BOY SCOUT SUMMER CAMP 2015 LaSalle Council, Boy Scouts of America Leaders Guide November 2014
TABLE OF CONTENTS NEW This Year 2 Letter from the Camp Leaders.. 3 About Camp Tamarack.. 4 Camp Staff 4 Dates and Fees 5 Campsite Equipment.. 6 Thunder Ridge (Rank Advancement).. 7 Merit Badge Program. 8 Merit Badge Requirements before Camp 9-10 Aquatics 11 Archery. 12 Blacksmithing.. 13 Eagles and Beyond. 14 Ecology. 15 Handicraft. 16 Scoutcraft. 17 Shooting Sports... 18 Sports 19 Welding.. 20 Camp Wide Activities.. 21-22 Daily Ongoing Activities.. 23 A Scout is Reverent. 24 Tamarack Honors Program 25 The Order of the Arrow... 26 Adult Scouts Program and Activities... 27 General Information Youth Protection... 28 Medical.. 28 Safety. 29 Uniforms 30 Mail. 30 Visitors Night 30 Vehicles. 31 Smoking. 31 Internet-WiFi. 31 Unit Photo s.. 32 Ice 32 Trading Post. 33 Quartermaster.. 33 Preparing for Camp. 34 Checking in at Camp.. 34 Camp Tamarack Map. 35 Appendix A 2013 Troop Roster. I Appendix B-1 & B-2 Boy Scout Summer Camp Payment Form ii-iii Appendix C Suggested Summer Camp Personal Check List Iv Appendix D Suggested Summer Camp Unit Check List V Appendix E Climb Kalamazoo Waiver.. Vi Appendix F Tamarack Religious Award... Vii Appendix G-1 Tamarack Honors Daily Score Sheet..... Viii Appendix G-2 Commissioners Award Score Sheet... Ix Internet-WiFi Policy (To be published)...... X Notes Pages. xi-xi
NOTE: The Camp Schedule will be available online April 15th - 1 -
NEW THIS YEAR This page will be updated during the year as new programs or activities are added and confirmed. MERIT BADGES * Will be offered contingent on requirements being available prior to Camp American Heritage (Eagles & Beyond) Backpacking (Scoutcraft) Hiking (Scoutcraft) Inventing (Eagles & Beyond) Mining in Society (Eagles & Beyond) Painting (Handicraft) Photography (Handicraft) Plant Science (Ecology) Signs, Signals & Codes (Scoutcraft) Sculpture (Blacksmith) PROGRAMS & EVENTS (See specific sections in this guide for further information) Tamarack Religious Award Luau Wednesday O.A. Call out night o O.A. Candidates Parents welcome to join Scouts in Camp Site & attend campfire - 2 -
Dear Unit Leader, Welcome to Camp Tamarack at Wood Lake Scout Reservation where the majority of the staff have been with us for 3+ years. It s the best place on earth. We are keyed up to offer an outstanding and fun Summer Camp program again this year. We believe the purpose of Summer Camp is to cement a Scout into a program that will teach him character, citizenship and physical fitness. Troops can participate in as much of the Summer Camp experience as they would like. We are confident the Scouts will leave our camp with a better understanding of Scouting and a stronger Troop program. TOPS REASONS TO ATTEND BOY SCOUT SUMMER CAMP AT TAMARACK! Where you re not just another Troop, but a welcomed friend. Five week season beginning on June 14th through July 18th, 2015. Highly qualified, well trained and FUN staff! Scouts learn Merit Badges, they are not just given! Shower House with private stalls and warm water! 500 acres of natural beauty to enjoy! Top notch aquatics program on the gorgeous waters of Wood Lake and Little Wood Lake! Food that is delicious and plentiful and even when someone has dietary restrictions! Convenient Location: 45 minutes from South Bend, 45 minutes from Niles, 50 minutes from Kalamazoo, 1 hour from LaPorte, 1.5 hours from Valparaiso, 1.5 hours from Fort Wayne, 1.5 hours from Grand Rapids, 2.5 hours from Chicago, 3.5 hours from Indianapolis, 2 hours from Lansing and 3 hours from the Detroit area. Camp Tamarack Boy Scout Summer camp is nationally accredited by the Boy Scouts of America. This means each year our camp meets or exceeds the standards of being a safe, healthy and quality camping experience for you and your Scouts. This is in addition to our meeting state, OSHA, EPA, ADA and child labor laws applicable to summer camp. This 2015 Leader Guide is designed to help answer the most important questions about life at Camp Tamarack. Use it with your Troop Committee and Patrol Leaders Council in planning for your week at Camp. Please note that this year will have some noteworthy changes. Please read the leaders guide to learn about these alterations. We, as well as our staff, look forward to meeting all of you this summer at Camp Tamarack. We look forward to making your week with us awesome. Thank you in advance for the time, effort, and energy, you as a leader have invested into the Scout Program. If at any time you have a question you re unable to answer, please, feel free to give the Camp Director a call at the Council Service Center (574) 289-0337 ext. 320, or after start of Camp (269) 435-7533. Thank you for attending Summer Camp at Camp Tamarack. Take time to visit our website at http://www.lasallecouncilbsa.org/summercamp, for updated and new information. Yours in Scouting, Will Will Wilson Camping Chair Bill Bill Stauffacher Camp Director Jason Jason Emmons Program Director Bruce Bruce Metzdorf Camp Commissioner - 3 -
ABOUT CAMP TAMARACK Camp Tamarack is located about 5 miles north of U.S. 12, off of S.R. 40, just south of Jones, Michigan. Camp Tamarack consists of more than 500 acres of heavily wooded land. Located on the camp are two glacial lakes (Wood Lake and Little Wood Lake), and miles of trails and much wildlife. There are presently 14 campsites scattered in the woods on the north side of Wood Lake and Little Wood Lake. The Scouts live in the outdoors in tents, which they bring and pitch themselves. One camp site has platform tents supplied by the camp available for your use. There are several buildings used to provide services to the campers and staff. These include a dining hall, shower house, health lodge, and of course, a well-stocked trading post. The Boy Scouts of America and the State of Michigan Department of Social Services rate Camp Tamarack as a National Accredited Camp. Camp Tamarack, WLSR maintains a policy of non-discrimination in regards to color, creed, religion, national origin, or disability in all phases of its programs and operations. Camp life at Camp Tamarack, WLSR, builds the Patrol Method, Troop Leadership Skills, and Scouting Spirit. During your stay at Camp, you as a leader have the ability to learn more about your Scouts, spend more individual time with them, and develop personal satisfaction in working with and assisting in Troop Development. Camp Tamarack provides programs for your troop that you can take back home with you. Besides being the peak of many Troops summer adventure, Camp Tamarack is just plain fun. for you, your Scouts, and of course our staff!!! Camp Tamarack is nationally accredited by the Boy Scouts of America. This means each year our camp meets the standards of being a safe, healthy and quality camping experience for you and you re Scouts. CAMP STAFF Camp Tamarack has a fully trained, dedicated staff. All key staff and program Area Directors have either attended BSA National Camping School or are deemed qualified by the accreditation team. More than half the staff have been on camp staff for three years or more. - 4 -
DATES AND FEES Troop Rosters are required two weeks in advance of your camp dates. Please send them to the LaSalle Council Scout office. See Appendix A. ***ALLERGIES, DIETARY RESTRICTIONS, SPECIAL DIET REQUIREMENTS*** If a any member of your Troop has any dietary special needs ( i.e: allergies, sensitivities to foods, special diets, restrictions, vegetarian/vegan diet, etc.) please have them (or their parents) contact the Head Cook NO LATER THAN ONE WEEK PRIOR TO THEIR ARRIVAL. Special notice to individuals requiring specialize food products (gluten free)...it is recommended that you bring gluten free products you are familiar with from home that can be prepared for you. We do have bread and buns that are guaranteed peanut/peanut oil free for peanut sensitive individuals. Please note...we cannot guarantee special needs/requests can be met without notification. The camp dates for the 2015 camping season are as follows: camptamarackfoodservice@gmail.com All camp programs are run on South Bend, Indiana (Eastern Daylight Savings) time. Session One June 14th - June 20th Session Four July 5th July 11th Session Two June 21st June 27th Session Five July 12th July 18th Session Three June 28th - July 4th CAMPSITE RESERVATION FEE One Leaders Fee per Troop (Non-Refundable after March 1) 115.00 For Troops returning next year, a deposit (one Leader Fee needs to be paid by Friday noon, if you wish to reserve the same site and week for next year. After the Friday noon, you will be able to choose from any open site from your week or any of the previous weeks. After all five weeks of camp are complete, you may choose from any of the remaining open camp sites. Please note: In order to reserve exclusive use of a campsite, you must guarantee the minimum number of campers required for that site. Failure to pay for that minimum in full by the May 20 discount deadline will forfeit exclusive use of that site. CAMPING FEES - Troop lump sum payments for registration fees will not be accepted. Troops must register campers (youth and adult) for Summer Camp on an individual basis within your Troop. Names of Scouts and Leaders must be provided with specific payment amounts that directly apply to each individual (youth or adult). We will not accept payments without a list of names and a corresponding amount paid for EACH PERSON. 2014 FEES SCOUTS Camp fees if paid before May 18, 2015 (Deposit, per Scout, due April 20, 2015 Camp fees if paid after MAY 18, 2015 ADULTS Per FULL TIME leader per session (No Discount) (A Leader fee can be shared by more than one Leader attending for less than the full week) 249.00 50.00 285.00 115.00 Note: IN-COUNCIL and OUT of COUNCIL Units pay the same fees. - 5 -
Please note: Guest meals are not available on an individual meal basis, except for the Friday night steak dinner. If you will be having guests for a day during the week, a 25 per day fee (Monday thru Thursday) and a 35 fee for Friday is required. Camp must be notified 2 weeks before the Unit arrives at Camp Fee covers 3 meals per day and for Friday, the steak dinner. For guest for just the Friday night steak dinner, the fee is 15 per dinner. Two-deep leadership is required for all units. Units of 20 youth or more should have a ratio of at least 1 leader for every 10 Scouts, however, we recommend more. If you have a problem with leadership, please let us know in advance. We can work to pair your Troop with another unit or try to make other arrangements. Refund Policy 50% of the individual registration fee is considered non-refundable. This amount is transferable to another person attending with the same unit for the same program in the same year by May 1 of that year. A refund for the remaining 50% of the registration fee will be processed if a written request is received at the Scout Service Center at least three weeks prior to your camp week check in. After that, refunds for the remaining 50% will be considered for hardship and emergency cases only on an individual basis. Basic Scout deposit fees are non-refundable. Camp Tamarack reserves the right to move large Troops to Larger Campsites. If a smaller unit has campsite reservations, they will be given the option of sharing the campsite with the larger Troop, or being moved to a smaller campsite if available. CAMPSITE EQUIPMENT Each campsite has the following equipment and facilities: Picnic tables Bulletin board Dining fly Latrine/Port-a-potty Wash stand Running water Fire ring Additionally, the unit will be issued the following equipment from the Camp Quartermaster for their use in camp: Hose Rake Shovel Trash can Fire extinguisher Latrine cleaning supplies available from the Quartermaster - 6 -
THUNDER RIDGE (RANK ADVANCEMENT PROGRAM) The purpose of the Thunder Ridge area is to help first and second year Scouts to advance not only in rank, but aid in getting the basic merit badges they need to strive for Eagle. Those Scouts that enroll in the Thunder Ridge Program will split their time between advancement and merit badges. For those Scouts who just want to work on advancement and not on the merit badges, we have scheduled session hours. Under the guided merit badge program, Scouts will participate in any of the following merit badges as a small group. Guided merit badge program merit badges: Art Basketry () Canoeing Fingerprinting Fishing Leatherworking () Mammal Study Pioneering Rowing Small Boat Sailing Wood Carving () Scouts will receive a worksheet showing all rank advancement requirements completed during the week. No notations will be made in the individual Scouts handbook. Sign off in the Scouts handbook will be the responsibility of the Unit Leadership. Scouts should bring their handbooks to sessions to use as a reference. Also available are the opportunity for any Scout to earn his Totin chip and/or Firem'n Chit Please note that the 5 mile hike is not offered as a camp activity. While at camp, your unit can do a 5 mile hike on their own if you desire. Talk to the Camp Commissioner if you need a map of a measured route. - 7 -
THE MERIT BADGE PROGRAM The earning of Merit Badges is the backbone of Camp Tamarack and Boy Scout Summer Camps everywhere. Over the years, Camp Tamarack has been known NOT as a merit badge mill, but instead as a place where Scouts can truly earn the badges. We as a staff do not add requirements to the badges, but we do make sure that if the Merit Badge calls for a Scout to write and give a report, he does it. If the requirement calls for a Scout to demonstrate, he does it. The Summer Camp Staff of Tamarack takes pride in the fact that when Scouts leave here, they have earned their merit badges and have had fun doing so! Ways to help your Scouts with their Merit Badges. 1. Before they get to Camp, sit down with your Scouts and help them decide which Merit Badges they will be working on there. 2. Have your Scouts obtain the merit badge books and go over the requirements before they get to Camp. The Camp Trading Post has a very limited amount of books available for rent. 3. Check the list of work needed before camp and have the Scouts work on them before they get to Camp. 4. Have your Scouts make out a schedule for the week so they can do all the activities they want to. 5. Check with your Scouts after Monday to make sure they have gotten to all their Merit Badge Sessions. 6. Check with the Staff sometime during the week to see the progress of your Scouts. 7. If there are conflicts, talk to the staff as soon as possible to work them out. 8. Don t think that every hour must be filled with merit badge work. Leave time for other camp activities such as swimming, canoeing, or shooting at the Archery, Rifle, or Shotgun ranges. 9. Some Merit Badges require work before camp to be completed at Camp. 10. Please make sure all Scouts have the necessary merit badge book, and have read it prior to camp. 11. Please make sure your Scout has completed or studied the pre-camp requirements to make his week in camp a success. 12. For Swimming and Lifesaving Merit Badges Scouts must bring the clothing needed to complete the clothing inflation and disrobing requirements. Lifesaving clothes will not be getting wet; however, swimming clothes will. 13. Shooting (rifle, shotgun and archery) merit badges require an additional program period beyond the merit badge class for practice. This is essential if the Scout expects to meet the required shooting score to earn the merit badge - 8 -
MERIT BADGE REQUIREMENTS All merit badges require the appropriate book to be read prior to arrival in camp. Note that requirements listed in Before Camp must be completed before camp if the Scout expects to complete the merit badge at camp. MERIT BADGE AREA COMMENTS BEFORE CAMP Archery (*) Archery Need an extra period for practice. (5-10 for arrow kit) 2a,b,c,e. 3a,b.4a-f, 5b,d,e Art Handicraft None Astronomy Ecology None Basketry (*) Handicraft Will cost extra money (15-20 None for project kits) Bird Study Ecology By appointment only 5, 7, 8 Bugling Eagles & Beyond Bring a Bugle, Trumpet or Cornet. 6 Must be able to hit a high A Camping Scoutcraft 4b, 5e, 7b, 8d, 9a-b Canoeing Aquatics Must to be a swimmer None Chemistry Ecology None Chess Aquatics None Cinematography Eagles & Beyond None Citizenship in the Nation Eagles & Beyond 2, 8 Citizenship in the World Eagles & Beyond 7 Communications Eagles & Beyond 5, 8 Cooking Scoutcraft 7c,d,e Cycling Sports Bring bike will be locked up None when not in class Electricity Eagles & Beyond 2, 8, 9a Electronics Eagles & Beyond None Emergency Preparedness Scoutcraft First Aid MB, 8 Entrepreneurship Eagles & Beyond See MB book Engineering Eagles & Beyond 4 Energy Ecology Bring article (req. 1a) with you 1a, 4 Environmental Science Ecology Not good for younger scouts 3e Fingerprinting Handicraft None Fire Safety Scoutcraft None First Aid Scoutcraft Must have first aid kit, Should be None 1st Class Fish and Wildlife Mgmt. Ecology By appointment only 5, 6, 7 Fishing Aquatics Bring your own pole, tackle, and None bait. Fly Fishing Aquatics Bring your own equipment None Game Design Eagles & Beyond Geocaching Scoutcraft Bring your GPS (optional) 7, 9 Golf (*) Sports Greens Fees (15 covers both None outings) Indian Lore(*) Scoutcraft Must participate in the Indian Lore None Program Insect Study Ecology By appointment only 4, 7 Kayaking Aquatics Must to be a swimmer None Law Eagles & Beyond 4, 7 Leatherwork (*) Handicraft Will cost extra money (5-15 for None project kits) Lifesaving Aquatics Must to be a swimmer. Bring street clothes for quick disrobing Swimming MB - 9 -
MERIT BADGE AREA COMMENTS AREA COMMENTS AREA BEFORE CAMP COMMENTS Mammal Study Ecology Good for younger Scouts None Metalworking (*) Blacksmithing Will have additional cost (5-10) Motor boating Aquatics Must to be a swimmer None Music Eagles & Beyond None Nature Ecology Good for older Scouts None Oceanography Ecology None Orienteering Scoutcraft Good for older Scouts None Personal Fitness Sports 6, 7, 8 Personal Management Eagles & Beyond 2, 8 Pioneering Scoutcraft Basic knot knowledge None Public Speaking Eagles & Beyond None Radio Scoutcraft 7 Reptile & Amphibian Study Ecology 8 Rifle Shooting Sports Need an extra period for practice Read MB book to achieve qualifying score Rowing Aquatics Must to be a swimmer None Scuba Diving (*) Must to be a swimmer See MB book 3 rd and 5 th week only Search & Rescue Scoutcraft None Signs, Signals, and Codes Scoutcraft *New reqs published 2014?? Shotgun (*) Shooting Sports Must attend the open shotgun Read MB book shooting (7-8 pm) to qualify. Will have additional cost (10-20) Small Boat Sailing Aquatics Must to be a swimmer None Soil & Water Conservation Ecology None Space Exploration (*) Handicraft Will have additional cost (10-2 20) Sports Sports 4 Swimming Aquatics Must to be a swimmer. Bring None street clothes for inflation Theatre Eagles & Beyond 1 Weather Ecology 8 Welding (*) Rangers Shop Will have additional cost (5-10) None Wilderness Survival Scoutcraft Overnight in the Wilderness. None Bring survival kit from home. Not recommended for 1 st yr. Wood Carving (*) Handicraft Will cost extra money (5-10) None Eagle required MB are shown in BOLD & Italics () MB requires supplies or materials available at the Trading Post, or there is an additional fee. *Prices subject to change. - 10 -
AQUATICS Merit Badges Offered: Canoeing Chess Fishing Fly Fishing Kayaking Lifesaving Motor Boating Rowing Small Boat Sailing Swimming We offer a full line on waterfront activities including swimming, fishing and boating on Wood Lake and Little Wood Lake, spring fed glacial lakes. POLAR BEAR SWIM Only the strongest dare brave the cold Wood Lake waters in the dawn light. Times and days dependent on weather. WATER VOLLEYBALL Come down and challenge our staff or another troop at volleyball during most evenings. BOATING SCAVENGER HUNT This new challenge is available during open boating sessions. SWIMMING INSTRUCTION Need some help advancing to the level of swimmer? Come down at 11:00 am and let the Waterfront staff give you a hand. MILE SWIM A program for older Scouts and Leaders that challenges strong swimmers to push themselves to swim a mile. These swimmers will meet at 11:00 am every day. SNORKELING BSA This exciting program runs Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from 4:00 to 5:00 pm. NOON CANOE TRIPS Take a trip to Little Wood Lake and have lunch at Jim Bridger. One-day notice for the packed lunch is required. SAFE SWIM DEFENSE For Scouter s and Scouts, times to be announced on Sundays. TROOP SWIM Sign your Troop up for some fun at Wood Lake and practice Safe Swim Defense! OPEN SWIM Come down and cool off every day from 2:00 4:00 pm. OPEN BOATING Come practice for your merit badges or just have fun in Tamarack s boats every day from 2:00 till 5:00 pm. ADVANCED SNORKLING Involves going deeper in the water and a trip to new portions of the lake that the regular snorkeling class do not do. ADVANCED SAILING Learning to use larger boats with multiple sails, sailing safety and terminology, more hands on sailing Safe Swim Defense, Safety Afloat, Paddlecraft Safety, BSA Lifeguarding*, and Kayaking BSA are all available by appointment. SCUBA DIVING MB This is merit badge and PADI certification and is offered only during weeks 3 and 5. There is an additional fee for this merit badge. Contact the Camp Director for additional information. Participants spend morning and afternoon instruction periods working on the merit badge at an off-site location. * Will take all class periods every day - 11 -
ARCHERY Merit Badge Offered: Archery () Archery offers a 12 lane archery range. Additionally, the archery range offers a target thrower to allow archers to shoot at airborne and moving targets. Archery Merit Badge classes are offered only in the morning. Merit badge shooters must come to at least one hour of open shoot each day. The afternoon is reserved for open shooting and practice to achieve the qualifying score needed for the merit badge. OPEN ARCHERY SHOOT Everyone is welcome to test his or her skill at our scenic range. As a challenge, anyone that outshoots a range officer will be awarded a chipper.* ADVANCED ARCHERY Learn how to make a bow and arrow out of natural materials. This class is offered only during 2 nd and 3 rd periods. Scouts must be 14 and have the archery merit badge. Leaders can also take this class. Bring a knife to class. GRAND ARCHERY TOURNAMENT Anyone interested in participating must arrive at the range by 7:10pm Tuesday night for qualifying rounds. winners will move on to Wednesday night and possibly Thursday night starting at 7:00pm and ending at 8:00pm. All participants will receive a coupon for the Trading Post. BEGINNERS ARCHERY This class will be offered any and all who wish to learn how to properly shoot bow and arrow without having to worry about bookwork. This course is highly recommended for first year scouts to take instead of the merit badge to allow them to complete the shooting requirement and have some fun at the same time. to *Limit one chipper per person per week. Unless you re really good. - 12 -
BLACKSMITHING Merit Badges Offered: Metalworking () METALWORKING MB Available only in the morning (1 st and 2 nd periods, 2 hour class) for the first time this year at camp, Scouts will be working on the Option 4, Blacksmithing program. (Scouts will be able to complete the merit badge at camp.) OPEN BLACKSMITHING available every afternoon. Come work on one of the small projects available to make. Some projects have a small fee to pay for materials - 13 -
EAGLES & BEYOND Merit Badges Offered: Bugling Cinematography Citizenship in the Nation Citizenship in the World Communications Electricity Electronics Entrepreneurship Engineering Game Design Law Music Personal Management Public Speaking Theatre Eagles and Beyond is available for older Scouts. They offer some Eagle required Merit Badges as well as many merit badges not typically offered at camp. If your Scouts are looking for an entirely new experience at camp, then Eagles and Beyond is for them! This Program is in its fifth summer here at Camp Tamarack. We offer your Scouts the opportunity to explore the worlds of theatre, music, cinematography, and so much more! Even a few Eagle required merit badges. Whether your Scout enjoys performing, writing, or being behind the camera, we have something for him. Please note that some merit badges require you to bring your own musical instrument. Be sure to join the jury for the Mock trial on Thursday evening. Is he guilty? We may even have a real judge presiding. Game nights are Tuesday and Wednesday, 7:00 to 8:00 pm. Send your Scouts to mix with the staff and fellow campers and enjoy playing board and card games. - 14 -
ECOLOGY Merit Badges Offered: Astronomy Bird Study (Appt only) Chemistry Energy Environmental Science Fish & Wildlife Management (Appt only) Forestry Geology Insect Study (Appt only) Mammal Study Nature Oceanography Pulp and Paper Reptile & Amphibian Study Soil & Water Conservation Weather Scouts have the opportunity to become one with nature, whether it be Environmental Science for Eagle or just learning more about our planet and natural resources. With hands on learning through wild life handling, identification. This is the place for you! Scouts are being exposed to all the environment has to offer. The entire camp is a nature preserve. See the nature exhibits at the Ecology Pavilion. CAMP WIDE CONSERVATION PROJECT required for Soil and Water Conservation, Camping and Mammal Study merit badges. Participation by all campers is optional, but encouraged. EDIBLE PLANTS An older scout and leader program where you journey through the wilderness and learn what you can and cannot eat in any potential situation. ADVANCED FORESTRY Go more in depth about the forests of the world and our local community, how they affect the wildlife and the natural world around you. ASTRONOMY STAR HIKE Hosted by the Astronomy merit Badge, come to the Ecology area at 10:30 PM on Tuesday take a hike through the night sky while learning about the wonders our galaxy has to offer us. (Will be rescheduled if necessary to see the stars.) - 15 -
HANDICRAFT Merit Badges Offered: Art Basketry () Fingerprinting Leatherwork () Space Exploration () Wood Carving () Handicraft will help your Scouts discover their creative side! Every Scout brings to camp a wide variety of talents and skills. The Handicraft area provides Scouts the opportunity to explore many different areas of skill and interest, perhaps one of which may lead to an enjoyable life-long hobby or special interest. Whether your boys want to make something special out of wood, paper, or leather, they can get the help they need in Handicraft. Parents love hand-made gifts and Scouts love to make them. Scouts wishing to work on handicraft merit badges will need to bring some extra money for supplies which can be purchased at the Trading Post. HANDICRAFT PROJECTS When not working on Merit Badges come on in and work on one of the many projects that can be purchased at the trading post. Use our carving tools to make a wood carving or our leather working tools to make a design in leather, maybe a hiking staff grip! OPEN HANDICRAFT Will be offered sixth session for scouts and adults who want to learn more advanced techniques. - 16 -
SCOUTCRAFT Merit Badges Offered: Camping Cooking Emergency Preparedness Fire Safety First Aid Geocaching Indian Lore Orienteering Pioneering Radio Search and Rescue Signs, Signals, and Codes Wilderness Survival Scoutcraft is the home of outdoor skills. Survival, navigation, first aid, wood tool use and knots are all taught here. Scoutcraft presents a mix of modern training and techniques matched with a return to Scout s basic skills that helped build the institutional reputation of Scouts as unmatched Outdoorsmen. Start a fire without matches, learn lashings and how to build things using only logs and rope! ADVANCED WILDERNESS SURVIVAL Learn advanced fire building, including fire by friction, wild edibles, rope making and trapping and snares. cooking skills.. COOKING MERIT BADGE New introduction as an Eagle required badge! This MB will be taught 3 rd period and extend over lunch on some days when Scouts will practice their SIGNS, SIGNALS, AND CODES This brand new merit badge provides instruction and appreciation for American Sign Language, Morse Code, and other forms of non-vocal communication. (Offered subject to the requirements being published in time to develop them for camp instruction.) SEARCH AND RESCUE Learn the skills necessary to assist in helping professional rescuers search for lost persons. GEOCACHING learn to use the GPs and check one out to explore the geocaches located around camp. - 17 -
SHOOTING SPORTS Merit Badges Offered: Rifle Shooting Shotgun Shooting () Shooting Sports offers a 10 position rifle range, a three position shotgun range. OPEN RIFLE SHOOT A good time for you and your Scouts to brush up on aim, and have some fun. 2:00 4:45 pm*. If your Scouts are taking the shooting merit badge, they will need to use at least one open shoot period daily to practice to achieve the score required. A prize is offered weekly to the high score for both youth and adults. OPEN SHOTGUN SHOOT A lot of fun for Scouts and adults. Come and try to hit Tamarack s bright orange skeet birds. Because of the extra expense of the supplies and equipment, there is an additional charge. Please purchase your tickets at the Trading Post. Hours are 7:00 8:00 Monday through Thursday and 4:00 4:50 pm, Friday. LEADERS SHOOT During the open shoot period, Leaders are encouraged to shoot. Come see if your leaders can hit the targets! * Except Friday, hours will be 2:00-3:50 pm. - 18 -
SPORTS Merit Badges Offered: Climbing () (by arrangement*) Cycling Golf () Personal Fitness Sports Some of the merit badges and activities will require fees to complete. See below for estimated additional fees. CYCLING Scouts can bring their own bikes. We will lock them up when they are not in session. We will have a limited number of bikes on a first come, first served basis. GOLF The Golf Merit Badge requires the Scout to participate in two offsite golf outings to complete this merit badge on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, weather permitting. An additional fee of 15 will be required to pay for greens fees and club rental. Scouts should bring clubs if they have them. HELP, we will also be asking for a few adult drivers to help transport the Scouts to and from the golf course (drivers can play golf with the Scouts if they want to). MOUNTAIN BOARDING Must be 13 years or older to participate. The cost will be 5 for a week pass for riding. TOMAHAWK THROWING Try your luck with tossing a tomahawk at a target. Tomahawk throwing is available in the Sports area during the afternoon program sessions. * See Camp Director at check-in if interested. Must be verified by Sunday evening. (Call Camp Director before camp for more information. 574-289-0337 before May 1 st, after May 1 st, 269-435-7533) - 19 -
WELDING Merit Badges Offered: Welding () WELDING MB Check the schedule for available sessions. This is a 2 hour class. Merit badge classes will be held in the Ranger s shop. Classes will be held from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM Monday thru Thursday. NEW: Advance Welding. Advanced Welding: This elective course is for scouts that have completed the welding M.B. and have a strong desire to go to the next level, and that may be thinking of a career in welding. This course will cover: 1. MIG welding - Trouble shooting problems, set up and adjustments of machine, doing vertical and overhead welds 2. Stick welding - striking and maintaining proper arc length, welding with 6010, 6013, and 7018 welding rod, using and understanding AC, DC+ and DC- welding modes, and doing vertical welds. 3. TIG welding - TIG welding overview, setting up machine, understanding difference in AC, DC+, and DC- modes, sharpening tungsten's, running a bead on plate steel. 4. Thermal cutting - Set up and use of both oxy - acetylene cutting torch and plasma arc cutting. 5. Friction cutting - Set up and use of cut off wheels, and grinders. 6. Project - If time permits and if scout is at appropriate skill level for project selected. These will be fairly simple projects involving layout, cutting, and welding. Cost for this course is 15.00 and covers all material and consumables. Scout MUST have a pair of blue jeans with no holes or rips, and a pair of leather boots* If scout doesn't have appropriate footwear he will not be allowed to use thermal cutting equipment as this gives off a large amount of sparks/molten metal. Class sizes will be limited due to time constraints, amount of equipment, and that this will be one on one training at times. * Jeans and boots may get small burn marks on them due to sparks and weld splatter. Advance Welding will be 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM Monday thru Thursday. - 20 -
CAMPWIDE ACTIVITIES Summer camp at Tamarack is much more than daily Merit Badge Sessions. Summer camp is a learning adventure. During your week with us, your scouts will learn about themselves, friends, and leaders. One of the best ways to learn is by participating in Camp, Troop and Patrol Activities. SUNDAY Aquatics Orientation (Waterfront) Required for all Scouts. At the waterfront, immediately following the evening meal. Leaders Orientation (Dining Hall) Required for at least one leader per unit, all leaders are welcome. Each program area will give a quick overview of their offerings. Meeting will be in the dining hall, small dining room. Opening Campfire (Fire Bowl) Kick back and enjoy the opening campfire put on by the Staff. Meet at the Trading Post at 8:15 pm. MONDAY Chapel Service (Chapel) A great way to start the week is by attending the Inter-Faith Chapel service after lunch. The Camp Staff, led by the Camp Chaplain, will lead the inter-faith service. Welcoming Luau (Waterfront) Come help us kick off camp with a Luau! After evening meal Monday, join us at the dining hall for a Cobbler Cook Off (Bring a Cobbler (1or 2, or 5) for dessert, and enter it in the Camp Tamarack Cobbler Cook Off!). Root Beer Floats, games, and more! The Trading Post will offer fixings for Root Beer Floats (along with other flavors), which can be purchased for 5 in a Camp Tamarack Mug to take home later! This mug also gets you 50 fountain drinks in the Trading Post the rest of the week. Also, head on down to Aquatics, and join in a game of Water Volleyball, or make S mores around the campfire. The Trading Post will also have a small booth of Luau supplies and other camp souvenirs for purchase. TUESDAY Indian Lore Program (Scoutcraft) Required for Scouts working on the Indian Lore MB. Come to the tepee at Scoutcraft to learn about our native Americans. Evening Open Swim (Waterfront) 7:00 8:00 pm Star Hike (Ecology) Come and hike with our Ecology Staff to see the stars like you have never seen them before (weather permitting). This is a great time to get away and star gaze. The hike will take place at 10:30 p.m. (weather permitting). WEDNESDAY OA Callout Ceremony (Fire Bowl) Honor your fellow campers that you have elected to be called out to be Ordeal candidates. This is a very impressive ceremony with participants dressed in Native American regalia. Parents of O.A. candidates are welcome to join their Scouts for the O.A. Call-out and Campfire. The campfire will start around 8:30 PM. Camp Conservation project (Ecology) Required for those Scouts taking Soil and Water Conservation, Mammal Study and Camping MB, optional for all others. Participate in this conservation project under the direction of the Ecology staff. (This does not apply for the service project under the Camp Tamarack Honors Program.) Canoe Tour to Little Wood Lake (Waterfront) for individual Scouts who may not be participating in a Troop canoe trip - 21 -
THURSDAY Great Tamarack Canoe Race (Waterfront) Enter a team in the race, then come out and support them as the paddle for the honor of fastest canoe. Mock Trial (Eagles & Beyond) Join the Law MB class as they put on a mock trial to fulfill one of their requirements. You can participate in the jury. FRIDAY Flag Retreat Ceremony and Awards (Parade Field) We will have a special flags this evening. Be sure to bring your unit colors. Camp Tamarack Honors will be presented. Steak Fry (Dining Hall & Camp sites) Let the Ranger staff cook your steak. You can eat at your regular tables in the dining hall or get your meal to go and eat in your camp site. Many units make Friday evening a family picnic for the family members coming for the camp fire. If you prefer to cook your own steaks, let the Dining Hall steward know by Friday morning. Closing Campfire (Fire Bowl) Now it s YOUR TURN to entertain the other units, your guests and staff. Do not forget that during the week, you may ask the staff to help you put on your own nightly campfire at your site. Meet at the Trading Post at 8:15 pm. - 22 -
DAILY ONGOING ACTIVITIES Monday - Friday Geocaching (Scoutcraft) All campers can participate in finding treasure by following the coordinates on a Global Positioning Unit (GPS) bring your own or borrow one from the Scoutcraft. Check out the local geocaches on your own. Ultimate Frisbee (Sports) during the rest period Boating Scavenger Hunt (Waterfront) during open boating Open Shooting (Rifle Range) See the daily schedule Open Shotgun (Shotgun Range) See the daily schedule Open Swimming (Waterfront) See the daily schedule Open Boating (Waterfront) See the daily schedule Open Handicraft (Handicraft) See the daily schedule Open Archery (Archery Range) See the daily schedule Open Blacksmithing (Blacksmithing) See the daily schedule Tuesday Wednesday Game Night (Eagles & Beyond) 7:00 8:00 pm Archery Tournament (Archery) Open to all campers and leaders. 7:00-8:00 pm, qualifying rounds on Tuesday with the finals on Wednesday (may extend to Thursday). Tuesday & Thursday Charcoal Making (Blacksmithing) Join the Blacksmithing staff to make charcoal. They start right after dinner and go until about 10:00 when the charcoal is ready. Wednesday & Thursday Water Vollyball (Waterfront) 7:00-8:00 pm, enjoy challenging another Troop or staff members to a game, or as an individual join in a pickup game - 23 -
A SCOUT IS REVERENT CAMP TAMARACK RELIGIOUS AWARD This program offers an opportunity for Scouts and Leaders to earn a special patch. Requirements are: 1) to attend the Monday camp religious service 2) participate in at least three (3) daily devotionals with your Troop and 3) lead a grace before a meal. CHAPEL SERVICE A great way to start the week is by attending the Inter-Faith Chapel service Monday after lunch. The Camp Staff, led by the Camp Chaplain, will lead the inter-faith service. - 24 -
TAMARACK HONORS PROGRAM To stimulate good Troop and patrol operation, and to ensure that all Scouts and Scouters have a clean safe environment, the Camp Commissioner administers the Tamarack Honors Program. The Tamarack Honors Program measures unit participation in camp activities and programs and daily camp site inspection results. The campsite inspections look at camp layout, cleanliness, safe environment, Troop administration, display of US and Unit flags and service to the camp. Each unit/campsite is visited daily by a Camp Commissioner who will utilize the worksheet shown in Appendix G-1. A total score of 500 points is required to be awarded the Tamarack Honors ribbon. For those units wanting to take the Honors to the next level, they can try to earn Commissioners Award. To earn the Commissioners Award, a unit must sign up with the Camp Commissioner by noon on Monday. Sign up can be accomplished by verbally notifying the Camp Commissioner. COMMISSIONERS AWARD The Commissioners Award involves not only achieving perfect scores (100 points) on the Daily section and earning at least 150 points for participation in camp activities, but also giving back to the camp. A unit must also complete a camp service project selected from the Ranger s Good Turn Projects list and make a permanent camp or camp site improvement (approved by the Ranger). You may contact the Ranger prior to camp for approval if you desire, 269-435-7533 or woodlake1956@gmail.com. The matrix below shows those campsites that have been the recipients of permanent improvements so far. The improvements shown in this matrix only shows those that have been done, it does not limit campsite improvements that can be made. The score sheet for the Commissioners Award is shown in Appendix G-2. Scores are calculated as of noon on Friday, so all points must be earned and recorded by then. Tamarack Honors and Commissioners Awards will be presented during the Friday evening flag ceremony. - 25 -
THE ORDER OF THE ARROW (NATIONAL BROTHERHOOD OF HONOR CAMPERS) The Order of the Arrow is Scouting s National Honor Society. The OA exists primarily as a service organization with emphasis on cheerful service to others and the promotion of Scout Camping. Operating democratically as primarily a youth organization, the OA offers leadership opportunities for the youth members who are elected or appointed to various leadership positions. Adult members of the Order of the Arrow serve only as advisors and counselors. Membership is granted to youths not by popularity, but by service to others. Their own troop members elect Scouts as Candidates for induction. Troops that elect at least one youth Candidate may also recommend one adult Scouter for consideration. OA elections must be scheduled with your chapter. These must be completed before summer camp. Elections will not be valid or recognized if done at Summer Camp. Wednesday is Order of the Arrow Day at Camp Tamarack. All arrowmen are encouraged to wear their Sash with Class A or wear a Class B uniforms. The OA Call-Out Ceremony is Wednesday with a special campfire. OA members interested in assisting the staff and participating in this ceremony should listen for the announcement during the evening announcements. For those Scouts eligible, the Brotherhood Honor ceremony is also held on Wednesday evenings. Observation of this ceremony is only open to OA members holding the Brotherhood Honor or higher. An informational meeting will be held early in the week for those OA Ordeal members interested in earning the Brotherhood Honor. - 26 -
ADULT SCOUTERS PROGRAM & ACTIVITIES Camp Tamarack is proud to offer an expanded program for the Adult Scouter s staying with us for the week. MILE SWIM Practice every day at 11:00 am, with the qualifying swim on Friday. Show your Scouts that you too can swim the mile. SNORKELING BSA See Aquatics ADVANCED SNORKELING See Aquatics ADVANCED SAILING See Aquatics PADDLECRAFT SAFETY See Aquatics SWIMMING & WATER RESCUE See Aquatics SAFETY AFLOAT & SAFE SWIM DEFENSE TRAINING A must for any Troop wanting to do any water activities as a Troop. (By appointment with Aquatics) LEADERS SHOOT Travel on down to the range and take your best shot at being the Top Leader. TROOP LEADER ROUNDTABLE Troop leader roundtables will be held on Monday and Friday mornings at 9:00 a.m. and Wednesday afternoon at 2:00 p.m. During these meetings, Staff and Leaders will discuss programs and procedures and answer all questions. These meetings will be held in the Dining Hall. The following Training will be available if requested*. Training Intended For FAST START LEADER TRAINING Adults BOY SCOUT LEADERSPECIFIC Adults TRAINING TREK ON SAFELY Adults and Youth Leaders CHAIN SAW SAFETY** Adults (18+ years old) **Required to operate a chain saw on any LaSalle Council camp property. * See the Program Director if interested. - 27 -
GENERAL INFORMATION YOUTH PROTECTION All leaders over the age of 18 staying in camp are required to have completed BSA Youth Protection Training and have a current training completion certificate available for inspection during in-processing. MICHIGAN YOUTH PROTECTION LAWS: REQUIRED FOR LEADERS TO ATTEND! Each adult volunteer and staff will also need to complete a central registry clearance form, from their state of residence, submitted to their state of residence. Michigan, Indiana, and Illinois forms provided on the Boy Scout Summer Camp Web Site. Please, make sure the registry clearance will be forwarded to the Scout Office, as you will need this on file to attend camp. LaSalle Council B.S.A. Attn: Gloria Wilkinson 1340 South Bend Avenue South Bend In. 46617 Or fax to 574-289-0336 MEDICAL HEALTH FORMS All campers, adult and youth, are required to have a physical examination conducted by and signed by a licensed physician. All Scouts and Leaders must have had this completed within the preceding 12 months, along with a current health history. A current signature of a parent is also required. The date of the exam must cover through the date you are in camp. A link to the Current Medical form is available on the Boy Scout Summer Camp Web Site. HEALTH LODGE In the event of accident or illness, a health officer will be on duty in the Health Lodge during the course of Camp. If the health officer feels that the Scout or Scouter needs hospital treatment, arrangements will be made with the local hospital. Please note that if the incident does not require an ambulance, the Troop Leadership will be responsible for the transportation of the Scout to the hospital. The parents or family of the Scout or Scouter will then be contacted from camp. MEDICATION Please note that all medications, for youth or adult, prescription or over the counter, are to be turned in to the health officer upon arrival and registration in camp. All medications need to be in the original containers and labeled with the person s name to receive them, dosage instructions and times when the medication is needed. If there is more than one medication, put ALL medications in a Ziploc bag for that individual. Medicines will be available at the health lodge, are self-administered and are the responsibility of the Scout for dosage compliance. Please make sure the Adult leadership is aware of the medication and times it is required. - 28 -
The Health Officer is not liable for Scouts who fail to take their medications on time. Scoutmasters are requested to aid in ensuring Scouts show up at the appropriate times. SAFETY PERSONAL SAFETY Shoes must be worn at all times while in camp. Open toe sandals, clogs, and thongs are not considered shoes (unit leaders are requested to notify their visitors of this policy). Shower shoes should only be worn while in the shower area. Swimming is allowed only in the designated area of the Waterfront and only in accordance with BSA Policy and Procedures. Buddy Tags must be used at all times when at the waterfront. The use of the buddy system throughout camp is encouraged. There is no running in camp, except for staff in an emergency and during Camp-wide games. Campers should watch for poison ivy. Camp Tamarack has poison ivy in most of the wooded areas. WEATHER SAFETY Heat Campers should be aware of conditions that can cause heat injuries. Be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion and sun stroke. Contact the Health Officer or any staff member if you notice a camper with and heat injury signs. Be sure to carry a water bottle/canteen and drink plenty of fluids. Each Program Area has water available to refill campers water containers. Severe weather Campers should be aware of the weather conditions and watch for severe weather. All Area Directors carry radios equipped with a weather frequency. Additionally, the weather is constantly monitored by staff at the Directors Lodge. FIRE SAFETY Units are permitted to have camp fires in their camp sites. Announcements will be made as necessary if a burn ban is in or needs to be put in effect. Camp fires need to be attended at all times. Do not leave your camp site with an unattended fire. CAMP WIDE ALARMS There are three camp wide alarms that campers need to be familiar with. These alarms will be demonstrated during the Sunday evening meal. FIRE a steady on-off tone, 3 seconds in duration. All campers (youth and adults) must assemble on the parade field. Once all members of a unit are present, the SPL should report to the camp staff member taking the reports. Units will be dismissed once the all clear is given. SEVERE WEATHER a continuing hi-lo tone tome. All campers (youth and adults) must assemble in the dining hall. Campers should sit at their assigned meal tables. The Ranger staff will check all camp sites and program areas to insure all campers are notified. Once all members of a unit are present, the SPL should report to the camp staff member taking the reports. Units will be dismissed once the all clear is given. LOST BATHER a continuous solid tone. All campers (youth and adults) must assemble on the parade field. Once all members of a unit are present, the SPL should report to the camp staff member taking the reports. Units will be dismissed once the all clear is given. Note: A FIRE DRILL will take place during the first 24 hours of camp. - 29 -
UNIFORMS Scouts and leaders are strongly encouraged to wear the Scout Uniform for evening flags and meal, Chapel Services, and Campfires. At the closing campfire on Friday evening, OA members may wear sashes. Camouflage clothing is not considered proper attire at Camp Tamarack. Class A Camp Class A uniform consists of Scout shorts/pants, Scout shirt, Boy Scouts Socks, and belt. Class B Camp Class B uniform consists of Scout Shorts/pants, Scout related or plain T-Shirt, Boy Scouts Socks, and belt. The uniform for evening flags is determined by the Health Officer and Camp Director by noon each day for that afternoon s formation. A designator letter corresponding to the uniform will be posted on the Health Lodge door, A for Class A and B for Class B. The standard uniform for evening flags is Class A unless weather conditions indicate the need for Class B. TELEPHONE The camp phone should be only be utilized for emergency and BSA business. If you must call your Scout or Scouter while at camp, the phone number is (269) 435-7533. There are no pay phones at Camp Tamarack. For calls home, please check with the Camp Director. MAIL If you would like your Scout or Scouter to receive mail, please remember to mail early. Probably at least a week before your Scouts are in camp.the address is: Scouts Name, Troop #, Campsite Camp Tamarack, WLSR 10891 Withers St. Jones, MI 49061 O.A. CALL OUT NIGHT Wednesday Visitors coming only for the campfire should arrive by 8:00 PM. Please notify visitors that they should wear appropriate clothing and footwear. VISITORS NIGHT Friday evening is visitors night. Dinner guests should arrive by 5:30pm for Closing Flags. Visitors coming for campfire should arrive by 7:30 PM. This is a great chance for parents to visit their Scout s home for the week. Please notify visitors that they should wear appropriate clothing and footwear. The cost of the Friday Night Steak Dinner is 15.00 and will be served at 6:00 pm. Tickets are required and may be purchased during check in. The campfire will follow dinner at 8:30 pm. Units should assemble at the Parade Field at 8:15 pm. Please be aware that if you have parents staying Friday night, reservations and payments must be made during check-in if they will be joining us for Saturday morning breakfast. The cost of the Saturday morning breakfast only is 3.00 per person. - 30 -
GUEST MEALS Guest meals are not available on an individual meal basis, except for the Friday night steak dinner. If you will be having guests for a day during the week, a 25 per day fee (Monday thru Thursday) and a 35 fee for Friday is required. Camp must be notified 2 weeks before the Unit arrives at Camp Fee covers 3 meals per day and for Friday, the steak dinner. Friday dinner is a steak fry! Visitors are welcome to join your unit for the meal. Tickets must be purchased during your in processing on Sunday. The cost is 15.00 per person. RELEASE FROM CAMP No Scout may be removed from the Camp s care or custody except by persons identified by his legal Parents or guardians. These names must appear on the medical form where indicated. VEHICLES Vehicles may not be moved beyond the parking lot except for loading and unloading during arrival and departure from camp. Unless medically necessary, vehicles will not be permitted in camp during the week. Any vehicle parked in a camp site must have a vehicle permit issued by the Camp Director. Trailers detached from vehicles are permitted in most sites. Please make arrangements for your Friday evening guests, vehicles may not be driven to the campsites, but must stay in the parking lot location. CAMP QUATERMASTER Some tools and equipment are available for loan from the camp for use in camp. When you check out equipment be sure to inspect the condition it is in. There will be a charge for any equipment lost or damaged. Please return equipment when you finish using it so that it may be used by other troops. CHEMICAL FUELS Only fuel containers attached to a stove or lantern are permitted in a camp site. Extra liquid/propane fuel must be locked up by the Quartermaster when not needed. Please label containers with Troop Number. PERSONAL GUNS AND BOWS In the event that a Scout or Leader brings their personal bow or gun, the equipment must be turned over to the Shooting Sports Director for storage and will be returned when the camper is leaving camp. Only law enforcement officers who are required to carry fire arms are permitted to have them in camp and not locked up. FIREWORKS The possession and use of fireworks by Scouts or Leaders is strictly prohibited. ALCOHOL AND DRUGS The consumption, possession, or use of controlled substances is prohibited at Camp. Local, State, and Federal laws will be enforced where violations of the above are reported. SMOKING National Boy Scouts of America policy prohibits smoking in all Scout Council Buildings and in the presence of Scouts. Smoking is only permitted for adults and only in designated areas of camp. Smoking is not allowed in camp sites, even if Scouts are not present. Check with the Camp Director or Commissioner for the designated smoking areas. INTERNET-WI-FI TO BE PUBLISHED - 31 -
UNIT PHOTO S A photographer will be available to take a unit photo. There is no charge for this. The photo will be provide as a file for you to make your own prints. Further information will be available at check-in. ICE Package commercially made ice is available for purchase at the Trading Post during regular Trading Post hours. - 32 -
The Camp Tamarack Trading Post is directly across from the shower house, by the main parking lot. Merit badge books are available for rent for any offered badges (5 rental, 3 back when the book is returned in good condition), and any supplies needed for offered badges are available for purchase. Other offerings include ice by the bag, snacks, drinks, Camp Tamarack wear, knives, some camping equipment, outdoor activities, some uniform parts, and other camp souvenirs. TRADING POST The Trading Post porch has tables and chairs to offer a place to sit and relax in the middle of a busy week at camp. Feel free to gather there for a game of cards with some friends, or while munching on some snacks! There is also Ping Pong available to rent for 75, and a German game called Kubb (koob) for 5 rental. Hours of operation for both the Trading Post and Quartermaster Sunday Monday Thursday Friday Saturday 1:30 pm 5:00 pm 8:45 am 11:30 am, 1:30 pm 5:00 pm, 7:00 pm 9:00 pm (closed Monday evening for Luau) 8:45 am 11:30 am, 1:30 pm 5:00 pm, 7:00 pm 8:00 pm, for ½ hour immediately following campfire Closed QUARTERMASTER The Quartermaster, located at the opposite end of the Trading Post, nearest to the parking lot. The QM has the weekly campsite supplies provided by the camp which include: trash can, shovel, rake, fire extinguisher, toilet paper, hose, and cleaning solution. These are available to pick up all day Sunday during check-in, and should be checked in with the Quartermaster or Trading Post Staff in person by 10am Saturday morning. The QM also has tools available to borrow for use in campsites and around camp for Good Turn projects and camp improvements. Tools available include: shovels, pick axes, post hole diggers, saws, hand tools, and brush clearing tools. There are other tools available by request. If you need something, please ask! If the QM doesn t have it, we may be able to borrow other items from the Rangers. These tools are available to borrow for a day at a time, and should be returned daily by 5pm. We do ask that any tools be cleaned up before returning them (just kick the dirt off) to help us maintain a clean work space. - 33 -
PREPARING FOR CAMP SEPT DEC DEC JAN FEB APR APR MAY MAY JUNE Select a Campsite and date. A 115.00 Leaders Fee is required to hold your troop campsite at Tamarack. Have a Troop summer Camp presentation for your Scouts and Parents (Former Staff or OA representatives will be available to help you with these presentations. Please contact the scout office.) Hold a Parents meeting about summer camp at Tamarack. Pick leadership for your week at summer camp. Develop a troop program schedule and individual merit badge choices. Pre-order T-shirts! Medical forms filled out and SIGNED should be turned into the Scoutmaster. Four copies of your Camp roster should be completed. Make sure camp roster is complete and medicals are in hand. FINAL CHECK FOR LEADERS PRIOR TO ARRIVAL IN CAMP: 1. Make sure medical forms are filled out and signed. 2. Prepare Unit Roster for Camp. Four copies are required at Check in. 3. Bring receipts for all fees paid. 4. Bring Checkbook or cash for all fees to be paid. 5. Remind Parents where to pick up Scouts and WHEN. 6. Be sure all parents know the Camp phone number (269) 435-7533. 7. Get a count on how many guests are coming Friday night (dinner is 15.00 per guest). 8. Have all the adults staying overnight fill out the adult child protection form. CHECKING IN AT CAMP - Each year we work to fine tune the Check In procedures to make your arrival as smooth as possible. Due to the amount of people that check in, please have patience with us. If you contact the Scout Service Center two weeks in advance to verify accuracy of Troop Summer Camp records, it will help speed up the process. 1. Troops are welcome to arrive at camp as early as 11:00 am on Sunday to set up their campsites. Please note: a Saturday arrival/set-up can be arranged with the Camp Director or Ranger. No meal service is available until to Sunday evening meal. 2. Troop Guides will be available in the parking lot starting at 1:00 pm. If your troop comes in early, please send someone to the parking lot to pick up your Troop Guide. 3. One adult leader needs to meet with the Camp Commissioner on the Directors Porch to turn in copies of Troop Rosters, settle any fees due, and complete check in procedures. (Starting at 1:00 pm) 4. Once your Troop Guide meets up with your troop, your guide will lead you to the Health Lodge (bring all medical forms and medications), Waterfront, Dining Hall, and Shooting Sports Ranges for orientation. You will also be shown the location of other areas. 5. After your tour, flags are at 5:45 pm. Dinner will follow. 6. Waterfront orientation immediately following dinner at the waterfront. 7. Leaders orientation by the Area Directors during the Scouts waterfront briefing at the dining hall. 8. Opening campfire is at 8:30 pm. Troops will meet at the Parade Field at 8:15 p.m.. 9. All Friday night guest meals must be purchased during check-in on Sunday. - 34 -
CAMP TAMARACK MAP - 35 -