is there are three things needed to have a fire. If even one of the things is missing it is impossible for a fire to exist. Do you know what the three things are? When I ask the Scouts I get answers that include water, dirt, large cleared out area, an adult, wood, shovel, matches, a fire pit, etc. Well... [More]
By: Scott Robertson On: 2009-12-14Thank You to those that Support Us
Hello Everyone, yes it is PackTrainerSteve. Happy Holidays Everyone. I just wanted to take a moment and say thanks to all of those that allow us to take the time away from family to train and to be better leaders. Without your support we couldn't have the time to be the best leaders for the Scouts we are responsible for. Always remember without you we couldn't be the best leaders for the Scouts.Yours In Scouting,... [More]
By: Steve O'Connor On: 2009-12-11Knights Roasters
As a change of pace, I am posting a craft project today on how to make some really cool hot dog roasting sticks. I did not create this craft but came across it on a mailing list and thought I would share.Materials Wire coat hangers 1” diameter sticks Sandpaper Wood glue Drill bits Sharpies Tools Hammers Hand drills Awls Pencils Rulers Vices Wire cutters/nippers Miter boxes Saws Method Use wire cutters to clip the twisty part off coat hangers. Use hammers to pound coat hangers on one end. Leave the other end bent so... [More]
By: Scott Robertson On: 2009-12-10Who has your back??
Who has your back? Who is your back up in case you can't be at the meeting?I found out the hard way you need to have additional leaders to take up when you are not there. Fortunately, this year one of the other Fathers in my Den volunteered even before I had to ask. Why do I mention this, a motivated and interested leader is an important and sometimes rare asset. I will talk about... [More]
By: Steve O'Connor On: 2009-11-27Why should you train!!
There are many reasons that come to mind, besides BSA is going to require it soon. The chief one is that we want the best scouting experience for the scouts we are guiding. Luckly, the group of leaders I work with is great because we work together and share knowledge and experiences to make life for everyone easier and to deliver the best possible program to the Scouts we work with.Sharing the responsibility of advising... [More]
By: Steve O'Connor On: 2009-11-27