After hearing several Scouts refer to the camp patch as just another patch, camp leadership is considering making it a patch "you earn." The thought is that if a Scout completes a service project while in camp, and/or meets some other simple requirements, he will earn the patch. Staff and leaders can support this by appropriate presentations in camp and at home. While adding value to the camp experience, the Scout will also return home to answer the parents' questions with pride, "I earned this award too." It's no longer " just another patch."

Leaders Guides were distributed at the January PowWow, and those remaining were mailed to all Scoutmasters and committee chairmen for troops with camp reservations. There are two copies per troop, and additional copies are $5.00 each. 

The daily program schedule is being revamped. Camp staff and leaders found that just locking into 45 minute sessions does not always work. Some merit badges require longer periods, and some can be covered in shorter time slots. The final camp schedule will be worked out soon, and presented at the April Scoutmasters meeting. 

There will be several program enhancements, including "theme days," camper recognition's, Scoutmaster-staff competitive events, and other activities to develop spirit. 

Several staff development sessions have been scheduled for this spring, in an effort to greatly improve the quality of camp program in 1997. The dates are February 22 (Train the Trainer), March 15, April 5, May 10( At CCR). 

We continue to seek applicants for summer camp staff or counselors in training. Scoutmasters should recommend Scouts and encourage them to apply. There is no work experience like being on a camp staff, and Scouts who serve on a camp staff return to the troop a better leader. 

Got any ideas for improvements you like to see done at Camp Castle Rock, now to the future? The Property Committee would like to hear them. Stop by the Scout Service Center and write them down on the Property Proposal Form found at the office in the WES display, and turn it in. All ideas will be examined and prioritized. Proposals should be in before November 1 to have a chance of being budgeted and completed in the 1997 calendar year, but are welcome anytime for the future. 

Were you on the staff at Tichora? CCR? Another Council's camp? Come to the staff reunion at Camp Castle Rock. 

What is planned? An unscheduled "walk about" the camp. Time to renew Scouting acquaintances. An early fellowship campfire. 

What does the camp staff ask? Bring some photos and memorabilia. Share some earlier camp traditions and spirit building techniques. Lead/teach a song or cheer. 

What you can share, from your memories, can help us create memories for our campers. 

If you plan to attend RSVP to Phyllis at 273-1005. Tell us your name, address, number in party, staff year and camp. 

We are continuing the development of a teaching outline for each merit badge (or first class skills.) We could use your help in this effort. At the spring training and during staff week, these outlines will be practiced. 

August 3-6 are the dates for Scouts and Explorers to participate in the second specialty session at "The Rock." 

There will be some program changes to expand opportunities for the Eagle Emphasis and for Scouts who aren't able to get to camp with their troops. 

Explorers have an opportunity to sail, climb, boat or learn camping skills. 

HUNTER SAFETY--BOWHUNTING 
have been suggested as additional programs. But we need qualified instructors. If you can help, contact Don Derengowski or Guy Eichsteadt. 

We welcome volunteers who wish to help out with this session. 

Are you attending camp as an assistant leader? Are you willing to help other leaders and Scouts have a good experience at CCR? 

You can be a Camp Commissioner. Contact John Tarr or Guy Eichsteadt now. 

We are looking to develop a strong camp commissioner corps who will help new leaders be better prepared for camp, help at camp with program needs and carry on the tradition of CCR. "Just say yes." 

Several sailing outpost slots are open. This program is now available to coed Explorer posts. 

Open dates: June 23, July 13 and July 27 

For more information, contact the Service Center. 

This is a free day for Webelos and their parents to visit Camp Castle Rock. 

Come enjoy a low structured, activity oriented time at CCR. Shoot rifles and bows, get wet and cool at the swimming beach. Take a ride on the pontoon boat. Learn about climbing and rappelling. Cook a dutch oven dessert. 

Come be a part of "The Rock." 

You can sign up now by calling Phyllis at the Scout service center, 273-1005.

At Camp Castle Rock, we had 818 campers and 23 specialty campers. At the day camps we had 831 campers. At resident camp we had 83 campers. 618 Boy Scouts attended summer camp in another councils. 

Castle Rock had an 8.2 percent increase in Scouts from the Four Lakes Council and a 22 percent increase overall. One of the issues we are addressing is the number of scouts not going to camp. In 1995, 500 Scouts did not go to camp. In 1996, 400 Scouts did not go. Our total Boy Scouts camping rose from 1035 in 1995 to 1240 in 1996, a 20 percent increase. 

The outdoor experience is at the core of a strong Cub Scout or Boy Scout program. Packs and troops that participate fully in camping opportunities see the results in all their other activities. 

We can all take pride in our camping programs this year: The unit Leaders who made it, the volunteer staff who led day camp and resident camp, our council camping committee members, and the Staff of Castle Rock.