Troop 281 Cincinnati, OH

This was the first campout of the scout year and was at Camp Achewon.  On the campout, we did some canoeing and biking, and we had the new scout induction ceremony.  During the day on Saturday, we rode in to the bike trail.  Once we were there, we rode our bikes about 8 miles to the canoe rental place.  We had lunch outside.  From there, we rode in cars up river and got into the canoes.  We canoed five miles down river badk to the canoe rental place.  Then we rode our bikes to the cars and went back to the camp.   That night we had the new scout induction ceremony.  In the ceremony the new scouts received their neckerchiefs.  The meeting Tuesday night was a game night.  We played three different games outside in front of the church. Joe S. Historian

In the meeting two weeks ago, we had a skill session on canoeing.  We had patrol corners to plan the camp out.  Then we played steal the bacon. The meeting closed with a Scoutmaster minute.   In the most recent meeting, there was a skill session on biking.  Nathan and Zachary R., who did the skill session, handed out free water bottles.  Then we played a traditional Scout game where you tried to steal tape from people's belts.  The winning patrol, the Thrashing Sharks got candy.   After the meeting was over grub masters turned in their menus to be reviewed, a new procedure.

Dear parents, Almost all major "stolen" items have been accounted for.  (Including the missing handbook) Still not accounted for are a knife and a backpack. Also unaccounted are some "stolen" underwear and socks.  Parents be on alert.  Apparently the same thief keeps returning to Lakeview the last week of June.  Reportedly it was someone in a brown shirt.  Be on the lookout. We also have a few other leftover items.  We'll be in contact. Nick Rechtin Editor

Dear parents, 1. If you feel you're missing something from this blog, it helps to know that "Blogger" defaults to the current month.  In this case, July.  To see earlier entries use the menu at the right to find entries for June 2011.  (Or any other piece of history.) 2. I've heard that there may be additional postings following this one. Check again on Saturday.  This may be a good time to review the blog with your son.  Remember, HE has not seen it yet.  He'll have some stories to tell.   And speaking of stories, consider this... 3. After six years of personal first-hand experience,  my most striking take away from this year will be experiences with the large number of new first-year campers.  As a conversation starter try this:  What advice would YOU, as a returning camper, give to next year's new scouts?  Consider topics like homesickness, advancement, meals, etc. etc.  [Such an approach would validate your ...

Dear parents, It's awkward and embarrassing to write this (especially with egg on your face). Worse still, when dealing with volunteers and other well meaning people, you can't fire them. In spite of other earlier impressions you may have had, we, the leadership of 281 at Camp Friedlander, prefer parents do NOT visit camp to see their son until the Friday family night tomorrow. With a lot of new first year scouts, homesickness can be a problem.  (The malady can be contagious.)  Please be confident that we're handling all situations well and will contact parents as necessary. If you ARE concerned please call:   SM Dr. Reynolds - 513-659-5080          Nick Rechtin - 513-673-7988 ASM John Neuhart - 513-658-0320 Thanks, we're having the best week ever. Nick Rechtin

Letters from camp: Having a great time.  Got a new knife.  It's really cool.  Can't wait for you to come on Friday.  I wish you were here.   Miss you.  Love, Ryan Z. I'm Aiden and I like this camp - except for getting homesick. Aiden V. Hi! Morgan T. I miss my mom and all my sisters.  My activities are going fine.  I'm almost a Tenderfoot, John M. Today has been a really fun day.  Today I caught a fish so I'm happy. David D. I miss you.  Bye. Nate C. I have a great time at camp.  Everything is fun.  There's so much to do.  People here are always nice.  It's probably one of the best camps ever. Zane A. THUS END THE LETTERS FROM CAMP.   (But check back regularly for the next few days.  I never know who's going to post something.  Ed.) Special note: After June 30, you'll have to click on the June 2011 entries since this program defaults to the CURRENT month. *****...

A few more photos here from Wednesday evening. After dinner cleanup crew - they look awfully happy to be cleaning up.  Just like home! The PLC hard at work at the Annual Planning Meeting: Cool night shots back at camp: You can't see it very well in the photo, but the little white wiggle is the International Space Station flying high over our campsite.  A few lucky Scouts spotted it.  That's all for now...