Summer 2015 Boy Scout Camp, Camp Hugh Taylor Birch Contact Information Tecumseh Council, BSA 326 South Thompson Avenue Springfield, OH 45506 Phone 937-325-6449 Fax 937-325-6574 Email tecumseh@bsamail.org Web www.tecumsehcouncilbsa.org Camp Hugh Taylor Birch 4057 Swimming Pool Road Yellow Springs, OH 45387 Office Phone 937-767-7126 Camp Director Tawnya Irick Phone 937-597-2688 Email campdirector22@gmail.com Special points of interest: High A.C.E.S. Daytime Programming Prime Time Programming Late Nite Programming New Merit Badges Welcome to Camp Birch!! Welcome to Camp Birch! I hope you enjoy your visit with us this coming summer. We want Camp 2015 to be your Summer. The summer you remember for a lifetime. There is so much to see and do at Camp Birch. We have over 50 Merit Badges in 13 different program areas. This year we are continuing one of our new programs. Our High A.C.E.S. is in it s second High A.C.E.S. is continuing for its second year! It s a High Adventure & Camping Expedition for Scouts. This program is for Scouts ages 14-21. During the 3rd week of Boy Scout summer camp, we will take 8 Scouts on an adventure of a lifetime. Come in with your Troop on Sunday, and leave Monday morning with a contingent of Super Adventurers! Join us as we go underground for a muddy-grimy-coveralls, mud on your face, good time. We will eat lunch underground as we explore the cave in Kentucky s Summerset Caving System. After caving it s back to Ohio year with the ultimate adventure experience. Go caving, zip lining, canoeing, and biking all in one week! Add a campfire and friends, what could be better! We are also bringing back our Mountain Biking program. Explore neighboring John Bryant on one of our mountain bikes! These program areas join the already impressive list of areas for a Mega Zipline tour at Markin Farms in West Liberty. With 13 Ziplines and 5 High Ropes courses, you will get to experience every bit of Ziplining you can imagine. Scouts will take two Zip tours, one at Twilight and one during the day, including the Extreme Zipline over a huge pond! After Zipping around West Liberty, it s time to hop on the Mountain Bikes and ride to Birch Bark Canoe Livery where you will camp on the banks of the Mad River. The next morning we take a 10 mile canoe trip, eat lunch on the river banks, enjoy a lazy paddle trip, and come back to Camp Birch in time for Friday night s campfire. geared up to offer you a great Summer Camp experience. Come visit us at Camp Birch, and enjoy a traditional summer camp with us! Tawnya Irick Camp Director Our Mission Statement We provide a quality program that promotes Scouting values through fun and adventure. High A.C.E.S. Continuing for Summer 2015 High A.C.E.S. is an intense, exciting, adventure for older Scouts who are looking for the extra thrill and excitement to complete their summer. Parts A, B & C of the medical form are required. Cost for the trip is $395 and includes all activities, meals, t- shirt, patch, transportation, and an exciting adventure! A nonrefundable deposit of $100 guarantees your spot. No discounts, scholarships, or free adults are available for this camp. High A.C.E.S. is limited to the first 8 participants for week. The week runs from July5-July 11th.
Summer 2015 Information Guide Page 2 Why Choose Camp Birch? Whether you are new to Camp Birch or have been coming for years, consider this: Camp Birch is a traditional Boy Scout Summer Camp with modern amenities. While we offer tent camping without platforms, we do have clean, modern restroom and shower facilities, a modern (but not air-conditioned) dining hall and well-supplied program areas. Since 1979, Camp Birch has offered an excellent 1st year camper program. We were among the first Scout camps in America to focus on helping Scouts reach First Class rank as well as focus on Scout Skills. We offer a well-rounded outdoor program. We feature 50+ merit badges in 13 different program areas. We also stress patrol and Troop centered activities. Our well-trained, enthusiastic staff is focused on you and your Scouts. Our staff training has special focus on quality programming and excellent customer service. We manage over 300 acres, but our program and activity areas are located close enough together that you won't spend all your time walking from place to place. We offer family style dining. Meals are served family style in tables of 8. No long cafeteria lines! Camp Birch hosts both Low and High COPE Courses. These features are hugely popular with older Scouts and are a great way to build teamwork in your unit. Courses are available almost year round, weather permitting. We are bordered by 2,000 acres of park and preserve including Clifton Gorge Nature Preserve, John Bryan State Park and Glen Helen Preserve. These wonderful natural areas serve to extend our boundaries to include almost 2,500 acres for adventure! We are less than 20 minutes from the United States Air Force Museum, the Wright Brothers Aviation Heritage sites and Glen Helen Raptor Center. We are the closest Scout camp to these great historical treasures. Consider a side trip before, during or after camp. See our Camp Fee Structure form at the back of this guide for more information. Important Dates January 15, 2015 - Registration starts for Merit Badges. March 6, 2015 - Last day to turn in Camperships for Boy Scout Summer Camp. April 19, 2015 - Scoutmaster Luncheon will begin 12:30 p.m. at the Turner Building at Camp Birch (Scoutmasters will receive the latest information about camp, as well as a Q and A with Camp Staff Directors). Camp Fees and Dates Summer camp dates: Week 1 - June 14-20 Week 2 - June 21-27 Week 3 - July 5-11 Cost for one week of Summer Camp is $240 if paid-in-full by our Early Bird registration date of May 9, 2015. All fees not covered by camperships, are due by this May 9, 2015 - Early Bird registration ends (camp must be paid-in-full by this date to receive the discount). 10-Day-Out Meetings date. Week 1-10-Day-Out June 4 at 7 p.m. at the Turner Building. Week 2-10-Day-Out June 11 at 7 p.m. at the Turner Building. Week 3-10-Day-Out June 2 at 7 p.m. At the Turner Building. Sibling discount - $230 Second week of camp - $180 If a Scout qualifies for a Campership from Council, he does not qualify for any other discount. There is a $50 late fee for all camps if payment is received after May 9, 2015. Additional fees: C.O.P.E. - $20 Mad River Trace - $40 Extra t-shirt - $12 ($14 2X & up) High A.C.E.S. - $395 Archery- $10 kit Shotgun- $40 Rifle- $10 Black Powder- $5 A summer camping experience is the highlight of the Scout's year. To ensure that every boy or girl can attend camp regardless of financial resources, Camperships are available to Scouts registered in Tecumseh Council for up to 50% of the cost of Boy Scout Summer Camp at Camp Birch. In order to qualify for a 2015 Campership, the Scout and parents should complete the application form and return it to the Council Service Center no later than March 6, 2015. Recipients will be notified by March 24, 2015.
Summer 2015 Information Guide Page 3 10-Day-Out Meeting Information 10-Day-Out meetings are important to attend. A lot of information is handed out and collected. Please submit the following: All paperwork including: All Medical Forms are due at the 10-Day-Out meeting!! *Complete roster *Pre-camp swim test forms *Guest count for family day meals *All final payments or receipts *Any early release forms *Notice of special mobility or equipment needs *Any special information about what you expect from us during your stay *Any blue cards filled out with the Scout s name (please include all necessary information) At the meeting you will receive: *Program & schedules for your Scouts *Final instructions about your stay *Overview of this year s camp events *T-shirts that have been ordered *Patches for all those preregistered *Q & A with the Camp Director *Chance to sign up for Service Troop and Program Troop *Sign up for Swim Check Time Check-in - 2 p.m. on Sunday Camp Check-in begins at 2 p.m. in the Turner Building. Please bring any forms not previously turned in during the 10-Day-Out meeting. Troop photos will be taken before the camp tour. One vehicle per unit will be allowed to drive back to your campsite. Troop trailers can be left at your site for the week. All Scouts must walk back to their campsite. Each Troop will be met by a Troop Guide who will give a tour of the camp, stopping at the highlights like the Dining Hall, Nature Center, Pool, Shooting Range, Climbing Tower, and the Trading Post where each member of the Troop will receive a complimentary slushy! The Troop Guide will then check your campsite for equipment and/or needed items and see to it that you have everything you need for your stay. The Guide will check back with you from time to time to make sure you have the necessary items. You should also feel free to contact your Guide, the Quartermaster or the Camp Director if you have any needs during camp. Leadership at Camp - BSA Youth Protection ment is maintained 24-hours a day. There is no charge for Adult Leaders, up to the number required for your unit. Additional adults are $90 each for the week. Experience shows that having at least one of the unit s leaders stay at camp for the entire week provides the most A teacher, a listener, a motivator, a disciplinarian, these are just a few roles of a Scout leader. Each unit is required to have at least two adult leaders in camp during the entire week. One of these adults must be at least 21 years old. Leaders may rotate, as needed, as long as this "two-deep" leadership requireeffective leadership. This provides an important continuity of supervision and organization. The Senior Patrol Leader and Unit Leader are in charge of the Troop at all times. The camp staff will work with you as advisors and will provide an environment in which the Troop can grow. Adult Leadership Requirements: # Youth #Adults 1-10 2 11-20 3 20+ add 1 Adult to 10 Scout
Summer 2015 Information Guide Page 4 Registration 326 South Thompson Avenue Springfield, OH 45506 Phone 937-325-6449 Fax 937-325-6574 Email tecumseh@bsamail.org Web: tecumsehcouncilbsa.org or campbirch.org To be registered as a Troop, the unit must register at least 5 youth. For 2015, registration forms are available on our website and can be either mailed, emailed, faxed or brought to the Council Office in person. Payment can be made by check, or credit card over the phone. If you would like to pay over the phone, please make sure to send us the forms before making payment. Registration forms must be turned in by the Scoutmaster or unit leader as a Troop. No individual registrations please! Please fill out completely and legibly! Please note that all activities have a capacity and are available first-come-first-served. While we do our best to get Scouts into their first choices, we ask that you please select alternates for all sessions! We are only taking activity registrations for Sessions A, B, C and D. All other sessions are OPEN, and you DO NOT have to signup for them to attend. The earlier registrations are turned in, the better it is for us to plan for summer camp and to deliver a quality program for your unit. Of course, minor adjustments to a camper's schedule can be made at camp, but the bulk of work should be completed before campers arrive. Merit Badges cannot be chosen until the Scout s account is paid-in-full. Scoutmasters will need the following information: Scout s name, Troop #, Rank, Merit Badge selections, and T-shirt size. Scouts that have a popcorn certificate or campership must turn in the form at the time of registration to receive the discount. No refunds are given for summer camp. However, you can transfer costs paid to another Scout. This must be set up between the Scout leaders. Camp Staff is not responsible for finding a Scout to take another s place. Your Campsite the Heart of Camp The heart of your camp experience, your home, is your campsite. All sites have a latrine and washstand with potable water. Regardless of whether you bring your own tents or use the camp's tents, we hope you have a great summer camp experience. Each campsite will have equipment to help make your stay better. If any of these items are missing, or if you have other special needs, please contact the Ranger staff. Please take good care of camp equipment. Remind your Scouts that this equipment will be used by many other Troops during the summers to come. During the week, your campsite belongs to you. Please encourage your Scouts to respect other unit's campsites and avoid going through without asking and receiving permission to do so. Inter-Troop programs are encouraged, but campsite raiding is grounds for dismissal from camp. Scouts and leaders may not go into another Troop s site without an invitation. Please explain this to your Scouts and expect it from other units. The heart of camp, is your campsite! Every Scout should experience a summer night around a campfire with friends. One on One Contact/Privacy/Hazing Consistent with BSA policy, private, 1 on 1 contact between adults and youth members is not permitted. In situations that require a personal conference, the meeting is to be conducted in view of others. Adult leaders must respect the privacy of youth in situations such as changing into swimming suits or taking showers at camp and intrude only to the extent that health and safety require. No youth is permitted to sleep in the tent of any adult other than that of his parent or guardian. With the advent of cellular phones that include cameras, it is prohibited to use a camera in any of the following areas: restrooms, changing areas, showers, inside tents or any area that would call the motivations of the camera user into question. Hazing is not allowed at any time. This includes but not limited to, applauding when dropping a plate, or required singing over a lost and found item. Hazing is strictly prohibited in camp. There are many instances where hazing has led to serious consequences, both to the physical well-being and emotional stability of the boy. Even a mild incident can convince a Scout never to return. Be aware that new campers are particularly susceptible to hazing.
Summer 2015 Information Guide Page 5 Camp Medical Officer/First Aid The camp has an on-site health officer, trained in first aid and emergency response. The health officer provides routine medical treatment and handles minor medical problems. An adult leader should accompany any Scout who requires assistance at the Health Lodge. Every camper, whether adult or youth, must submit a current BSA medical form (Annual Health and Medical R e c o r d, f o r m M e d i - cal_34605.pdf) with all parts A, B and C completed and signed. Physical examination will not be given at camp. All those without a medical form will be sent home. All First Aid situations must be brought to the attention of the camp office immediately. Send two Scouts as runners if you are not sure that it is safe to move the injured person. Medical lock boxes will be given to the Scoutmaster upon check in. All medications must be kept locked up at all times and out of reach of Scouts. Lock boxes and locks are the responsibility of the unit and must be turned in upon checkout. Units are responsible for lost or damaged boxes. A fee of $10 will be charged for lost or stolen boxes. Wildlife & Nature s Hazards at Camp Camp Hugh Taylor Birch is blessed with a wide variety of flora and fauna. Every Scout should be able to recognize poison ivy. Wild animals are important to camp, but can be dangerous if cornered or threatened. We should remember that the camp is the animals home 12 months of the year and we are here for only a short time. If you should encounter any of Nature s wildlife, please use caution and leave the critter where you found it. Our Nature Center is NOT a wildlife sanctuary and cannot handle or care for, any animal outside of it s natural habitat. Uniforms Why do Scouts have a uniform? For the same reason any sports team does; to show that every member is equal and to give a sense of unity. At camp, the uniform does just that. During the day, your Troop may have its own distinctive t-shirt or a Camp Birch t-shirt (these are referred to as Class B uniforms). Setting the example is the most important step you can make toward having a uniformed troop. Unless otherwise announced at camp, the Class A uniform is worn for breakfast and morning flag ceremonies, and also for campfires. The Class B uniform is worn most of the rest of the time. Class A uniforms are worn for breakfast and morning flag ceremonies, and also for campfires.
Summer 2015 Information Guide Page 6 Driving Policy on Camp Spirit Days at Camp Camp Birch has provided handicapped parking spaces at the south end of our main parking lot adjacent to the McMillan Building. Please note that a state issued handicapped parking placard does not permit driving in camp. Please contact the Camp Director at campdirector22@gmail.com if you have special needs. Camp Birch makes every reasonable effort to accommodate campers and visitors with limited mobility. Much of camp is rugged but wheelchair accessible, however, for the safety of our campers, no driving is permitted on camp at any time by unauthorized vehicles. Please contact the Camp Director with questions or concerns. The Staff at Camp Birch loves to have fun, and this year we are asking you to have fun with us! We have different themed days and you are welcome to take part in them. We have Goofy Hat day, Crazy Sock day, and Tie Dye day. So bring your goofiest hat, or crazy knee high socks and join in the fun! We offer Tie Dye Tuesday where you can tie dye a camp shirt for $10. Or bring your own and tie dye for $3. See the Trading Post for more details. Parent Night/Friday Night Meals Friday night is Family Night! Friday night meals are carry-ins at your campsite. This is time to reconnect with family and relax! Parents and friends are welcome to visit camp. The Friday schedule of activities and the Family Night Campfire make that an especially nice day to visit. Friday night is encouraged to be a carry in dinner. Meals are to be eaten in the campsite. A picnic type meal is available at the Dining Hall for a pick up, should you choose not to have a carry in dinner. Each meal is $5 per person for those not registered for Summer Camp. All visitors should plan to arrive at camp between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. Campfire starts at 8:30. We invite family members to attend our closing campfire. Visitors must sign in at the camp office upon arrival. Anyone who leaves the camp must check-out at the camp office. If a Scout leaves camp, his Unit Leader or his parent or guardian must check him out. We encourage all Scouts to stay until Saturday and help their unit with tear down. Telephone & Mail The camp emergency phone number is 937-767-7126. Parents and others should remember that this is a camp and it is not possible to locate campers or leaders at a moment's notice. Mail is delivered daily (excluding Sunday and Holidays) to Camp and should be addressed as follows: Scout s Name Camp Birch 4057 Swimming Pool Road Yellow Springs, OH 45387 We will make every effort to deliver mail to your Scout while he is attending camp. If for some reason we are unable to deliver mail (it may have come too late to be delivered before the unit left), packages will be marked return to sender.
Summer 2015 Information Guide Page 7 Blue Cards & Exit Packets At Camp Birch we use an excel spreadsheet for tracking merit badge advancement. An official copy is provided to every Troop at the end of each week. Blue cards are not needed, but we will honor them for those that prefer to use them (e.g., out of council Troops, transferring Scouts). Those using blue cards should submit them, filled out (printing must be legible and include, merit badge, Scout s name, address and unit, requirements, and Scoutmaster approval signature, with their registration packet at the 10-Day-Out meeting. Any additional blue cards can be turned into the merit badge counselors any time at camp. Additional blue cards, merit badge pamphlets, and materials are available for purchase in the Trading Post. Blue Cards and advancement sheets will be included in your Exit Packets and must be picked up upon check-out. Exit Packets will have medical forms in them. Due to the sensitive nature of medical forms, we will not keep them past one month after your camp week. Any remaining Medical Forms will be destroyed. Please make sure you pick-up your medical forms upon check out. **Do NOT turn in original Medical forms!!** Prerequisites Scouts should check prerequisites for their Merit Badges, some require time or reports. Scouts should pay special attention to the requirements of each merit badge that cannot be completed at camp (a.k.a. prerequisites). If they expect to complete the badge during the week, they must show evidence that they have completed requirements under the guidance of another counselor or take home a partial for the badge. Most prerequisites can be shown to the counselor in the form of a written report, photographs, journal or scrapbook, or a note from the Scoutmaster. Also, special attention should be paid to double session activities like Tecumseh Island and C.O.P.E. Be sure to point out age requirements for special activities like Black Powder Shooting, C.O.P.E., BSA Lifeguard and High A.C.E.S. Scouts must be at least Star rank to take our Trail 2 Eagle program. This program is for those older Scouts that need that last push to finish Eagle required merit badges. Fulfilling Requirements thing somewhere else is not enough. If a Scout has completed requirements before arriving at camp, they should have their original counselor sign off those requirements on their blue card. The outing requirement for Camping Merit Badge is a good example of one that cannot be com- A Scout is trustworthy, but we need more than a Scout's word for requirements for merit badges. Where requirements state things like Show, Do, or Tell, we believe that the Scout should fulfill the requirement as it is written, while we are there. A Scout telling that he has done somepleted at camp, but may already be done. If you or your Scouts have questions about these standards, please contact us.
Summer 2015 Information Guide Page 8 Daytime, Prime Time, Anytime...Happenings at Camp Camp Commissioner SPL & Leader Meetings Your Commissioner is the best source for information and assistance while at camp. The Camp Commissioner s most important responsibility is to ensure that your week in camp is the best possible experience. Your Commissioner will help you carry out your Troop and patrol programs. Your Commissioner is always ready to help with the little details such as campsite equipment, merit badge cards, and any problems that may arise during your stay. Look to your Commissioner for advice, assistance, ideas, solutions and friendship. These short meetings, held daily at 9:30 a.m. for adult leaders and directly after lunch for SPLs, provide the information you need to run your unit at camp. These meetings focus on daily activities, special events and unit needs. There will also be a posted schedule and a daily newsletter to assist in keeping the camp informed. Leader s meetings are held at the Scoutmaster Lounge (Turner). SPL meetings are held on the back porch of the Dining Hall after lunch. OA Opportunities OA recognition is an important part of camp. Tarhe Lodge will host a reception for all OA members each week at camp. This is a chance for fun, fellowship and recognition. From the flag raising to the end of evening activities, we ask that all Arrowman wear their sash at camp during OA Wednesday. We also encourage all Arrowman to participate in the call-out ceremony on Wednesday evening. Arrowman can either help prepare for, or actually participate in the ceremony. Arrowman should see the Summer Camp Chief upon arrival to summer camp. Call-out ceremonies will take place at camp again this year. Ceremonies will be held Wednesday night. Time will be allotted during the 10-Day-Out meetings for the Scoutmaster to meet with the Summer Camp Chief. Scoutmasters need to have a complete roster of all eligible Troop members (to be elected) that will be attending camp. All unit elections must be held prior to coming to summer camp. Troops from councils outside Tecumseh Council must have a letter from their Council Lodge Chief stating the names of the Scouts and Scouters from their unit who have been elected into OA. Spirit Wall 2015 Super Star Staff Tokens Our Spirit Wall will be up for decoration again this year. All Troops are encouraged to sign the wall, leave a message, or even draw their totem. Leave your mark on us! Like signing a giant yearbook, our wall helps promote guidance on what to do and what not to do when leaving your mark on the world. The only place where graffiti is allowed! Any violations of the Scout Law will be removed immediately, continued violations will cause the wall to be closed down. The greatest strength of Camp Birch s program is the young men and women who serve on camp staff. They have been coached in our tradition of excellence in programming and customer service and are here to make sure that your Scouts have the best time possible during their week at camp. A simple thank-you will go a long way in rewarding them for all their hard work and efforts! Super Star Staff tokens will be given to your Troop for staff that goes an extra mile for your Troop, reward them with a token. The staff member who receives the most tokens is the Super Star of the week!
Summer 2015 Information Guide Page 9 Daytime, Primetime, Late Nite Programming Our Daytime, merit badge sessions should provide every opportunity for Scouts to earn requirements towards several merit badges during their week at camp. For closed-session merit badges and activities, we will make every effort to match each eligible Scout with their choices. The earlier a Troop registers their Scouts, the more likely they will be able to do all of the activities they sign-up for. The more your Troop helps us plan, the more prepared we will be for your Troop! During Primetime programming, (7 to 9 p.m.) we offer open activities. From archery to swimming, climbing to lakefront, we offer all kinds of activities. This is the time to spend with friends doing your favorite things at camp. Our Late Nite programming runs from 9 to 11 p.m. two nights a week. We offer two Late Nite activities: Night Climbs: Conquered our tower during the day? Try climbing it under the starry night sky. This is taking climbing to all new heights! Our Tower will be open 2 nights during the week to give the next level of excitement. Night Swims: Swimming more your style? Come join us in the pool for a cool dip under those same stars. What a way to finish off your day! Conquered our tower during the day? Try climbing it under the starry night sky. Mile Swim Snorkeling BSA Dawn Hike This event is a milestone that many Scouts will never forget. Because the requirements for this award are rigid, it must be a structured program. Scouts who wish to earn the Mile Swim Award must begin on Monday morning at 6:30 a.m. with the training program for the mile. The "Mile Swim" is conducted on Friday morning at 6 a.m. Signups are Sunday night in the Dining Hall Breezeway during Add/Drop. There aren't many better ways to begin a hot summer day than being in the pool doing something fun. The BSA Snorkeling Award is offered as a regular morning session through the Aquatics Area. Scouts learn the fundamentals of using mask & snorkel in our pool. Have fun! Learn a Skill! Get Wet! Few activities carry as strong a message as an early morning hike. The Dawn Hike is one. This hike, (planned to be about 2 miles) is a great opportunity to see John Bryan State Park and Clifton Gorge while the day is still cool. Wildlife and native plants are the focus. A special patch will be given for those who complete the hike. The Hike begins from the Parade Ground at Flag Poles at 6 a.m. on Tuesday morning. Leaders with Special Talents Flag Ceremonies Every Scouter has special abilities. Many of them also have some free time at camp. All Scouters are encouraged to use their talents to better Camp Birch. At the 10-Day-Out meeting, a list of potential projects will be available to help willing Scouters apply their special talents during their weeklong stay. We always welcome extra help in program areas. We also offer Scoutmasters a chance to work on their own Merit Badge. The Scoutmaster Merit Badge has requirements and electives ranging from working the pool to staging a dinosaur attack! Flag raising is held at 8 a.m. on the Parade Field. Retreat is at 6 p.m. Please bring your Troop or Unit flag. We will have special flag holders for each Troop flag o n t h e P ar ade F ie ld. The Program Patrol will help with the flag ceremony each day.
Summer 2015 Information Guide Page 10 Adult Leader Information Adult Scouters are an important part of Scouting. And we want to show you how much you mean to us! Leader s are invited to relax in our Scoutmaster Lounge anytime of the day or night. We offer free Wi-Fi, AC, modern restrooms (available for Adults only - Youth protection!), a refrigerator, and a microwave. The SM Lounge is also where we hold leader meetings and trainings. Activities *Adult High COPE *Scoutmaster Top Shot *Adult Climb *Lap Swimming 6:30 a.m. M-F *MRT *Scoutmaster Merit Badge *Scoutmaster Roundtable with our Scout Executive *Scoutmaster Open - 9 Holes of Golf **New** Golden Spoon Scoutmaster Fortune Belly Flop! Named after last year s winner, the Scoutmasters are encourage to see how big of a splash they can make in our pool. Maybe this year, it will be named after you! Trainings Trainings are available upon request. We offer the following: Climb on Safely, Safe Swim Defense (requires 2 hours supervising at pool or lakefront), Safety Afloat, Trek Safely, Introduction to Leave No Trace, Scoutmaster Specific Training, and Nap on Safely. All Scoutmasters and Assistant Scoutmasters MUST have current Youth Protection Training prior to coming to camp! Dining Hall and Food Service This was the best food I have ever had at camp! Mike Returning Camper The Dining Hall at Camp Birch serves family-style. In order to serve up to 300 Scouts, leaders and staff efficiently, we will begin serving as soon as mealtime begins. With plentiful portions, home style cooking, and delicious desserts, our Dining Hall received 5 Stars last summer! Here are a few "House Rules": Enter the Dining Hall quietly; Demonstrate manners consistent with the Scout Oath and Law while dining; Make sure everyone has firsts before seconds are taken; Alert the Steward immediately if there is a shortage of any item; Leave plastic-wrap on serving containers until everyone is seated at the table and ready to serve (this helps keep food hot); Seat 8 to a table: 6 Scouts, 1 leader and 1 staff member; No shirt, No shoes, No service; Clean up after ourselves (everyone should help the waiters as much as possible); Walk indoors (a.k.a. no running). Special Dietary Needs If Scouts or Leaders need special meal substitutes because of dietary restrictions, please notify us ASAP, but no later than the 10-Day-Out meeting. Most situations can be accommodated. For extreme needs, it is not unusual for the Scout s family to assist us in providing the proper dietary items. Scouts that are Gluten Free will need to supplement their meals with items from home. To inform us of special dining needs, please contact our Camp Director through the link on our website.
Summer 2015 Information Guide Page 11 What to Bring to Camp Unit Equipment Personal Equipment Camping, hiking, activity attire Other Good Ideas to Bring While most camp equipment is provided, your unit may want to bring other items to make your stay more comfortable. Suggested units items include lanterns, propane, flags, axe yard equipment, first aid kit, rope, gateway equipment, games, merit badge pamphlets, paper, pens and pencils, etc. Units are also expected to bring a lot of Scout Spirit. Formal attire BSA uniform shirt BSA uniform shorts or slacks BSA uniform socks BSA uniform belt Informal attire Scouting Troop or event t-shirts Underwear Shoes, Shorts Socks Belt Jacket or sweat shirt Sleep attire Swimsuit Pack or duffel bag Pocket knife Flashlight Rain coat or poncho Bath towels Hat or cap Long pants (needed for aquatics merit badges) Long sleeve shirt (button-top shirt is best for aquatics merit badges) Sleeping Bag and Pillow Scout Handbook Sun block Insect repellent Pen, paper, pencil Water bottle Personal hygiene items Talcum powder Spending money ($60-$75) Camera with film Watch Bible or religious books Merit Badge books Evidence of requirements you've finished before camp OA sash Sewing kit What Not to Bring to Camp The following items are not allowed in camp: electronic games and devices, bicycles, sheath knives, bows, arrows, firearms, ammunition, fireworks, drugs, alcohol, pets or tobacco. And anything not listed that is not consistent with the Scout Oath, Scout Law and Ohio law. Cell Phones Scouts will not be permitted to be in Merit Badge classes with cellular phones turned on, nor will it be the responsibility of staff members to hold onto phones at aquatic facilities. No facility or provision will be made available for Scouts to charge their cellular phones while at camp, thus rendering them useful for only a very short period of time. Rest assured that ample communication remains in place at camp for a Scout to contact a parent when needed, and for a parent to contact a Scout in case of an emergency. Trading Post The Trading Post is conveniently stocked with handicraft projects, Scouting literature and materials, drinks, snacks, camp souvenirs, along with a wide assortment of B.S.A. and camping supplies. The Trading Post accepts cash, checks and credit/ debit cards. The average Scout spends $60-$75 each week in the Trading Post. Campfires Our campfire activities include the Welcome Campfire on Sunday evening and the Family Night Campfire on Friday evening. The Welcome Campfire is presented by the Camp Staff. The Family Night Campfire is planned and presented by the SPLs and their Troops. Your Troop should plan campfires in your campsite as you see fit. Sitting around the campfires under the starry night sky, is something every Scout remembers!
Summer 2015 Information Guide Page 12 Aquatics Program and Activities At the Pool morning class). At the Lake Other Activities Swimming MB: Scouts must be a Swimmer (bring: long pants, socks and shoes, belt and long sleeve buttoned shirt with a collar). Lifesaving MB: Scouts must be in at least their 2 nd year and be a Swimmer (bring: towel). Instructional Swim: Open to any Scout wanting to improve their swimming abilities. Snorkeling BSA Award: BSA Lifeguard: **$25 fee Scouts must be at least 15 years o l d a n d a S w i m m e r (participants will train during 2 consecutive sessions, morning or afternoon, and serve as a lifeguard for evening programs at the pool or lake). Included in the course is CPR certification. Mile Swim: Scouts must be a Swimmer and attend 4 daily practices at camp prior to completing the mile swim. This course takes place at 6am every morning. Canoeing MB: Scouts must be a Swimmer. Small Boat Sailing MB: Scouts must be in at least their 2 nd year and a Swimmer. Rowing MB: Scouts must be a Swimmer. Kayaking MB: Scouts must be a Swimmer. Instructional Swim Mile Swim Safety Afloat Safe Swim Defense Aquatics Supervision/ Swimming and Rescue Water Polo Scouts must be a Swimmer (bring your own snorkel or use one of ours, this is an early COPE & Climbing C.O.P.E. (Challenging Outdoor Personal Experience): Scouts must be at least 13 and First Class. $20 additional fee per Scout. C.O.P.E. is a challenge course emphasizing learning by doing. Great for a patrol, small Troop or Crew. Participants of all sizes, shapes, and physical abilities are guided through initiative problems and low and HIGH ropes course challenges. See your Scouts develop: Leadership skills Communication skills Problem solving ability Confidence Goal setting skills Decision making skills Teamwork Self esteem Trust Climbing MB: Scouts must be in at least their 2 nd year for merit badge. Camp Birch has a 40 foot climbing and rappelling tower, plus a low rappelling training platform MB participants will hike next door to John Bryan State Park to utilize the public climbing area with native limestone cliffs ranging from 15' to 30' in height. Open climbs are available for Scouts not in the merit badge during our evening program.
Summer 2015 Information Guide Page 13 Nature & Ecology Archaeology MB: ** Prereq: Read the MB book before attending the session. 4, 5 (bring proof of your presentation), 10, 11 Astronomy MB: ** Prereq: 4a-b - it takes time to learn the constellations...scouts should work on this in the weeks preceding camp; 4c - bring your sketches to camp; 5b - bring your chart; 6b - bring your sketch; 8a or b - bring your written report, Bird Study MB: Bring: binoculars, bird field guide, field notebook; Prereq: 5 - bring a started field notebook; 8 - bring photographs or buy a bird feeder kit at camp. Fish and Wildlife Management MB: Scouts must in at least their 2 nd year or older; Prereq: 5 - bring a written report and photographs; 6a - can be done in camp; 6b or 6c - bring written list or scrapbook; 7b - bring a written report plus a letter of evidence from a naturalist or ranger; 7c or d - bring a written report with photographs; 8 - bring your report. Forestry MB: Prereq: 1 - bring your field notebook; 5 & 7 - bring written report. Geocaching MB: Bring written permission from parents to use the internet. Geology MB: This badge can be completed at camp but only option 5a (of the #5 option) will be offered. Insect Study MB: Prereq: 4 - bring a completed scrapbook; 7 - bring a report including photographs. Mammal Study MB: All can be done at camp. Nature MB: Prereq: 4 - if you elect to do 4a 2 - bring a photograph of your birdhouse, feeding station, or birdbath and your written list of birds, include dates; if you elect to do 4d1 - bring your collection; if you elect to do 4d2 - bring photographic and written evidence of having completed this requirement, include dates in your written report; if you elect to do 4f2 - bring your collection; if you elect to do 4h1&2 - bring your collections. Pulp and Paper MB: Prereq: 7 - bring letter of evidence from parent or leader. Reptile & Amphibian Study MB : 1 - can be done in camp, but best to bring sketches and/or photographs; 8a or b - bring photographic and written evidence of having completed this requirement, include dates in you written report. Soil and Water Conservation MB: All can be done at camp, but if you elect to do 7a1-9 - bring your written report; 7b or c - bring a letter of evidence from your Scoutmaster or conservation project leader. Space Exploration MB: **10 Offered during our evening program; buy a rocket at the Trading Post or bring your own; Prereq: 5a, b, or c, 7, 8 - bring report or scrapbook. Weather MB: If you elect to do 8a - bring your weather instrument, or photographs of it, and your 7 day log; if you elect to do 8b - bring a written report plus a letter of evidence from the meteorologist, officer, weathercaster, or instructor you visited; bring the outline of your talk, plus a letter of evidence from the group leader. Mother Nature, Nancy Funderburgh is back for third year! She brings with her a Sudan Plated Lizard and two Bearded Dragons! Nature & Ecology is held in Carmony Lodge, which was built in 1936 by E.J. Carmony, a Scoutmaster and Silver Beaver recipient. It was originally built for the Camp Administrators to live in during Summer Camp. ** Denotes Prime Time MB
Summer 2015 Information Guide Page 14 Handicraft It was neat to learn about Indians and the things they made. -1st Year Scout Art MB: Prereq: 4 - bring a letter from a parent. Basketry MB: $20 fee All can be done at camp; basket kits can be purchased at the Trading Post. Chemistry MB: Prereq: 7 A, B, C, OR D Engineering MB: Prereq: 1 and 2 Indian Lore MB: $15 fee Prereq: 1 - bring your written history (can be done at camp, but BEST if done ahead of time). Indian Lore kits can be purchased at the Trading Post. Leatherwork MB: Prereq: 5d - bring a written report of your visit. Composite Materials MB: Prereq: 3 Woodcarving MB: **3 Prereq: 2a - bring your Totin Chip or a letter from your Scoutmaster; project kits are available in the Trading Post. Outdoor Skills Backpacking MB: Scouts must be in at least their 3rd year; Prereq: 6b - bring a letter from your Scoutmaster confirming this has been done; 8c - bring a letter from your Scoutmaster plus the menu and shopping list that you used; 9a - can be done at camp or bring your written plan; 9b-e - bring a backpack to complete these at camp or a letter from your Scoutmaster confirming these have been done; 10 - bring a written report of your three treks plus a letter from your Scoutmaster confirming they have been completed; 11a - bring your written plan; 11b-c - bring the daily journal you kept for these requirements plus a letter from your Scoutmaster confirming this has been completed. Camping MB: Scouts must be in at least their 2nd year; Prereq: 5e & 7b - bring a backpack to complete these at camp or a letter from your Scoutmaster confirming these have been done; 8c - bring menu, reci- ** Denotes Prime Time MB pes, and food list and be prepared to discuss them; 4b, 8d, 9a, 9b - bring a letter from your Scoutmaster confirming these have been done. Cooking MB: Scouts should be First Class or above; Prereq: 3 & 5 - bring your menu plans, food and utensil list, weight of foods (for 5d), and be prepared to discuss them; 7 - bring your menu plan, food and utensil list and a note from your parent confirming the meals you cooked at home. Because this MB is now an Eagle required MB, and is now more time consuming, it cannot be finished at camp unless many pre-preqs are done. Please bring them with you. First Aid MB: Bring your Boy Scout Handbook to show you have completed req. 1; Prereq: 2d - bring a personal first aid kit that you have put together yourself (not a store-bought kit), and be prepared to discuss its contents with your counselor. Fishing MB: ** You may bring your own fishing rod or use the camp s; fishing is offered as a day or evening merit badge. Orienteering MB: All can be done at camp. Pioneering MB: All can be done at camp, but learning the 7 basic knots and the five additional knots before camp will allow more time for splicing and project construction. Wilderness Survival MB: Scouts must be in at least their 2 nd year. Prereq: 5 - bring a personal survival kit, tarp and blanket. Paul Bunyan Woodsman Award: Scouts must be in at least their 3 rd year; also open to leaders; Prereq: Totin Chip.
Summer 2015 Information Guide Page 15 Shooting Sports Archery MB: $10 fee Arrow and bowstring kits can be purchased in the Trading Post. Rifle Shooting MB: $10 Ammunition fee for MB. Open Rifle Shooting is $5 for 50 shots. Shotgun Shooting MB: $40 $40 Ammunition fee; 2 nd year Scouts and above; Scouts should have the upper body strength to hold and fire the shotgun repeatedly. Open Shotgun shooting is $5 for 10 shots. Black Powder Program : ** $5 (a.k.a. Muzzle loader) Scouts must be at least 13 years old; ammunition tickets can be purchased in the Trading Post for $5 for 5 shots; Scouts must have earned their Rifle or Shotgun Shooting MB. ** Denotes Prime Time MB Technology Center Technology Center: The Camp Birch Technology Center offers three merit badges in two sessions! The Tech Center Crew will publish the daily newsletter AND create the slideshow for the closing campfire while earning Journalism, Photography, and Moviemaking. Register for Technology Center when filling out your registration form and you are registered for all three: Journalism, Photography and Moviemaking; Prereq: Journalism - 2 a2 Campwide Activities Camp Birch offers camp wide activities throughout the week to help your Scouts interact with Scouts from other Troops. Join your summer friends in campfires or OA ceremonies. ture the flag. On Wednesday afternoon, the OA offers the Iron Skunk challenge. Grab a buddy and test your canoeing, biking, and running skills. Competitors must be Swimmers. Camp Birch also offers a giant Capture the Flag game on Fri- Maybe challenge your summer friends to a game of water polo, or a giant game of capday afternoons. Camp is split in half, and team is pitted against team to find the other flag and not get captured! Whatever you choose to participate in, we hope you make summer friends that will last a lifetime! The Iron Skunk takes place on OA Day, Wednesday. All Scouts are welcome to compete, you do not have to be in the OA.
Summer 2015 Information Guide Page 16 Mad River Trace Company Mad River Trace is a program designed for Scouts 14 and older and adults. Participants in MRT will learn traditional primitive living skills, the history of early Ohio, advanced wilderness survival, and leadership. Mad River Trace is an open program, Scouts can work at their own pace on requirements, but the program requires attendance at evening activities, including at least one outpost. MRT is divided into three levels: Apprentice, Pathfinder, and Factor. All levels reinforce core Scout skills and develop leadership and teamwork. Highlights of the Apprentice level include: making a possible pouch and shirt, fire making with flint and steel, wild edible identification, primitive archery and tomahawk throwing. Pathfinders will develop and teach the skills they learned as Apprentices as well as learn some new ones like: black powder shooting, direction finding without a compass, advanced leatherworking, and knife throwing. Pathfinders will also make their own candle lanterns. Factors will demonstrate proficiency in skills they learned as Apprentices and Pathfinders as well as make their own horn handled knife and shooting bag. MRT runs from 7 to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday. A cost of $40 can be paid at the time of registration or at the Trading Post. Tecumseh Island - 1st Year Camper Program Tecumseh Island is Camp Birch's program for new Scouts. This excellent program is in its 35th year and was one of the first of its kind in the area! It is designed to provide Scout skills for new Scouts, and promote the patrol method, as well as instruction for first year Scouts to help them advance. It also helps new Scouts become familiar with camp as we go on many field trips to meet different requirements. It is possible that a Scout who joined your unit in the spring could leave Camp Birch with only a few requirements remaining toward First Class Rank as well as two merit badges in the afternoon. Tecumseh Island is a double session and offered Sessions 1 & 2 or Sessions 3 & 4. Scouts should register for merit badges during the sessions they are NOT in Tecumseh Island. There's no better boost to a Scout than to succeed early. TI Outpost - The Tecumseh Island Scouts will go on Outpost Thursday evening. Scouts should bring a small tent and daypack to camp for this activity. ** Denotes Prime Time MB
Summer 2015 Information Guide Page 17 Trail 2 Eagle If you are working toward your Eagle rank and need that final push to finish those Eagle required merit badges, then we have a program for you! Trail to Eagle is a program area to help Scouts with some of the most demanding Eagle merit badges. You will work in a resource room with computers and internet, and our camp staff. We will help direct you to the resources you need to complete these badges. This is a double session due to the time required to complete these badges. These are very demanding merit badges and, as Eagle Required, important ones. We will be holding the Scouts to a high standard in completing these merit badges. Some badges require extensive prerequisite work, and this work has to be done before camp. The counselor reserves the right to refuse entry to these classes to any Scout who has not completed the work adequately. These classes are not for someone hoping to knock out a merit badge at summer camp, but only for those who are serious about achieving quality work while completing these merit badges. Citizenship in the World MB: Prereqs: 3b, 4b and c, 6b, 7 - if using a and b as an elective, please bring a letter from your parent or guardian stating you are allowed to use the internet to complete your searches. Citizenship in the Nation MB: Prereqs: 2a-d (complete 2); for a-c - bring a letter signed by a parent that you visited two places and be prepared to discuss the visit with your counselor; for requirement d - be prepared to discuss. Communications MB: If you wish to choose the collage option in requirement 2a - bring photographs and pictures to camp; Prereqs: 5 - bring your report; 8 - bring a letter of proof from your Scoutmaster. Emergency Preparedness MB: Scouts should be in at least their 2nd year; Prereqs: 1 - bring a copy of your MB card or a letter of proof from your Scoutmaster; 2b - bring in your completed chart; 2c - bring your written family plan and a letter of proof from a parent confirming you have completed your family meeting; 6c - bring a written report of your findings; 7 - bring a letter of evidence that you participated in an emergency service project; 8a - bring your written Troop mobilization plan that you prepared; 8b - bring a letter from your Scoutmaster; 8c - bring your emergency pack and the family emergency kit that you prepared; 9a - bring your safety check list with the results of your home safety inspection; 9b - bring your family fire escape plan; 9c - bring your accident prevention plans. Environmental Science MB: Scouts must be in at least their 2 nd year or older; Prereq: 4b - (although this can be done at camp, due to the time it takes it would be best to have this done before camp) bring your written report and be prepared to discuss it; 5 - bring a written proposal of a hypothetical construction project and environmental impact statement; this is a VERY demanding MB and NOT recommended for younger Scouts; the requirements are time consuming; it is recommended that Scouts begin work on their own prior to camp and bring photographic and written evidence of any requirements completed. Personal Management MB: Prereqs: 1a-b - bring a copy of your plan and a letter from your parent stating that you have discussed this plan with your family; 1c - bring a copy of reviews and prices; 2a - bring your written budget; 8Aa -c - bring your to-do list, calendar, and journal. Scouts are welcome to sign up for just one MB or they can work on multiple ones, during this session time. Scouts MUST be Star rank or above to participate in Trail 2 Eagle.